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The Christmas Chronicles
The Snowy Footprints: An Elves and the Shoemaker Retelling
Can miracles come true even without shoes?
Evalie Makera is starving, but with only two coins left, there isn’t much hope that she’ll survive to see the Day of Giving. After her mother's sudden passing, their flower shop has withered, leaving Evalie with a roof over her head but nothing under it. In a world where everyone is born with a magical gift, Evalie’s ability to enhance an object’s beauty feels useless now that her life is void of her mother’s flower magic.
While her gift may be useless without flowers to enchant and sell, she’s still better off than the magicless shop boy down the street. Or, at least, she thinks so, until she spends her last coins on flower seeds instead of food. She’s going to waste away either way, so having one final flower to celebrate her mother’s life feels like a much more fulfilling end to her story. Until it’s not the end at all...
To Evalie’s surprise, the seed she plants before bed sprouts into a stunning bloom overnight. Is this her mother’s magic? Or is something else at play? It would be all too easy to sell the flower and run with the coins, but something about their sudden appearance doesn’t feel right... Maybe the shoeless new stranger in town knows something? What could possibly go wrong with such a beautiful miracle?
This book is a part of The Christmas Chronicles, a collection of festive novellas filled with clean romance, chilly weather, and cozy adventures
Evalie Makera is starving, but with only two coins left, there isn’t much hope that she’ll survive to see the Day of Giving. After her mother's sudden passing, their flower shop has withered, leaving Evalie with a roof over her head but nothing under it. In a world where everyone is born with a magical gift, Evalie’s ability to enhance an object’s beauty feels useless now that her life is void of her mother’s flower magic.
While her gift may be useless without flowers to enchant and sell, she’s still better off than the magicless shop boy down the street. Or, at least, she thinks so, until she spends her last coins on flower seeds instead of food. She’s going to waste away either way, so having one final flower to celebrate her mother’s life feels like a much more fulfilling end to her story. Until it’s not the end at all...
To Evalie’s surprise, the seed she plants before bed sprouts into a stunning bloom overnight. Is this her mother’s magic? Or is something else at play? It would be all too easy to sell the flower and run with the coins, but something about their sudden appearance doesn’t feel right... Maybe the shoeless new stranger in town knows something? What could possibly go wrong with such a beautiful miracle?
This book is a part of The Christmas Chronicles, a collection of festive novellas filled with clean romance, chilly weather, and cozy adventures
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2024
38 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 18, 2024
Beautiful story. Manning has done it again. Creates a magical world with epic characters. I love the twists and turns of this story. The ending was perfect. Definitely 5 star!
November 1, 2024
Oh. My. Lanta. I loved this book. My heart hurt and broke for Evalie so many times and so much of this story. However, I love how someone showing just a little bit of caring and love helped her heal and start to accept her life, moving on with grief.
It is sad how long it took me to realize she was describing a poinsettia with her 6-pointed star (it's prettier in the book, but I'm clearly not a writer).
Also, the ending. Sheesh, the ending. Not sure I'll recover any time soon, Abby. Parts I saw coming, most of it I didn't, but all of this story I loved. Definitely perfect for those who want some Christmas but don't want to jump into Christmas spirit too fast, imo.
It is sad how long it took me to realize she was describing a poinsettia with her 6-pointed star (it's prettier in the book, but I'm clearly not a writer).
Also, the ending. Sheesh, the ending. Not sure I'll recover any time soon, Abby. Parts I saw coming, most of it I didn't, but all of this story I loved. Definitely perfect for those who want some Christmas but don't want to jump into Christmas spirit too fast, imo.
October 8, 2024
A delightful short story about grief, friendship, and the beauty of giving. This book left me all warm and fuzzy like on a cozy Christmastide evening.
A lovely story!
Thank you Abigail Manning for the chance to read an ARC!
Content: absolutely clean, kisses only.
A lovely story!
Thank you Abigail Manning for the chance to read an ARC!
Content: absolutely clean, kisses only.
October 29, 2024
What a magical story! All of the Christmas Chronicles have been a joy to read and this one was full of surprises! I adored the wintery magic world Ms. Manning created and the themes of kindness and generosity.
Evalie was trying so hard! She was facing such difficult circumstances and felt so lost. The death of her mother and all its implications were hitting her hard. The unexpected gifts that appeared offered her hope, even as it brought new mysteries to light. It is so interesting to follow her perspective, in the unraveling of the story. I loved her playful relationship with Emmett. They had grown up together and had a comfortable relationship. Emmett really cared for her and looked out for her. It was also sweet to see how she got to know Alfie. They had a lot in common and were really abe to connect.
The story was really interesting! I have never read a reimagining of The Elves and the Shoemakers and I loved seeing the inspiration. I must say there were certainly surprises too! I did not see the twists coming. It did feel a bit fast, but it is a novella, so it made sense. It is a holiday fairytale inspired story with sweet romance. There is the loss of a parent and grief, as well as only kissing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Evalie was trying so hard! She was facing such difficult circumstances and felt so lost. The death of her mother and all its implications were hitting her hard. The unexpected gifts that appeared offered her hope, even as it brought new mysteries to light. It is so interesting to follow her perspective, in the unraveling of the story. I loved her playful relationship with Emmett. They had grown up together and had a comfortable relationship. Emmett really cared for her and looked out for her. It was also sweet to see how she got to know Alfie. They had a lot in common and were really abe to connect.
The story was really interesting! I have never read a reimagining of The Elves and the Shoemakers and I loved seeing the inspiration. I must say there were certainly surprises too! I did not see the twists coming. It did feel a bit fast, but it is a novella, so it made sense. It is a holiday fairytale inspired story with sweet romance. There is the loss of a parent and grief, as well as only kissing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
November 11, 2025
DNF @37% The writing is very poor, imo.
Other secondary problems:
The FMC isn’t particularly likable. Dialogue is clunky, and the banter isn’t… bantering. (We all know what banter is supposed to feel like and accomplish and this isn’t it.) Hence, it lacks romantic anticipation or chemistry. The way the story is being strung together feels random.
That being said, I did have some curiosity about where the author was going with the strange plot.
I skimmed to the end and can say it all came together in an extremely bizarre way. But to each his own! Others apparently liked this novella, and I’m glad for that!
Other secondary problems:
The FMC isn’t particularly likable. Dialogue is clunky, and the banter isn’t… bantering. (We all know what banter is supposed to feel like and accomplish and this isn’t it.) Hence, it lacks romantic anticipation or chemistry. The way the story is being strung together feels random.
That being said, I did have some curiosity about where the author was going with the strange plot.
I skimmed to the end and can say it all came together in an extremely bizarre way. But to each his own! Others apparently liked this novella, and I’m glad for that!
November 3, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Evalie’s point of view
-it is mentioned that Evalie’s mom just passed
-it is briefly mentioned that characters’ relatives passed in a mine cave-in about 10 years prior
Review:
I really enjoyed this Elves & the Shoemaker retelling! It’s the first I’ve seen and I enjoyed the changes that were made to the tale to make it it’s own thing. I loved getting to know Evalie and the other villagers that she interacts with throughout the story. I loved the mysteriousness of the gift being left behind every night and Evalie’s determination to discover what’s really going on under her nose. I loved that her enemy wasn’t quite an enemy anymore at the point when the story begins. I loved that you could see that deep down they had their own version of a friendship all their life and that he was willing to help Evalie through her grief.
.
*Slight Spoiler Below before the summary (minimal details) topic addressed: love triangle*
Forewarning to anyone who doesn’t like love triangles (2 possible love interests that the main character is interested in at the same time), this book looks likes a love triangle, but it is not. Everything makes more sense as to how it isn’t a love triangle towards the end when something crucial is revealed.
.
Summary:
Evalie is left with a flower shop and two coins when her mother passes away. With the cold and no way to earn money herself since her magical gift only enhances things that already exist, Evalie should use the coins on a meal. But in her grief, she instead purchases flower seeds as they make her feel closer to her mother who used to grow flowers with her gift.
Evalie doesn’t expect to be able to grow anything near as beautiful as her mother did, but she hopes to have one last piece of her in this small purchase. She certainly never expected to find a full-grown flower on her windowsill the next morning.
With every day that passes & brings more flowers, Evalie is beginning to wonder who could be giving her this miracle each night. The only clue she has is the footsteps she hears on her floors just before falling asleep each night. Evalie must stay awake in order to discover more about her secret gift giver…
– this is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Evalie’s point of view
-it is mentioned that Evalie’s mom just passed
-it is briefly mentioned that characters’ relatives passed in a mine cave-in about 10 years prior
Review:
I really enjoyed this Elves & the Shoemaker retelling! It’s the first I’ve seen and I enjoyed the changes that were made to the tale to make it it’s own thing. I loved getting to know Evalie and the other villagers that she interacts with throughout the story. I loved the mysteriousness of the gift being left behind every night and Evalie’s determination to discover what’s really going on under her nose. I loved that her enemy wasn’t quite an enemy anymore at the point when the story begins. I loved that you could see that deep down they had their own version of a friendship all their life and that he was willing to help Evalie through her grief.
.
*Slight Spoiler Below before the summary (minimal details) topic addressed: love triangle*
Forewarning to anyone who doesn’t like love triangles (2 possible love interests that the main character is interested in at the same time), this book looks likes a love triangle, but it is not. Everything makes more sense as to how it isn’t a love triangle towards the end when something crucial is revealed.
.
Summary:
Evalie is left with a flower shop and two coins when her mother passes away. With the cold and no way to earn money herself since her magical gift only enhances things that already exist, Evalie should use the coins on a meal. But in her grief, she instead purchases flower seeds as they make her feel closer to her mother who used to grow flowers with her gift.
Evalie doesn’t expect to be able to grow anything near as beautiful as her mother did, but she hopes to have one last piece of her in this small purchase. She certainly never expected to find a full-grown flower on her windowsill the next morning.
With every day that passes & brings more flowers, Evalie is beginning to wonder who could be giving her this miracle each night. The only clue she has is the footsteps she hears on her floors just before falling asleep each night. Evalie must stay awake in order to discover more about her secret gift giver…
December 20, 2025
Confession: I sped-read just to see what happens. I'm starting to have less patience with fairytale retellings longer than 10 chapters-- especially when romance is the main focus.
Anyway, being familiar with the Elves and the Shoemaker tale, I was quite curious about this story. The villagers with magical gifts were quite fascinating, though I felt awful for poor Emmet being born without one. (Too bad we don't have any chapters with his POV). I related to Evalie a little by her longing to be useful or seen with her gift.
Another thing I want to make clear: I can't stand love triangles. Any book with a love-triangle trope, I don't read it at all. I was quite close to chucking the book away at the arrival of a third "love interest" (which was why I sped-read it)... there's a rather surprising revelation that twisted the trope on its head. Wish I could explain it without risk of spoilers, so I'll just leave it at that.
There are quite a few twists that definitely kept this story going... especially towards the end, where questions are answered and identities are revealed.
Overall, it was a lovely Christmas retelling of a lesser-known fairytale. I just might read it next Christmas... with fresher eyes!
Anyway, being familiar with the Elves and the Shoemaker tale, I was quite curious about this story. The villagers with magical gifts were quite fascinating, though I felt awful for poor Emmet being born without one. (Too bad we don't have any chapters with his POV). I related to Evalie a little by her longing to be useful or seen with her gift.
Another thing I want to make clear: I can't stand love triangles. Any book with a love-triangle trope, I don't read it at all. I was quite close to chucking the book away at the arrival of a third "love interest" (which was why I sped-read it)... there's a rather surprising revelation that twisted the trope on its head. Wish I could explain it without risk of spoilers, so I'll just leave it at that.
There are quite a few twists that definitely kept this story going... especially towards the end, where questions are answered and identities are revealed.
Overall, it was a lovely Christmas retelling of a lesser-known fairytale. I just might read it next Christmas... with fresher eyes!
November 3, 2024
Dang!! Just when I think I know where the story is going!! I actually said What! Out loud. Twice!! Abby, you get me every time.
Such a beautiful story about grief and the true meaning of gift giving. Evalie has lost everything. She has to decide if she is going to spend the last of her money on food or flower seeds. She decides to buy one flower seed. I don't know how much I can say without a spoiler. So I will say read and find out. This story was amazing.
But I will say Emmett was perfect and was always there for her.
Such a beautiful story about grief and the true meaning of gift giving. Evalie has lost everything. She has to decide if she is going to spend the last of her money on food or flower seeds. She decides to buy one flower seed. I don't know how much I can say without a spoiler. So I will say read and find out. This story was amazing.
But I will say Emmett was perfect and was always there for her.
December 19, 2025
Well, I’m 0 for 2 with this series…
This main character was all over the place, hating Emmett, liking Emmett, being annoyed by Alfie, inviting Alfie to live with her, complaining about how she is starving and then spending her last coin on…flower seeds.
Also, it’s quite a stretch to call this a retelling of the elves and the shoemaker!
I love the cover though.
This main character was all over the place, hating Emmett, liking Emmett, being annoyed by Alfie, inviting Alfie to live with her, complaining about how she is starving and then spending her last coin on…flower seeds.
Also, it’s quite a stretch to call this a retelling of the elves and the shoemaker!
I love the cover though.
December 19, 2024
This book absolutely ripped my heart out!!! So so good 😭🥰 a great Christmas read!
October 29, 2024
‘You can give a gift without magic’…
…and you don’t need to wait for a specific date in order to gift someone.
We each have something to contribute to the happiness of others. While our personal gift may seem small to us, many a time it makes a huge difference to the recipient(s). Give and receive, regardless of the season.
May we all find somebody who is ‘more comfortable than a good-feather pillow’ and accept them as the gift that they are.
…and you don’t need to wait for a specific date in order to gift someone.
We each have something to contribute to the happiness of others. While our personal gift may seem small to us, many a time it makes a huge difference to the recipient(s). Give and receive, regardless of the season.
May we all find somebody who is ‘more comfortable than a good-feather pillow’ and accept them as the gift that they are.
October 26, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! A wonderful new story of Elves and the Shoemaker, taking on a swoony and magical story. I adored the characters and the plot twist at the end was a complete surprise! A must read for the holidays! Thank you so much for the arc!
December 9, 2024
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I absolutely loved this retelling of An Elves and the Shoemaker! I will be reading the next book in this really wonderful series!
May 21, 2025
Grief and Magic
This story (like several in this series) was darker than I had expected. Evalie, the pov character, was grieving the loss of her mother, struggling to make ends meet, and felt like her gift (magical ability to decorate via illusions) was useless. She had antagonistic relationship with Emmett, which I think was supposed to be funny, but often fell flat to me. I didn't actually like Evalie very much. I almost didn't finish at one point because of her, but I'm glad I continued because
Emmett was ok. He seemed nice and caring. Aside from the antagonistic banter, I had no complaints about him, though nothing super exciting stood out to me either. He seemed like a pretty steady character.
Alfie was interesting. I liked the mystery around him.
The end
The majority of the book was well written, but there were a couple/few slips into modern slang that bugged me.
This story (like several in this series) was darker than I had expected. Evalie, the pov character, was grieving the loss of her mother, struggling to make ends meet, and felt like her gift (magical ability to decorate via illusions) was useless. She had antagonistic relationship with Emmett, which I think was supposed to be funny, but often fell flat to me. I didn't actually like Evalie very much. I almost didn't finish at one point because of her, but I'm glad I continued because
Emmett was ok. He seemed nice and caring. Aside from the antagonistic banter, I had no complaints about him, though nothing super exciting stood out to me either. He seemed like a pretty steady character.
Alfie was interesting. I liked the mystery around him.
The end
The majority of the book was well written, but there were a couple/few slips into modern slang that bugged me.
November 5, 2024
This was a charming Christmas story filled with just the right amount of humour, poignancy and of course those mindblowing plot twists that leave readers reeling every time!
I appreciated the message woven throughout this book that your worth does not come from what you have, but from who you are. Emmett is the only one in the village who was born without magic and Evalie teased him mercilessly about that when they were teens, so when her mother dies and she is left destitute she fails to comprehend why he insists on being so kind to her, and is convinced that he has ulterior motives. However, Emmett is a wonderfully protective, kind, sweet person who enjoys teasing his arch rival and best friend. I loved how honest he was, sometimes almost to the point of rudeness, and when Evalie actually WAS rude (quite often in fact) he never let her hurtful words get to him. The characters in this story were delightfully flawed and realistic and I loved all of them!
I also absolutely loved the mystery that ribboned through the pages - How are the flowers blooming so quickly? Who is the mysterious shoeless man? Why does something about this not feel quite right? And the spirit of Christmas and giving, warms your heart as you turn the page!
The message that even in the darkest times there is still hope was very strong and I loved Abigail’s descriptions of the magical gifts and the beautiful poinsettias that were made a touch more glamorous with Evalie’s gift of illusion, which she considers almost useless. Through this story Evalie learns her own self-worth and how to perceive herself and those around her differently. She learns that her prejudice (and that of others) can be harmful, but with the help of Emmett’s and Alfie’s kind, selfless influence she gradually becomes a better person (less caustic and more kind.)
I was intrigued by Evalie’s relationship with Alfie and wondered if there would be some kind of romantic entanglement, but then Abby delivered a twist that literally had my mind in knots and then followed it up with a few more sucker punches to the brain which I never saw coming!
I think with an Abby book you can safely say “Expect the unexpected” because she does this every single time, yet her plots are so magnificently spellbinding that we readers keep coming back for more!
I was privileged to receive an early copy of this incredible Christmas tale and I know I will be reading it in season and out of season till Kingdom come, cause WOW! Just WOW!
I appreciated the message woven throughout this book that your worth does not come from what you have, but from who you are. Emmett is the only one in the village who was born without magic and Evalie teased him mercilessly about that when they were teens, so when her mother dies and she is left destitute she fails to comprehend why he insists on being so kind to her, and is convinced that he has ulterior motives. However, Emmett is a wonderfully protective, kind, sweet person who enjoys teasing his arch rival and best friend. I loved how honest he was, sometimes almost to the point of rudeness, and when Evalie actually WAS rude (quite often in fact) he never let her hurtful words get to him. The characters in this story were delightfully flawed and realistic and I loved all of them!
I also absolutely loved the mystery that ribboned through the pages - How are the flowers blooming so quickly? Who is the mysterious shoeless man? Why does something about this not feel quite right? And the spirit of Christmas and giving, warms your heart as you turn the page!
The message that even in the darkest times there is still hope was very strong and I loved Abigail’s descriptions of the magical gifts and the beautiful poinsettias that were made a touch more glamorous with Evalie’s gift of illusion, which she considers almost useless. Through this story Evalie learns her own self-worth and how to perceive herself and those around her differently. She learns that her prejudice (and that of others) can be harmful, but with the help of Emmett’s and Alfie’s kind, selfless influence she gradually becomes a better person (less caustic and more kind.)
I was intrigued by Evalie’s relationship with Alfie and wondered if there would be some kind of romantic entanglement, but then Abby delivered a twist that literally had my mind in knots and then followed it up with a few more sucker punches to the brain which I never saw coming!
I think with an Abby book you can safely say “Expect the unexpected” because she does this every single time, yet her plots are so magnificently spellbinding that we readers keep coming back for more!
I was privileged to receive an early copy of this incredible Christmas tale and I know I will be reading it in season and out of season till Kingdom come, cause WOW! Just WOW!
October 22, 2024
First I want to thank Abigail Manning for the opportunity to receive an ARC of The Snowy Footprints. This review reflects my own opinion.
Oh my goodness! This book was fabulous! I cannot get over the many twists and turns to this book. I thought for sure I had this book figured out, and that I knew where the plot was going. Well.... I thought completely wrong. I did not see that ending coming! It was SO good!!!
Evalie recently lost her mother to scarlet fever. With the loss of her mom, also comes what she believes the loss of her future as it was her mother's magic that enabled the flowers from the flower shop to grow. Without her mother's magic, Evalie's magic has nothing to enhance the beauty of and she considers it worthless. She has no way to earn money and is down to her last two coins. Believing that she is going to die either by starvation or the cold she decides to spend her last few coins on a packet of flower seeds in an effort to connect with and remember her mother during the holiday season. Miraculously, the seeds sprout into flowers overnight. She then uses her gift to enhance the flowers and sell them. Out of desperation and hope, she again purchases flower seeds with some of the money she makes from the first two flowers. Again, the flowers sprout overnight. Evalie wonders if this miracle is a result of the mysterious visitor to comes sneaking into her house at night. Who is the mysterious visitor and how are the flowers growing so quickly?
The other main character is Emmett. He's sweet and honestly cares for Evalie's well-being even though she has tormented him since he was a child for his lack of a magical gift. Evalie wonders why Emmett could be so kind to her after all of the teasing and tormenting she had done to him over the years. Surely Emmett has an ulterior motive, doesn't he?
This is a MUST read for those looking for a good clean Christmas story! It's the kind of story you are going to want to clear your schedule for, as you will not be able to put it down!!! I will definitely be reading more of Abigail Manning's books in the future!
Oh my goodness! This book was fabulous! I cannot get over the many twists and turns to this book. I thought for sure I had this book figured out, and that I knew where the plot was going. Well.... I thought completely wrong. I did not see that ending coming! It was SO good!!!
Evalie recently lost her mother to scarlet fever. With the loss of her mom, also comes what she believes the loss of her future as it was her mother's magic that enabled the flowers from the flower shop to grow. Without her mother's magic, Evalie's magic has nothing to enhance the beauty of and she considers it worthless. She has no way to earn money and is down to her last two coins. Believing that she is going to die either by starvation or the cold she decides to spend her last few coins on a packet of flower seeds in an effort to connect with and remember her mother during the holiday season. Miraculously, the seeds sprout into flowers overnight. She then uses her gift to enhance the flowers and sell them. Out of desperation and hope, she again purchases flower seeds with some of the money she makes from the first two flowers. Again, the flowers sprout overnight. Evalie wonders if this miracle is a result of the mysterious visitor to comes sneaking into her house at night. Who is the mysterious visitor and how are the flowers growing so quickly?
The other main character is Emmett. He's sweet and honestly cares for Evalie's well-being even though she has tormented him since he was a child for his lack of a magical gift. Evalie wonders why Emmett could be so kind to her after all of the teasing and tormenting she had done to him over the years. Surely Emmett has an ulterior motive, doesn't he?
This is a MUST read for those looking for a good clean Christmas story! It's the kind of story you are going to want to clear your schedule for, as you will not be able to put it down!!! I will definitely be reading more of Abigail Manning's books in the future!
October 12, 2024
Before I begin, I would like to thank Abigail Manning for allowing me to read her upcoming novella, The Snowy Footprints, which is part of the multi-author series Christmas Chronicles and will be available on Amazon on November 5th, 2024.
Evalie Makera lost her mother and is now struggling to survive with only two coins and their flower shop to provide shelter. Everyone here is born with a magical gift, but Evalie’s ability to make something prettier feels small without her mother’s flower magic. She thinks it’s better than the shop boy that doesn’t have any magic until she decides that it’s probably worth more to buy seeds instead of food to honor her mother’s memory since she probably will starve anyway. But then the seed that she bought turns into a beautiful flower overnight, but something feels off by how quickly they bloomed. Does the newcomer without any shoes know about it? Or is someone else is responsible?
This novella was wonderful. You have Evalie, a beautiful, kind, and sassy young woman that is grieving her mother’s passing and trying to make ends meet. You have Emmett, the charming, handsome, and sometimes snarky shop boy that wasn’t born with magic like others in the village. This retelling of Elves and the Shoemaker was intriguing and the banter between Emmett and Evalie was fantastic. Manning did a wonderful job portraying the process of grief, prejudice (in terms of having magic or not), and kindness in the face of hardship. There were quite a few twists in the story that I didn’t expect but tied together nicely. Overall, if you like fairy tale retellings, great banter, Christmas / winter, flowers, magic, and sweet romance with low amounts of spice, then I would highly recommend this book. Here’s the link for more information: Amazon.com: The Snowy Footprints: An Elves and the Shoemaker Retelling (The Christmas Chronicles Book 1) eBook : Manning, Abigail: Kindle Store
Evalie Makera lost her mother and is now struggling to survive with only two coins and their flower shop to provide shelter. Everyone here is born with a magical gift, but Evalie’s ability to make something prettier feels small without her mother’s flower magic. She thinks it’s better than the shop boy that doesn’t have any magic until she decides that it’s probably worth more to buy seeds instead of food to honor her mother’s memory since she probably will starve anyway. But then the seed that she bought turns into a beautiful flower overnight, but something feels off by how quickly they bloomed. Does the newcomer without any shoes know about it? Or is someone else is responsible?
This novella was wonderful. You have Evalie, a beautiful, kind, and sassy young woman that is grieving her mother’s passing and trying to make ends meet. You have Emmett, the charming, handsome, and sometimes snarky shop boy that wasn’t born with magic like others in the village. This retelling of Elves and the Shoemaker was intriguing and the banter between Emmett and Evalie was fantastic. Manning did a wonderful job portraying the process of grief, prejudice (in terms of having magic or not), and kindness in the face of hardship. There were quite a few twists in the story that I didn’t expect but tied together nicely. Overall, if you like fairy tale retellings, great banter, Christmas / winter, flowers, magic, and sweet romance with low amounts of spice, then I would highly recommend this book. Here’s the link for more information: Amazon.com: The Snowy Footprints: An Elves and the Shoemaker Retelling (The Christmas Chronicles Book 1) eBook : Manning, Abigail: Kindle Store
December 14, 2024
a cosy Christmas story.
The pros - The banter between Evalie and Emmett is delightful. Emmett is definitely swoon worthy.
The cons - I found the whole business model and how Evalie was using her money unbelievable and unwise. I mean the currency wasn't fully explained, but if she only made 20 silver coins in one day of exceptional business, it made no sense that she had to use /would use a full gold coin to buy Emmett a day off. It's easy overpaying Nigel, and it's also just such poor use of money. I guess that's probably how she ended up destitute at the start of the story, if she uses up each day's income so thoughtlessly. Speaking of which, I couldn't understand why she was just sitting there waiting to die at the start of the book. At the start when you don't understand how her gift works, it made sense that she doesn't have any work. But after reading the story, it made no sense that she wasn't going around to people's houses to help them glamour their decorations and table settings and such for the holidays. So all these holes just made the story not work for me.
I also hated the slight love triangle aspect (not a true love triangle, but it was very confusing and weird).
Major spoiler:
I also found the miracle at the end too convenient and honestly a little too fantastically happy, given the heartbreak that comes with someone having memory loss/dementia/etc. I understand this wasn't dementia and that it's a feel good holiday fantasy, but it just seemed so unrealistic especially after reading the earlier book in this series (the hidden gift) with the dad who had the brain tumour.
The pros - The banter between Evalie and Emmett is delightful. Emmett is definitely swoon worthy.
The cons - I found the whole business model and how Evalie was using her money unbelievable and unwise. I mean the currency wasn't fully explained, but if she only made 20 silver coins in one day of exceptional business, it made no sense that she had to use /would use a full gold coin to buy Emmett a day off. It's easy overpaying Nigel, and it's also just such poor use of money. I guess that's probably how she ended up destitute at the start of the story, if she uses up each day's income so thoughtlessly. Speaking of which, I couldn't understand why she was just sitting there waiting to die at the start of the book. At the start when you don't understand how her gift works, it made sense that she doesn't have any work. But after reading the story, it made no sense that she wasn't going around to people's houses to help them glamour their decorations and table settings and such for the holidays. So all these holes just made the story not work for me.
I also hated the slight love triangle aspect (not a true love triangle, but it was very confusing and weird).
Major spoiler:
I also found the miracle at the end too convenient and honestly a little too fantastically happy, given the heartbreak that comes with someone having memory loss/dementia/etc. I understand this wasn't dementia and that it's a feel good holiday fantasy, but it just seemed so unrealistic especially after reading the earlier book in this series (the hidden gift) with the dad who had the brain tumour.
October 19, 2024
The Snowy Footprints was nothing of what I expected! Every last thing I thought I knew I soon discovered I was so very wrong. It was full of twists and turns! Magic and Misconceptions! Secrets and Unexpected Revelations! And for the life of me I have no idea how Manning fit so so so much into only 176 pages.
Evalie doesn’t know how she is going to survive after the death of her mother. Not only is she mentally devastated by her death but now she is left unable to support herself in her mother’s empty flower shop. Her magic of illusions isn’t the type to bring in income and soon she finds herself down to her last two coppers. And a decision she must make—food for another day or firewood to keep her warm just one more night. Both are needed but she can only afford one. But with a trip to the grocer a new opportunity presents itself and Evalie decides if she is going to die anyway maybe she can procure a little happiness before hand.
But help, magic, and gifts are often found when we need it most. And Evalie is about to discover that things aren’t always what they seem. And happiness can be found in even the darkest of circumstances.
I absolutely love! Love! Love! Emmett in this book! He was sweet and swoony and my heart sung with an abundance of joy every single time he was written onto the page! He was perfect and utterly perfect for Evalie!
So yep…if you enjoy a story filled with all the twists and turns! Where what you think is happening and what is actually happening collides! And will leave you completely reeling! You need to read The Snowy Footprints!
Evalie doesn’t know how she is going to survive after the death of her mother. Not only is she mentally devastated by her death but now she is left unable to support herself in her mother’s empty flower shop. Her magic of illusions isn’t the type to bring in income and soon she finds herself down to her last two coppers. And a decision she must make—food for another day or firewood to keep her warm just one more night. Both are needed but she can only afford one. But with a trip to the grocer a new opportunity presents itself and Evalie decides if she is going to die anyway maybe she can procure a little happiness before hand.
But help, magic, and gifts are often found when we need it most. And Evalie is about to discover that things aren’t always what they seem. And happiness can be found in even the darkest of circumstances.
I absolutely love! Love! Love! Emmett in this book! He was sweet and swoony and my heart sung with an abundance of joy every single time he was written onto the page! He was perfect and utterly perfect for Evalie!
So yep…if you enjoy a story filled with all the twists and turns! Where what you think is happening and what is actually happening collides! And will leave you completely reeling! You need to read The Snowy Footprints!
November 18, 2024
Abigail Manning once again weaves a tale full of surprises and sweet moments. This was such a fun and creative twist on the classic story the Elves and the Shoemaker. Abigail is so talented. She makes you think the story is going one way and then BOOM twist, everything has been turned upside down! I’d think I had it figured out but then find out I was very wrong. I only guessed one thing correctly at the ending. I have no idea how she plots her books, but they are excellently written.
The characters were intriguing and endearing. I love the frenemies relationship between Evalie and Emmet. I went back and forth on whether they would end up together or not. At some points I rooted for Emmet, and others times, I rooted against him. All the twists gave me new views of him as the book progresses.
The plot as already stated was excellent. Mind blowing as usual for Abigail. Just when I thought I figured everything out, I’d turn the page and “What? No way! What did I just read? *rereads* What?!?” So👏 good👏 And the grief, healing, forgiveness, trust, and hope points in the story are just tear inducing.
This was a beautiful salute to finding the true meaning behind giving, beauty, hope, and love in times of grief, and overcoming fears, self doubt.
Read if you love:
✨frenemies
✨fairytale retellings
✨Christmas stories
✨magic
✨betrayal
✨hidden identity
✨lost and found family
✨mystery
Strong Language: none
Spice: none
Violence: none, but talk of death of mother, and people getting a bad sickness
The characters were intriguing and endearing. I love the frenemies relationship between Evalie and Emmet. I went back and forth on whether they would end up together or not. At some points I rooted for Emmet, and others times, I rooted against him. All the twists gave me new views of him as the book progresses.
The plot as already stated was excellent. Mind blowing as usual for Abigail. Just when I thought I figured everything out, I’d turn the page and “What? No way! What did I just read? *rereads* What?!?” So👏 good👏 And the grief, healing, forgiveness, trust, and hope points in the story are just tear inducing.
This was a beautiful salute to finding the true meaning behind giving, beauty, hope, and love in times of grief, and overcoming fears, self doubt.
Read if you love:
✨frenemies
✨fairytale retellings
✨Christmas stories
✨magic
✨betrayal
✨hidden identity
✨lost and found family
✨mystery
Strong Language: none
Spice: none
Violence: none, but talk of death of mother, and people getting a bad sickness
October 22, 2024
With her mother’s recent passing from the red fever, Evalie Makera has no way to earn money. Knowing she’s going to starve either way, she spends her last two coins on flower seeds instead of food, desperate for a connection to her mother’s magical ability to grow flowers.
When she awakes the next morning to two beautiful blossoms, she uses her own gift to make them even prettier and sells them. Thus leads to a time of hope and prosperity. But will the magic continue? And who is the mysterious person who keeps sneaking into her house at night?
“What you give is worth so much more than what you receive.”
This was such a lovely story of grief and hope and trust and greed. I loved seeing how Manning wove all the elements together into such a delightful tale…and boy, were my toes cold! (IYKYK!)
There’s a very sweet relationship between Evalie and Emmett. I was concerned for a little while about a possible love triangle, but as is true in all these cases, she ended up with the right guy ;)
In true Manning fashion, we have a swoony hero with the best lines and a twist that pulls everything in a new direction!
Is it winter yet? Because the descriptions of the snow and cold definitely made me glad I was curled up under a blanket to read!
5 Snowflakes
Minor swears
A couple kisses
No injuries, but talk of death and loss
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
When she awakes the next morning to two beautiful blossoms, she uses her own gift to make them even prettier and sells them. Thus leads to a time of hope and prosperity. But will the magic continue? And who is the mysterious person who keeps sneaking into her house at night?
“What you give is worth so much more than what you receive.”
This was such a lovely story of grief and hope and trust and greed. I loved seeing how Manning wove all the elements together into such a delightful tale…and boy, were my toes cold! (IYKYK!)
There’s a very sweet relationship between Evalie and Emmett. I was concerned for a little while about a possible love triangle, but as is true in all these cases, she ended up with the right guy ;)
In true Manning fashion, we have a swoony hero with the best lines and a twist that pulls everything in a new direction!
Is it winter yet? Because the descriptions of the snow and cold definitely made me glad I was curled up under a blanket to read!
5 Snowflakes
Minor swears
A couple kisses
No injuries, but talk of death and loss
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
November 5, 2024
This was such a lovely Christmas story, with little magical elements that were both really important to the story but also kind of subtle in that the world worked much in the same way ours does. I loved Evalie, I thought she was a really kind character, despite the slight bullying as a child and whole love triangle aspect which I wasn't sure I was going to like once we got into it. I actually really did like it in the end though, because it worked out well the way everything happened at the end, there was no unsatisfying ending for any of the characters involved. I obviously can't say anything about what though. I really loved the twist at the end, I totally didn't see it coming at all, but the clues were all there, just hidden very effectively. And the Elves and the Shoemaker elements were really cute. I've not a retelling of it before and although it is actually a story I did know as a child, I did have to familiarise myself so I might notice some more little bits. I'm sure there were still subtle bits that I missed but I thought it was excellently incorporated into the world and overall story of this wonderful take on it. The imagery of all the poinsettias was so festive and descriptions of Evalie using her gift was so beautiful. I'd highly recommend reading this with a lovely warm hot chocolate over the festive period, it's perfect!
November 4, 2024
I don't even know where to begin with this book. It was just soooo good.
The characters in this book were amazing. Evalie was such a great FMC. She was relatable. I felt so bad for her, grieving her mother and not knowing how, or if, she would be able to make it on her own.
Emmett was such a gem. He was so kind and generous with such a big heart. I love his teasing banter with Evalie.
Alfie was such a sweet character. The way he wanted to help and support Evalie was touching. It was so sweet how he did what he could to support her during a difficult time.
The twist is wonderful. I MOSTLY had it figured out. I was so close to guessing everything. It was Soooo good.
This will be another book I reread for the holiday season! Such a heartwarming and beautiful story with a wonderful message.
I think Ms. Manning has a spot as one of my all-time favorite authors. I haven't even read that many of her books (yet). They are just THAT good. She is simply so creative and her books are so wonderful.
I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting a touching read that embodies the beauty of the holiday season.
The characters in this book were amazing. Evalie was such a great FMC. She was relatable. I felt so bad for her, grieving her mother and not knowing how, or if, she would be able to make it on her own.
Emmett was such a gem. He was so kind and generous with such a big heart. I love his teasing banter with Evalie.
Alfie was such a sweet character. The way he wanted to help and support Evalie was touching. It was so sweet how he did what he could to support her during a difficult time.
The twist is wonderful. I MOSTLY had it figured out. I was so close to guessing everything. It was Soooo good.
This will be another book I reread for the holiday season! Such a heartwarming and beautiful story with a wonderful message.
I think Ms. Manning has a spot as one of my all-time favorite authors. I haven't even read that many of her books (yet). They are just THAT good. She is simply so creative and her books are so wonderful.
I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting a touching read that embodies the beauty of the holiday season.
November 5, 2024
🎄Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Abigail Manning’s novels are always quite imaginative. The Snowy Footprints followed in those steps *pun intended*. I was very curious because I had heard the story of The Elves and the Shoemaker but I had never read a retelling. Bonus points for that!
Evalie has the power to beautify the boring and ordinary. Down on her luck and in mourning, she needs a miracle. Everyone in the village has a gift, except one. Emmett has no such magical gift. What he does have is strength of character and kindness. The childhood teasing-to-lovers was cute in the way it played out.
The stranger in this story was very intriguing. What I did not expect was for this novel to turn into such a mystery. I also didn’t expect that ending. Honestly, I was shocked by a couple of the revelations! All in all, The Snowy Footprints was a fabulous Christmas read. Thank you to Abigail Manning for an ARC of this festive little novel!
No-Spice Level: light kissing
Language: Clean
Faith Elements: None
Tropes:
Dislike to lovers
Mysterious stranger
She tends him when he’s sick
Childhood-teasing-to-lovers
Abigail Manning’s novels are always quite imaginative. The Snowy Footprints followed in those steps *pun intended*. I was very curious because I had heard the story of The Elves and the Shoemaker but I had never read a retelling. Bonus points for that!
Evalie has the power to beautify the boring and ordinary. Down on her luck and in mourning, she needs a miracle. Everyone in the village has a gift, except one. Emmett has no such magical gift. What he does have is strength of character and kindness. The childhood teasing-to-lovers was cute in the way it played out.
The stranger in this story was very intriguing. What I did not expect was for this novel to turn into such a mystery. I also didn’t expect that ending. Honestly, I was shocked by a couple of the revelations! All in all, The Snowy Footprints was a fabulous Christmas read. Thank you to Abigail Manning for an ARC of this festive little novel!
No-Spice Level: light kissing
Language: Clean
Faith Elements: None
Tropes:
Dislike to lovers
Mysterious stranger
She tends him when he’s sick
Childhood-teasing-to-lovers
November 7, 2024
The magic of winter, friendship and blossoming love are wrapped up in this gorgeous new release by Abigail.
This is a christmas story with lots of twists like a candy cane, warmth like a cup of hot cider, and unexpected surprises, good and bad, like fruitcake.
But what started out as a sweet, though sad, story quickly evolves into an intriguing mystery. Who is leaving flowers, and who is leaving footprints?
Then when you think you finally know what is happening, the plot twists hit and they are more twisty than a hand pulled candy cane on Christmas eve leaving you wondering what the chris kringle just happened and how you got here.
As usual, the plot of this story is brilliantly executed, the twists deliciously intriguing, and the warm, cozy love story makes any icy cold moments of fear for fictional friends melt away into pure happiness.
The Snowy Footprints is the fourth book in the christmaschronicles and it is a retelling of The Shoemaker and the Elves.
This is a christmas story with lots of twists like a candy cane, warmth like a cup of hot cider, and unexpected surprises, good and bad, like fruitcake.
But what started out as a sweet, though sad, story quickly evolves into an intriguing mystery. Who is leaving flowers, and who is leaving footprints?
Then when you think you finally know what is happening, the plot twists hit and they are more twisty than a hand pulled candy cane on Christmas eve leaving you wondering what the chris kringle just happened and how you got here.
As usual, the plot of this story is brilliantly executed, the twists deliciously intriguing, and the warm, cozy love story makes any icy cold moments of fear for fictional friends melt away into pure happiness.
The Snowy Footprints is the fourth book in the christmaschronicles and it is a retelling of The Shoemaker and the Elves.
November 19, 2024
Abigail Manning is such a gifted writer and it is very apparent in this Christmas Retelling of The Elves & The Shoemaker!
The main character, Evalie, is mourning the loss of her mother. Many will pay their respects, but it’s an acquaintance from her childhood who catches her attention. Childhood enemies, they teased each other relentlessly, so why was he at the funeral? Evalie, keeps waiting and watching as she wonders what his intentions towards her are.
You’ll love this no spice fairytale retelling from the very beginning! You’ll fall in love with Evalie and mourn with her as she ventures life seemingly alone.
In this book you’ll find unexpected twists and will find yourself cheering and mourning and then maybe even yelling and then you’ll even swoon a bit.
Part of a cozy Christmas series, but meant to be read as a stand alone.
I loved everything about this book!
The main character, Evalie, is mourning the loss of her mother. Many will pay their respects, but it’s an acquaintance from her childhood who catches her attention. Childhood enemies, they teased each other relentlessly, so why was he at the funeral? Evalie, keeps waiting and watching as she wonders what his intentions towards her are.
You’ll love this no spice fairytale retelling from the very beginning! You’ll fall in love with Evalie and mourn with her as she ventures life seemingly alone.
In this book you’ll find unexpected twists and will find yourself cheering and mourning and then maybe even yelling and then you’ll even swoon a bit.
Part of a cozy Christmas series, but meant to be read as a stand alone.
I loved everything about this book!
November 2, 2024
The story was sweet and heartfelt and I found the writing of the book to be great.
Though I had a little trouble understanding and accepting the FMC. I could feel the goodness buried inside her but she came out a little more selfish to me than what I would have loved. Her thinking that Emmett should stay outside in the snow to watch the place because staying in would be inappropriate and Alfie staying in with her when he brought up the same thing did not agree with me.
I really admired Emmett's character though, since he was there for her even when it would have been difficult for him.
This was my first book by the author and I look forward to the next one. (3.5/5 rounded up)
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Though I had a little trouble understanding and accepting the FMC. I could feel the goodness buried inside her but she came out a little more selfish to me than what I would have loved. Her thinking that Emmett should stay outside in the snow to watch the place because staying in would be inappropriate and Alfie staying in with her when he brought up the same thing did not agree with me.
I really admired Emmett's character though, since he was there for her even when it would have been difficult for him.
This was my first book by the author and I look forward to the next one. (3.5/5 rounded up)
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2024
A tale that is largely about grief doesn't sound like it should be cosy, heart-warming and delightful, yet that's exactly what the Snowy Footprints is. Evalie is left destitute after the death of her mother, but her situation is altered in many unexpected ways by an unexpected gift. As she works through her grief and the mystery of the nightly gifts, Evalie is helped by an old acqauaintance and a mysterious newcomer. The story is filled with playful banter, cosy winter warmth, and the true meaning of gifts and giving. A wonderful fairly quick read.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
October 22, 2024
This book gave me a hangover that will last for the rest of my life.
Abigail Manning books are always known for being unpredictable, but the plot twist here... 😱 I will literally never be the same again. Every time I think I can guess a plot twist of hers, I think she chuckles wickedly and then I get an iron skillet to the head. IT WAS PERFECT!!!!
I'm trying to think of something else to say, but can't come up with anything that isn't a spoiler, so I'll just say that I'm STILL in shock (and I got a beta copy MONTHS ago). I think this is the absolute pinnacle of writing. Readers might not think you can have a twisty Christmas book but YOU MUST READ THIS ONE!!!!
Abigail Manning books are always known for being unpredictable, but the plot twist here... 😱 I will literally never be the same again. Every time I think I can guess a plot twist of hers, I think she chuckles wickedly and then I get an iron skillet to the head. IT WAS PERFECT!!!!
I'm trying to think of something else to say, but can't come up with anything that isn't a spoiler, so I'll just say that I'm STILL in shock (and I got a beta copy MONTHS ago). I think this is the absolute pinnacle of writing. Readers might not think you can have a twisty Christmas book but YOU MUST READ THIS ONE!!!!
November 6, 2024
The Snowy Footprints was a fantastic retelling of the Elves and the Shoemaker. I loved this novella! It was sweet and full of Christmas vibes. This was a quick and easy read. The plot pulled me quickly and I consumed this novella in one afternoon. Abigail was a way of writing a sweet tale that is full of suspense and with many plot twists that I did not seeing coming. The mystery of who was leaving the flowers that had me turning the pages to find out. Evalie was relatable as she deals with her mother’s death and is looking for a miracle. Emmett was my favorite character. I loved their banter! It was sweet and full of sass! I loved how he looked after her and was there for her. The romance was sweet and didn’t go past kissing. The Snowy Footprints was a captivating story and highly recommend this novella!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
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