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Christmas Dinner
News anchor Amanda Turner used to love everything about the holidays—the eggnog sugar cookies, the tacky family Christmas sweaters, and a lawn decorated with so many multi-colored lights that 747s could land safely. That is until her boyfriend dumped her in front of the whole town on Christmas Eve. Humiliated, she fled her small town to start a new life. Two years later, she’s finally ready to return to the scene of the emotional crime, until she learns that her ex is engaged. Now, the only thing worse than going home is going home single.
Tate Ryan, her tall, dark, and arrogant co-anchor, offers to pose as her boyfriend. There’s one problem, though: they barely like each other, and he recently scooped her story on live TV. But she needs a ride home and a boyfriend fast, so Tate will have to do.
As she watches Tate interact with her family and town residents, fully embracing the spirit of the holiday season, she starts to see his kindhearted side. She can’t help but wonder if she was wrong about him. Perhaps he isn’t the conniving co-worker that she once thought. And her new feelings for him would definitely put her on the naughty list.
Tate has his own agenda for the weekend that includes telling Amanda he’s been in love with her since the first time they met. He’s ready to reveal all during Christmas dinner but fate has other plans.
Tate Ryan, her tall, dark, and arrogant co-anchor, offers to pose as her boyfriend. There’s one problem, though: they barely like each other, and he recently scooped her story on live TV. But she needs a ride home and a boyfriend fast, so Tate will have to do.
As she watches Tate interact with her family and town residents, fully embracing the spirit of the holiday season, she starts to see his kindhearted side. She can’t help but wonder if she was wrong about him. Perhaps he isn’t the conniving co-worker that she once thought. And her new feelings for him would definitely put her on the naughty list.
Tate has his own agenda for the weekend that includes telling Amanda he’s been in love with her since the first time they met. He’s ready to reveal all during Christmas dinner but fate has other plans.
178 pages, Paperback
First published November 18, 2013
5 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
About the author
Robyn Neeley
41 books502 followersRobyn Neeley is an East Coaster who loves to explore new places; watches way more reality TV than she cares to admit; can’t live without Dunkin Donuts coffee and has never met a cookie she didn’t like. If you have a must read romance suggestion or a fabulous cookie recipe, she wants to know. Visit her at www.robynneeley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 21, 2013
Want a feel-good romance for the holiday season? Read Christmas Dinner!
First, the characters were so real. We get to know them well, including their connected pasts and their fated future. It was perfect! I loved loved loved these two MCs. I guess what really got me was that Amanda is truly like me – a go-getter, hopeless romantic. But all that was ruined by one Christmas Eve in her past. Now, she avoids her family and works hard as a news reporter. In comes Tate (and don’t you just love his name?), her fellow co-anchor. Tate is a real ladies man, a man of many words and sigh-worthy comebacks. They don't get along. What we learn later is that he is a hopeless romantic, too. I can’t forget to mention the secondary characters including Amanda’s family, ex-boyfriend and a family in need. All of them added so much warmth and pleasure to the story, I was sad for it to end. I felt like I was missing my own family!
Second, Robyn Neeley has a way with words. Her lighthearted humor had me laughing out loud -- for real, not the silent giggle, but a full-on chuckle – so many times. I loved the constant bickering between the MCs. What fun! I knew with that much heated emotion, they had to come together at some point.
Third, Christmas Dinner is a feel-good, spirited romance. Even though it’s only October, I was ready to get my hot cocoa, scarves, ornaments, wrapping and mistletoe from storage to deck the halls. A lovely warm feeling throughout the story – including a sweet emotional unexpected reunion at the end (I don’t want to give it away, so I won’t go there.)
All in all, Robyn Neeley did a fantastic job pulling me in to the story – with her characters, her storytelling, comedy and warmth of the holiday season. As Christmas gets closer, I will be reading this again. Grab your hot cocoa, a warm blanket and Christmas Dinner. You won’t be disappointed.
First, the characters were so real. We get to know them well, including their connected pasts and their fated future. It was perfect! I loved loved loved these two MCs. I guess what really got me was that Amanda is truly like me – a go-getter, hopeless romantic. But all that was ruined by one Christmas Eve in her past. Now, she avoids her family and works hard as a news reporter. In comes Tate (and don’t you just love his name?), her fellow co-anchor. Tate is a real ladies man, a man of many words and sigh-worthy comebacks. They don't get along. What we learn later is that he is a hopeless romantic, too. I can’t forget to mention the secondary characters including Amanda’s family, ex-boyfriend and a family in need. All of them added so much warmth and pleasure to the story, I was sad for it to end. I felt like I was missing my own family!
Second, Robyn Neeley has a way with words. Her lighthearted humor had me laughing out loud -- for real, not the silent giggle, but a full-on chuckle – so many times. I loved the constant bickering between the MCs. What fun! I knew with that much heated emotion, they had to come together at some point.
Third, Christmas Dinner is a feel-good, spirited romance. Even though it’s only October, I was ready to get my hot cocoa, scarves, ornaments, wrapping and mistletoe from storage to deck the halls. A lovely warm feeling throughout the story – including a sweet emotional unexpected reunion at the end (I don’t want to give it away, so I won’t go there.)
All in all, Robyn Neeley did a fantastic job pulling me in to the story – with her characters, her storytelling, comedy and warmth of the holiday season. As Christmas gets closer, I will be reading this again. Grab your hot cocoa, a warm blanket and Christmas Dinner. You won’t be disappointed.
November 16, 2013
Occasionally you just run across a book that is the perfect “feel good” moment and fits the season just as well. That was this story for me! Robyn Neeley delivers a story that is the perfect mix of characters and emotions, while delivering a lovely romance and returning the meaning of the season (hint – it isn’t wrapped and under the tree) to the reader and slightly recalcitrant characters.
Amanda is a go-getter, determined and focused with her own hopelessly romantic moments: but a bad Christmas Eve experience has turned her off the Holiday. Tate, her co-anchor, is a ladies man with a plan, and a big secret: he hides his romantic dreams under bravado and banter. The “fake boyfriend” set up is cleverly done, especially when the characters realize their intertwined pasts.
Secondary characters also all have their own moments with the holiday, from Amanda’s family to her ex-boyfriend and even a family in need, the integration and development of their characterizations provides an injection of humor and warmth that just hold interest and keep you reading.
Neeley writes beautifully, from dialogue to humor and moving the plot forward, there weren’t moments where you want to put the book down. In fact, the banter and bickering between Amanda and Tate is funny to read, and even more importantly, feels as if you are overhearing the conversation in the corner of the room. A sweetly romantic story that adds a spark of Christmas cheer to your afternoon – this is the perfect book to curl up with a cup of cocoa and a fire.
I received an eArc from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Amanda is a go-getter, determined and focused with her own hopelessly romantic moments: but a bad Christmas Eve experience has turned her off the Holiday. Tate, her co-anchor, is a ladies man with a plan, and a big secret: he hides his romantic dreams under bravado and banter. The “fake boyfriend” set up is cleverly done, especially when the characters realize their intertwined pasts.
Secondary characters also all have their own moments with the holiday, from Amanda’s family to her ex-boyfriend and even a family in need, the integration and development of their characterizations provides an injection of humor and warmth that just hold interest and keep you reading.
Neeley writes beautifully, from dialogue to humor and moving the plot forward, there weren’t moments where you want to put the book down. In fact, the banter and bickering between Amanda and Tate is funny to read, and even more importantly, feels as if you are overhearing the conversation in the corner of the room. A sweetly romantic story that adds a spark of Christmas cheer to your afternoon – this is the perfect book to curl up with a cup of cocoa and a fire.
I received an eArc from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
December 1, 2013
Christmas Dinner
by Robyn Neeley
News anchor Amanda Turner used to love everything about the holidays—the eggnog sugar cookies, the tacky family Christmas sweaters, and a lawn decorated with so many multi-colored lights that 747s could land safely. That is until her boyfriend dumped her in front of the whole town on Christmas Eve. Humiliated, she fled her small town to start a new life. Two years later, she’s finally ready to return to the scene of the emotional crime, until she learns that her ex is engaged. Now, the only thing worse than going home is going home single.
Tate Ryan, her tall, dark, and arrogant co-anchor, offers to pose as her boyfriend. There’s one problem, though: they barely like each other, and he recently scooped her story on live TV. But she needs a ride home and a boyfriend fast, so Tate will have to do.
As she watches Tate interact with her family and town residents, fully embracing the spirit of the holiday season, she starts to see his kindhearted side. She can’t help but wonder if she was wrong about him. Perhaps he isn’t the conniving co-worker that she once thought. And her new feelings for him would definitely put her on the naughty list.
Tate has his own agenda for the weekend that includes telling Amanda he’s been in love with her since the first time they met. He’s ready to reveal all during Christmas dinner but fate has other plans.
I have had received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review!
.............................................................
My thoughts (Theo~): I’ve loved the actions and the
characters from this book so much! And it remembered me why I love Christmas so
much [and not only because it is my birthday two days earlier], but because
everyone get to their warmer side, and finally understand the idea of giving
and not only taking. I love this about Christmas, and this novel did nothing
but to emphasize with me.
Amanda is
your nice and beautiful anchor at a TV station, one that does not believe in Christmas
anymore because of an unhappy event that led to her hatred towards Christmas two
years ago. Not long ago she was ready to get engaged on the beautiful day that Christmas
represented for her and she was almost too happy, that was why life decided to
punch her in the face and actually get dumped in front of her whole life.
So, she decides to leave the small
beautiful town and finds herself to a whole new other level. The only thing
that keeps her from not being so happy here is her co-anchor Tate Ryan. He is
charming, charismatic and strong; every single woman out there in her right
mind will jump him, but not her. Why? Because he always gets the worst out of
her and she is so ready to kill him every single time that she almost cannot
control herself. But when an unfortunate car accident happens she is forced to
stop lying to her parents and say that she is still bringing her boyfriend
home. The problem? She does not have a boyfriend so everything gets
complicated.
But then again life has its own way
of messing with you and Tate Ryan offers himself to come with her and pose as
his beautiful and smart boyfriend. She accepts, but all of discouraging things
happen to make her understand what a bad-bad idea that was. But they still go
through with the lie, and sooner than later they discover themselves.
The past comes to meet the light of
the day and everything is even more complicated. Will they love conquer
everything? Will everything change? How about her family?
[+] Pluses: Loved the way she deals with her former boyfriend and her future fiancee.
Also loved how she and Tate get to know each other
[-] Minuses: The way everything happened so fast.
Happy readying everyone~!
December 22, 2013
Posted on What I'm Reading
Have you ever read a holiday book that made you laugh, cry and just felt like the perfect holiday read. Well, Robyn Neeley brings that with her latest release Christmas Dinner. In this book you will find elements that make a fun romantic comedy with moments that remind you that the magic of Christmas is still there.
Christmas Dinner is one of those stories I loved so much, that I would love to tell you everything that happens in the book. It's that amazing, but I'll focus on the things that made the story for me.
There are a few characters that you first need to know:
Amanda Turner: She hasn't been home for a couple of years. She wasn't planning to come home until she found that her ex was living with her parents with his fiancé. So, she decides to take her co-anchor home for the holidays.
Tate Ryan: The co-anchor. Plus, has a crush on Amanda from years ago. He figures that this would be a good weekend to help her see that he's more than a jerk and that he really loves her.
Brad: He's not really important, but he's the ex that dumped her on Christmas Eve two years. By the way who does that, seriously.
Then you have the rest of her family, which they are a hoot.
As I said in Amanda's description she wanted to come home to prove that she's moved on from Brad and she required the help of Tate. Tate is a willing participant, because of what happen in the past. Yet, some of Amanda's family put Tate through the ringer (which would be an overprotective brother).
Anyway, Christmas Dinner is a light fun read that will put you in the holiday spirit. Yes, some of the story will remind you of a "twisted version of a Christmas Carol". At the same time, how can you resist a story where you drag a guy to meet the family, and you can barely tolerate him? I mean that is a making for a disaster, and to top it all off you have the ex-boyfriend with his fiancé living with your family. That could be a bit awkward.
I absolutely love Christmas Dinner for it's light fun that will having you bust a gut. Then you have moments that will have you shedding a few tears. So, if you are looking for a sappy read that will have you all over with your emotions, you might want to give Christmas Dinner to give you that holiday spirit.
Copy provided by author
Have you ever read a holiday book that made you laugh, cry and just felt like the perfect holiday read. Well, Robyn Neeley brings that with her latest release Christmas Dinner. In this book you will find elements that make a fun romantic comedy with moments that remind you that the magic of Christmas is still there.
Christmas Dinner is one of those stories I loved so much, that I would love to tell you everything that happens in the book. It's that amazing, but I'll focus on the things that made the story for me.
There are a few characters that you first need to know:
Amanda Turner: She hasn't been home for a couple of years. She wasn't planning to come home until she found that her ex was living with her parents with his fiancé. So, she decides to take her co-anchor home for the holidays.
Tate Ryan: The co-anchor. Plus, has a crush on Amanda from years ago. He figures that this would be a good weekend to help her see that he's more than a jerk and that he really loves her.
Brad: He's not really important, but he's the ex that dumped her on Christmas Eve two years. By the way who does that, seriously.
Then you have the rest of her family, which they are a hoot.
As I said in Amanda's description she wanted to come home to prove that she's moved on from Brad and she required the help of Tate. Tate is a willing participant, because of what happen in the past. Yet, some of Amanda's family put Tate through the ringer (which would be an overprotective brother).
Anyway, Christmas Dinner is a light fun read that will put you in the holiday spirit. Yes, some of the story will remind you of a "twisted version of a Christmas Carol". At the same time, how can you resist a story where you drag a guy to meet the family, and you can barely tolerate him? I mean that is a making for a disaster, and to top it all off you have the ex-boyfriend with his fiancé living with your family. That could be a bit awkward.
I absolutely love Christmas Dinner for it's light fun that will having you bust a gut. Then you have moments that will have you shedding a few tears. So, if you are looking for a sappy read that will have you all over with your emotions, you might want to give Christmas Dinner to give you that holiday spirit.
Copy provided by author
December 1, 2013
***I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Christmas Dinner is a heartwarming story of love, family, and forgiveness. Amanda is a news anchor in Wilmington, N.C. She can’t stand her co-anchor, the handsome, Tate. Everything he does seems to get on her nerves. Could it be that she actually likes Tate more than she is willing to admit? However, there is something she hates more…Christmas. It was not always that way, not until she was dumped by her boyfriend two years ago in front of her family and friends. She has agreed to return home which happens to be a family Christmas tree farm. To add insult to injury, she has discovered Brad is engaged and expecting a child. Her parents have also let Brad and his fianc��e stay in their home since theirs was destroyed by a fire. To her surprise, Tate has offered to return home with her and pose as her boyfriend. But, he has his own motives. He wants Amanda to see him outside of work and get to know him because he has harbored feelings for Amanda for quite some time. As she arrives home and spends more time with Tate, she finally sees a very different side to him…one that she could see herself falling for. Tate has secrets of his own though. He has met Amanda before and shared a special kiss with her when they were younger on a Christmas Eve that was very painful for him. She gave him hope that night long ago, and he has spent his life trying to find her again. However, Amanda doesn’t recognize him as that young boy years ago. Will she see him as a hopeless romantic or some creepy guy who has spent years stalking her?
I LOVED Tate. What a great guy!!! He was the whole package…hot with a heart of gold. I wasn’t a big fan of Amanda in the beginning. I thought she was judgmental and too hard on Tate. I just wanted her to open her eyes and see what a great thing was in front of her eyes. But, as Tate worked to melt her heart, I began to like her more. I enjoyed the banter and chemistry between the two of them. I loved Amanda’s family as well; they truly understand what the true meaning of Christmas is.
If you are looking for a feel good Christmas story, you should give this one a try. It puts you in the mood for the holidays. It’s much more than romance. It’s a beautiful tale of love of family and the true meaning of the Season!
Christmas Dinner is a heartwarming story of love, family, and forgiveness. Amanda is a news anchor in Wilmington, N.C. She can’t stand her co-anchor, the handsome, Tate. Everything he does seems to get on her nerves. Could it be that she actually likes Tate more than she is willing to admit? However, there is something she hates more…Christmas. It was not always that way, not until she was dumped by her boyfriend two years ago in front of her family and friends. She has agreed to return home which happens to be a family Christmas tree farm. To add insult to injury, she has discovered Brad is engaged and expecting a child. Her parents have also let Brad and his fianc��e stay in their home since theirs was destroyed by a fire. To her surprise, Tate has offered to return home with her and pose as her boyfriend. But, he has his own motives. He wants Amanda to see him outside of work and get to know him because he has harbored feelings for Amanda for quite some time. As she arrives home and spends more time with Tate, she finally sees a very different side to him…one that she could see herself falling for. Tate has secrets of his own though. He has met Amanda before and shared a special kiss with her when they were younger on a Christmas Eve that was very painful for him. She gave him hope that night long ago, and he has spent his life trying to find her again. However, Amanda doesn’t recognize him as that young boy years ago. Will she see him as a hopeless romantic or some creepy guy who has spent years stalking her?
I LOVED Tate. What a great guy!!! He was the whole package…hot with a heart of gold. I wasn’t a big fan of Amanda in the beginning. I thought she was judgmental and too hard on Tate. I just wanted her to open her eyes and see what a great thing was in front of her eyes. But, as Tate worked to melt her heart, I began to like her more. I enjoyed the banter and chemistry between the two of them. I loved Amanda’s family as well; they truly understand what the true meaning of Christmas is.
If you are looking for a feel good Christmas story, you should give this one a try. It puts you in the mood for the holidays. It’s much more than romance. It’s a beautiful tale of love of family and the true meaning of the Season!
November 25, 2013
Amanda Turner is a new anchor and until a couple of years ago loved everything about Christmas. Her than boyfriend decided it was time to break up with her on Christmas Eve of all days. Therefore, Amanda spent the next two years away from home making a new life for herself. Amanda is still bitter about the break up and how it was handled. She is not pining away for the ex. Amanda is a sweet and loving woman who is at a cross roads in her life and does not seem to understand which path to take.
Tate Ryan is a new anchor and Amanda’s co-host. He is a hot and sexy man who only has eyes for Amanda but he covers it by acting as if he does not even like her. Tate shows up to save Amanda’s day and maybe get to know her better and why she is a cranky as she is at times.
The chemistry between Amanda and Tate is scorching. It’s easy to see who they could get off to the wrong foot. However, is also easy to see that Tate is not going anywhere. I loved how there fake romance turns so easily into a real one once they both get to know each other better.
The one thing that puzzled me was Amanda’s parents. They seems so oblivious to the fact that there daughter wanted nothing to do with her ex, I mean they moved him into their house! It was almost to the point I wanted to shake both of them. They made it harder on their daughter than it had to be. I get the spirit of Christmas is forgiving but it was plain to see that instead of siding with their daughter they sided with the ex and wanted Amanda to get over it. While it was not really addressed, the impression that was left was the ex-boyfriend left Amanda after he was already involved with someone else. No wonder it took her two years to come home.
Overall, this was a marvelous read. I found this novel to be well written and thought provoking. The main and secondary characters were interesting and realistic. I have not read anything by this author before but I will be keeping my eyes out for more by her in the future.
Tate Ryan is a new anchor and Amanda’s co-host. He is a hot and sexy man who only has eyes for Amanda but he covers it by acting as if he does not even like her. Tate shows up to save Amanda’s day and maybe get to know her better and why she is a cranky as she is at times.
The chemistry between Amanda and Tate is scorching. It’s easy to see who they could get off to the wrong foot. However, is also easy to see that Tate is not going anywhere. I loved how there fake romance turns so easily into a real one once they both get to know each other better.
The one thing that puzzled me was Amanda’s parents. They seems so oblivious to the fact that there daughter wanted nothing to do with her ex, I mean they moved him into their house! It was almost to the point I wanted to shake both of them. They made it harder on their daughter than it had to be. I get the spirit of Christmas is forgiving but it was plain to see that instead of siding with their daughter they sided with the ex and wanted Amanda to get over it. While it was not really addressed, the impression that was left was the ex-boyfriend left Amanda after he was already involved with someone else. No wonder it took her two years to come home.
Overall, this was a marvelous read. I found this novel to be well written and thought provoking. The main and secondary characters were interesting and realistic. I have not read anything by this author before but I will be keeping my eyes out for more by her in the future.
October 25, 2013
When I read the blurb for Christmas Dinner I was immediately drawn in. I loved the premise of the book. I couldn’t wait to read the whole story. Ms. Neely is a new-to-me author, and she drew me into the characters of the book so that they felt like family.
Amanda hasn’t been home in two years, not since her boyfriend of five years dumps her on Christmas Even in front of her whole family. She thought he was proposing, instead he asks for a break. She lets her family know she will be home for Christmas this year and then finds out her ex is now engaged.
Tate has been half in love with Amanda since he was a young boy. She doesn’t even remember him and he’s scared to let her know their history. She changed his life back then, gave him hope when he had none. He’s made all the big decisions in his life to bring him close to her again. Once that happens they fight constantly. She despises him.
Tate unexpectedly comes to Amanda’s rescue and is her “pretend” boyfriend for her trip back home. Once there, Amanda finds out secret after secret in regards to her ex. I don’t know how she deals with it. I love the back story and almost all of the secondary characters. I didn’t really care for Brad and wished his side of the story would’ve been explained. I think he owed that to Amanda. It almost seems as though he was cheating on her with his current fiancé when they were together before.
Ms. Neely spins her web and finishes in the most perfect ending for the couple involved. It was so them. I loved this story and hope there will be more stories about the secondary characters. I want Alex & Brenda’s story, Brad and Melanie’s and everyone else’s. I love when an author can draw you in and make you want to know about all of the characters, want them to get their happily ever after, even if you don’t like them too much. Robyn did this in spades here.
Amanda hasn’t been home in two years, not since her boyfriend of five years dumps her on Christmas Even in front of her whole family. She thought he was proposing, instead he asks for a break. She lets her family know she will be home for Christmas this year and then finds out her ex is now engaged.
Tate has been half in love with Amanda since he was a young boy. She doesn’t even remember him and he’s scared to let her know their history. She changed his life back then, gave him hope when he had none. He’s made all the big decisions in his life to bring him close to her again. Once that happens they fight constantly. She despises him.
Tate unexpectedly comes to Amanda’s rescue and is her “pretend” boyfriend for her trip back home. Once there, Amanda finds out secret after secret in regards to her ex. I don’t know how she deals with it. I love the back story and almost all of the secondary characters. I didn’t really care for Brad and wished his side of the story would’ve been explained. I think he owed that to Amanda. It almost seems as though he was cheating on her with his current fiancé when they were together before.
Ms. Neely spins her web and finishes in the most perfect ending for the couple involved. It was so them. I loved this story and hope there will be more stories about the secondary characters. I want Alex & Brenda’s story, Brad and Melanie’s and everyone else’s. I love when an author can draw you in and make you want to know about all of the characters, want them to get their happily ever after, even if you don’t like them too much. Robyn did this in spades here.
December 5, 2013
Christmas Dinner by Robyn Neeley is a HOT holiday romance infused with the Christmas spirit
If you're looking for a heart-warming holiday romance novel that has just a touch of A Christmas Carol, you should definitely checkout Robyn Neeley's new book, Christmas Dinner. I really loved it from the Scrooge-like defensiveness of television news anchor, Amanda, to the fun-loving sincerity of hero Tate. And their on-air chemistry has nothing on what's possible off-air!
I was hooked from the beginning when Tate in a gesture of goodwill seems to steal Amanda's scoop, to the accidental meeting of sleigh and car, and finally when we meet Amanda's fabulous Christmas card family who live in upstate New York on, what else, a Christmas tree farm. Her mother knits matching Christmas themed sweaters for all of her Santa helpers as they deliver goodwill to those who have struggled during the past year.
But it's not all goodwill for Amanda as she has to confront the reason the holiday was ruined for her - her ex Brad who dumped her when she thought a proposal was in the offing. I'm still not sold on him as, well, you'll read it yourself. But Amanda's more forgiving then I am and that is very much in the spirit of Christmas that infuses this book.
There are several wonderful twists, turns, and plot surprises that will keep you from putting this book down. In addition, the love scenes between Tate and Amanda are HOT! The only thing I wish Neeley had included was the recipe for the eggnog sugar cookies as they sound delicious.
So for a holiday read to infuse you with the Christmas spirit, look no further than Robyn Neeley's Christmas dinner - a fabulous, fun, and touching romance.
Fab Fantasy Fiction
http://www.fabfantasyfiction.com/2013...
I received an eARC from the author for use in this review.
If you're looking for a heart-warming holiday romance novel that has just a touch of A Christmas Carol, you should definitely checkout Robyn Neeley's new book, Christmas Dinner. I really loved it from the Scrooge-like defensiveness of television news anchor, Amanda, to the fun-loving sincerity of hero Tate. And their on-air chemistry has nothing on what's possible off-air!
I was hooked from the beginning when Tate in a gesture of goodwill seems to steal Amanda's scoop, to the accidental meeting of sleigh and car, and finally when we meet Amanda's fabulous Christmas card family who live in upstate New York on, what else, a Christmas tree farm. Her mother knits matching Christmas themed sweaters for all of her Santa helpers as they deliver goodwill to those who have struggled during the past year.
But it's not all goodwill for Amanda as she has to confront the reason the holiday was ruined for her - her ex Brad who dumped her when she thought a proposal was in the offing. I'm still not sold on him as, well, you'll read it yourself. But Amanda's more forgiving then I am and that is very much in the spirit of Christmas that infuses this book.
There are several wonderful twists, turns, and plot surprises that will keep you from putting this book down. In addition, the love scenes between Tate and Amanda are HOT! The only thing I wish Neeley had included was the recipe for the eggnog sugar cookies as they sound delicious.
So for a holiday read to infuse you with the Christmas spirit, look no further than Robyn Neeley's Christmas dinner - a fabulous, fun, and touching romance.
Fab Fantasy Fiction
http://www.fabfantasyfiction.com/2013...
I received an eARC from the author for use in this review.
April 17, 2014
This was one book that made tears come to my eyes and I had to stop reading it for a little bit before I could read anymore.
Amanda Turner is a woman that you think is stuck up and doesn't like anything until you find out what happened to her over two years ago on Christmas Eve. When you're expecting your boyfriend of years to propose to you and you have everything set up just right and everyone is watching, you never think he will be breaking up with you. So Amanda does what any woman would do. She moves and starts her career and never gets close to anyone.
She never expected the news she would get after she told her parents that she would finally be coming home for Christmas after missing out for two years. She gets saved from someone she never thought would help her.
Tate Ryan knows that Amanda is the woman for him and has been in love with her a long time. He just doesn't know how to break it to her. Seems all they do is rub each other the wrong way. Maybe going home for Christmas will help Tate out and Amanda will finally realize that she has feelings for Tate. It will at least let her see him in a whole different life.
This was a great Christmas story and it has the true meaning of Christmas in it. Just sharing what you can with people who can't afford Christmas can make you feel better and it leaves you with a warm feeling inside. I never knew I would get so emotionally involved with the story and characters.
I can't give anything away but I will say that Amanda and Tate has a history with each other that she doesn't remember or connect the dots with. If only Tate gets his Christmas wish this year.
The author did an amazing job with this story. This will be something that I will read over and over again.
Amanda Turner is a woman that you think is stuck up and doesn't like anything until you find out what happened to her over two years ago on Christmas Eve. When you're expecting your boyfriend of years to propose to you and you have everything set up just right and everyone is watching, you never think he will be breaking up with you. So Amanda does what any woman would do. She moves and starts her career and never gets close to anyone.
She never expected the news she would get after she told her parents that she would finally be coming home for Christmas after missing out for two years. She gets saved from someone she never thought would help her.
Tate Ryan knows that Amanda is the woman for him and has been in love with her a long time. He just doesn't know how to break it to her. Seems all they do is rub each other the wrong way. Maybe going home for Christmas will help Tate out and Amanda will finally realize that she has feelings for Tate. It will at least let her see him in a whole different life.
This was a great Christmas story and it has the true meaning of Christmas in it. Just sharing what you can with people who can't afford Christmas can make you feel better and it leaves you with a warm feeling inside. I never knew I would get so emotionally involved with the story and characters.
I can't give anything away but I will say that Amanda and Tate has a history with each other that she doesn't remember or connect the dots with. If only Tate gets his Christmas wish this year.
The author did an amazing job with this story. This will be something that I will read over and over again.
November 20, 2013
The book is about two news anchors Amanda Turner and Tate Ryan, who have been working together for about a year. When the Christmas season comes around Amanda finds herself having to go home to deal with some personal demons from her past with Tate helping her by her side by pretending to be her boyfriend.
I liked how the two main characters had a ying and yang working and personal relationship. Where Amanda is not a think on the feet type of person, Tate is there to help step in. Where Tate is not the best organizer, Amanda is the one who thrives on it. It was nice to see a guy struggling to find a way to find the right words and emotions. Most guys stumble over their emotions and are just unsure when their heart can be broken and I think the author did a wonderful job in showing that inner and outwards struggle Tate had.
The one thing I didn't like so much was just how much Amanda was clueless about everything. I found it almost wanting to slap her more than once in the book, as for a professional and ambitious woman it was grating to see her so self-absorbed all the time and down right mean at times. I found that Tate really deserved better than someone who wasn't even an ounce curious about him and what made him ticked. It was too much about her and not enough about the world around her, that the character flaw was really hard to over look and to enjoy her at times.
All in all it was a short, fun read I would highly recommend this Christmas story and I look forward to seeing what other books the author has done.
I liked how the two main characters had a ying and yang working and personal relationship. Where Amanda is not a think on the feet type of person, Tate is there to help step in. Where Tate is not the best organizer, Amanda is the one who thrives on it. It was nice to see a guy struggling to find a way to find the right words and emotions. Most guys stumble over their emotions and are just unsure when their heart can be broken and I think the author did a wonderful job in showing that inner and outwards struggle Tate had.
The one thing I didn't like so much was just how much Amanda was clueless about everything. I found it almost wanting to slap her more than once in the book, as for a professional and ambitious woman it was grating to see her so self-absorbed all the time and down right mean at times. I found that Tate really deserved better than someone who wasn't even an ounce curious about him and what made him ticked. It was too much about her and not enough about the world around her, that the character flaw was really hard to over look and to enjoy her at times.
All in all it was a short, fun read I would highly recommend this Christmas story and I look forward to seeing what other books the author has done.
December 5, 2013
3.5 Stars in my Sky!
Amanda Turner and Tate Ryan are TV news presenters who most definitely don't get on - or rather Amanda doesn't like Tate because of some pretty speedy assumptions. When Amanda's ex gets engaged just before she heads home for Christmas she somehow finds herself returning home with Tate in tow as her pretend boyfriend.
The book is told in dual POV which is great because we get to see inside Tate's head and see how he's actually in love with Amanda and decides to use the situation to his advantage; his one goal is to change her mind about him and win her heart.
On the outside Tate is carefree and easy going, but he's faced a lot of tragedy in his life and didn't really open up to anybody other than a certain female presenter. Amanda likes control and organisation, everything needs to be as planned. She's still plagued by her past and the current situation with her ex Brad.
At the start of the book Amanda is pretty self involved, albeit by accident, she's so focused on wallowing in her own misery she hasn't noticed how sweet and kind Tate really is. I honestly have no idea how Amanda couldn't see how Tate felt about her and I couldn't decide whether I found this funny or really frustrating.
Short, sweet and funny Christmas Dinner is great for getting you in the holiday spirit or if you just fancy escaping the cold for a while.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review!
Also reviewed on my blog Zili in the Sky
December 20, 2014
Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. - Mary Ellen Chase
I received CHRISTMAS DINNER inside a beautiful red purse from Robyn Neeley in support of the Maryland Romance Writers (MRW) auction. I was bidding on the purse ... and CHRISTMAS DINNER was the icing on the cake.
Amanda Turner has been bitter about the holidays for the past two years after her childhood friend-turned-boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve. She fled her update NY hometown, where her family grew Christmas trees, for her perfect job in North Carolina. Amanda dislikes her co-anchor, Tate Ryan, thinking he is a scene stealing and skirt chasing rogue. After a series of unfortunate events, she accepts his offer to accompany her home just as her sister is about to give birth over the holidays. Amanda fights her attraction to Tate while still trying to make her ex-boyfriend jealous.
Amanda may loathe the holidays, but Tate loves the season because of the generous family - Amanda's - who touched his life when he was a teen. He has been in love with Amanda since then, trying to find a way to connect with her. Once Amanda is home, wearing her family's tacky sweater, she realizes that holidays ... and even Tate ... aren't so bad after all.
Neeley delivers a Scrooge inspired holiday romance that pulls at the heart. Just as I was ready for the romance to wrap up ... Neeley throws in a twist. You'll have to read the book to find out how it all comes together.
Recommended read for fans of fated lovers and holiday themes.
I received CHRISTMAS DINNER inside a beautiful red purse from Robyn Neeley in support of the Maryland Romance Writers (MRW) auction. I was bidding on the purse ... and CHRISTMAS DINNER was the icing on the cake.
Amanda Turner has been bitter about the holidays for the past two years after her childhood friend-turned-boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve. She fled her update NY hometown, where her family grew Christmas trees, for her perfect job in North Carolina. Amanda dislikes her co-anchor, Tate Ryan, thinking he is a scene stealing and skirt chasing rogue. After a series of unfortunate events, she accepts his offer to accompany her home just as her sister is about to give birth over the holidays. Amanda fights her attraction to Tate while still trying to make her ex-boyfriend jealous.
Amanda may loathe the holidays, but Tate loves the season because of the generous family - Amanda's - who touched his life when he was a teen. He has been in love with Amanda since then, trying to find a way to connect with her. Once Amanda is home, wearing her family's tacky sweater, she realizes that holidays ... and even Tate ... aren't so bad after all.
Neeley delivers a Scrooge inspired holiday romance that pulls at the heart. Just as I was ready for the romance to wrap up ... Neeley throws in a twist. You'll have to read the book to find out how it all comes together.
Recommended read for fans of fated lovers and holiday themes.
December 4, 2013
*I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review*
Christmas Dinner by Robyn Neely is the romantic Christmas story of Amanda Turner and Tate Ryan. Amanda and Tate are co-anchors, but not friends. Tate irritates Amanda to no end, but Tate has been in love with Amanda since their first meeting. Amanda is returning to her hometown for the first time since her boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve. Tate agrees to go home with her to act as her boyfriend for the holiday weekend.
Christmas Dinner is a cute and uplifting romantic tale. Amanda is an intelligent, witty woman. Tate is a sweet, soft-spoken gentlemen. The sparks – and witty repertoire – fly between the two. I liked the foreshadowing at the start of the novel, which does not turn out to be the simple look into the future the reader expected. I also enjoyed the family dynamics – a nice touch for a Christmas novel.
My only criticism of the story is the somewhat abrupt ending. Although loose ends are wrapped up nicely, I would have enjoyed reading more of the story between the two Christmas Eves.
I recommend Christmas Dinner for readers looking for a cute, romantic tale that embraces the Christmas season. A great St. Nicholas gift for the romantic reader on your Christmas list.
Christmas Dinner by Robyn Neely is the romantic Christmas story of Amanda Turner and Tate Ryan. Amanda and Tate are co-anchors, but not friends. Tate irritates Amanda to no end, but Tate has been in love with Amanda since their first meeting. Amanda is returning to her hometown for the first time since her boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve. Tate agrees to go home with her to act as her boyfriend for the holiday weekend.
Christmas Dinner is a cute and uplifting romantic tale. Amanda is an intelligent, witty woman. Tate is a sweet, soft-spoken gentlemen. The sparks – and witty repertoire – fly between the two. I liked the foreshadowing at the start of the novel, which does not turn out to be the simple look into the future the reader expected. I also enjoyed the family dynamics – a nice touch for a Christmas novel.
My only criticism of the story is the somewhat abrupt ending. Although loose ends are wrapped up nicely, I would have enjoyed reading more of the story between the two Christmas Eves.
I recommend Christmas Dinner for readers looking for a cute, romantic tale that embraces the Christmas season. A great St. Nicholas gift for the romantic reader on your Christmas list.
December 7, 2013
I simply loved this endearing novel! I was overcome by the spirit of Christmas as each wonderful character warmed my heart.
This novella has much more feeling than what I had originally expected.
The banter between Amanda and Tate is amusing, with an underlying tone of passion. It’s a little painful at times how oblivious she is to his true nature, but even more painful to watch him as he tries to find the right words. Her history with men, however, makes her inability to trust understandable.
Her family has wonderful traditions that brought back such a deep sense of nostalgia for me, I cried. I love the heartfelt manner in which the author describes the plight of many families during the holidays, and I love her grandmother! She’s a spunky old gal with innate wisdom that made me think of my own. The laughter came as easily as the tears and the drama was light, and entertaining.
From the mother who insists on the crazy sweaters to the father that decorates the property like the Holdman’s, (check it out on YouTube), I loved every character and felt a connection that reminded me of home. If you’re looking for a sweet, romantic, holiday tale, this is your book!
This novella has much more feeling than what I had originally expected.
The banter between Amanda and Tate is amusing, with an underlying tone of passion. It’s a little painful at times how oblivious she is to his true nature, but even more painful to watch him as he tries to find the right words. Her history with men, however, makes her inability to trust understandable.
Her family has wonderful traditions that brought back such a deep sense of nostalgia for me, I cried. I love the heartfelt manner in which the author describes the plight of many families during the holidays, and I love her grandmother! She’s a spunky old gal with innate wisdom that made me think of my own. The laughter came as easily as the tears and the drama was light, and entertaining.
From the mother who insists on the crazy sweaters to the father that decorates the property like the Holdman’s, (check it out on YouTube), I loved every character and felt a connection that reminded me of home. If you’re looking for a sweet, romantic, holiday tale, this is your book!
November 27, 2013
Robyn Neeley, author of Destination Wedding, comes through with another terrific Contemporary romance in Christmas Dinner. News anchor Amanda Turner returns home to Christmas loving family after a two year absence. Days before leaving, she learns the ex-boyfriend who dumped her on Christmas Eve will be there with his fiancé. Determined to show Mr. Won't Commit she's moved on, she needs a fake boyfriend fast and finds one in her co-anchor.
Tate Ryan (don't you love that name) has ulterior motives. He intends to tell Amanda that he's loved her since the first time they met. But first, he must participate in family traditions like delivering Christmas trees and cookies in the community. The road to the HEA is as prickly as a pine tree, but never sappy. Neeley balances humor, warmth and love in a way that makes you wish you could drive past Turner household and pitch in with their celebration. This is one Christmas Dinner you won't want to miss.
I receive an ARC from the author and am glad I did.
Tate Ryan (don't you love that name) has ulterior motives. He intends to tell Amanda that he's loved her since the first time they met. But first, he must participate in family traditions like delivering Christmas trees and cookies in the community. The road to the HEA is as prickly as a pine tree, but never sappy. Neeley balances humor, warmth and love in a way that makes you wish you could drive past Turner household and pitch in with their celebration. This is one Christmas Dinner you won't want to miss.
I receive an ARC from the author and am glad I did.
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January 17, 2014Sarah's Review:
Thanks to Robyn Neeley for giving me the chance to read and review this great story. This story was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review and part of our Christmas promo on the blog.
I have to be honest and say that I completely love this story. From the very first page to the very last page, I was hooked. The twist and turns in this story kept me intrigued and I was anticipating what would happen when Tate told Amanda his secret. However, what happened was not anything that I anticipated.
This story, in my opinion, shows how love can happen at any age, whether you know the person or not. It also shows that a simple random act of kindness can change someone's life.
Without giving anything away, this story is one that everyone who believes in love, fate, kismet, divine intervention or whatever else that leads soul mates together should read.
Thanks to Robyn Neeley for giving me the chance to read and review this great story. This story was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review and part of our Christmas promo on the blog.
I have to be honest and say that I completely love this story. From the very first page to the very last page, I was hooked. The twist and turns in this story kept me intrigued and I was anticipating what would happen when Tate told Amanda his secret. However, what happened was not anything that I anticipated.
This story, in my opinion, shows how love can happen at any age, whether you know the person or not. It also shows that a simple random act of kindness can change someone's life.
Without giving anything away, this story is one that everyone who believes in love, fate, kismet, divine intervention or whatever else that leads soul mates together should read.
November 18, 2013
I was given a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was a good read and definitely got me into the Christmas spirit. Amanda has a tough exterior and is afraid to let anyone in after what happened with her ex. She hates Christmas and has avoided it as much as possible over the past 2 years. Tate is actually a sweet, kind-hearted person who just so happens to know how to push Amanda’s buttons like no one else. They have spent the past year arguing and now he is going home with her as her “boyfriend”. But he has a secret that Amanda can’t even guess. Everything changes on Christmas Eve
This book was a great short read and I really enjoyed it. I would suggest this to anyone who likes Christmas books or who enjoys seeing people who are at odds come together. The twists that this took were all good and left you wanting a little more. 4.5/5
This was a good read and definitely got me into the Christmas spirit. Amanda has a tough exterior and is afraid to let anyone in after what happened with her ex. She hates Christmas and has avoided it as much as possible over the past 2 years. Tate is actually a sweet, kind-hearted person who just so happens to know how to push Amanda’s buttons like no one else. They have spent the past year arguing and now he is going home with her as her “boyfriend”. But he has a secret that Amanda can’t even guess. Everything changes on Christmas Eve
This book was a great short read and I really enjoyed it. I would suggest this to anyone who likes Christmas books or who enjoys seeing people who are at odds come together. The twists that this took were all good and left you wanting a little more. 4.5/5
December 2, 2013
4.5 Stars
In Christmas Dinner by Robyn Neely, Amanda Turner is a successful news anchor, even if her co-anchor can get on her nerves most of the time. Amanda believes that this segment will be the best one in her career, since it will make breaking news and she has been the one working hard at uncovering it.
Unfortunately right when she is live and about to break the news, the teleprompter malfunctions, to make matters worst she doesn’t have any notes with her and she is not good at winging it. So when her co-anchor Tate Ryan breaks her story she believes that he stole her thunder when he didn’t really work for it. Read More...
In Christmas Dinner by Robyn Neely, Amanda Turner is a successful news anchor, even if her co-anchor can get on her nerves most of the time. Amanda believes that this segment will be the best one in her career, since it will make breaking news and she has been the one working hard at uncovering it.
Unfortunately right when she is live and about to break the news, the teleprompter malfunctions, to make matters worst she doesn’t have any notes with her and she is not good at winging it. So when her co-anchor Tate Ryan breaks her story she believes that he stole her thunder when he didn’t really work for it. Read More...
October 20, 2013
Robyn Neeley delivers again! Nobody does cute, sweet, funny romance quite like it. Amanda and Tate co-anchor their local news...and they don't get along. That all changes when he poses as her boyfriend when she goes back home for Christmas. This story had me laughing and crying, and marveling at the intense emotion wrapped up in the seemingly light story. Ms. Neeley weaves the spirit of Christmas through all the little details of the story and really gets to the heart of what the holiday means to people. Everything is spot-on and just a complete delight. Perfect for your holiday reading list, A+.
December 15, 2014
A great addition to my Christmas reading! "Christmas Dinner" is a sweet combination of contemporary romance with bits of holiday classics like "A Christmas Carol." It's impossible not to root for Amanda and Tate to find their happily-ever-after in time for Christmas.
November 25, 2015
Cute and heartwarming. Lots of references to trees and sweaters and cookies will easily get you into the Christmas mood. I really liked the plot and the initial connection between the two main characters. A very sweet romance and an entertaining story.
July 31, 2015
Robyn Neeley books are enjoyable little reads. Will they be the best books you ever read? No. But they fill the void of cute reads that are just down right adorable at times.
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