Waiting for Gilbert

Holidays in Hadley Springs #1

by Tasha Hackett

“Full of laugh out loud humor. An adorable romance, and quirky but lovable characters that could walk off the page, Waiting for Gilbert is the perfect cozy read for anyone who loves love!” —Emily Barnett, author of Thread of Dreams

“Tasha Hackett proves she’s every bit as adept with contemporary romance as historical in this snowy sweet tale. With a lovably unique heroine and a steadfast, cello-playing hero, Waiting for Gilbert is grab-your-favorite-cozy-blanket perfection!” — Megan Schaulis, author of The Susa Chronicles

***
"I'm just a girl, standing in front of a phone, asking her landlord to come to dinner."Cute and fun Cordelia is history. From now on, I’m serious and focused CJ Thompson. No more snappy one-liners. No more dance-parties-for-one in restaurant booths. Anne-girl is out. Marilla Cuthbert is in. It’s time to grow up!
If only it were that easy. With less than two weeks until a massive work deadline, I signed a 12-month lease on a cottage sight-unseen because I couldn’t bear to stay in the city another day after my broken engagement. It’s all well and good until my landlord knocks on my door at two in the morning.

Who knew living next to a house-flipping, cello-playing, swooney-smiling, flesh-and-blood man named Gilbert would be so distracting?

To Do...
17. Finish unpacking
18. Drink coffee
19. Ask Gilbert to marry me

*********
This is a no-door, kisses only romance with beautiful raw emotions and silly and wonderful characters.

“What a fun read! The banter is delightful and clever. The Christian message touched my heart and made me tear up. I highly recommend this book!” —Victorine E. Lieske, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author

“A fun, sweet, touching Christmas tale that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is going to be on my re-read shelf.” —Mary Connealy, award-winning author of more than 75 historical comedies with cowboys

“I adore this story. With genuine and honest characters that leap off the page, Waiting for Gilbert is small town romance with heart. Perfect for fans of rom-com and Christian romance.” —Tosca Lee, New York Times bestselling author and three-time International Book Award winner

"I enjoyed every minute of Waiting for Gilbert. Hackett has a gift for creating characters that are unforgettable and immensely rewarding to read. I was laughing and cheering for the romance from the very first page, and wiping away tears by the last. One of my favorite reads of the year!" —Tara Grace Ericson, bestselling author of Marrying the Billboard Cowboy

Genres: Christmas, Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance, Fiction, Clean Romance, Romance

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 14, 2024

About the author

Tasha’s still trying to decide what she wants to be when she grows up. In the meantime, she sings, paints, sews, dances in the kitchen, homeschools the kids, and often forgets to put away the laundry. Tasha writes with hope and humor to encourage and entertain. Her novels demonstrate a vision of romance between flawed characters loved by an unflawed God.

Reviews

[Mandi Blake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waiting for Gilbert absolutely stole my heart! Cordelia is hilarious and strong but also fragile, and I just wanted to give her the biggest hug. I loved her passion for life and desire to do something great. Gilbert was her perfect counterpart, and I loved his down-to-earth personality.

I laughed and cried. I wanted to live in this world with these characters and be friends with them. I highly recommend this clean, Christian romance. It's a Christmas story, but this would be a good read any time of the year.

[Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waiting for Gilbert is the first book I have read by Tasha Hackett, but it will not be the last. I was in the middle of reading this book when I knew I would want to reread it. I am not a huge re-reader, but I want a physical copy for my keeper shelf!

I don't know where to begin with my review because my thoughts are all over the place. I loved Cordelia, I loved Gilbert, I loved Cordelia and Gilbert! They had a great meet-cute. I adored Aunt Jewels and have come to the conclusion that we all need an Aunt Jewels in our life.

Read for:

❄ the texts

❄ the witty banter

❄ the flirting

❄ the nicknames

❄ Cousin Mark

❄ all the Anne references

❄ Gilbert

If your thoughts have ever been scattered all over the place, or you make impulsive decisions, you will relate to Cordelia.

This story made me feel good. I laughed, and I had tears in my eyes, it is just the sweetest story. I do have two complaints: 1) not enough of Aunt Jewels in the book and 2) it ended before I was ready to let go. Cordelia's cousin Mark's book is next in the series and I am here for it.

Thank you to JustReads Publicity and the author for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

★★★★★/5

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Regardless, I grew up watching Jonathon Crombie as Gilbert Blythe patiently woo Anne Shirley, and I childishly built the same fantasy for myself. I decided to wait for that. I would wait for my Gilbert. Since my hair is as bright red as Anne's I've always identified with her on a personal level. When did I lose that dream?" I scoff at the foolishness of it. The perfect man isn't going to come knocking on my door in the middle of the night. I must go find him!"

Cordelia is a bit impulsive. After all, signing a year lease on a place sight might be a bit rash. Especially when she discovers that her new home is being remodeled. But she is determined to make it work, especially due to the appeal of her landlord, who happens to be named Gilbert. Yes, Gilbert. Can she let go, wait and let life happen? Or will she insist on plowing her own way forward?

This is a Christmas novella complete with festive music and parties. A Nebraska winter provides the frigid cold, but the book is still full of warmth and charm. I think the book could be enjoyed all year round for those who have Christmas spirit.

Until I got to know her, Cordelia was a bit much for me at times. Her thoughts were conveyed throughout the story and were at times a jumbled mess. But I do have to appreciate her unique outlook on life even if at times I wanted her to take a breath.

The cast of characters really shine in this storyline. I enjoyed the families especially Aunt Jewel, and the friends were also a great supporting cast. I appreciated all of the truth telling in love. The book conveyed a lot of wisdom and insights into living life well.

Although I was hesitant about the book at first, near the end, I did not want to put it down. I absolutely loved the final chapters, and the epilogue was the perfect conclusion. I cannot wait to return to Hadley Springs again. The ending raised the numbers of my review. Final rating: 4.5 stars

I did read an advanced copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is just like Cordelia, short and fun. (Sorry Cordy, I agree with Gilbert, you are not a CJ). The humor had me bursting with laughter all throughout the book. The banter was top tier, seriously some of the best I've ever read. The friendship between Gilbert and Cordelia was truly the sweetest. Aunt Jewels is my newest all time favorite characters! I also want to be her when I grow up. I loved the genuine connection between Cordelia and her family.

The author's love for the Lord shone though the pages organically, sprinkled in at just the right places. One of the best parts is the headers of each chapter provide the story's own original soundtrack. I can't wait to re-read while listening to the tracks.

Perfect for readers who love sweet, clean romance, witty banter, Christmas, and Christian fiction colored by inspiration from L.M. Montgomery's classic Anne of Green Gables. Waiting for Gilbert left me with warmth in my spirit and a smile on my face. Now to explore the story behind Mark's celebration...

I was provided a complimentary copy from the author for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Jeannette Harbottle · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’re good friends, good good friends.

Wow! What a book! This roller coaster of ADHD brings laughter and tears, truth and insecurities together in a riveting way.
To me the best chapter in the book is that of the Christmas Eve morning worship service. I love the joy that bubbles in Cordelia’s soul and escapes as tears.
Make sure you have lots of time when you start to read because you won’t want to put it down until the last word is read.

[Parkland Mom · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 Stars
Completed: Nov. 01/25
Series: Holidays in Hadley Springs, #1
Format: Kindle e-book

Challenge Prompt: BR Holiday Bingo — “a cozy read” - romcoms are my cozy reads because they are light, funny, and typically swoony. Very relaxing.

Book #144 of 2025: I’m struggling with how to review this book. There were parts I really enjoyed. I smiled and laughed. Then there were parts where I just checked out and struggled to keep going. Since I experienced that back and forth, my rating reflects it.

I appreciated the message that Cordelia’s rejection by a dating partner/fiancé did not define her. Not should she feel like people view her as not ‘good enough’ for marriage. Even her mom is shortsighted in her word choices. However, I would have liked to see more attention given to the reality that feelings are NOT facts. Her meltdown didn’t really make complete sense to me. I found it confusing.

I loved how she has an encounter with God and is reminded of His truth and love. I also enjoyed the banter between the two main characters. The ease of their friendship became great grounds for more. It reminded me a little of my husband and I. The references to Anne and Gilbert of the classic, Anne of Green Gables, was sweet. And, yes, it is absolutely worth it to wait for a Gilbert!

At other times I struggled to finish the book. I even went back and reread parts because I felt like I was missing something. I feel bad even saying that but I’m just trying to be as honest as I can be. Books can click differently with different people. I guess this wasn’t one that clicked for me overall. Others may really enjoy it.

[Meagan Luallin · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Waiting for Gilbert” was such a delight from start to finish. It was sweet, funny, and I loved the banter between Cordelia and Gilbert. Also, “floordrobe” is my new favorite word. Very sweet Christmas read, I can’t wait for the next one!

[Linda Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, funny, satisfying romance! Loved the characters, church scene and ending.

[Crystal Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this adorable Christmas read! The Anne of Green Gables themes were done in a fun way. Loved the banter! Tasha is a new to me author and I really enjoyed this one!

Thank you Tasha for a copy of your book. This is my genuine review.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars!

This was super cute and fun! I loved how silly Cordelia was at times and I love how well Gilbert and her sync together. There was some great Christian content throughout. Overall a good read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25

Content:
They do sleep in the same bed at one point but nothing happens and he is injured.

[Laura Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a book by Tasha Hacket and I enjoyed it very much!

Cordelia has a bit of an Anne with Green Gables obsession and has literally been waiting for her Gilbert since childhood. She has just gotten over a bad breakup and realizes her ex was never the one, when she meets her new landlord, a swoony cello player who is named Gilbert. The two share an instant attraction to each other, but work really hard to fight it especially after Cordelia overhears Gilbert saying that he has no time or money for a girlfriend right now. I fell in love with Cordelia. She is confident and has such a fun, quirky personality. She isn’t afraid to be herself, but she struggles with her self worth and fears that no one wants her. It was so relatable. Cordelia and Gilbert have such great chemistry. I loved the flirting and their witty conversations. I enjoyed the late night adventure that started their friendship and the snowstorm that brought them more forced proximity.
The book has some light Christian themes and positive mental health rep.
I loved this one!

4.5 ⭐️

[Kristy Hetzel]

Fans of Chautona Havig should like this.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was the sweetest thing! I loved every moment of it. Cordelia has been through too many heartbreaks, and although she always stays true to herself, she's starting to wonder if she's enough. In a spontaneous decision, she moves closer to family and rents a cabin from Gilbert. It's a funny twist because she's always dreamed of meeting "her Gilbert," and now here he is. But is he really the one? He ticks all her boxes, but after overhearing a conversation with his friend, Cordelia realizes she's not what he wants. So, she dives into dating apps, dating his bandmate, and tries to move on, wondering if maybe she should fall for someone else. But is it better to "wait for Gilbert"? Even though he’s sworn off relationships and refuses to date anyone, his connection with Cordelia is undeniable. Still, he’s determined to keep her in the friend zone, helping her date everyone but him. Surely that will work, right? It should keep him from falling for her… but not quite!

This is the perfect rom-com. FULL of playful banter, sizzling chemistry, and characters who try to fight their feelings but can't help but fall for each other. I absolutely adored this story! It was a solid 4.5 for me, which I’m rounding up to 5 stars. I can’t wait for Mark’s story... he's honestly my favorite, a total catch, and I’m rooting for him! ❤️

[Barbara Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another new to me author. The cover of this book drew me in before I read the first word. But the story definitely kept me going.

Well, you don’t have to be an Anne of Green Gables fan to enjoy this story. It definitely adds a bit more to the pleasure. Cordelia loves Anne and really loves the idea of Anne’s Gilbert, so much so that she wants her own Gilbert.

But when she discovers him, she’s determined to push against the attraction as she works to finalize her book and move forward with her life. Well, he’s perfect. In many ways. He just doesn’t fit into her current plans, but Gilbert has very different thoughts on the matter and is determined to win Cordelia’s heart.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a darling romcom! I absolutely loved all the literary allusions and the witty banter throughout.

Cordelia is named for Anne Shirley (if you know, you know). And I just loved her. She is vibrant, silly, witty, hardworking and so loyal. I loved getting to know her and seeing her depth of character. She longs for stability and family in her life. And I loved how she discovers the best ways to find that in her life. Seeing her live just felt vibrant -- from her colorful socks to her delicious pies to her photography and her silliness and her snuggles with her nephews and nieces. She is passionate and always in the middle of everything. I loved seeing her fall for Gilbert and how perfect they are for each other.

Gilbert is such a dreamy protagonist. He is kind, dedicated, strong, patient, and plays the cello (so dreamy!). I loved getting to know him and understanding how his mind works. He obviously has feelings for Cordy early in the story but he fights against them just long enough to make us all want to yell at him to go for it! Luckily he has good friends and family that help him see that she is perfect for him.

Seeing these two form a friendship that becomes more is so much fun. I loved all their witty banter both in person and over text. There were so many moments that made me smile from learning to drive stick shift in the middle of the night to angry card games to pie eating and playing music. I loved their cozy lives at Christmastime.

The writing is so witty and clever. I really enjoyed Tasha's allusions to Anne of Green Gables throughout and the way she describes people in this story. Aunt Jewels is the aunt/friend we all wish we had. Diana's family is the perfect balance between chaotic and loving. Mark is the supportive/intense cousin that we all need. I found the whole cast of characters and the setting so cozy and inviting. This is a town and group of people I would like to meet in real life.

Looking forward to more in the series!

[Beth | Faithfully Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

So. Much. Fun. This story is delightful.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a review. As owner of JustRead Publicity Tours, I received compensation from the publisher and/or author to coordinate a promotional tour for this title. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Denise Colby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful mash of characters. I felt immersed in the story. Felt all the emotions. I may have cried a few times. In depth. I loved Gilbert and the way he saw her I could feel the chemistry coming off the page. Very enjoyable read I didn’t want to end.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Was. The. Cutest!

[Gracie Schlabach · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall rating 3.25 stars.
I enjoyed the back and forth of the characters. Cordelia was definitely brimming with personality which was both a blessing and a curse at times it seemed. Gilbert was pretty much your stereotypical cinnamon roll mmc. Together they make quite the power cople. 💕
There was a little too much angst in Cordelia at times when she was acting a bit immature for her age, but we have all been there I imagine.
Little faith content until the final 10% around chapter 29 there was a big faith moment.
Thank you to the author and justreadtours for the arc, this is my honest review.

[Lori Rankin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great, lighthearted read for the holidays. Music, Christmas, pop culture mixed with humor and romance. A book is a 5 star for me when I laugh, when I'm invested in the characters and want to know more, and when it makes me sentimental, this book is right there. Within the first several pages I was laughing outloud and by the end I felt like I had spent time with a good friend, catching up on life. It was so refreshing to have an author show romance and passion without all the sexual details many think necessary. This is probably a 4.5 technically for me, however, 5 is the only option. I am bumping it up because it was so nice to read a book not filled with harsh language and sex details.

[Erin Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great holiday read! If you love small town Christmas, instant attraction, girl next door, found family, Anne of Green Gables references this is for you! It’s a great story of finding someone who sees and loves you for who you truly are.

I received a complementary copy of this from the Author but all opinions are mine.

[Mevia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story so much. The author’s voice was easy for me to grasp, her humor was similar to my own, and her characters were adorable. Plus the beautiful Christian message woven in and fulfilled at the end… I was nearly in tears of joy and hope.
I loved reading an advanced copy. I can’t wait to purchase my own!!

[Lindsey Korthal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very rarely buy books brand new, especially from authors I've never read before. I'm much more likely to shop used, or maybe spend a couple bucks on an ebook if my library doesn't have it in stock.

Yet, something told me to buy this book. A physical copy, brand new, a whopping $14. (You see, I'm used to spending $2-3 at the thrift store).

I have absolutely zero regrets. I'd buy it again. Maybe twice!

Things that clued me into thinking I'd love it: 1) the Anne of Green Gables references, 2) it's a sweet romance with no sexy scenes, 3) Tasha's bio that declares she's a Christian woman who loves my God, too!

Waiting for Gilbert dazzles. It's cozy and fluffy and warm and sparkly. But it's also very real; touching on mental health and the struggle of longing. The characters are all very loveable, with one or two minor exceptions (*cough cough* I'm looking at you, Cameron!) Even so, having a couple characters you don't immediately love makes the story feel so much more real.

That's something I definitely noticed and loved about this book: it feels so real.

It has the kind of writing that pulls you in. Dialogue flows; it isn't choppy. There aren't a bunch of typos and continuity issues to pull you out of the story. The conversations are filled with the kind of wit and humor I dream of writing. And even better? The couple finds love. True love. Built on a real foundation of knowing and trusting in each other.

Something I find irritating in a lot of romance novels is when the main characters only focus on the physical qualities of the other. His big muscles under his shirt. Her slender neck. The intoxicating scent of the other person. All of this is good and fine, but when it's not paired with a growing knowledge of who the other person is, it doesn't feel like love. Just lust. And that's not very romantic.

Gilbert and Cordelia don't just find each other "hot." They don't get "bothered" just from being in the same room as each other. No; they meet, build a friendship, and discover that they really like being around each other. Like, a lot. And when you like being around each other that much, well, that's the basis of a good, sturdy love that will see you through all kinds of weather (even Nebraska blizzards!) This is the kind of love that flourishes and deserves to be written about.

This book is Tasha's first modern-day romance, I think. The only other ones that I've found by her are historical romance, and I'm going to have to read those, too! I also can't wait for the next book in this series, focusing around Cordelia's cousin, Mark! I'm so excited to have found another author to follow and enjoy.

And if you've read this entire review, congrats! I could talk about how much I love this book for a long time. :)

One last little note: Tasha has meticulously put together a soundtrack for you to listen to as you read. Each chapter has a song listed on the first page, helping you set the mood for the scene and allowing you to immerse yourself even further. I absolutely love this idea! Thank you, Tasha, for putting such an extra special touch into your book.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m more than a tad shy of giddy over this literary discovery — both book and author! Reader friend recommendations are the best! Woohoo! And ‘Waiting for Gilbert’ is waaaaaayyy up at the top of my fave reads in 2024 list (if I ever made such a thing!) It’s exactly what I am looking for in a rom/com — lots of humour with generous doses of heart and faith.

And all the Anne-girl references. Hellllooo — a heroine named Cordelia! She’s just as effervescent as my favourite childhood fictional character, with an extra pop of snark. She doesn’t just have witty inner dialogue – she carries on entire conversations with herself which are so hilarious! I laughed out loud so many times! And then promptly felt my eyes welling up with tears in a moving, inspirational scene towards the end. Sniffle. Sooooooo good!

Then there’s Gilbert. I was just as over-the-moon excited as Cordelia when she finally meets an actual Gilbert who could possibly be her perfect match. Truly a friends to more romance that is as touching as it is funny. And I love that Gilbert is a musician! Cello player no less.

Cozy small town vibes with some amazing secondary characters add to the heartwarming tone of this story. Sheer romantic comedy perfection!

Highly recommend the audio edition of ‘Waiting for Gilbert‘. Hopper Stone and Emelle are brilliant! They brought these characters to life and didn’t miss a comedic beat. So. Much. Fun.

[Jessica Dowell · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun light-hearted read. Very dialogue (and monologue) heavy, but I mostly didn't mind because it was funny. It doesn't explicitly say it, but the main character very obviously has ADHD which was handled well because the author apparently also has ADHD...and since it's a book that echoes Anne of Green Gables it was appropriate because I think it's not out of the realm of possibility that Anne had ADHD as well. I liked her relationship with her cousin.

Critically speaking, I would have liked to have a little bit more character development that wasn't solely based on dialogue and runaway thoughts. There were a couple comments that made me cringe a little:
*"highly inappropriate to be alone with a man ever" even if it's in an office in someone's house during a party with other people and just need to touch base -- this is given an eye roll from the MC but not challenged too deeply.
*"waiting 30 years for a woman to cook and clean for me" - again, somewhat joking, but also...why?
*expectations of a minor character that he's going to marry a trophy wife that will work part-time, oversee their household of children, and still work out with him twice a week---I think this is mostly played for comedy with the expectation that he's going to have to learn to adjust somewhat...my guess is it's not going to be that far off base, but we'll see. His story is Book 2. I'll probably still read it).

[Karen Malley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a book that makes me laugh. Waiting for Gilbert certainly delivered. It’s full of banter, fantastic main characters, lovable supporting characters, and a faith-filled message. Cordelia is a lovable, flawed woman with a hysterical sense of humor. After a broken engagement, she thinks she needs to be serious because that’s the kind of woman men want to marry. But as much as she tries, she can’t change her creative, endearing, funny personality. Thankfully, Gilbert doesn’t want her to. Cordelia’s sister and family are amazing and supportive, and we all should have an Aunt Jewels in our life. Gilbert is a wonderful man of God, and both Gilbert and Cordelia are laugh-out-loud funny, especially in their text messages. When they missed church, there may have been a text exchange talking about having communion with pie crust and grape soda. :)
If you want a touch of the kind of writing you’ll get in this story, here’s a fun glimpse into Cordelia’s head: “I’m 68% sure he was flirting with me in that hallway. That’s not a grade to post on the fridge, but it’s passing. It’s a clear sign that I need to study before the next test.”
Don’t let the humor fool you, though. Woven throughout is a meaningful faith theme. You won’t walk away from this story without hearing about the love of Jesus. But not in a preachy way. In a way that shows He’s your friend. All in all, I loved this story.

[Manda| Little Bitty Delights · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels like Tasha Hackett has tapped directly into my soul with this book! Oh my goodness, I really resonated with Cordelia! I’m so grateful that I’ve found my Gilbert, but before I did I too wondered could anyone love me for me. All the tiny, quirky things Cordelia does make so much sense to me—so if you decide to read this book, you might just get a peek into my life too, haha.

But beyond feeling like I was reading my own story, I have to say, what I truly loved about this book was how beautifully it depicted two really realistic people falling in love. Since I adore love stories, that alone made my heart so happy. I loved the pure sweetness of the story, the moments of faith woven in, and how perfect it is for any time of year, even if the story mostly takes place in December, giving you a little taste of winter! This book feels like a love letter to those vibrant, creative girls with big hearts and an abundance of love to share. And sometimes, all those intense feelings can come crashing like a storm, overwhelming everyone in their path. But this story also shows how much the world needs these wonderfully crazy, creative souls just as much as they need those steady, calming anchors, they balance each other perfectly.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this felt like snuggling into a blanket on a cold day – warmth and joy. Waiting for Gilbert is everything I didn’t know I needed—a cozy Christmas romance wrapped in small-town charm, sprinkled with Anne of Green Gables vibes, and finishing with a heartfelt thread of the real meaning of Christmas.

CJ Thompson had me laughing, cringing, and rooting for her. She’s determined to trade in her carefree, whimsical self for a more serious, adult version—but her efforts are hilariously doomed. Life has other plans, and they come knocking at 2:00 a.m. in the form of Gilbert, her cello-playing, heart-melting landlord.

And oh, Gilbert. Can we just pause for a moment to appreciate how perfectly imperfect he is? Steady, kind, and with a quiet strength that grounds CJ’s whirlwind energy, he’s the kind of hero who doesn’t just sweep you off your feet—he steadies them. Their chemistry crackles with humor, banter, and those tender, soul-deep moments that sneak up on you and make you sigh.

What I loved most was the Christmas Eve worship scene. It reminds us of the simple, profound joy that comes from knowing God and His love, especially during the holiday season when we’re all yearning for the hold in our heart to be filled like only He can.

This book is funny, heartwarming, and filled with moments that had me pausing to soak in the sweetness. If you’re looking for a Christmas story that’ll leave you grinning like a kid on Christmas morning, look no further.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the super writing and story’s beautiful content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Perrianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Tasha Hackett novella and I’m really glad that I chose it for a quick Christmas read. Cordelia is cute and quirky with a fun personality to pair with kind, generous and supportive Gilbert. I did find that Cordelia was a bit immature at times, but I think maybe it just added to her character arc. Gilbert is just about a solid of as main character can be, so you do have to wonder if this could actually work. The faith thread is pretty light, but all in all I enjoyed all of the playful banter. Although the name Gilbert is based off of a character in Anne of Green Gables, I am not a classics reader but that did not stop me from thoroughly enjoying the novella.
This is my first Tasha Hackett novella, so I would definitely try another on for size.
I purchased a copy of this book from Amazon, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5⭐️

This book was just what I needed to get out of my reading slump. It had me laughing and smiling throughout the journey and not wanting it to end. I was always eager to find out what was going to happen next!

Things I loved:

•The Anne of Green Gables elements. This is what lead me to picking up this book.
•Cordelia/Cordy/CJ she was such a lovable character and had me laughing and smiling throughout the story. I could also relate to her at times.
•Gilbert did not disappoint! He was such a good match for Cordelia. I really liked them together!
•The family relationships! I loved Cordelia’s relationships with her sister, nephews/nieces, and especially cousin Mark.
•Aunt Jewel was the BEST!
•Cordelia’s journey from struggling with feeling enough/chosen to eventually finding her worth. Chapter 29 was so beautiful!

This book just made me happy! I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

#Christmas, #ChristianRomance, #AnneOfGreenGables, #Humor