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Poppy Creek #9
A Very Barrie Christmas: A Poppy Creek Novella
Savor the spirit of Christmas in this sweet, small-town romance that's cozier than a warm cup of hot cocoa.
Frank Barrie hated Christmas. Candy canes made him cringe. Santa Clause made him shudder. And tinsel… don’t even get him started on the lowliest of holiday decorations.
But everything changed when Cassie Hayward, a newcomer to Poppy Creek, barged into his life and became the granddaughter he never knew he needed.
Now, thanks to Cassie’s kindhearted meddling, he’s married to the sweetest, smartest woman whose only shortcoming is that she picked him—a crotchety old hermit—to be her not-so-better half.
But despite his Scrooge-like past, he’s determined to give his wife, Beverly, the best Christmas ever. Which is why he goes against his introverted instincts and welcomes Nate Henderson—a young veteran—to their home for the holidays, just like Bevy’s favorite movie, Christmas in Connecticut.
Little does he realize his wife has already invited her niece, Juliet Klein—an aspiring author in need of a secluded writer’s retreat—to stay with them over the holidays.
To make matters worse, the merry mix-up gives his wife an idea.
The only thing more outside Frank’s comfort zone than Christmas cheer is matchmaking. Especially when the potential lovebirds go together like oil and eggnog.
Although he’d do anything for his Bevy, it’s going to take a lot more than mistletoe to bring the unlikely pair together.
It’s going to take a Christmas miracle.
And the help of a few friends....
Fall in love with the idyllic town of Poppy Creek in this festive, feel-good romance sure to fill your heart with all the warmth and magic of Christmas.
This series is more fun when read in order.
Frank Barrie hated Christmas. Candy canes made him cringe. Santa Clause made him shudder. And tinsel… don’t even get him started on the lowliest of holiday decorations.
But everything changed when Cassie Hayward, a newcomer to Poppy Creek, barged into his life and became the granddaughter he never knew he needed.
Now, thanks to Cassie’s kindhearted meddling, he’s married to the sweetest, smartest woman whose only shortcoming is that she picked him—a crotchety old hermit—to be her not-so-better half.
But despite his Scrooge-like past, he’s determined to give his wife, Beverly, the best Christmas ever. Which is why he goes against his introverted instincts and welcomes Nate Henderson—a young veteran—to their home for the holidays, just like Bevy’s favorite movie, Christmas in Connecticut.
Little does he realize his wife has already invited her niece, Juliet Klein—an aspiring author in need of a secluded writer’s retreat—to stay with them over the holidays.
To make matters worse, the merry mix-up gives his wife an idea.
The only thing more outside Frank’s comfort zone than Christmas cheer is matchmaking. Especially when the potential lovebirds go together like oil and eggnog.
Although he’d do anything for his Bevy, it’s going to take a lot more than mistletoe to bring the unlikely pair together.
It’s going to take a Christmas miracle.
And the help of a few friends....
Fall in love with the idyllic town of Poppy Creek in this festive, feel-good romance sure to fill your heart with all the warmth and magic of Christmas.
This series is more fun when read in order.
- GenresChristmas
188 pages, Paperback
First published December 3, 2024
179 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 8, 2025
Yay, another sweet love story from Rachael Bloome. I loved it.
December 4, 2024
It was so nice to visit this precious town again, especially at Christmas! I'd love more novellas in this series in the future so we can keep dropping back by!
September 11, 2025
#9 still going strong. I love all the characters & storylines
November 29, 2024
When I posted my review of The Promise in Poppies last year, it was bittersweet as I truly wasn't ready to say goodbye to this fictional town and the heartwarming cast of characters that call it home. However, I never expected us readers would ever be treated to a return visit, so it was the perfect Christmas surprise when Rachael announced that she was taking us all back to Poppy Creek again in a Christmas novella. I've been waiting for this one ever since, and after having the chance to read this sweet and wonderful holiday tale, I can wholeheartedly state that it was everything I ever could have hoped for, and rereading it will be a Christmas tradition for me in the years to come.
Full of faith, family, friendship, and love, A Very Barrie Christmas treats readers to a Christmas in Poppy Creek where Frank Barrie wants to give his wife one of the greatest gifts of all-the chance to make a difference in someone else's life. Of course, life seldom goes exactly the way we plan, and soon Frank and Bev are welcoming not just a stranger for Christmas, but also Bev's beloved niece who might just be the perfect match for their unexpected houseguest this year.
With a plethora of the beloved characters from previous titles making pop up appearances, and Rachael's signature writing style that pulls you in right from the beginning, this is the perfect cozy romance to curl up with this Christmas season. Rachael always writes from the heart, and you'll always see her characters have to face tough situations and unexpected obstacles along the way, but they always learn that God has a plan, and often uses community to accomplish His ways.
Final Rating: 5/5.
I can't recommend this wonderful story enough, but don't just stop with this one. If you haven't already read all the previous titles in the Poppy Creek series, then do yourself a favor and grab them, as I can guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Thanks so much to Rachael Bloome for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author as part of her ARC team. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
Full of faith, family, friendship, and love, A Very Barrie Christmas treats readers to a Christmas in Poppy Creek where Frank Barrie wants to give his wife one of the greatest gifts of all-the chance to make a difference in someone else's life. Of course, life seldom goes exactly the way we plan, and soon Frank and Bev are welcoming not just a stranger for Christmas, but also Bev's beloved niece who might just be the perfect match for their unexpected houseguest this year.
With a plethora of the beloved characters from previous titles making pop up appearances, and Rachael's signature writing style that pulls you in right from the beginning, this is the perfect cozy romance to curl up with this Christmas season. Rachael always writes from the heart, and you'll always see her characters have to face tough situations and unexpected obstacles along the way, but they always learn that God has a plan, and often uses community to accomplish His ways.
Final Rating: 5/5.
I can't recommend this wonderful story enough, but don't just stop with this one. If you haven't already read all the previous titles in the Poppy Creek series, then do yourself a favor and grab them, as I can guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Thanks so much to Rachael Bloome for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author as part of her ARC team. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
January 3, 2025
One of three books from the Christmas in Poppy Creek series, "A Very Barrie Christmas" will fill you with Christmas spirit as the small town of Poppy Creek pulls no stops in celebrating the holiday.
In this story, Frank Barrie, the small town famous roaster of coffee and author of two books about the liquid gold, agrees to host a veteran, Nate, who has returned home but had some trouble assimilating into life. He found his feet in San Francisco and was a volunteer at a non-profit that placed other vets in mentee positions. Nate had never really celebrated Christmas properly growing up in a group home. He decides to visit Poppy Creek and experience Christmas there.
Unbeknownst to Frank, however, his wife Beverly had already told her niece, a budding author, she could come stay in their guest room to concentrate on the deadline she was facing for her first book, a book she hadn't even started yet. As Beverly thinks of ways to bring the two visitors together, fate is way ahead of her.
A charming story, although quite predictable. I'm not really a fan of romance-type novels, but after having the "The Clause of Christmas" I was interested in knowing more of Frank Barrie's story. Frank's story, though, is pretty much overrun by the romance between he and Beverly's two guests. Still, a good Christmastime read that gave me all the warm fuzzies a town like Poppy Creek should,
In this story, Frank Barrie, the small town famous roaster of coffee and author of two books about the liquid gold, agrees to host a veteran, Nate, who has returned home but had some trouble assimilating into life. He found his feet in San Francisco and was a volunteer at a non-profit that placed other vets in mentee positions. Nate had never really celebrated Christmas properly growing up in a group home. He decides to visit Poppy Creek and experience Christmas there.
Unbeknownst to Frank, however, his wife Beverly had already told her niece, a budding author, she could come stay in their guest room to concentrate on the deadline she was facing for her first book, a book she hadn't even started yet. As Beverly thinks of ways to bring the two visitors together, fate is way ahead of her.
A charming story, although quite predictable. I'm not really a fan of romance-type novels, but after having the "The Clause of Christmas" I was interested in knowing more of Frank Barrie's story. Frank's story, though, is pretty much overrun by the romance between he and Beverly's two guests. Still, a good Christmastime read that gave me all the warm fuzzies a town like Poppy Creek should,
December 9, 2024
Rachael Bloome has done it again with A Very Barrie Christmas! We return to the charming town of Poppy Creek and the unforgettable Frank Barrie. If you recall Frank from the earlier books in the Poppy Creek series, you'll remember his eccentric nature and his Scrooge-like attitude towards Christmas. However, he has come a long way since we first met him in book one.
In this episode, the Barries welcome guests, making their Christmas feel complete with the warmth of family. This story is heartwarming and filled with the magic of the holiday season, making it the perfect read to get into the Christmas spirit. The plot is engaging and well-paced, with just the right amount of romance, humor, and holiday cheer. The descriptions of the festive decorations, cozy settings, and delicious holiday treats made me feel like I was right there in Poppy Creek, experiencing the joy and warmth of the season.
I absolutely adore all the characters. Rachael Bloome has a talent for creating characters that feel like old friends, and this book is no exception. These characters bring warmth and holiday cheer to the story, making it a delightful read. If you enjoy heartwarming holiday stories with great characters who make you feel at home, then A Very Barrie Christmas is a must-read
In this episode, the Barries welcome guests, making their Christmas feel complete with the warmth of family. This story is heartwarming and filled with the magic of the holiday season, making it the perfect read to get into the Christmas spirit. The plot is engaging and well-paced, with just the right amount of romance, humor, and holiday cheer. The descriptions of the festive decorations, cozy settings, and delicious holiday treats made me feel like I was right there in Poppy Creek, experiencing the joy and warmth of the season.
I absolutely adore all the characters. Rachael Bloome has a talent for creating characters that feel like old friends, and this book is no exception. These characters bring warmth and holiday cheer to the story, making it a delightful read. If you enjoy heartwarming holiday stories with great characters who make you feel at home, then A Very Barrie Christmas is a must-read
November 30, 2024
Recommended for its warmth and compassionate writing style
Ms Bloome writes a mature ‘romance’ novella: her characters are realistic, inviting discussion instead of jumping to incorrect conclusions resulting in misunderstandings and extra, unnecessary drama. Although Frank and Beverly’s story was evidently the focus of a previous book in the series, there are no other references to prior Poppy Creek books, thus ensuring full enjoyment and absorption in Juliet and Nate’s story.
Besides Juliet being portrayed as an example of ‘children’ trying to live up to the unreasonable expectations of parents, the difficulties faced by returning vets in adapting to civilian life is revealed in a sensitive manner, with the need to share their ‘back stories’ with the wider community skilfully highlighted in the body of this ARC novella.
Ms Bloome writes a mature ‘romance’ novella: her characters are realistic, inviting discussion instead of jumping to incorrect conclusions resulting in misunderstandings and extra, unnecessary drama. Although Frank and Beverly’s story was evidently the focus of a previous book in the series, there are no other references to prior Poppy Creek books, thus ensuring full enjoyment and absorption in Juliet and Nate’s story.
Besides Juliet being portrayed as an example of ‘children’ trying to live up to the unreasonable expectations of parents, the difficulties faced by returning vets in adapting to civilian life is revealed in a sensitive manner, with the need to share their ‘back stories’ with the wider community skilfully highlighted in the body of this ARC novella.
December 6, 2024
What a powerful draw reading books in the Poppy Creek series by Rachael Bloome has always been for me. Getting to revisit Poppy Creek in the ninth and newest book, A Very Barrie Christmas, was such a treat that I read it all in one sitting.
Bloome’s characters are imperfect people dealing with darkness and pressure. When Frank and Beverly Barrie, without telling each other, each invite someone to stay at their tiny home for the holidays, the complications push Nate Henderson and Juliet Klein from judgment to vulnerability to discovery. The Poppy Creek community envelops and encourages their growth.
This novella does not feel like the series finale but a springboard to greater possibilities. At least I am rooting for more!
Bloome’s characters are imperfect people dealing with darkness and pressure. When Frank and Beverly Barrie, without telling each other, each invite someone to stay at their tiny home for the holidays, the complications push Nate Henderson and Juliet Klein from judgment to vulnerability to discovery. The Poppy Creek community envelops and encourages their growth.
This novella does not feel like the series finale but a springboard to greater possibilities. At least I am rooting for more!
December 16, 2024
A Very Barrie Christmas
This is such a wonderfully delightful Christmas book! A grumpy Scrooge like ex military man only wants to make his wife’s Christmas dreams come true. What better way than to show an ex soldier having difficulty adjusting to civilian life a Christmas he has not experienced before? Inviting Nate Henderson to spend the holidays with them is brilliant. When Juliet Klein asked her aunt if she could spend Christmas in Poppy Creek she did not expect her life to change. Nate and Juliet make a cute couple but will two people so different from each other be able to find a loving relationship together?
This is such a wonderfully delightful Christmas book! A grumpy Scrooge like ex military man only wants to make his wife’s Christmas dreams come true. What better way than to show an ex soldier having difficulty adjusting to civilian life a Christmas he has not experienced before? Inviting Nate Henderson to spend the holidays with them is brilliant. When Juliet Klein asked her aunt if she could spend Christmas in Poppy Creek she did not expect her life to change. Nate and Juliet make a cute couple but will two people so different from each other be able to find a loving relationship together?
January 6, 2025
This Poppy Creek series is amazing and this one set at Christmas with grumpy Frank Barrie was awesome. Frank starts doing something for his wife, but it turns into so much more. It’s filled with the joyfulness and promise of the holiday season as well the romance. My emotions were all over the place and I hated to put it down. It’s filled with friendship, family, love and second chances. I’m completely hooked on this sweet, romantic series. If this is the last in the series, it was a wonderful ending. But I can only hope there might still be a few more. They are a great escape from reality for a short time. Well done!
August 28, 2025
Such a great addition to the Poppy Creek series. I really enjoyed this story because it was meaningful. And I was glad to see a bit of faith woven in as well. Of course, dealing with Christmas, coffee, and some of our favorite friends from Poppy Creek also adds to the charm. It was also a quick read, if you don’t have a lot of time to dedicate to a full length novel.
Bridget’s Book Ratings:
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 = Phenomenal book, I loved it, I got a lot of insight out of it, and/ or I couldn’t put it down.
🌟🌟🌟🌟 = A great book. I’m glad I read it.
🌟🌟🌟 = Book was good, but not a personal favorite.
🌟🌟 = The book has room for improvement.
🌟 = Not a book I would recommend.
Bridget’s Book Ratings:
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 = Phenomenal book, I loved it, I got a lot of insight out of it, and/ or I couldn’t put it down.
🌟🌟🌟🌟 = A great book. I’m glad I read it.
🌟🌟🌟 = Book was good, but not a personal favorite.
🌟🌟 = The book has room for improvement.
🌟 = Not a book I would recommend.
December 5, 2024
Hooray for More Poppy Creek!
Nate is a soldier struggling to find stability in civilian life. Juliet is an aspiring author struggling to write her first novel. Their first impressions of each other are not favorable. With Frank and Bevy's help, they find their way, not only to success in their personal goals but also to a love that neither realized was possible. Rachel Bloome continues to write sweet, complex, relatable characters. A Very Berrie Christmas is a lovely, sweet, and inspiring Christmas read.
Nate is a soldier struggling to find stability in civilian life. Juliet is an aspiring author struggling to write her first novel. Their first impressions of each other are not favorable. With Frank and Bevy's help, they find their way, not only to success in their personal goals but also to a love that neither realized was possible. Rachel Bloome continues to write sweet, complex, relatable characters. A Very Berrie Christmas is a lovely, sweet, and inspiring Christmas read.
January 2, 2025
A Great Read and a Wonderful Visit to Poppy Creek
I absolutely love the Poppy Creek Series! I have read them all, and listened to some also! It was great to revisit Poppy Creek and see characters I already know and love! It was also fun to meet Juliet and Nate and experience their whirlwind romance and see them plan their happy ever after future!
This book is great as a stand alone but fantastic fun to read as a return to Poppy Creek for me! I hooe there will be more in the near future!!
I absolutely love the Poppy Creek Series! I have read them all, and listened to some also! It was great to revisit Poppy Creek and see characters I already know and love! It was also fun to meet Juliet and Nate and experience their whirlwind romance and see them plan their happy ever after future!
This book is great as a stand alone but fantastic fun to read as a return to Poppy Creek for me! I hooe there will be more in the near future!!
December 18, 2024
This book was such a pleasant surprise. I was not ready for this series to be finished, so when I found this book I was so elated. I love all of Frank Barrie's grumbling. He tries to project an air of being a sour old man, yet he really has a warm heart. I love this story's veteran element and how the town comes together to support the veterans. This story of love and Christmas cheer is simply amazing. I heartily suggest the entire series and this book to everyone.
November 25, 2024
Anything by Rachel Bloome is wonderful! The community of Poppy Creek looks out for each other. Lots of sweet thoughts like a living Christmas tree and Kintsugi, art of filling gold into something broken. Every character has a flaw/internal scar that the community helps heal. Sweet, romantic, and faith filled. Can’t wait for the next book!
December 13, 2024
A Very Barrier Christmas
I so love Poppy Creek and this joyful cozy story. As always the characters never disappoint even grumpy Mr. Berrie. This is an inspiring and uplifting story that is filled with the Christmas spirit and joy to everyone. Grab a hot cocoa and enjoy. I absolutely enjoyed this story. Happy holidays.
I so love Poppy Creek and this joyful cozy story. As always the characters never disappoint even grumpy Mr. Berrie. This is an inspiring and uplifting story that is filled with the Christmas spirit and joy to everyone. Grab a hot cocoa and enjoy. I absolutely enjoyed this story. Happy holidays.
December 18, 2024
Beautiful and heartwarming
All of Rachael's books are so beautiful, touching, and beyond heartwarming (even during heartbreaking moments). This book was such an amazing addition, it's shorter than normal and perfect for Christmas time, or really anytime you're needing a list merry magic kind of boost. I highly recommend this story.
All of Rachael's books are so beautiful, touching, and beyond heartwarming (even during heartbreaking moments). This book was such an amazing addition, it's shorter than normal and perfect for Christmas time, or really anytime you're needing a list merry magic kind of boost. I highly recommend this story.
January 13, 2025
Oh to come back to Poppy Creek for Christmas
Our friends from previous books are still filling the town with good cheer. Add in the two visitors, Nate & Jules and the Christmas calender shares the joy for everyone, especially Frank.
Thank you for writing such heart warming stories.
Our friends from previous books are still filling the town with good cheer. Add in the two visitors, Nate & Jules and the Christmas calender shares the joy for everyone, especially Frank.
Thank you for writing such heart warming stories.
December 10, 2024
I truly enjoyed visiting Poppy Creek and all its characters again! This is the perfectly sweet romance you want to read at Christmas time. I highly recommend it as well as the entire Poppy Creek series.
December 16, 2024
Loved it.
A very sweet series. Right when we are needing a bit of good. These are such good reads. The message in each is so important, love will get you through anything. Thank you Rachel Bloom for bringing Poppy Creek to life....
A very sweet series. Right when we are needing a bit of good. These are such good reads. The message in each is so important, love will get you through anything. Thank you Rachel Bloom for bringing Poppy Creek to life....
December 31, 2024
Wonderful!
I absolutely loved this story! Nate and Juliet, although at first seem ill-matched, are perfect for each other. And Juliet may have finally gotten the acceptance and approval she'd always craved from her parents!
I absolutely loved this story! Nate and Juliet, although at first seem ill-matched, are perfect for each other. And Juliet may have finally gotten the acceptance and approval she'd always craved from her parents!
January 1, 2025
All hearts come home for Christmas
I love how the people of Poppy Creek all work together to help anyone who needs to find a reason to start over.
People who have been through what you are dealing with right now. They are there with open arms to help you no matter what.
I love how the people of Poppy Creek all work together to help anyone who needs to find a reason to start over.
People who have been through what you are dealing with right now. They are there with open arms to help you no matter what.
January 3, 2025
A fun read
Rachel has a gift for creating tension within her characters that doesn't upset the reader but rather draws one I to the story, savoring the story and satisfied with the conclusion!
Rachel has a gift for creating tension within her characters that doesn't upset the reader but rather draws one I to the story, savoring the story and satisfied with the conclusion!
January 7, 2025
Heartwarming story
Nate is a veteran who is trying to fit in the world. Like most veterans, life is hard when they get out of the service. This is a very heartwarming story. We need to read about the struggles veterans go through. Thank you for a very enlightening story.
Nate is a veteran who is trying to fit in the world. Like most veterans, life is hard when they get out of the service. This is a very heartwarming story. We need to read about the struggles veterans go through. Thank you for a very enlightening story.
January 27, 2025
What an awesome story. Filled with all the emotion of Christmas and the emotion of dealing with PTSD. The story is one of love, Faith, Trust, opening your heart, and moving on from the past. It gives light to the Future and shows the power of God's love.
February 17, 2025
loved it!
I have thoroughly enjoyed every single story in the Poppy Creek series. I highly recommend every one of them! Each story is great on its own but it was so fun to get to know each character more by reading the whole series in order.
I have thoroughly enjoyed every single story in the Poppy Creek series. I highly recommend every one of them! Each story is great on its own but it was so fun to get to know each character more by reading the whole series in order.
November 24, 2025
I enjoyed returning to Poppy Creek, but this was so short and felt rushed to me. I just don't see two people falling in love so quickly and their lives changing so fast, but a good plot, likable people.
December 3, 2024
This heartwarming Rachael Bloome novel captures the joy of Christmas, bringing it to life on every page. Nate and Juliet’s initial meeting is clouded by misconceptions, leading to mistaken first impressions. However, Frank and Bev soon recognize the romantic potential between the two. As the story unfolds, we witness Nate’s quest to experience the perfect Christmas and Juliet’s struggle to complete her first novel, all while their blossoming romance takes center stage. Always a joy to read a Rachael Bloome novel! Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 6, 2024
Loved revisiting Poppy Creek. The story was sweet and I loved when Nate figured things out. A great feel good Christmas novella
December 14, 2024
best little short read ever❤️💙🧡🤎💚💛💜
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews