Snow Globe Secrets

Flight to Freedom #5

by Laura Thomas

Originally published by Anaiah Press and republished by Mountain Brook Ink.


Shootings. Snow globes. Secrets.
When successful realtor, Alexis James, witnesses a shooting outside the bookstore in her hometown of Hollybrook, she soon realizes the perpetrator has unfinished business, and now she is caught in the crossfire.

Tom Harrington is a British, best-selling author who needs to honor a promise and find some answers in this Canadian winter wonderland—but trouble follows him across the ocean.

As Alexis is swept up in a festive whirlwind of danger and love, Tom attempts to break through her ice queen persona. But when chilling walls close in, they both have to can they share their truth, rekindle their faith, and risk their lives if they have any hope for a Happily Ever After?

Genres: Christmas, Christian, Fiction, Christian Fiction

176 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

A published, award-winning Christian author, Laura writes heartwarming encouragement for your soul… with the ultimate desire to inspire fiction readers in their real lives with her stories of hope.

Laura’s award-winning Christian romantic suspense novel is Captured in Frame, the first in her “Bite of Betrayal” series, published by Mountain Brook Ink in 2024. Book 2, The Final Word, was released in June 2025, with book 3 coming in July 2026.

Her Christian romantic suspense books in the “Flight to Freedom” series, originally published by Anaiah Press, have been republished by Mountain Brook Ink: The Glass Bottom Boat, The Lighthouse Baby, The Orphan Beach, and award-winning Christmas novellas The Christmas Cabin, and Snow Globe Secrets.

Laura also has a Christian teen fiction trilogy, marriage book, and middle-grade short novel published by Dancing With Bear Publishing, as well as several anthology books, devotionals, articles, Sunday school lessons, and stories published in magazines and online.

Laura is a hope*writers certified writing coach, a book-loving chocoholic mom and nanny, and is married to her high school sweetheart. Originally from the UK, they now live the empty nest life in Kelowna, British Columbia, with their French bulldog!

Find all her books, blog, bio, and writing coaching, and sign up for her free monthly newsletter at: www.laurathomasauthor.com

Reviews

[Christian Shelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting to read Snow Globe Secrets right after The Christmas Cabin was a treat as I was able to find out Alexis James’ story after being introduced to her sister, Carla, in the previous Christmas book. Known as the Ice Queen, Alexis has quite the story when she has a literal run-in with a man escaping bullets. I enjoyed that beneath her frosty exterior, she had a passion for collecting snow globes, granting us a peek into her complicated life. I could relate to her feeling disconnected and desiring the picturesque scenes of her globes, which was an apt analogy to how Alexis felt before God. Her no-nonsense approach made it even more endearing to see how she responded to Tom, who exuded warmth and genuine interest.

In solving the mystery of why Alexis and Tom were being targeted, I appreciated all of the twists and turns that the author provided as I was keen to see how it all came together. As a result, fans of literature and mysteries will not be disappointed in piecing all of the clues together. Readers looking for a suspenseful Christmas story with a heart that thaws over time toward God and love will enjoy this splendid scene out of a snow globe.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

[Vicki Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely Christmas Romantic Suspense!

I very much enjoyed this sweet book. It was clean, points to our Savior, and shares the joy of Christmas and family! 😍

[Elizabeth Allan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunshots, broken glass, and shattered snow globes are all part of another great Christmas novella by Laura Thomas. Exiting the Happily Ever After bookstore in Hollybrook, a small town in Canada, Alexis James comes to the aid of a man who was shot outside the store and in the process, a super expensive snow globe she bought for herself, is shattered. She soon becomes a target herself and receives twisted messages on snow globes. She learns Tom Harrington, a famous writer from England, was the man who was shot. He reveals he has come to Hollybrook searching for his grandfather. Alexis and Tom must work together to find out who is targeting them. Alexis comes to realize she has been distracted by shinty things in life rather than focusing on Jesus and needs God to thaw her frozen heart. A timely reminder life is fragile, just like snow globes. A riveting page turner you won't be able to put down!
I received an advanced copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.

[Stephanie K · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wedding, romance, action, suspense… not to mention Christmas all wrapped up into this lovely novelette written by Laura! The way Laura captured the story through the eyes of both the female lead and male lead characters was easy to follow and enjoyable to read. I could not put the book down, and when I had to, I found myself constantly thinking about the story and “what could happen next? Who did it?” I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun Christmas romance novelette.

Note: I received an advanced copy from the publisher, all opinions are my own

[Dawn Klinge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Snow Globe Secrets is a romantic suspense novel by Laura Thomas that I had high expectations for--because I've read and loved her other books. I was not disappointed! This fast-paced Christmas story wouldn't let me put it down until I was finished. A quaint town, a bookstore, and a mysterious English gentleman who is also a famous author...there are a lot of fun elements to this story! Alexis is a character who is believable, sympathetic, and definitely not a "damsel in distress." There's a gentle, not-preachy, faith element that was really sweet. I highly recommend this book!

[Heidi Trotman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here’s yet another great suspense story from Laura Thomas. The snowy, idyllic setting is the beautiful backdrop to this latest thrilling Novella. You won’t want to put it down once you start, so get yourself comfortable in front of the fire and lose yourself in this icicle clad drama! I was gifted a copy but this is my own opinion.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I needed a glimpse of comfort and joy!

I love finding a book to read during the Christmas holidays. A book that warms my heart and feeds my faith. A book that keeps me turning the pages to find out the answers to the mystery as well as if love finds a home. As I finished the last chapter...I was smiling. I think other readers will be smiling as well.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Snow Globe Secrets is the perfect novella to get you into the Christmas spirit. This story is a heart pounding mystery with a heart melting romance all set in a quaint little town at Christmastime. From the first page when Alexis James witnesses a drive by shooting of a handsome new comer to Hollybrook, you will be wrapped up in the story and won't be able to put the book down. Definitely a must read this holiday season.

I received an ARC from the publisher. All the opinions express above are my own.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas mystery and romance

I enjoyed this light-hearted mystery/romance. The characters were intriguing and fun. The importance of a relationship with Christ was woven nicely into the plot. The master's solution surprised me. Fun read.

[Klaudija Bratković · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75

[Gena Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun read by this author! Loved it

[Paulette · Rating 5 out of 5]

A drive by shooting is not the way Realtor, Alexis James expected to meet her client, British author, Tom Harrington. But when the bullets started flying so did sparks. Secrets, murder and a sweet romance made this this book an enjoyable entry to the Christmas season. I received an arc from the author and this is my honest review.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a nice story about second chances in life. Everyone deserves one. Hollybrook is a quiet little town. Alexis James loves snow globes. She is leaving Happily Ever After Bookstore with her newest snow globe when shots are fired. After everything is over, there is a man on the sidewalk bleeding. Alexis is concerned for his well being, and goes to the hospital later that day. She is shocked to find out that the injured man is a best-selling novelist, Tom Harrington. Something strange is going on, but she cannot put her finger on exactly what that is. Tom is withholding something, but she is not really sure what he is hiding. As the story develops, she finds that his motives are pure, but it seems that trouble has found him which has now put her in danger.

This was a wonderful, authentic story with entertaining characters that you will grow to love as you read their story. Alexis has a past that she needs to overcome, and she needs a faith boost. This is more than a Christmas romance. The story has depth and mystery to boot with a wonderful message of restored faith. This novella will put you in the Christmas spirit and restore your faith in humanity.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Blossom Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curl up with this Cozy Christmas Cliff-Hanger…and heart-melting romance.
The winter wonderland of the small town of Hollybrook sets the stage beautifully for a Christmas read that will get you into the spirit for sure. This fast-paced, clean, romantic thriller will be sure to delight all mystery or suspense readers who do not want the content to get too dark. But don’t mistake that for boring…no this Novella is well-written with characters that grab your attention from the first page. Swoon-worthy Tom Harrington, and Alexis James start off with a bang, literally…and their story of snow globes, secrets, and suspense unfolds.
I love a good second-chance plot and Alexis needs this in every way. It takes a very special man to melt her ice-queen heart and a very loving God to restore her faith.
You will enjoy this Christmas gem immensely.

[Mary Stalnaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A drive by shooting. A ruined snow globe. Those are the things that started this book. Alexis is a realtor that has just bought the bookstore in her town. While outside of the store, the shooting occurs. There is suspense, intrigue and good old fashioned romance in this delightful Christmas novella. I highly recommend it.
I did receive a copy from the author, but this review is my honest opinion.

[Kara Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful Christmas romantic suspense book, guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit. It’s linked somewhat to last year’s The Christmas Cabin, but this book totally stands alone. I really liked the main characters, and the mystery is really good too, with some red herrings along the way. I really loved the faith aspect of the book too. I can definitely recommend this book; I was provided an arc, but these opinions are my own.

[Sharon Match · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delight to read Laura’s latest book! It’s a captivating read from start to finish - and one you don’t want to put down for very long in between. The mystery is engaging and the weaving of Christianity is heartwarming to the soul. Together, Laura has created the perfect book as a holiday gift. I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy from the publisher, so I can happily share my opinion with others.

[Kristen Parnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Thomas is one of my go-to authors for a guaranteed delightful read, and her latest, Snow Globe Secrets, is no exception. It is a perfect blend of mystery, romance, holiday merriment, and faith. A famous author, an ice-queen business woman, a book-store secret, and a generous helping of second chances make this a story you’ll want to curl up and read in one sitting.

[Sarah Madden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another warm and cozy winter mystery from Laura Thomas- perfect for snowy days! Characters are well rounded and suspense builds from the first page.

I received an advanced copy from the publisher, all opinions are my own

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book starts off with a bang and doesn't let up. It's full of suspense and drama with the sweetest romance. It will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I loved this book and highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jacquie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. I loved the snow globe part of the story. It definitely had some cozy Christmas vibes, a good message and mystery. My only complaint was the ending felt a little rushed, or maybe I wanted more of the story.