Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Christmas Promises

Rate this book
Laney Gray thought she had her life all figured out—until her fairytale wedding turned into a public betrayal. Jilted at the altar and humiliated by the very people she trusted most, Laney flees the city for Sugarville Grove, the picturesque small town where she once spent her happiest summers. Seeking solace in her aunt’s charming bookstore, Laney hopes to piece her life back together in time for Christmas.

What she doesn’t expect is to run into Nolan Hayes—the quiet, bookish boy who stole her heart one magical summer. Now an English professor with a steady presence and a smile that still makes her knees weak, Nolan is no longer the shy teenager Laney remembers. But as their paths cross amidst twinkling lights and snow-covered streets, the connection between them feels as familiar—and as powerful—as ever.

Laney may be a city girl out of her element in Sugarville Grove, but as she works to rebuild the bookstore’s holiday traditions, she finds herself drawn not only to the town’s simple charms but also to Nolan’s quiet strength. Yet, both carry scars from the past—hers from a shattered engagement, and his from a heartbreak he’s never shared.

Can the magic of Christmas help Laney and Nolan find the courage to take a second chance on love? Or will old wounds keep them from the happy ending they’ve been waiting for all along?

Heartwarming and full of small-town charm, Christmas Promises is a cozy holiday romance about healing, hope, and the unexpected gift of a second chance.

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2025

365 people are currently reading
2069 people want to read

About the author

Tess Thompson

119 books1,729 followers
Tess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.

Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.

She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.

Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.

She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.

She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.

Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites

Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
567 (71%)
4 stars
176 (22%)
3 stars
41 (5%)
2 stars
5 (<1%)
1 star
2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
Profile Image for Krysta Johnson.
44 reviews13 followers
November 2, 2025
on paper, I'm probably the target audience for this book - I'm a hopeless romantic who married her high school sweetheart, but this just didn't do it for me. #goodreadsgiveawaywinner
Profile Image for Elaine .
1,035 reviews65 followers
February 21, 2025
The perfect story..

Reviewed in the United States on February 21, 2025

Simply a sweet story.
I loved every minute of this story.

I've been a tess a fan for a very long time.

Each book I read, seems to just be better and better. Truly a sweet story..
Profile Image for Janeal.
158 reviews1 follower
February 28, 2025
This was a wonderful book. I LOVE all things written by Tess Thompson.

Laney gets a horrible reality shock on a day that is supposed to be the best of her life. Her world comes shattering around her and society will be gossiping about this for weeks to come. How do you start over after this embarrassment.

Nolan has had his heartbreaks in this life. An ex who left him reeling. A death that haunts him and a lost love he never recovered from. He needs to find peace and his Christmas spirit again, to heal.

Can a small town heal these two, while truths from the past come to light?

This is an amazing series. Clara and Tess spin heartfelt stories that pull you in and never let go!
1,063 reviews35 followers
February 22, 2025
I was thrilled to go back to Sugarville Grove and even more thrilled to be reading another book by author Tess Thompson. She and fellow author Clara Pines are alternating writing the books in the charming series. It’s Christmas, the decorations are up, the festivities are in full swing, and love is in the air. Well, not so much for Nolan Hayes and Laney Gray. Bah, humbug! might be more their mantra than Ho! Ho! Ho! this year, but Sugarville Grove is a magical place and miracles have been known to happen. Can the town work that magic on Nolan and Laney and give them their happy ever after?

Laney has suffered the ultimate humiliation. She called off her wedding literally minutes before the ceremony was to begin after discovering her nearly-husband had been cheating on her with her best friend and still was. In fact, he was planning to go through with the ceremony and . . . what? There is no good answer there. Laney’s lucky to have escaped such a horrible situation but even realizing she and her fiancé were never really right for each other doesn’t lessen the hurt and rejection. She did the strong thing, but she still needs to get away and heal. So she goes to Sugarville Grove to help her Aunt Edna run her bookstore Clever Fox Books.

The holidays are tough for Nolan, since his friend Dylan was murdered five years ago. He’s the youngest Hayes brother, the quiet, sometimes broody one who is an English professor. His relationships always end the same way, with his partner telling him he’s too serious or too depressing or something. No wonder, because his heart has never really been in it – except for that one summer when he was fourteen. That was the summer Laney just happened to be in Sugarville Grove for a few months with her aunt. She and Nolan became great friends, inseparable, both had thoughts about the future, but they were so young and never voiced their thoughts – and hope – and after Laney went back to the city they drifted apart. Life happened, they took their own paths; while they certainly weren’t pining for each other all these years since, neither did they find “The One” that made them deliriously happy and content.

Laney’s mother grew up in Sugarville Grove but her memories are not happy ones. She hasn’t wanted Laney to spend much time there, but the more she settles in now, the more Laney feels like she’s come home, like this is there she’s meant to be. The time she spends with Nolan and his family seems wonderfully comfortable and familiar. Nolan’s spirit comes alive around Laney. And he starts to realize that his friend Dylan wouldn’t want him to suffer and grieve and refuse to feel joy because he’s gone.

Christmas Promises is a sweet, romantic story about two people dealing with loss and pain opening themselves up to love and joy and hope for the future. If you didn’t already believe in soul mates, trust me, you will by the time you finish this book. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone but taken together you get the full pleasure of the strong bonds of family and friends and their delightful children, the charm of the town, its businesses, its community events, its beautiful setting and the wonderful things that can happen if you just have a little faith and let yourself believe in love and happy-ever-after.

Thanks to author Tess Thompson for providing an advance copy of Christmas Promises as part of her Tessers Review Crewsters team. I enjoyed it so much, as I enjoy every story and series she writes. I can’t wait for the next book in this fantastic series. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jane litherland.
4,106 reviews75 followers
February 24, 2025
Sugarville Grove is a magical place ,where dreams are made to come true it seems. The Christmas tree lights the cosy nights it gleans romance like no other place has. It’s got that sweet pizazz of hope and ,well a Christmas promises trope. Laney Gray ,filled with dismay when her fairytale turned into a living public nightmare fail on an epic scale. So she does no more but flees to the place she’s been the happiest ,and takes up her happy stance at her Aunt’s bookstore. Little realising that there ,romance was in store. Not a book boyfriend to read but a real life lover to fill her need . This makes her very happy indeed. Nolan Hayes was always the one who had her undone . The quiet lover of books who stole her heart one magical summer in the past long ago. She isn’t a teenager anymore but neither is he , he’s now a professor see and what’s more he’s still spending time among the books ,the same now as then, his steady presence and stance with just one glance and a smile is all it takes to make her legs shake , she’s weak at the knees and eager to appease. She finds herself drawn to the small town’s magical charms too ,so much more to offer you than the city she finds . Thinking of reminiscent dreams in her mind , of being in Noah’s arms. Magnificent and charming as ever he is . The connection is still pulsing in their veins ,so powerful the attraction is . This boy and girl ,now woman and man are tossed and blown but not forlorn or forgotten none, because each other they will have always and that’s not to be sniffed at. Because in any case it means that they both still care . Always have ,it’s laid bare before them , destiny , a heavenly hymn, a love such as their’s,no matter the distance between them , nor years that have passed as long as now they’re together where they belong at last. Christmas is for second chances and romantic gifts , not far off glances and rifts. He’s never shared his heartbreak ,didn’t think she cared ,but she’s here now and their love is to be shared ,not compared , not who did what ,or when discussed but swept away with the cobwebs and dust. A new beginning based on friendship , love and deep and meaningful trust. Beautifully written ,I won’t deny it did make me cry . Tess Thompson’s writing is why . I let out a satisfied sigh after reading this book all cosy in my reading nook . I put myself time aside to devour in one go because I knew I’d love this story so. The characters are endearing . The storytelling is off the charts, compellingly sweet and those perfect scenes and twinkling lights ,and snow covered street descriptors made it complete.
15 reviews
March 18, 2025
Christmas Promises
Book 4 of the Sugarfield Grove series.

Laney and Nolan spent their 14th summer falling in love and dreaming of their future. When the summer ended and they had to go back to their real lives of school, college, jobs and relationships...they thought they had moved on. Nobody falls in love forever at 14. Right? Their parents certainly didnt think so.

It would take 16 years, deception, and a terrible betrayal to find out. Laney just needed to get away. Far away. From her former fiance, her parents, and the fact that she didnt even know who she was or what she wanted. The perfect place? With Aunt Edna in Sugarville Grove, helping with the cherished bookstore and taking some much needed time to collect herself.

She didnt expect to find Nolan still living there with his family and still as handsome as ever. She certainly didnt also expect to have the same instant connection with him as she did when they were 14.

Nolan had done the responsible and somewhat expected things in his life. Graduated, got a teaching degree, nearly got married, and got a job as a well-respected professor. He didnt feel like he was missing out exactly...and yet there was always this sense of loss. Of not full living and not fully cherishing his life. That is, until Laney blew back into town like a Christmas snowstorm and had him wondering what it would be like to belong to her. To be loved by her again. One thing was certain, he couldnt let the opportunity pass him by. He needed to talk to her and be her friend even if that was the only thing he could be for her. To his amazement, she seemed to be just as excited to see him as he was to see her and that old spark started glowing just like the embers in his cozy fireplace...with the same familiar heat and same contented quiet.

When things are too much too soon while also being way past due...its complicated. Can they take their shot at happiness and live for themselves even when fate tries to pull a fast one? You'll have to dive in to see! (No spoilers here!)
Thank you to 4Kids5Cats Publishing for an ARC copy at my request. All thoughts are my own and freely shared.
Profile Image for MAYRA ARMENTA.
114 reviews4 followers
December 24, 2025
🎧 Christmas Promises

Sugarville Grove, Book 4
By Tess Thompson
Performed in dual narration by CJ Bloom & Scott Rose

Christmas Promises is a heartfelt small-town Christmas romance centered on second chances and rediscovering where you truly belong. Laney returns to Sugarville Grove after a devastating betrayal—being left at the altar when her fiancé and best friend fall for each other. Hoping for a fresh start, she comes back to help her aunt run the local bookstore and to heal from the heartbreak that turned her world upside down.

What Laney doesn’t expect is to reconnect with Nolan, her childhood sweetheart. As kids, Laney spent her summers in Sugarville Grove with her aunt, creating some of the happiest memories of her life—and being back with Nolan feels as though no time has passed. Both Laney and Nolan carry the scars of past heartbreaks, and the question remains whether those wounds will keep them from taking another chance at love.

The narration truly elevates this story. CJ Bloom delivers an exceptional performance as Laney, capturing her emotional journey from hurt and vulnerability to strength and self-assurance. She shines especially in moments where Laney stands up to her mother, who disapproves of the relationship and the small-town life she once wanted to escape. Scott Rose brings warmth and sincerity to Nolan, beautifully portraying his gentle, caring nature and his determination to show Laney that he is fully committed. His performance highlights Nolan’s compassion and vulnerability, making him incredibly easy to root for.

This story is cozy, emotional, and deeply comforting, further reinforcing the strong sense of community that defines Sugarville Grove. A wonderful addition to an already charming series.
⭐ 5/5
1,703 reviews13 followers
February 20, 2025
Nolan and Laney had one sweet summer together when they were fourteen years old and then never saw each other again. They never forgot the other and wished they had kept in touch. When Laney goes back to Sugarville Grove after her wedding day explodes in her face, she isn't sure what is next in her life. Then she sees Nolan again and it's like no time has passed. Nolan can't believe his eyes either and vows to not let the one who got away once before, leave without knowing how he feels.

I usually shy away from stories that move at warp speed, but Nolan and Laney had a deep connection and the fact that they had a past helped me really enjoy this book. There was something sweet about their connection and how much his family accepted her. I also enjoyed the fact that he wanted to help her get back in touch with the things she loved.

Not everyone was happy about their relationship and they let their opinion be know. Her mother hated Sugarville Grove and wanted Laney to have nothing to do with the town. When her parents come to visit during Christmas, Laney is forced to either stand up to her mother, so she can live her life the way she wants, or to let her mother dictate what she is going to do.

Just when everything looks like it might turn out well, an accident happens and her parents , especially her mom, try to push Nolan to the side. Whether they can all come together and support the injured person will be the deciding factor in their relationship. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what happens next in this series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
Profile Image for Patty Duplechin.
768 reviews9 followers
February 22, 2025
When Laney Gray finds out her fiancée is cheating on her with her best friend she calls the wedding off minutes before walking down the isle. She heads to Sugarville Grove to stay with her aunt. She’ll help in aunt’s bookstore. She has good memories from summers past. She runs into her best friend, Nolan Hayes, an English professor. Nolan stole her young heart. It didn’t work out at that young age but sometimes it’s brings you right back to the one who’s meant to be. Can he help heal her broken heart? Will he want to? He’s always thought of her and wondered how she was. Now that she’s back, maybe the two can figure everything out. Laney can’t understand how her heart feels around Nolan. She isn’t as upset as she should be with her broken engagement. Was it meant to be? Sometimes God has a plan where he leads you to your soulmate. Is Nolan her soulmate? Is she his? The couple walks around on eggshells because the chemistry is off the charts. With Nolan showing her around town, being with his family, decorating Christmas cookies, and trees, will there be a Christmas miracle? It happens all the time. Christmas Magic is a wonderful thing. Will she decide to stay in Sugarville Grove? Her aunt offers her to buy the books store. What will she do? Will she head back to the city? Did Nolan do enough for her to want to stay? Can she let her past go? All Nolan ever wanted was Laney. I was rooting for these two. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily
Profile Image for Andrea.
728 reviews22 followers
March 25, 2025
Christmastime is a great time for second chances and true love. Laney was supposed to be married, but it blew up in her face in the most obnoxious way. I can't blame her for wanting to run away and find something that brings her peace and happiness. This is my fourth trip to Sugarville Grove, and I have to say I could use a break there, myself! Even better is when you run into your long lost love from those younger, happier days. You'd be surprised how often that unrequited love will return in your favor, especially in these small towns!

Laney and Nolan fall right back into each other's lives, like they had never been apart. You know that it's meant to be. It's understandable that others may have some reservations about them rekindling so quickly, especially since Laney just escaped a doomed wedding. Nolan has his own past devastating heartbreak. But when you know, you know, right?

I admit that I was fully cheering them on, while also thinking, slow down a bit and make sure this is really what you want and need! I mean, you know that it is, but I've gotten a bit more apprehensive in my old age. Simultaneously, I'm a bit envious of her having the chance to start over, to find a new path in life that has love and success. I really want my own Sugarville Grove!

And can I just say that I need a spinoff that features Aunt Edna and more details about her long lost love, Max? That story thread definitely had me sighing.

I love these families and I love this town. It's going to be hard to wait for the next installments, but I'm sure looking forward to them!
Profile Image for Patty.
5,110 reviews55 followers
December 18, 2025
Christmas Promises
Sugarville Grove 4
By Tess Thompson
Narrated by CJ Bloom, Scott Rose

Second chances. When life serves you lemons, go to Sugarville Grove. Laney did when she caught her fiance cheating on her. Staying with her aunt, she if trying to figure out what to do next. She never expected to see her first love, Nolan. Laney and Nolan fell in love when they were fourteen at camp. Years later and relationships that have gone bad, the two find themselves both in town, and that chemistry from back then igniting once again. But is it enough to keep Laney in the small town? There is something about Sugarville Grove that draws people in with it's charm and keep them there with feelings that are the building blocks of love. This series may be sweet, but it brings everything I love together. Family, friends and couples, each finding their way, and Laney and Nolan's love is a direct result of this amazing small town.

CJ Bloom and Scott Rose know how to bring all those feelings alive! Laney is hurting when she first comes to town, and Bloom falls right into character, giving the heartbreak a true emotion. As she heals, Bloom's voice strengthens and when she is with Nolan, that love shines through. Rose too understands Nolan's heart. He was hurt badly in the past and the inflections in Rose's voice brings it to the forefront, but he finds his way to love with Laney, excited and romantic all with the nuance of his voice. Loved these two.
Profile Image for Stormi Ellis.
338 reviews9 followers
February 25, 2025
Christmas Promises (Sugarville Grove Book 4)
By: Tess Thompson

5 Stars

If you can fall in love with a fictional house, Nolan made me swoon, haha. This story follows Nolan, Lukes brother, who is a professor at the local college and Laney, who is visiting her grandmother after a bad heartbreak. These two met one summer as kids, had a fleeting romance, and then, at the end, they never saw each other again. Now, 16 years later, they bump into each other and realize that that small summer romance may have never really left either of them.

Oh my, how I loved this story. Can we say that that house had me loving Nolan. This was a classic lost summer romance story. I love these two souls and how once it was summer, and now it's a Christmas wonderland. Nolan and Laney have the sweetest of stories. Souls that found each other again. This one brings all the feels. It brought warmth and light to where it used to be dark and gloomy. By the end, I was completely in love with this couple and their dreams. Despite some falls in life, these two lost souls find each other again.

This was a great addition to the Sugarville Grove series. This whole series has been a great, heartwarming experience. Tess did a great job. Clara did a great job. I have loved each and every one.

Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
Profile Image for Marea.
381 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2025
Laney Grey thought her world was perfect, well according to her mother it was perfect. That was until the dream wedding turned into a nightmare and she ran to a place she knew was safe, Sugarville Grove. She never imagined that within a few short weeks her life would do a complete 180 turn, including running into her first crush. Laney realizes that maybe that “perfect” world back home wasn’t so perfect and in fact, she is where she truly needs to be.

Nolan Hayes loved his job, his town, his family there was no denying it. By chance one day as the holidays got closer, he ran into someone from his past. A summer teenage love that for some reason always had a place in his heart. There was no way that it wasn’t fate she came into his life again and that connection was still there. He now just had to make sure she didn’t leave Sugarville Grove.

In true Tess Thompson books, there are clean and funny romances. Just long enough for you have a good chance to get away for a little while into a small town where there are people from all walks of life, finding love. It is like stepping back in time in a way, to those teenage romance books but just set in adult form.

Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book
Profile Image for Shabby  -BookBistroBlog.
1,934 reviews988 followers
December 19, 2025
Tess visits Sugarville Grove where Christmas is in full swing. Hayes brothers are ruling with charisma and good looks alone. Nolan Hayes meets his childhood crush - Laney Gray. She's been jilted, cheated on, left at the altar. So aunt Edna’s shop it is.
Obv they revisit their relationship, life, love
Narration by Scott rose is amazing. CJ bloom has a upward lilt that is kinda annoying.
A cozy holiday novel, sweet and spicy
“4 stars for cookies & Childhood ”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,641 reviews61 followers
February 18, 2025
An absolutely delightful small town, second chance romance. I have to admit Sugarville Grove sounds like the most picturesque wonderful place to live. The townsfolk all know and care for one another. They go all out for the holiday season with decorations and annual traditions. Things that a lot of “flatliners” (aka big city folk) take for granted But Not Laney. After finding out on her Wedding Day that her fiance was cheating on her, Laney heads for the quaint town where her aunt owns a bookstore and she spent one glorious summer as a teenager. It’s in that very bookstore that she reconnects with Nolan Hayes. The boy who stole her heart all those years ago. Could this be a sign for things to come? Have the tragedies Nolan’s lived through jaded the vibrant young man she used to know?

This is a very well written heartwarming storyline that will have you smiling throughout and rooting for a happy ending. It’s all about family, second chances and finding one's true calling. If you haven’t started the Sugarville Grove series I highly recommend them and reading them in order, while not a necessity, will enhance your reading pleasure for sure.

2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
140 reviews
February 20, 2025
Tess Thompson is an amazing author, able to create believable characters in a variety of different worlds. This collaboration with Clara Pines, creating the town of Sugarville Grove, is another example of her skill. Sugarville Grove feels like a real place, a town where you would want to live, a town full of traditions and activities, where people care for each other.
Laney and Nolan's story is a second chance romance. They shared a wonderful, innocent summer together when they were teenagers. Laney has returned to Sugarville Grove after being betrayed by her fiancee. The scene where they meet again is very moving and well written. The growth of their relationship is sweet. I especially liked Laney's mother, a well rounded character who contributes the necessary friction to the story.
This is book four in the series, and like the rest of them it is an HEA. It can be read as standalone, and there are no cliffhangers, so jump right in here, and then go back and read the rest. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion. All of Tess Thompson's books are worth reading.
165 reviews3 followers
February 21, 2025
Christmas Promises a beautiful saga of the Sugarville Grove series. This is the fourth opus in the series. The story takes place in and around the small town of Sugarville Grove, it is mainly about Laney Gray and Nolan Hayes. Laney comes back to the town of Sugarville Grove after having been deceived, needing a new start. Laney is helping her aunt Edna with her bookshop, Clever Fox Books to take her mind off things. The story is oh so good the inspiration around the Christmas season makes it even more attractive, for those who like this time of the year story. The story is one of reconnecting with the past, being part of healing and finding the way back to something thought lost all those years ago. The storytelling takes us down the mysterious paths of rediscovering friends and family, as well as getting ready for Christmas. The book has the twinkling ingredients of a beautiful holiday season including some unforeseen events. A book that makes the reader happy and wanting Christmas to come soon.
I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next book in the series! I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this book.
Charlotte N
1,995 reviews
February 24, 2025
A lovely story with delightful characters.

Amazon synopsis:
Laney Gray thought she had her life all figured out—until her fairytale wedding turned into a public betrayal. Jilted at the altar and humiliated by the very people she trusted most, Laney flees the city for Sugarville Grove, the picturesque small town where she once spent her happiest summers. Seeking solace in her aunt’s charming bookstore, Laney hopes to piece her life back together in time for Christmas.

What she doesn’t expect is to run into Nolan Hayes—the quiet, bookish boy who stole her heart one magical summer. Now an English professor with a steady presence and a smile that still makes her knees weak, Nolan is no longer the shy teenager Laney remembers. But as their paths cross amidst twinkling lights and snow-covered streets, the connection between them feels as familiar—and as powerful—as ever.

Laney may be a city girl out of her element in Sugarville Grove, but as she works to rebuild the bookstore’s holiday traditions, she finds herself drawn not only to the town’s simple charms but also to Nolan’s quiet strength. Yet, both carry scars from the past—hers from a shattered engagement, and his from a heartbreak he’s never shared.
Profile Image for momo’s booknook.
68 reviews
December 18, 2025
✨ALC REVIEW✨

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Book 4 in the Sugarville Grove Series

You may have noticed my last 2 reviews for this series have been more in depth than ones previously. This is because I want anyone who comes across these to know exactly what these stories hold and how I enjoyed them.

The story starts out on heartbreak: Laney Gray’s wedding day ends in tragedy, shattering the future she thought she was building. When you are lost and broken, what else can you do but return home?

Sugarville Grove allows Laney to be surrounded by familiar streets, comforting routines, and people who knew her before everything went wrong, she slowly rediscovers herself and begins healing. When else do you rediscover a past love and rekindle it?

The past love that is rekindled feels deeper and more meaningful than before.

The small-town setting adds a cozy layer to all the stories, which reminds us -the readers- that sometimes healing requires going back to where you began. By the end, I -once again- was crying tears of joy and appreciation for this astonishing story! 🎄🎁📚✨
Profile Image for Pam Fleming.
1,043 reviews
February 21, 2025
Another magical Sugarville Grove addition. Just minutes before her wedding, Laney discoveres her fiancé is in love with her friend Dahlia. Her mother is distraught and her father informs the guests the wedding is canceled. Laney flees to Sugarville Grove to spend time with her Aunt Edna as her heart mends. Laney loves working at her Aunt’s bookstore and contemplates her future.

Laney reconnects with a friend from her teenager year, Nolay Hayes. The handsome college professor has had his share of heartache following the tragic December shooting of his best friend and a broken engagement. The pair quickly resume their friendship and sparks begin to fly

Laney’s parents come to visit for the holidays. With unpleasant childhood memories, Laney’s mom, Penelope is against Laney spending time together in Sugarville Grove.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Malinda Wilson.
49 reviews7 followers
February 23, 2025
Broken pieces can be mended with love

Book 4 of Sugarville Grove had me so angry on Laney’s behalf and from page one I wanted to see how life turned out for her and how she would find her happy ending. Then we meet Nolan and my heart is just broken for him as well. So much grief to carry. I just wanted him to be happy no matter what.
The story or Laney and Nolan prove that even if you are broken, when the right person comes along, everything will fall into place exactly like it was meant to. I absolutely loved their story. It made me so happy that their love story fixed some broken pieces for her Mom as well.
I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series. I look forward to seeing more about Aunt Edna and her Long lost love. I hope Max gets a happily ever after as well. Tess Thompson and Clara Pines are quite the dynamic writing duo. This is such a great series to cozy up with.
Profile Image for Lottie .
49 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2025
I LOVED this cozy, emotional, heart-swoony Christmas romance!! Christmas Promises absolutely delivers on the holiday vibes, heartfelt moments, and romantic tension—and it had me smiling, sighing, and feeling all warm inside. An easy 4 stars for the book and a FULL 5 STARS for the audiobook because WOW 🎧💖
Let’s talk TROPES, because this book is TROPE-TASTIC:
🎄 Small-town Christmas romance
💔 Second-chance love
❤️ Healing from past heartbreak
👨‍👩‍👧 Found family feels
🔥 Slow-burn emotional romance
The story is tender, emotional, and perfectly paced for a holiday read. The characters feel real and vulnerable, and watching them navigate old wounds while rediscovering love was SO satisfying. Yes, a few moments felt familiar—but honestly? That’s part of the comfort and charm of a Christmas romance, and Tess Thompson does it beautifully.

If you’re craving a feel-good holiday romance packed with emotional depth, swoony second chances, and ALL the Christmas vibes, Christmas Promises is a must-read—and an absolute must-listen. Curl up, press play, and enjoy the festive feels!! 🎄✨💞
Profile Image for Becky Wise.
2,835 reviews57 followers
February 15, 2025
Christmas Promises is a fantastic read. I loved Laney and Nolan so much. The more you learn about Nolan and Laney the more they own your heart. A summer teenage love has left a lasting impression on both. Laney is in town licking her wounds and trying to figure out what she wants to do next. Nolan is just going through the motions since the tragic loss of his best friends. I love the pull between Laney and Nolan. I love how his family just takes Laney in like their own. This book is filled with second chances and a whole lot of healing and repairing relationships that you will just love. Tess Thompson does a beautiful job with another Hayes family book in the Sugarville Grove series. If you haven't had a chance to pick up any books in this series do so now. I could not put this down. Go one click this today.
342 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2025
Laney and Nolan spent a special summer together when they were teens. They did everything together and felt a special connection. But Laney had to return to her life with her parents and Nolan went about his life. Now Laney is back in Sugarville Grove after her almost wedding imploded and she found her fiancé had been having a relationship with the woman who was supposed to be her best friend. Now she is in Sugarville Grove to visit her Aunt and see where her life is going. She runs into Nolan again and they find they still have at least a friendship. But is there more. A great story of how these two explore their lives in the past and their present feelings and then what their future could look like. Laney’s mother shows up to add another layer. But will these two find a way to have the life they want. A sweet story of these two.
Profile Image for Linda V..
550 reviews8 followers
December 25, 2025
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:

Christmas Promises is book #4 in the Sugarville Grove series. I'm totally loving all things Vermont Christmas with this series. And Laney and Nolen's story is so good. Laney discovered a betrayed by her fiance and cousin minutes before she was to walk the aisle at her wedding. She hightails it out of the city to Sugarville Grove to regroup and figure out her future plans. She runs into Nolen, her childhood summer crush, and it's like no time had passed between them. He also had a tragic past relationship, so they both are seeking trust in a partner. And you gotta love the Hayes family being all loving and nosey. This sweet holiday series is just what I needed to bring in the holidays.

The dual narration was fantastic. Scott Rose and CJ Bloom are two narrators that I know can bring a story to life. Great choice to voice Nolen and Laney. 5/5 stars!
Profile Image for Terry Silva.
409 reviews5 followers
February 14, 2025
What a romantic story. I think it's great that Laney and Nolan will always remember their first summer together. At the worst possible moment, Laney discovered that her fiancé had betrayed her. A breakup also damaged Nolan. In an attempt to recuperate, Laney returns to Sugarville Grove and sees Nolan right away. Do they have the ability to find love again? It is really lovely to raise a family in Sugarville Grove. I wished I could have spent Christmas in this small community after reading this story. I was ready to put my Christmas tree back up. This author's work is amazing. I think Tess Thompson did a fantastic job, and I heartily endorse both this book and the full series. “I received ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.”
151 reviews2 followers
February 16, 2025
Nolan and Laney first met at 14. They had a wonderful summer together with promises to stay in touch. Laney went back to the city with her parents. Nolan stayed in Sugarville Grove with his large family. Fast forward sixteen years to Laney returning to town after calling off her wedding. Nolan has had his own difficulties in life. He is a college professor and is not looking forward to the holidays due to the death of a friend five years ago he feels stuck in place. Time stands still for them both when they see each other. Two souls finding themselves again as they share this Christmas season. The magic of this small town, families and memories bring them together again. What a sweet holiday book! You won’t want to miss this book! 5+ stars.
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,481 reviews56 followers
February 17, 2025
Laney has come to stay with her aunt after her wedding was cancelled. She remembers the little town as charming and beautiful, but mostly she remembers a boy who stole her heart at the age of 14. Never did she expect to run into Nolan again, with all the feelings resurfacing all over again.

Nolan often thought of Laney as the one who got away, despite them being so young when they first met. He believes fate has brought her back into his life to reconnect and rediscover love. This story was heartwarming, without any real drama, filled with people who love deeply and want the best for their family and friends.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,273 reviews148 followers
February 21, 2025

Tess Thompson wrote a new good and gratifying story in a simple and evocative way.
Christmas Promises is part of the A Small Town Christmas Romance series, yet it could be read as a standalone.

On her wedding day Laney Gray day finds out that her fiancé cheated on her, so she calls everything off, and runs to her aunt's place in Sugarville Grove. Here, she reconnects with Nolan Hayes, her never forgotten young crush. Will Laney finally find her place in the World?

I've enjoyed this story from start to end, and I was so happy to see these characters to find each other again. The love between Laney and Nolan is easy, it seems like they never spent a day apart. I've appreciated how Nolan is there to show Laney how it could be to spend their future in Sugarville Grove, but he never pushed her to become a couple, and he let her make her own choices.

I will never tire of recommending these Christmas stories that fill my heart of joy and hope.


Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

Profile Image for Nicole.
4,250 reviews52 followers
February 20, 2025
Another make you feel good romance set in Sugarville Grove. Laney has one of the worst betrayals on what is supposed to be the best day of her life. They say things happen for a reason. Laney finds herself back in Sugarville Grove to heal. What happens next she never expected. It was so beautiful watching her and Nolan reconnect. The Hayes family is something special. I would so be down to participate in the cookie decorating. I loved Max's ugly Christmas sweater party. One of my favorite scenes. I loved the meaning behind their ornament purchases when tree shopping. That's what my tree is filled with, ornaments collected over the years that have special meaning. What started off on a bad note for Laney turned into something so beautiful with a little help of Christmas magic.


Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.