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Love in Bloom #2
The Christmas Keepsake
This heart-warming small-town holiday love story about hope and healing from USA Today bestselling author Annie Rains is perfect for fans of Susan Mallery and Jenny Hale!
320 pages, Paperback
Published October 7, 2025
24 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Annie Rains
43 books1,497 followersAnnie Rains is a contemporary romance author who writes small town love stories set in fictional towns on the coast of North Carolina. Raised in one of America's largest military communities, Annie often features heroes who fight for their countries, while also fighting for a place to call home and a good woman to love. When Annie isn't writing, she's spending time with her husband and 3 children, or reading a book by one of her favorite authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
October 10, 2025
Another heartwarming gem by Annie Rains.
Memories lost, but still there.
We meet amazing, sweet characters who give up things for themselves and take care of others and Nan who is suffering from dementia.
Mallory is a nurse who works extra shifts so her Grandmother Nan can stay in the memory care unit.
Hollis works at a construction company that he really doesn't enjoy. He likes his adopted grandfather's tree farm.
Nan leaves a journal for Mallory to read about her life along with an ornament to go with each entry.
Nan wants the ornaments to be placed on the tree that Hollis and Mallory put up in the community room at the memory care unit.
Mallory and Hollis have something they want to do in their lives but feel obligated to do what their relatives want them to do.
Mallory and Hollis have always had feelings for each other, but they keep avoiding each other.
What will happen with Mallory and Hollis romance wise and doing what they want for themselves.
Find out what everyone does in this beautiful, heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking read that will definitely lift your spirits.
You can always count on an uplifting read with Annie Rains.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Memories lost, but still there.
We meet amazing, sweet characters who give up things for themselves and take care of others and Nan who is suffering from dementia.
Mallory is a nurse who works extra shifts so her Grandmother Nan can stay in the memory care unit.
Hollis works at a construction company that he really doesn't enjoy. He likes his adopted grandfather's tree farm.
Nan leaves a journal for Mallory to read about her life along with an ornament to go with each entry.
Nan wants the ornaments to be placed on the tree that Hollis and Mallory put up in the community room at the memory care unit.
Mallory and Hollis have something they want to do in their lives but feel obligated to do what their relatives want them to do.
Mallory and Hollis have always had feelings for each other, but they keep avoiding each other.
What will happen with Mallory and Hollis romance wise and doing what they want for themselves.
Find out what everyone does in this beautiful, heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking read that will definitely lift your spirits.
You can always count on an uplifting read with Annie Rains.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 13, 2025
I received a free copy of, The Christmas Keepsake, by Annie Rains, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in the Love in Bloom series. Mallory Blue is a nurse, she has a beloved grandmother with dementia, her grandma gives Mallory a journal to read of hers. This was such a great read, I enjoyed learning about Nan and Mallory and Hollis.
October 8, 2025
The Christmas Keepsake by Annie Rains
Love in Bloom series #2. Contemporary holiday family story with romance. Can be read as a stand-alone though characters from the first story appear briefly in this book.
The holidays are coming and Mallory Blue, though busy working full time as a nurse, agrees to direct the town play in lieu of her grandmother who is in a memory care facility with dementia. Mallory has a journal from her grandmother along with a box of wrapped ornaments. In her visits with Nan, and the unwrapping of the keepsake ornaments, the family stories are told over the decades from Nan’s perspective. Nan may not remember them anymore, but Mallory has her own memories from the years and they merge with the play, the town and neighbors as rehearsals and life Blooms.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and audiobook, sometimes reading them together. The audiobook is narrated by Ann Richardson who does a fantastic performance using distinctive voices for Mallory, Nan, Hollis and more. Amazing abilities. Emotions were clear as the multiple generations went through heartbreak, love, and doubt. I could visualize the care facility, the ornaments and the barn easily from the audio as the story progressed. Ann Richardson has preformed more than 300 audiobooks, both fiction and non fiction. I would definitely recommend this audiobook.
I listened at 1.5 and slightly higher to more closely match my reading speed.
Poignant and touching especially for the memory care aspect. Repeatedly said “Nan was still here, though hard to find.” Those glimpses of connections are precious, the confusion and loss, heart rendering.
Some sadness as the generations tell their stories although the overall feel is love, happiness and family. Beautifully told. Emotionally riveting.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Hachette Audio.
Love in Bloom series #2. Contemporary holiday family story with romance. Can be read as a stand-alone though characters from the first story appear briefly in this book.
The holidays are coming and Mallory Blue, though busy working full time as a nurse, agrees to direct the town play in lieu of her grandmother who is in a memory care facility with dementia. Mallory has a journal from her grandmother along with a box of wrapped ornaments. In her visits with Nan, and the unwrapping of the keepsake ornaments, the family stories are told over the decades from Nan’s perspective. Nan may not remember them anymore, but Mallory has her own memories from the years and they merge with the play, the town and neighbors as rehearsals and life Blooms.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook and audiobook, sometimes reading them together. The audiobook is narrated by Ann Richardson who does a fantastic performance using distinctive voices for Mallory, Nan, Hollis and more. Amazing abilities. Emotions were clear as the multiple generations went through heartbreak, love, and doubt. I could visualize the care facility, the ornaments and the barn easily from the audio as the story progressed. Ann Richardson has preformed more than 300 audiobooks, both fiction and non fiction. I would definitely recommend this audiobook.
I listened at 1.5 and slightly higher to more closely match my reading speed.
Poignant and touching especially for the memory care aspect. Repeatedly said “Nan was still here, though hard to find.” Those glimpses of connections are precious, the confusion and loss, heart rendering.
Some sadness as the generations tell their stories although the overall feel is love, happiness and family. Beautifully told. Emotionally riveting.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Hachette Audio.
August 24, 2025
This installment follows Mallory, a nurse suffering from burnout, and Hollis, who wants to start his own business training rescue dogs. Mallory and Hollis are Savannah and Evan's (from the first book) best friends, and Hollis has had strong feelings for Mallory for his entire life.
Now that the tone of the community and its relationships has been set during the first book, it was so much fun to revisit characters that I got to know there. Savannah and Ryan are doing well after getting married, and so is Aunt Eleanor. I loved spending a lot of time with Mallory and Hollis, and felt even more invested in their relationship. I felt overwhelmed right along with Mallory, with everything that she's trying to juggle in her life, and I felt uncertainty right along with Hollis, who is A SWEETHEART. Mallory has some huge decisions to make with regard to the local community theater-founded and owned by her grandmother-and Hollis has some huge decisions to make about which direction his career will take (it's complicated!). I don't want to get too deep into these details, because it's really great to watch everything unfold, but trust me when I say that both Mallory and Hollis have a lot on their plates, and they needed one another to bounce successes, stresses, and ideas off of. Hollis' feelings for Mallory are so sweet and pure, and for some reason, he really pulled on my heartstrings. That may be mostly because of how he feels about dogs, because I too am a dog person.
They had a slow-burn friends-to-more relationship during this story, and it was so much fun to see.
I didn't particular warm to the journal entries from Mallory's Nan, but I understand that they play a huge part in the way this story unfolds. I think a lot of people will feel emotions attached to this part of the story, but each time I was reading a journal entry, I just wanted to be reading more about Hollis and Mallory spending time together.
It's a solid addition to this series, and I really enjoyed re-visiting all of the characters from the previous book. I love the way Ms. Rains gives each characters really full lives and subplots-it was a lot of fun to get caught up in each characters' life the same way I did with the first book.
I liked this book even more than the first one in this series. Hollis and his dogs were the best part. :)
I read an early digital review copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you so much for sending it my way, Forever Publishing!
Now that the tone of the community and its relationships has been set during the first book, it was so much fun to revisit characters that I got to know there. Savannah and Ryan are doing well after getting married, and so is Aunt Eleanor. I loved spending a lot of time with Mallory and Hollis, and felt even more invested in their relationship. I felt overwhelmed right along with Mallory, with everything that she's trying to juggle in her life, and I felt uncertainty right along with Hollis, who is A SWEETHEART. Mallory has some huge decisions to make with regard to the local community theater-founded and owned by her grandmother-and Hollis has some huge decisions to make about which direction his career will take (it's complicated!). I don't want to get too deep into these details, because it's really great to watch everything unfold, but trust me when I say that both Mallory and Hollis have a lot on their plates, and they needed one another to bounce successes, stresses, and ideas off of. Hollis' feelings for Mallory are so sweet and pure, and for some reason, he really pulled on my heartstrings. That may be mostly because of how he feels about dogs, because I too am a dog person.
They had a slow-burn friends-to-more relationship during this story, and it was so much fun to see.
I didn't particular warm to the journal entries from Mallory's Nan, but I understand that they play a huge part in the way this story unfolds. I think a lot of people will feel emotions attached to this part of the story, but each time I was reading a journal entry, I just wanted to be reading more about Hollis and Mallory spending time together.
It's a solid addition to this series, and I really enjoyed re-visiting all of the characters from the previous book. I love the way Ms. Rains gives each characters really full lives and subplots-it was a lot of fun to get caught up in each characters' life the same way I did with the first book.
I liked this book even more than the first one in this series. Hollis and his dogs were the best part. :)
I read an early digital review copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you so much for sending it my way, Forever Publishing!
October 7, 2025
Apparently I’m on a roll!
Another 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book!
But for different reasons… although this one hit me in all the right spots, too! 🩷
Mallory is an RN (like me) 😉. She’s running around like a chicken without a head… ALL THE TIME!
Her mother has been MIA since her childhood. Her younger sister seems to always need her help. And, her beloved grandma is now in a Memory Care Facility as she has progressive dementia… so she has some days where she’s lucid, and many others where she’s not. And, she gets upset relatively easily… and for no apparent reason…
So, Mallory is always walking on eggshells when she visits… which is often.
Grandma and she were always very close… especially since she essentially raised the girls…
Grandma always wanted to make a name for herself… and Mallory discovers a diary/journal that she left for her and her sister…and as she’s reading it, she’s learning all about Grandma…when she was a young woman.
Additionally, Travis lives in the same small town. He had a really rough upbringing, but has found family and love over the years. He seems to be a good man, and always seems to be watching out for, and helping Mallory! He works in construction, although that’s NOT what he wants to do in life. He also helps out every year at the Christmas Tree Farm that’s his Grandpa’s …. AND, most special of all… he fosters and trains shelter dogs… in order to get them placed into loving homes! (So, yes! He’s already won MY heart) ❤️ ❤️
And yes, there are two very special dogs 🐕 🐾🐶🐾 in this one!
There’s so much going on in this one, so many special, touching moments, that I don’t think I could even touch on half of it here… but it is very special! Very sweet. And just tugged on all my heartstrings!! 🥹
If you have the opportunity, please don’t miss out on this one! It made me laugh. 🤭 It made me smile. 😊 It made me tear up. 😢But mostly, it brought me so much JOY just reading this!!! 🩷🩷
*** IT HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED! PLEASE LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON 10/7/25…so, tomorrow!! ***
#TheChristmasKeepsake by @AnnieRains and narrated beautifully by @AnnRichardson.
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HachetteAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Another 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book!
But for different reasons… although this one hit me in all the right spots, too! 🩷
Mallory is an RN (like me) 😉. She’s running around like a chicken without a head… ALL THE TIME!
Her mother has been MIA since her childhood. Her younger sister seems to always need her help. And, her beloved grandma is now in a Memory Care Facility as she has progressive dementia… so she has some days where she’s lucid, and many others where she’s not. And, she gets upset relatively easily… and for no apparent reason…
So, Mallory is always walking on eggshells when she visits… which is often.
Grandma and she were always very close… especially since she essentially raised the girls…
Grandma always wanted to make a name for herself… and Mallory discovers a diary/journal that she left for her and her sister…and as she’s reading it, she’s learning all about Grandma…when she was a young woman.
Additionally, Travis lives in the same small town. He had a really rough upbringing, but has found family and love over the years. He seems to be a good man, and always seems to be watching out for, and helping Mallory! He works in construction, although that’s NOT what he wants to do in life. He also helps out every year at the Christmas Tree Farm that’s his Grandpa’s …. AND, most special of all… he fosters and trains shelter dogs… in order to get them placed into loving homes! (So, yes! He’s already won MY heart) ❤️ ❤️
And yes, there are two very special dogs 🐕 🐾🐶🐾 in this one!
There’s so much going on in this one, so many special, touching moments, that I don’t think I could even touch on half of it here… but it is very special! Very sweet. And just tugged on all my heartstrings!! 🥹
If you have the opportunity, please don’t miss out on this one! It made me laugh. 🤭 It made me smile. 😊 It made me tear up. 😢But mostly, it brought me so much JOY just reading this!!! 🩷🩷
*** IT HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED! PLEASE LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON 10/7/25…so, tomorrow!! ***
#TheChristmasKeepsake by @AnnieRains and narrated beautifully by @AnnRichardson.
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HachetteAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
November 18, 2025
I usually find Annie Raines books to be pure comfort read, and this book definitely falls on that category. But there is a lot of hardship in this book, especially so for two family members dealing with dementia/Alzheimer’s along with their families.
Mallory is an overworked nurse trying to make enough to keep her grandmother and substitute mom in the memory care facility. She’s living in, well at the same time keep her name like theatre going and run the annual Christmas show of Santa Baby. Not one to ask for help, Hollis, a former high school, classmate and fellow dementia patient family member, offers to help out with the different odds and ends to keep the show going.
On top of that, she has been bequeathed a journal in the box of treasured ornaments from her Nan to put up on what she called the memory tree- thus unravelling the mysterious pass of her grandmother while the holiday season create new memories and in a relationship from Mallory.
I live in the difficulty watching the grandmother’s decline, I really enjoyed seeing land story unfold, and give Mallory the encouragement to create her own story this holiday season! The romance between Hollis and Mallory is true Hallmark style and gave me such a cosy vibe!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Ann Richardson and found that her voice sounded a little elderly for the characters. That being said, after getting used to the voice, I no longer found that aged the character is too badly and was able to easily get lost in the storytelling.
This was a sweet family oriented already romance they remind us to keep our loved ones and our memories close!
Mallory is an overworked nurse trying to make enough to keep her grandmother and substitute mom in the memory care facility. She’s living in, well at the same time keep her name like theatre going and run the annual Christmas show of Santa Baby. Not one to ask for help, Hollis, a former high school, classmate and fellow dementia patient family member, offers to help out with the different odds and ends to keep the show going.
On top of that, she has been bequeathed a journal in the box of treasured ornaments from her Nan to put up on what she called the memory tree- thus unravelling the mysterious pass of her grandmother while the holiday season create new memories and in a relationship from Mallory.
I live in the difficulty watching the grandmother’s decline, I really enjoyed seeing land story unfold, and give Mallory the encouragement to create her own story this holiday season! The romance between Hollis and Mallory is true Hallmark style and gave me such a cosy vibe!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Ann Richardson and found that her voice sounded a little elderly for the characters. That being said, after getting used to the voice, I no longer found that aged the character is too badly and was able to easily get lost in the storytelling.
This was a sweet family oriented already romance they remind us to keep our loved ones and our memories close!
October 2, 2025
A CHARMING STORY FULL OF HOPE AND HEART
As Christmas approaches, Mallory Blue juggles extra hospital shifts to afford her grandmother’s memory care. When tasked with managing the community Christmas play her grandmother had directed for years, she feels overwhelmed. Two things help her cope: her grandmother's keepsake journal about her life and Hollis, a troublemaker from her past who volunteers as Santa. He assists her in saving the play and also tries to win her heart. Through the keepsake journal, Mallory uncovers new truths about Nan's life and advice that holds the key to creating holiday magic and shaping her own future.
A Keepsake Christmas is a charming story full of hope and heart. It’s a relaxing read set in a small town with well-developed characters. The characters even make you feel their stress, joy, or sadness. My favorite part was discovering Mallory’s grandmother’s past through her stories behind the keepsake ornaments. Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Publisher Grand Central Publishing
Published October 7, 2025
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
As Christmas approaches, Mallory Blue juggles extra hospital shifts to afford her grandmother’s memory care. When tasked with managing the community Christmas play her grandmother had directed for years, she feels overwhelmed. Two things help her cope: her grandmother's keepsake journal about her life and Hollis, a troublemaker from her past who volunteers as Santa. He assists her in saving the play and also tries to win her heart. Through the keepsake journal, Mallory uncovers new truths about Nan's life and advice that holds the key to creating holiday magic and shaping her own future.
A Keepsake Christmas is a charming story full of hope and heart. It’s a relaxing read set in a small town with well-developed characters. The characters even make you feel their stress, joy, or sadness. My favorite part was discovering Mallory’s grandmother’s past through her stories behind the keepsake ornaments. Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Publisher Grand Central Publishing
Published October 7, 2025
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
November 20, 2025
The Christmas Keepsake is exactly the kind of holiday story I love. Mallory Blue was raised by her grandmother in Bloom, North Carolina. She owns the local community theater and each Christmas stages a play she wrote. It is a wonderful tradition in the community. This year, things are different. Her grandma Nan is living in an assisted living home due to her dementia. Mallory is working extra shifts at the hospital to earn money to support her, as well as taking on the job of directing this year's show. Nan knew she was losing her memories, so last year at Christmas gave Hollis her journal to give Mallory and directions to her box of ornaments. Each journal entry related to an ornament and told one of Nan's stories. Mallory is also developing a fledgling relationship with Hollis. he was the local bad boy, who was fostered by a couple in town and lived with their dad as he got older. His pop is in the same home as Nan. With people dropping out of the show, Hollis agrees to play Santa, which pleases Mallory to no end. However things don't always go as planned. There are secrets revealed, family drama, amazing animals, health issues and more, that bring drama to the story. However, it is Christmas and that magic will play out for a happy ending.
I loved this story. Knowing families dealing with the aging issue, this story was very relatable. Mallory was such an amazing character. She loved her family and would do whatever she could to support them. She was also understanding when others had to change their commitment to the play. Being a nurse, she is nurturing, caring and has a good sense of humour. Hollis was the bad boy. He always feels he isn't good enough, even though he has completely turned his life around. I loved how he was with animals and that his life plan would include caring and training them, if it worked out. The secondary characters add a lot to this story, especially Nan and Pop. If you enjoy a good family story, with some romance and secrets, one that is easy to relate to, then you should pick up The Christmas Keepsake. The narration of the audiobook was performed by Ann Richardson. She is a new narrator to me, and I enjoyed her work. She used voices, tone and expression to help me experience this story.
I loved this story. Knowing families dealing with the aging issue, this story was very relatable. Mallory was such an amazing character. She loved her family and would do whatever she could to support them. She was also understanding when others had to change their commitment to the play. Being a nurse, she is nurturing, caring and has a good sense of humour. Hollis was the bad boy. He always feels he isn't good enough, even though he has completely turned his life around. I loved how he was with animals and that his life plan would include caring and training them, if it worked out. The secondary characters add a lot to this story, especially Nan and Pop. If you enjoy a good family story, with some romance and secrets, one that is easy to relate to, then you should pick up The Christmas Keepsake. The narration of the audiobook was performed by Ann Richardson. She is a new narrator to me, and I enjoyed her work. She used voices, tone and expression to help me experience this story.
August 21, 2025
The Christmas Keepsake was phenomenal!
Heartwarming and heartbreaking.
A wonderful story from beginning to end.
Mallory is doing her best to keep her promise to her gran. Before the Dementia really got bad, gran made her promise that she would put on the play at Christmas. She's working extra shifts to pay for her gran's care, working extremely hard to get the theater ready for the big play, but things are not looking good. Cast members are quitting, her sister wants nothing to do with any of it and to top it all off, the theater just failed it's inspection and is now closed. The only thing saving her from a complete meltdown is Hollis and the box her gran gave her full of keepsakes and a journal with the real story of gran's life.
Hollis has troubles of his own. He had a really rough childhood that led him down a path of destruction. Being taken in by Matt, Sandy and Pop really changed his life for the better. He has always liked Mallory and being with her while they both navigate their crazy lives not only helps him but Mallory as well.
I admit I cried an awful lot while reading this book. It was just so good. Emotional yet touching. It is for sure my favorite read this year.
Highly recommend!
*Thank you NetGalley & Forever Publishing for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
Heartwarming and heartbreaking.
A wonderful story from beginning to end.
Mallory is doing her best to keep her promise to her gran. Before the Dementia really got bad, gran made her promise that she would put on the play at Christmas. She's working extra shifts to pay for her gran's care, working extremely hard to get the theater ready for the big play, but things are not looking good. Cast members are quitting, her sister wants nothing to do with any of it and to top it all off, the theater just failed it's inspection and is now closed. The only thing saving her from a complete meltdown is Hollis and the box her gran gave her full of keepsakes and a journal with the real story of gran's life.
Hollis has troubles of his own. He had a really rough childhood that led him down a path of destruction. Being taken in by Matt, Sandy and Pop really changed his life for the better. He has always liked Mallory and being with her while they both navigate their crazy lives not only helps him but Mallory as well.
I admit I cried an awful lot while reading this book. It was just so good. Emotional yet touching. It is for sure my favorite read this year.
Highly recommend!
*Thank you NetGalley & Forever Publishing for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
October 16, 2025
This was an intense book. I was thinking it would be another fun and sweet Christmas book. Instead it's about a woman who's grandmother has Alzheimer's and is in a memory facility. She is reading her grandmothers journals, making sure her grandmother love the of her theatre continues, works and also try's to visit and help her grandma and others. It's an intense book because so many times her grandmother is having out bursts and only other people can help settle her. I found it very hard to read and not the sappy Christmas story I expected.
There is another part of the story about a friend of heir's that rescues dogs and also goes to the center to see his grandfather. They have lots of interactions and many times he can calm her grandmother. He wants to make Christmas special for everyone at the facility.. But her feeling shattered by all that's going on and not being sure how she will continue it was I felt the most about the book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
There is another part of the story about a friend of heir's that rescues dogs and also goes to the center to see his grandfather. They have lots of interactions and many times he can calm her grandmother. He wants to make Christmas special for everyone at the facility.. But her feeling shattered by all that's going on and not being sure how she will continue it was I felt the most about the book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
October 5, 2025
The christmas keepsake.
Annie Rains.
The heart remembers what the mind forgets.
The story is ohh, so wonderful the memory box keepsake, is more than christmas ornaments. it's a story. the story takes you back in time. and the memories are so wonderful. a lifetime of love, loss.And oh, so much more. I loved every moment of this book i can say this is my favorite book by this author and i've read a lot of her books.
Lives that interweave through things that happened in the past. simply a wonderful christmas story about ornaments that take you back in time. nans story is absolutely phenomenal.
If I could read this book for the first time again what a treasure that would be.
What a beautiful story.
I loved everything about this book.
Annie Rains.
The heart remembers what the mind forgets.
The story is ohh, so wonderful the memory box keepsake, is more than christmas ornaments. it's a story. the story takes you back in time. and the memories are so wonderful. a lifetime of love, loss.And oh, so much more. I loved every moment of this book i can say this is my favorite book by this author and i've read a lot of her books.
Lives that interweave through things that happened in the past. simply a wonderful christmas story about ornaments that take you back in time. nans story is absolutely phenomenal.
If I could read this book for the first time again what a treasure that would be.
What a beautiful story.
I loved everything about this book.
July 28, 2025
The Christmas Keepsake is a roller coaster of emotions, but such a delightful and insightful story! If only everyone had a chance to learn their parent’s or grandparent’s story through stories like those focusing on the keepsake ornaments! I love the characters, Mallory and Hollis with their strengths and faults, and getting to meet up again with Savannah and Evan, and Maddie and Sam. This story looks at the ways that life doesn’t always work out the way a person wants, but how second chances and different choices can still bring happiness. Love takes many forms, family comes in many shapes, and many times it comes down to the choices we make. This is a wonderful read which I highly recommend! I hope this isn’t the last we see of Bloom!
September 8, 2025
Mallory Blue’s grandmother, Nan, is now in a memory care facility. Mallory works tirelessly as a nurse while keeping her promise to her grandmother. Nan, who ran the local theater for years and raised her granddaughters after their mother abandoned them, has left Mallory a book and ornaments to place on the Christmas tree. As Mallory reads the book, she uncovers more about Nan’s life. Meanwhile, Hollis, a friend who has harbored feelings for Mallory but never felt worthy of her, offers to help with the Christmas play. He lives with Pops, his adopted grandfather, and manages the Christmas tree farm, dreaming of taking over the farm and starting a dog training business.
October 17, 2025
This story snuck up on me. Slow at first, but my heartstrings got tugged in a such a way that I fell in love with everything about this book. Small town charm with likable characters, Christmas, dogs and a backstory that brings it all together. Centered around Mallory and her Grandmother who is suffering with Alzheimer’s we learn about the memories that were forgotten and how they are relevant to Mallory’s present day. This was a love story in many different ways. Very touching!
Thanks so much to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for this holiday arc.
Thanks so much to Grand Central Publishing and Netgalley for this holiday arc.
December 21, 2025
I picked this book up for the "Snow on the Cover" challenge for the 52 Books in 52 Weeks book club. It was... OK, one of those that I am likely to forget in a month or two. A fairly predictable plot set in a small town as a young woman learns more about her family history while also falling in love (of course). It's a tame book when it comes to romance, never more than a kiss :)
January 14, 2026
I was looking for a light, heartwarming story and that was exactly what I got! This was not a “fluffy” story though, the characters had flaws and depth. I loved the multigenerational aspect! This was a very sweet read.
December 16, 2025
This was cute but more forgettable than the first in the series. I enjoyed the dual timeline but the MC’s mom was such an awful character -Oofda!
August 2, 2025
Uplifting and heartbreaking at the same time, if that's possible. Having dealt with a family member with dementia, I loved the whole idea of the keepsake memory book, especially done via collected Christmas keepsakes with a written memory attached to them. Although I hadn't read the first book of the series, it worked very well as a standalone. In fact, I wasn't even sure it was a series until I double checked the title and say book two indicated. Watching Hollis and Mallory find their way to each other despite the very strong walls they'd built around their emotions to protect themselves was a delight. I immediately liked them both, especially Hollis and his work with dogs. A foster child himself, he was sort of giving unwanted dogs the second chance they needed, even when he frequently seemed to need patching up from canine related accidents.
It certainly didn't hurt that Mallory was a nurse and frequently the one applying the care, especially since she's working extra shifts to help pay for her grandmother Nan's spot in the memory care facility. Nan doesn't remember Mallory anymore but her story is told through the, oh, so honest journal she kept to explain the keepsake items. It's both sweet and sad, though the book manages never to let us sink too far into the "I need a tissue" range. As it turns out, Mallory's emotional trip via the journal opens the way for her to both give and take support from Hollis. He's dealing with a host of roller-coaster emotions, too, torn between his own dreams and those of others. You'll like his Pop, I'm sure, and come to love the Nan we meet through the journal stories. "Santa, Baby", the play she wrote that has become a holiday tradition, is one with a message for many, too, I'm sure.
I won't share any more of the plot as it's a joy to read and get to know the characters almost as they're rediscovering who they are and reaching for their own dreams. I think it's a John Lennon quote about life being what happens when we're making other plans and that is surely true here. Life, both the good and bad, is very much what we make of it. Hollis rescues dogs. Can he rescue himself? Will Mallory let him into her heart? Will family drama take over or love? Will the Christmas play be the beginning or the end of Mallory's dreams? Thanks #Forever - #GrandCentralPublishing for reminding me why I so loved Annie Rains' books in the past. Thanks for bringing me back with this warm hearted look at memories, dreams, family, and, yes, dogs. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
It certainly didn't hurt that Mallory was a nurse and frequently the one applying the care, especially since she's working extra shifts to help pay for her grandmother Nan's spot in the memory care facility. Nan doesn't remember Mallory anymore but her story is told through the, oh, so honest journal she kept to explain the keepsake items. It's both sweet and sad, though the book manages never to let us sink too far into the "I need a tissue" range. As it turns out, Mallory's emotional trip via the journal opens the way for her to both give and take support from Hollis. He's dealing with a host of roller-coaster emotions, too, torn between his own dreams and those of others. You'll like his Pop, I'm sure, and come to love the Nan we meet through the journal stories. "Santa, Baby", the play she wrote that has become a holiday tradition, is one with a message for many, too, I'm sure.
I won't share any more of the plot as it's a joy to read and get to know the characters almost as they're rediscovering who they are and reaching for their own dreams. I think it's a John Lennon quote about life being what happens when we're making other plans and that is surely true here. Life, both the good and bad, is very much what we make of it. Hollis rescues dogs. Can he rescue himself? Will Mallory let him into her heart? Will family drama take over or love? Will the Christmas play be the beginning or the end of Mallory's dreams? Thanks #Forever - #GrandCentralPublishing for reminding me why I so loved Annie Rains' books in the past. Thanks for bringing me back with this warm hearted look at memories, dreams, family, and, yes, dogs. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
July 22, 2025
https://annafowler1978.blogspot.com/2...
Simba gives this book 4 paws!!
*Dog Fostering and training
*childhood abandonment/ foster homes
*First love
*unplanned pregnancy
*Infant loss
*Legacy
*Family (the good and bad memories)
*Finding your passion qnd self-worth
*Memory loss and aging
Receivrf a copy from netgalley and Forever (grand central publishing) to read for an honest review.
Wow! I have always loved Annie Rains and she did not disappoint in "The Christmas Keepsake". Headed back to Bloom, we meet up with characters introduced in her first book set in Bloom, North Carolina (The finders Keepers Library). We meet up with Mallory and Hollis who are at a cross roads in their lives and are needing direction in their lives. Hollis' beloved Pops (a foster grandfather) and Mallory's beloved Nan (the grandmother who raised her along with her beloved grandfather) are faced with watching these two much loved family members go down the road of Memory Loss. Mallory, forced to work extra shifts to pay for the Memory care facility is at odds with her sister about what to do with her grandmother's legacy, the local community theater. Hollis is facing a similar dilemma of honoring Pops legacy and and passion (as is his own ) with the Christmas tree farm or his foster dad's desire for him to take over his construction company.
In a heartwarming and sensitive way while addressing tough issues, Rains brings these childhood friends together in an unexpected way. Mallory's journey begins with a memory journal of her grandmother's tied to specific ornaments. She learns about her grandmother's life, and about her mother who left her to be raised by her grandparents. We see her grandmother's first love (which will surprise and touch readers in a real way), and how our memories and past help shape us but do not define us. Not only is this a sweet romance, but it is story of growth and self discovery that will cause readers to look back and forward in their own life and discover what is really important.
For all you Christmas lovers, be care, this book will have you wondering if it is too early to put up that tree and light those Christmas candles. This book is the perfect read to start off your Christmas reading list!!
All opinions are my own.
Simba gives this book 4 paws!!
*Dog Fostering and training
*childhood abandonment/ foster homes
*First love
*unplanned pregnancy
*Infant loss
*Legacy
*Family (the good and bad memories)
*Finding your passion qnd self-worth
*Memory loss and aging
Receivrf a copy from netgalley and Forever (grand central publishing) to read for an honest review.
Wow! I have always loved Annie Rains and she did not disappoint in "The Christmas Keepsake". Headed back to Bloom, we meet up with characters introduced in her first book set in Bloom, North Carolina (The finders Keepers Library). We meet up with Mallory and Hollis who are at a cross roads in their lives and are needing direction in their lives. Hollis' beloved Pops (a foster grandfather) and Mallory's beloved Nan (the grandmother who raised her along with her beloved grandfather) are faced with watching these two much loved family members go down the road of Memory Loss. Mallory, forced to work extra shifts to pay for the Memory care facility is at odds with her sister about what to do with her grandmother's legacy, the local community theater. Hollis is facing a similar dilemma of honoring Pops legacy and and passion (as is his own ) with the Christmas tree farm or his foster dad's desire for him to take over his construction company.
In a heartwarming and sensitive way while addressing tough issues, Rains brings these childhood friends together in an unexpected way. Mallory's journey begins with a memory journal of her grandmother's tied to specific ornaments. She learns about her grandmother's life, and about her mother who left her to be raised by her grandparents. We see her grandmother's first love (which will surprise and touch readers in a real way), and how our memories and past help shape us but do not define us. Not only is this a sweet romance, but it is story of growth and self discovery that will cause readers to look back and forward in their own life and discover what is really important.
For all you Christmas lovers, be care, this book will have you wondering if it is too early to put up that tree and light those Christmas candles. This book is the perfect read to start off your Christmas reading list!!
All opinions are my own.
October 7, 2025
Thank you to the publisher, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing me with E Copy via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
What a beautiful story!
The Christmas Keepsake impacted me deeply. I finished the story last night and can’t seem get it out of my head. This story is what I love about holiday stories, and the type of stories that you can read year-round. I have a feeling that The Christmas Keepsake will be the book that I will be returning to in the future. I adored this book from beginning to end. If I didn't have to study, I'd spend all day reading this remarkable story. The Christmas Keepsake is not just a love story, but it’s a story about family, friendships, grief, healing, and hope.
I’ve been reading Annie Rains books since 2017 and loved the ones I have read. However, I have to say that Christmas Keepsake is my favorite; the one book that you won’t be able to put down, no matter how hard you try. I recommended this book to my friends who I know would love it. I loved Mallory from the start. I know it couldn’t be easy to see someone you love, not remembering you, and trying to put up a front and work simultaneously. I connected with Mallory more than with the other characters. I had a great-grandmother who had dementia, and I remember the heartbreak I felt when she no longer remembered me. She might not have seen it, but Mallory was strong, and I loved that she didn’t give up.
One of the things that I love about this book is that as a reader, you find yourself connecting to most of the characters in the story, including the minor characters. I read The Finders Keepers Library last year, and I loved Savannah's story, but I loved Mallory's story more, and I can't help but wonder about the next one. I loved reading Nan’s journal and how each homemade ornament went with different parts of her story. I cried several times while reading Nan’s journal entries, feeling as if I was there with Nan, feeling all those emotions that she was feeling. It was as if I traveled back in time. Of course, I couldn’t help but love Hollis. I like the way that he was helping others, especially Mallory. I found myself rooting for the two of them from the start. The Christmas Keepsake already makes me want more holiday stories. A must-read.
What a beautiful story!
The Christmas Keepsake impacted me deeply. I finished the story last night and can’t seem get it out of my head. This story is what I love about holiday stories, and the type of stories that you can read year-round. I have a feeling that The Christmas Keepsake will be the book that I will be returning to in the future. I adored this book from beginning to end. If I didn't have to study, I'd spend all day reading this remarkable story. The Christmas Keepsake is not just a love story, but it’s a story about family, friendships, grief, healing, and hope.
I’ve been reading Annie Rains books since 2017 and loved the ones I have read. However, I have to say that Christmas Keepsake is my favorite; the one book that you won’t be able to put down, no matter how hard you try. I recommended this book to my friends who I know would love it. I loved Mallory from the start. I know it couldn’t be easy to see someone you love, not remembering you, and trying to put up a front and work simultaneously. I connected with Mallory more than with the other characters. I had a great-grandmother who had dementia, and I remember the heartbreak I felt when she no longer remembered me. She might not have seen it, but Mallory was strong, and I loved that she didn’t give up.
One of the things that I love about this book is that as a reader, you find yourself connecting to most of the characters in the story, including the minor characters. I read The Finders Keepers Library last year, and I loved Savannah's story, but I loved Mallory's story more, and I can't help but wonder about the next one. I loved reading Nan’s journal and how each homemade ornament went with different parts of her story. I cried several times while reading Nan’s journal entries, feeling as if I was there with Nan, feeling all those emotions that she was feeling. It was as if I traveled back in time. Of course, I couldn’t help but love Hollis. I like the way that he was helping others, especially Mallory. I found myself rooting for the two of them from the start. The Christmas Keepsake already makes me want more holiday stories. A must-read.
October 8, 2025
First I want to say when I read this book two triggers came to me. One being Dementia. I have two people in my life that have it. It’s truly sad. One is my uncle. The other is a dear friend.
Then the second was rescue dogs in this book. They need a good home. They need love, kindness, and patience. That’s what Hollis gave Buster when no one else did. I know this from personal experience. My current rescue no one gave him a loving home or the patience to see his true colors. I took him in, and gave him all the love I had, and patience for him to grow into the loving dog he is today. He has brought more joy to my life than I can say into words. I think Buster did that for Hollis as well. Hollis was a foster child, and he was given a good family. It was hard for Hollis. That’s what he did in training, and fostering dogs. That’s was so Beautiful. On with my review. Mallory is a nurse who is working herself to the bone. So much is going on in her life. Her sweet grandmother Nan who raised her, and her sister Maddie is in a home dealing with dementia. It’s truly sad. When Mallory starts reading Nan’s journal it’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
An ornament marked by number that is backed with a story which was Nans life. It was a letter to her and Maddie. But it’s Mallory who started the journey to read it. She even brought the journal and read it to Nan. One night a visit from someone she’s know for along time Hollis Franklin is in her ER with an injury. It’s not good. A new dog he’s working with, but he never blamed the dog. A good man. Hollis in turn tells her if there’s anything she needs help with at the theater to let him know.
Mallory is putting on a play at the theater which was Nan’s life way back when. It’s a tribute to her life. She not gone, maybe a little in her mind.
But when Mallory reads some of the journal she sees a spark of something. She even says a man everyone calls Pop is other there talking to his grandson which is Hollis. Maybe not by blood, but he sees the good in him. What surprises her that her grandmother calls Pop someone else. It’s shocked her to say the least. Why does she say that? But then it clicks. It’s beautiful.
A must read. I haven’t read the first book, but I plan to real soon. I hope there’s more to come in this series.
Then the second was rescue dogs in this book. They need a good home. They need love, kindness, and patience. That’s what Hollis gave Buster when no one else did. I know this from personal experience. My current rescue no one gave him a loving home or the patience to see his true colors. I took him in, and gave him all the love I had, and patience for him to grow into the loving dog he is today. He has brought more joy to my life than I can say into words. I think Buster did that for Hollis as well. Hollis was a foster child, and he was given a good family. It was hard for Hollis. That’s what he did in training, and fostering dogs. That’s was so Beautiful. On with my review. Mallory is a nurse who is working herself to the bone. So much is going on in her life. Her sweet grandmother Nan who raised her, and her sister Maddie is in a home dealing with dementia. It’s truly sad. When Mallory starts reading Nan’s journal it’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
An ornament marked by number that is backed with a story which was Nans life. It was a letter to her and Maddie. But it’s Mallory who started the journey to read it. She even brought the journal and read it to Nan. One night a visit from someone she’s know for along time Hollis Franklin is in her ER with an injury. It’s not good. A new dog he’s working with, but he never blamed the dog. A good man. Hollis in turn tells her if there’s anything she needs help with at the theater to let him know.
Mallory is putting on a play at the theater which was Nan’s life way back when. It’s a tribute to her life. She not gone, maybe a little in her mind.
But when Mallory reads some of the journal she sees a spark of something. She even says a man everyone calls Pop is other there talking to his grandson which is Hollis. Maybe not by blood, but he sees the good in him. What surprises her that her grandmother calls Pop someone else. It’s shocked her to say the least. Why does she say that? But then it clicks. It’s beautiful.
A must read. I haven’t read the first book, but I plan to real soon. I hope there’s more to come in this series.
December 27, 2025
Mallory Blue has been a caregiver for most of her life. She tried to fill in for her mother Daisy when she left Mallory and her little sister Maddie in search of a better life as an actress. Her grandmother Nan had taken both girls in quite willingly, but Mallory tried to do everything right to cause less trouble for her grandparents. Now, a nurse, Mallory is burning the candle at both ends trying to work extra shifts at the hospital to be able to afford to keep Nan in a memory home, visit Nan who rarely remembers her, and fulfill her promise to Nan to keep her beloved theater running.
Hollis and Mallory had an attraction to each other in high school, but he had a hard time letting anyone love him. With a bad home life, he became a juvenile delinquent bouncing from one foster family to another. Matt and Sandy took him in when he was close to aging out of foster care. They treated him as their own child, and he learned the construction business from Matt as well as how to be a responsible man. Hollis and Mallory have trust issues, expecting to be left behind by those they count on.
With Nan’s memory declining, she gives Mallory a box that contains “ornaments,” odd keepsakes that are to be hung on the Christmas tree in a certain order. She gives her a journal to go with it that tells a story from Nan’s life explaining the significance of each object. In this way she answers questions about her own life as well as Mallory and Maddie’s that she realizes she will not always be able to answer due to her failing memory.
The Christmas Keepsake has a current day story to tell, and it meshes that story with the past happenings for Nan, Daisy, Mallory, and Maddie. This structure was a clever way to tell Nan’s story and give Mallory and the reader a better understanding of the circumstances that brought them all to that place in that time. There are also themes of overcoming disabilities and dog training, both of which enhanced the span of the book. I enjoyed The Christmas Keepsake, but it did bog down for me a bit in the middle. It picked up again in its ending, and I especially liked the way the author tied everything down for the characters in the last pages and in the Epilogue.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Hollis and Mallory had an attraction to each other in high school, but he had a hard time letting anyone love him. With a bad home life, he became a juvenile delinquent bouncing from one foster family to another. Matt and Sandy took him in when he was close to aging out of foster care. They treated him as their own child, and he learned the construction business from Matt as well as how to be a responsible man. Hollis and Mallory have trust issues, expecting to be left behind by those they count on.
With Nan’s memory declining, she gives Mallory a box that contains “ornaments,” odd keepsakes that are to be hung on the Christmas tree in a certain order. She gives her a journal to go with it that tells a story from Nan’s life explaining the significance of each object. In this way she answers questions about her own life as well as Mallory and Maddie’s that she realizes she will not always be able to answer due to her failing memory.
The Christmas Keepsake has a current day story to tell, and it meshes that story with the past happenings for Nan, Daisy, Mallory, and Maddie. This structure was a clever way to tell Nan’s story and give Mallory and the reader a better understanding of the circumstances that brought them all to that place in that time. There are also themes of overcoming disabilities and dog training, both of which enhanced the span of the book. I enjoyed The Christmas Keepsake, but it did bog down for me a bit in the middle. It picked up again in its ending, and I especially liked the way the author tied everything down for the characters in the last pages and in the Epilogue.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 9, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
The Christmas Keepsake is the second title in the Love in Bloom series, featuring Mallory and Hollis’s unexpected romance. This Christmas is going to be both difficult and enlightening for Mallory; her beloved grandmother, Nan, is dealing with dementia, which means that Mallory is as well.
The rage at the disease that is stealing her grandmother’s memories away is, almost, counterbalanced by reading her journal of all the stories behind the Christmas ornaments that bring their tree to life every year with memories and insights into their family. Mallory has stretched herself thin by also taking on directing the annual Christmas play. She’ll find some unexpected help in Santa Claus, well, Hollis, behind the white beard that just might lead to a most magical Christmas for them all… and a future she didn’t see coming.
I enjoyed The Christmas Keepsake by Annie Rains so very much. Mallory and Hollis are so well matched, and their slow-burning relationship, which was built on friendship, was so realistic and relatable. I loved returning to this small town and seeing familiar faces, adding to the enjoyment of this current couple’s journey. On a personal note: I lost my own grandmother to Alzheimer’s long before she actually passed away. My family spent the final five years of her life loving a woman who had no idea who all these strangers were around her. It’s an insidious, cruel disease that steals something so precious, the memories that make us… Well, us. I wish we had had a journal, like Mallory did, to have insight into my Gram’s life before (and while) she was a loving grandmother to us.
If you love a well-written Christmas romance that is full of a wide array of emotions, with a couple you’ll be cheering on to find their happy ending, and don’t forget the adorable dogs we’ll meet, then you’d adore The Christmas Keepsake by Annie Rains… I know I did.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
The Christmas Keepsake is the second title in the Love in Bloom series, featuring Mallory and Hollis’s unexpected romance. This Christmas is going to be both difficult and enlightening for Mallory; her beloved grandmother, Nan, is dealing with dementia, which means that Mallory is as well.
The rage at the disease that is stealing her grandmother’s memories away is, almost, counterbalanced by reading her journal of all the stories behind the Christmas ornaments that bring their tree to life every year with memories and insights into their family. Mallory has stretched herself thin by also taking on directing the annual Christmas play. She’ll find some unexpected help in Santa Claus, well, Hollis, behind the white beard that just might lead to a most magical Christmas for them all… and a future she didn’t see coming.
I enjoyed The Christmas Keepsake by Annie Rains so very much. Mallory and Hollis are so well matched, and their slow-burning relationship, which was built on friendship, was so realistic and relatable. I loved returning to this small town and seeing familiar faces, adding to the enjoyment of this current couple’s journey. On a personal note: I lost my own grandmother to Alzheimer’s long before she actually passed away. My family spent the final five years of her life loving a woman who had no idea who all these strangers were around her. It’s an insidious, cruel disease that steals something so precious, the memories that make us… Well, us. I wish we had had a journal, like Mallory did, to have insight into my Gram’s life before (and while) she was a loving grandmother to us.
If you love a well-written Christmas romance that is full of a wide array of emotions, with a couple you’ll be cheering on to find their happy ending, and don’t forget the adorable dogs we’ll meet, then you’d adore The Christmas Keepsake by Annie Rains… I know I did.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
October 8, 2025
This is the second book in the Love in Bloom series but can be read as a standalone. Its a contemporary holiday family story with clean romance.
With her grandma in a care home living with dementia, Mallory agrees to direct the town Christmas play that is her grandma's legacy, despite working full-time as a nurse and dealing with other family struggles. Mallory learns more about her grandmother's life through a journal and a box of keepsake ornaments. As Mallory navigates the challenges that come her way she is encouraged by her long time neighbour Hollis. Hollis has had his share of challenges in the past and sets out prove to Mallory that he is no longer the rebellious boy she knew growing up.
I loved this heartwarming story! I laughed and teared up with the ups and downs of this story. The characters feel so authentic and genuine. The author does a fantastic job conveying the depth of emotions each character experiences. The memory care dementia aspect is written so well. It is so touching, the hope for connection, the living grief of moments lost and confusion, the joy found in the present. Very well done.
The slow-burn friends-to-more romance was sweet as it unfolded. There were enough complications to keep me reading until everything was wrapped up in a lovely way.
Overall a highly enjoyable read set during the Christmas season. I did take issue with some of grandma Nan's vernacular. Without giving too much away, some of the phrasing she uses isn't appropriate to her age. Some terms she uses in the journal have only become common in the last decade or two which make the her character seem less authentic.
I listened to this an audiobook. It is narrated by Ann Richardson, whose voice for Mallory seems a tad older than Mallory is supposed to be. I sped the narration up because I wanted a more conversational speed.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher Hachette Audio for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
With her grandma in a care home living with dementia, Mallory agrees to direct the town Christmas play that is her grandma's legacy, despite working full-time as a nurse and dealing with other family struggles. Mallory learns more about her grandmother's life through a journal and a box of keepsake ornaments. As Mallory navigates the challenges that come her way she is encouraged by her long time neighbour Hollis. Hollis has had his share of challenges in the past and sets out prove to Mallory that he is no longer the rebellious boy she knew growing up.
I loved this heartwarming story! I laughed and teared up with the ups and downs of this story. The characters feel so authentic and genuine. The author does a fantastic job conveying the depth of emotions each character experiences. The memory care dementia aspect is written so well. It is so touching, the hope for connection, the living grief of moments lost and confusion, the joy found in the present. Very well done.
The slow-burn friends-to-more romance was sweet as it unfolded. There were enough complications to keep me reading until everything was wrapped up in a lovely way.
Overall a highly enjoyable read set during the Christmas season. I did take issue with some of grandma Nan's vernacular. Without giving too much away, some of the phrasing she uses isn't appropriate to her age. Some terms she uses in the journal have only become common in the last decade or two which make the her character seem less authentic.
I listened to this an audiobook. It is narrated by Ann Richardson, whose voice for Mallory seems a tad older than Mallory is supposed to be. I sped the narration up because I wanted a more conversational speed.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher Hachette Audio for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2025
There was a lot of emotion packed into the 300+ pages of this book. I do love a fluffy Christmas romance, but this one was less fluff and more depth, which made this story so interesting to read. A box full of treasures, and a journal belonging to Mallory's grandmother (Nan) will open her eyes to a past she never knew existed.
Mallory is a nurse who is working night and day to provide for her Nan's stay in a memory care center. Mallory is a fixer, and loves to take care of everyone except herself. With everything else on her plate, she is determined the show must go on in Nan's community theater with their yearly Christmas play. She will need help, and Hollis wants to be there for her. He wants to prove to Mallory that he is not the rebel she remembers.
Hollis did not have an easy time in his younger years until a family took him in and gave him a place to call home. I felt such empathy for Hollis. He was so conflicted as he tried to navigate the waters of doing what he thought was right to doing what he truly loved, all without hurting those who took him in. I was immediately Team Hollis as I learned about his past and his love of rescue dogs.
The journal by Nan was interesting to read as she outlines what each handmade ornament means and the history behind the ornament. I teared up reading several of these entries as I was transported to Nan's past.
As I stated earlier, if you are looking for a fluffy Christmas book, this one will not be for you. However, if you want to read a book that is uplifting, incredibly romantic and emotional dynamite, you will enjoy this one as much as I did. Family drama, some pain, slow burn romance and rescue dogs complete the circle for this must read Christmas story.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley) for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mallory is a nurse who is working night and day to provide for her Nan's stay in a memory care center. Mallory is a fixer, and loves to take care of everyone except herself. With everything else on her plate, she is determined the show must go on in Nan's community theater with their yearly Christmas play. She will need help, and Hollis wants to be there for her. He wants to prove to Mallory that he is not the rebel she remembers.
Hollis did not have an easy time in his younger years until a family took him in and gave him a place to call home. I felt such empathy for Hollis. He was so conflicted as he tried to navigate the waters of doing what he thought was right to doing what he truly loved, all without hurting those who took him in. I was immediately Team Hollis as I learned about his past and his love of rescue dogs.
The journal by Nan was interesting to read as she outlines what each handmade ornament means and the history behind the ornament. I teared up reading several of these entries as I was transported to Nan's past.
As I stated earlier, if you are looking for a fluffy Christmas book, this one will not be for you. However, if you want to read a book that is uplifting, incredibly romantic and emotional dynamite, you will enjoy this one as much as I did. Family drama, some pain, slow burn romance and rescue dogs complete the circle for this must read Christmas story.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley) for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2025
The Christmas Keepsake is the second book in the Love in Bloom series by Annie Rains. Mallory Blue’s beloved grandmother, Nan, puts on a Christmas play in her community theater that has become a beloved tradition. However, this year is different. Nan is in a memory care living facility and putting on the Christmas play has fallen onto Mallory’s shoulders. As Mallory struggles to put on the play, two things help her keep going. First, a journal written by Nan which explains the story behind each handmade ornament on Nan’s tree. And second, Hollis Franklin, a man who is trying to prove to their small town that he is no longer the rebellious boy from the past. As Mallory reads Nan’s journal, she sees her Nan in a whole new light. There was so much she didn’t know about her grandmother, her family and the past. Can Mallory and Hollis learn the key to holiday magic isn’t the gifts under the tree?
From the opening chapter, Mallory is a woman stuck in the middle. Between preserving her grandmother’s legacy and the expectations of the town with the reality of how to do it all. I loved that she wanted to hold on to her grandmother and the closeness they shared. My heart broke for her as she watched her grandmother slip away from her. I also enjoyed Hollis’s character. My heart broke for him as a man who was still trying to belong and seek forgiveness for all he did as a wild teen. I liked that Mallory learns to see Nan as a person, as a flawed woman who made decisions and choices. Overall, I enjoyed this story. It had great drama with lots of emotions. While this story is a sequel to The Finders Keepers Library, but I do recommend it, readers do not need to read it to understand Mallory’s story. If you enjoy a holiday story with a bit of romance, I highly recommend The Christmas Keepsake.
The Christmas Keepsake is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
From the opening chapter, Mallory is a woman stuck in the middle. Between preserving her grandmother’s legacy and the expectations of the town with the reality of how to do it all. I loved that she wanted to hold on to her grandmother and the closeness they shared. My heart broke for her as she watched her grandmother slip away from her. I also enjoyed Hollis’s character. My heart broke for him as a man who was still trying to belong and seek forgiveness for all he did as a wild teen. I liked that Mallory learns to see Nan as a person, as a flawed woman who made decisions and choices. Overall, I enjoyed this story. It had great drama with lots of emotions. While this story is a sequel to The Finders Keepers Library, but I do recommend it, readers do not need to read it to understand Mallory’s story. If you enjoy a holiday story with a bit of romance, I highly recommend The Christmas Keepsake.
The Christmas Keepsake is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
October 8, 2025
Hollis is a reformed bad boy who has worked hard to prove to everyone that he is worthy of respect and love. He grew up in foster care and struggled as a child with feelings of not being good enough. He has always had a thing for Mallory but didn't believe he was good enough for her. Her grandma, Nan, asked him to keep an eye on Mallory the year before and he agreed; not because she asked but he was hoping to finally admit how he felt. Mallory is struggling to keep her grandma's theater up and running, while working a full-time job and trying to put a Christmas play together. Slowly but surely, they both start accepting help and letting the other in.
I really liked how sweet they were together but felt like their communication was lacking at times. My heart broke for Hollis when his foster dad reacted the way he did and when one of his dogs has an issue. He reverted back to when he was younger and has a lot to make up for. I also liked how Mallory got to know her grandma better by reading her journal and learning about the Christmas ornaments. Even though I saw the outcome with who Nan's one true love was, I was also heartbroken for Mallory's grandpa.
I didn't care for Mallory's mom, even after learning what happened. I understand she had things that happened to her and addiction is horrible, but I'm not sure I could have been as forgiving as Mallory was. I also found Maddie, Mallory's sister, to be frustrating. She seemed to not care about her sister or what her grandma would have wanted. I loved the small town feeling and how they all rallied together to help Mallory with the Christmas play.
I enjoy reading Ms. Rains books because there is a lot of heart and emotion in every chapter. I can't wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
I really liked how sweet they were together but felt like their communication was lacking at times. My heart broke for Hollis when his foster dad reacted the way he did and when one of his dogs has an issue. He reverted back to when he was younger and has a lot to make up for. I also liked how Mallory got to know her grandma better by reading her journal and learning about the Christmas ornaments. Even though I saw the outcome with who Nan's one true love was, I was also heartbroken for Mallory's grandpa.
I didn't care for Mallory's mom, even after learning what happened. I understand she had things that happened to her and addiction is horrible, but I'm not sure I could have been as forgiving as Mallory was. I also found Maddie, Mallory's sister, to be frustrating. She seemed to not care about her sister or what her grandma would have wanted. I loved the small town feeling and how they all rallied together to help Mallory with the Christmas play.
I enjoy reading Ms. Rains books because there is a lot of heart and emotion in every chapter. I can't wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
October 18, 2025
The Christmas Keepsake is the second in the Love in Bloom series but can be read as a stand alone story, however I suggest reading the previous story for secondary character backstory as well as for the pure enjoyment of this series. Mallory Blue and her sister were raised by her grandparents when her mother left to follow her dreams of acting and now grown, Mallory is carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders as she works extra shifts as a nurse to help fund her grandmother staying in a memory care facility. She is also keeping her promise to Nan (her grandmother) to keep the annual theater show of Santa, Baby going and finally the promise of reading her grandmother's journal while hanging memory ornaments on the Christmas tree. Hollis made a promise to Nan to watch out for Mallory but with their history as teenagers, he has to find a way in to help her because Mallory refuses to depend on anyone. Hollis grew up in foster care and was an angry child who landed several times in juvenile hall but when Matt, Sandy and Pop took him in and gave him a chance, he has learned to stop running and work hard for what he wants in life. As disasters with the play continue to happen, Hollis comes up with one solution after another which causes Mallory to open her heart a little but when Hollis faces some challenges, he doesn't turn to Mallory which causes another rift in their budding relationship. This is a wonderful story of family, friends, traditions and secrets revealed that put a whole new perspective on what we believe. The characters are amazingly relatable and make you wish you were part of the story. This story will take you on an emotional rollercoaster from the very first page and you will love every twist and turn.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
September 29, 2025
Mallory Blue is a nurse. She works extra shifts to help give Nan, her grandmother who raised her, the best care as she declines with dementia. Mallory also has taken over running Grandmother’s beloved community theater and is directing their holiday show. Hollis Franklin grew up in foster care before finally finding a family in his late teens. He works for his father’s construction company and helps out at his grandfather’s Christmas tree farm. His grandad is in the same care facility as Nan who has known since high school. He dreams of running the farm and training and fostering dogs. He has always had an interest in Mallory but doesn’t feel he is good enough for her.
Both of these characters are people pleasers because of their upbringing. And they are stretched thin. Nan gives Mallory a journal of her to read. It gives Nan’s story, which she no longer recalls for herself. The book is heartwarming and full of holiday warmth. I would have liked a little more time developing the romance between Hollis and Mallory. They have known each other for years so it makes sense not to have the getting to know you moments. Rains is a good writer and ties all the storylines up with a nice bow. Her books are clean with kissing only. But they can still pack an emotional impact. There are some hard parts to the story.
This is the second in the Love in Bloom series. It can easily be read on its own. But the MCs in the first book are best friends with the MCs in this one and make appearances. I read that one and liked it slightly more only because of storyline preference. Both are very readable and engaging. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Both of these characters are people pleasers because of their upbringing. And they are stretched thin. Nan gives Mallory a journal of her to read. It gives Nan’s story, which she no longer recalls for herself. The book is heartwarming and full of holiday warmth. I would have liked a little more time developing the romance between Hollis and Mallory. They have known each other for years so it makes sense not to have the getting to know you moments. Rains is a good writer and ties all the storylines up with a nice bow. Her books are clean with kissing only. But they can still pack an emotional impact. There are some hard parts to the story.
This is the second in the Love in Bloom series. It can easily be read on its own. But the MCs in the first book are best friends with the MCs in this one and make appearances. I read that one and liked it slightly more only because of storyline preference. Both are very readable and engaging. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
October 9, 2025
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/10/09/4-...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
The Christmas Keepsake is the second book in the Love in Bloom series by Annie Rains. It was nice to return to the small town of Bloom and the characters we’ve met before.
Mallory and her grandmother, Nan, are the main protagonists in this delightful holiday romance. Nan is living in a memory care facility, and we’re reliving essential moments in her life with the Christmas ornaments she passed along to Mallory, along with her journal, which reveals the history of each one. It was nice to see so many older characters with a story to tell.
Set at Christmas, there’s an incredible sense of the Season, with memories and reminiscing throughout. There are a variety of stories being told, and they are woven together nicely. There are layers to the story and the characters. Many surprises and unexpected moments are conveyed, but hints of some of the larger and most important details are also provided. Twists and turns, as well as vivid descriptions, are highlighted throughout. Several happy endings and a possible happily ever after wrap up the storyline. While there was some closure, I wish the epilogue was just a little longer to give a few more details.
The Christmas Keepsake is filled with all things Christmas, emphasizing the importance of family, memories, and, especially, keepsakes. Grab a hot chocolate and sit by the fire as you immerse yourself in this tale of love.
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/10/09/4-...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
The Christmas Keepsake is the second book in the Love in Bloom series by Annie Rains. It was nice to return to the small town of Bloom and the characters we’ve met before.
Mallory and her grandmother, Nan, are the main protagonists in this delightful holiday romance. Nan is living in a memory care facility, and we’re reliving essential moments in her life with the Christmas ornaments she passed along to Mallory, along with her journal, which reveals the history of each one. It was nice to see so many older characters with a story to tell.
Set at Christmas, there’s an incredible sense of the Season, with memories and reminiscing throughout. There are a variety of stories being told, and they are woven together nicely. There are layers to the story and the characters. Many surprises and unexpected moments are conveyed, but hints of some of the larger and most important details are also provided. Twists and turns, as well as vivid descriptions, are highlighted throughout. Several happy endings and a possible happily ever after wrap up the storyline. While there was some closure, I wish the epilogue was just a little longer to give a few more details.
The Christmas Keepsake is filled with all things Christmas, emphasizing the importance of family, memories, and, especially, keepsakes. Grab a hot chocolate and sit by the fire as you immerse yourself in this tale of love.
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
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