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Christmas Treasures (A Small Town Christmas Romance): Sugarville Grove - Book 6
Sometimes the greatest gifts aren't found under the tree.
In the cozy town of Sugarville Grove, Charlie Keene quietly runs her beloved pizzeria, a tribute to the father she lost, carefully hiding her past as a tech millionaire. Haunted by painful Christmas memories, she has avoided the festive cheer that fills every corner of her adopted home—until a gentle-hearted adventurer starts to change everything.
Max Hayes, the free-spirited brother of the Hayes clan, has returned to Sugarville to plant roots after years of wandering the globe. With the purchase of the local country store and the sudden responsibility of raising a child, Max yearns for stability. When his journey intersects with Charlie’s, he finds himself drawn to her guarded heart, sensing the loneliness behind her brilliant smile.
As they come together to build a warm, loving home for young Bianca, their shared purpose kindles a tender romance neither expected. But the shadow of past hurts—Charlie's devastating loss and Max's fear of inadequacy—threatens to dim their newfound happiness.
Will Charlie and Max overcome their deepest fears to embrace the promise of love beneath the twinkling lights of Sugarville Grove? Or will old wounds rob them of the joyful Christmas they both deserve?
Filled with warmth, humor, and heartfelt moments, Christmas Treasures is the perfect holiday read for anyone who believes in the magic of second chances and the healing power of family and love.
In the cozy town of Sugarville Grove, Charlie Keene quietly runs her beloved pizzeria, a tribute to the father she lost, carefully hiding her past as a tech millionaire. Haunted by painful Christmas memories, she has avoided the festive cheer that fills every corner of her adopted home—until a gentle-hearted adventurer starts to change everything.
Max Hayes, the free-spirited brother of the Hayes clan, has returned to Sugarville to plant roots after years of wandering the globe. With the purchase of the local country store and the sudden responsibility of raising a child, Max yearns for stability. When his journey intersects with Charlie’s, he finds himself drawn to her guarded heart, sensing the loneliness behind her brilliant smile.
As they come together to build a warm, loving home for young Bianca, their shared purpose kindles a tender romance neither expected. But the shadow of past hurts—Charlie's devastating loss and Max's fear of inadequacy—threatens to dim their newfound happiness.
Will Charlie and Max overcome their deepest fears to embrace the promise of love beneath the twinkling lights of Sugarville Grove? Or will old wounds rob them of the joyful Christmas they both deserve?
Filled with warmth, humor, and heartfelt moments, Christmas Treasures is the perfect holiday read for anyone who believes in the magic of second chances and the healing power of family and love.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2025
302 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
110 books1,735 followersTess 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
June 22, 2025
Christmas Treasures is a wholesome and sweet story. It is packed with emotions. Anguish and warmth continue to pour in chapter after chapter.
Max Hayes, Sugarville Grove country store owner, finally feels ready to make a move to conquer the pizzeria owner's heart, Charlie. But this Christmas he is going to get a big surprise that will change his plans and alter his life.
I loved Charlie and Max. They are really different, almost parallel lines that never meet, shy and loner the first, joyful and friendly the latter, but they are both compassionate and altruist, and they are always ready to help others. They recognize in each other the heartache for the lost of loved ones, but they chose to handle the grief in different ways, fortunately lights will enter their lives making them grow closer.
Tess Thompson writing is warm, vivid and her characters are believable. I've really enjoyed this story. I shed some tears but never lost hope to see the characters get their happily ever after.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
December 21, 2025
✨ALC REVIEW✨
Book 6 in Sugarville Grove Series
"Christmas Treasures" by Tess Thompson is a delightful holiday read that truly captures the spirit of the season. The story revolves around family, love, and the magic of Christmas.
Just as in the other books, each character display growth throughout the book which adds both a touching and relatable atmosphere.
I can almost picture Sugarville Grove with the way it is described. The holiday season, as I mentioned before, is not the best time of year for me. Reading these books makes me feel like I was right there in the snowy backdrop, experiencing the festivities alongside the characters - oh! And the tree lighting! ah! :)
The amount of love, forgiveness, and hope resonates deeply, making it more than just a typical holiday romance. It is portrayed by the narrators and can be felt threw the pages fantastically! It’s a reminder of what truly matters during the season!
These books are perfect for anyone looking for a cozy, uplifting read during the holidays! A very special thank you to Clara and Tess for writing all of these and sharing it with the world! All of the narrators - it was my absolute honor to have been able to experience you in your element!
Happy Holidays to every single one of you - reader, narrator, productions, and authors alike!
Book 6 in Sugarville Grove Series
"Christmas Treasures" by Tess Thompson is a delightful holiday read that truly captures the spirit of the season. The story revolves around family, love, and the magic of Christmas.
Just as in the other books, each character display growth throughout the book which adds both a touching and relatable atmosphere.
I can almost picture Sugarville Grove with the way it is described. The holiday season, as I mentioned before, is not the best time of year for me. Reading these books makes me feel like I was right there in the snowy backdrop, experiencing the festivities alongside the characters - oh! And the tree lighting! ah! :)
The amount of love, forgiveness, and hope resonates deeply, making it more than just a typical holiday romance. It is portrayed by the narrators and can be felt threw the pages fantastically! It’s a reminder of what truly matters during the season!
These books are perfect for anyone looking for a cozy, uplifting read during the holidays! A very special thank you to Clara and Tess for writing all of these and sharing it with the world! All of the narrators - it was my absolute honor to have been able to experience you in your element!
Happy Holidays to every single one of you - reader, narrator, productions, and authors alike!
June 18, 2025
Christmas Treasures (Sugarville Grove Book 6)
By: Tess Thompson
5 Stars
Another Sugarville Grove magical Christmas romance. Charlie, the shy pizzeria owner, is not a Christmas person. Living in Sugarville Grove can be hard around the holidays, but this year, one customer may just change her life and her look on the holiday. Max, the owner of the country store, knows that Charlie can be prickly. He knows she doesn't like Christmas. He just doesn't know WHY? He still wants to ask her out. Maybe this year, with his life changing so drastically, a door will open for more than just holiday cheer, but holiday romance too.
I have loved this series. This story was heartwarming and heartwrenching and way too relatable. Losing a parent, let alone around December, just hurts. I know because I lost my dad on December 7. Since, Christmas, hasn't been the same. The magic of a child and the innocence they bring can bring the darkest of days to light. I have felt this personally, and so this book was full of all the good feels. This was another magical Christmas romance filled with beautiful imagery and magical holiday spirit. This series just continues to get better and better.
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: Tess Thompson
5 Stars
Another Sugarville Grove magical Christmas romance. Charlie, the shy pizzeria owner, is not a Christmas person. Living in Sugarville Grove can be hard around the holidays, but this year, one customer may just change her life and her look on the holiday. Max, the owner of the country store, knows that Charlie can be prickly. He knows she doesn't like Christmas. He just doesn't know WHY? He still wants to ask her out. Maybe this year, with his life changing so drastically, a door will open for more than just holiday cheer, but holiday romance too.
I have loved this series. This story was heartwarming and heartwrenching and way too relatable. Losing a parent, let alone around December, just hurts. I know because I lost my dad on December 7. Since, Christmas, hasn't been the same. The magic of a child and the innocence they bring can bring the darkest of days to light. I have felt this personally, and so this book was full of all the good feels. This was another magical Christmas romance filled with beautiful imagery and magical holiday spirit. This series just continues to get better and better.
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
June 20, 2025
Stolen cheese, that's how I began from there things, just progress. Friendship.
A little girl named bianca.
charlie,
Has always had a thing against the month of december.
Will things change for her .
Max
A wonderful guy Who lost someone in his past. But gains someone in his future.
This was a sweet story.
Each story in this series is unique in the same way.
I have enjoyed every story. If you haven't took a trip to sugarville grove.
I highly recommend it.
Because there's no place like home.🎄
Christmas trees, christmas cookies.Oh, and don't forget the ugly christmas sweaters.And so many sweet parties.
A little girl named bianca.
charlie,
Has always had a thing against the month of december.
Will things change for her .
Max
A wonderful guy Who lost someone in his past. But gains someone in his future.
This was a sweet story.
Each story in this series is unique in the same way.
I have enjoyed every story. If you haven't took a trip to sugarville grove.
I highly recommend it.
Because there's no place like home.🎄
Christmas trees, christmas cookies.Oh, and don't forget the ugly christmas sweaters.And so many sweet parties.
June 21, 2025
cute small town romance
Definitely instalove with some grumpy/sunshine. Whirlwind romance. Fun and charming though about second chances and finding your joy despite grief.
Definitely instalove with some grumpy/sunshine. Whirlwind romance. Fun and charming though about second chances and finding your joy despite grief.
June 30, 2025
I was totally invested from the first chapter, we are back in Sugarville Grove catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.
Charlie is a bit of an enigma, she arrived in town and opened a pizzeria and there’s always been a sadness to her, nobody knows her backstory and she remains closed off, and in a town known for going over and above in their Christmas celebrations, Charlie is determined not to catch any Christmas spirit.
Max has grown up here, left for a bit and is home to make a life for himself.
Max is everything Charlie could want if she can only open up her heart, and Charlie is everything Max wants if he can make her see that.
With the backdrop of Christmas, this authors talent for small town, romances, characters who are familiar, and new friends we made along the way this book is pure magic!!
Charlie is a bit of an enigma, she arrived in town and opened a pizzeria and there’s always been a sadness to her, nobody knows her backstory and she remains closed off, and in a town known for going over and above in their Christmas celebrations, Charlie is determined not to catch any Christmas spirit.
Max has grown up here, left for a bit and is home to make a life for himself.
Max is everything Charlie could want if she can only open up her heart, and Charlie is everything Max wants if he can make her see that.
With the backdrop of Christmas, this authors talent for small town, romances, characters who are familiar, and new friends we made along the way this book is pure magic!!
June 26, 2025
Tess Thompson is magic. Every single book she writes just grabs my heart and won’t let go. Sit back and get ready to enjoy another masterpiece from this masterful author.
Christmas Treasures has everything: the good folks of Sugarville Grove, the holiday season, a lonely Hayes brother, a lonely woman who might have more in common with him and who may fit in better in Sugarville Grove than she thinks – and an adorable child. What more could you want? Well, maybe a peek at some of the characters from Clara Pines’ Sugarville Grove book Sweet Home – and you get that, too!
Max Hayes is the wandering brother. Not wild, really, but couldn’t stay in one place. Traveled the world, collecting memories and mementos, until he abruptly returned and bought the country store just outside town. Heartbroken, but he’s kept that to himself. The store is a success, stocking everything you think you could need, ranging from handcrafted soap to wine to locally smoked meats. He enjoys running the store, is a bit of a wine expert, is close to his family, and like the rest of the Hayes family he’s a solid Sugarville Grove citizen. He watches some of his brothers settle down with families, but even if his heart yearns a little bit for that, too, he knows it can’t be for him. Uncle Max – that’s his role.
Charlie Keene runs the “new” pizzeria in town. Five years still qualifies as new, right? The pizza is delicious, imaginative and amazing, Charlie is pleasant, friendly to customers, but very, very, reserved. No Christmas decorations in her store. If you look her up on the ever-helpful internet, you learn that she was once a tech genius, running her own company and is a millionaire. But she left that world and came to Sugarville Grove as abruptly as Max returned. She hasn’t shared those secrets with anyone and doesn’t plan to.
Max surprises even himself when he finds himself thinking about asking Charlie out. But he’s pretty sure she doesn’t like him, has hardly even noticed him. Oh, she’s noticed him all right, but her heart is in lockdown just like Max’s.
Christmas Treasures is the tender, sweet, funny, romantic story we’ve come to expect from author Tess Thompson. Max and Charlie are thrown together helping those who are in need during this holiday season. Little glances are exchanged, casual time is spent over a meal, common ground is found, that attraction that took them by surprise becomes stronger, and secrets are revealed. A couple of pretty significant secrets that could possibly be the strong foundation for something more, something wonderful.
I received an advance copy of Christmas Treasures from the author. As always, the words and phrases are perfect, the surroundings are beautiful, the people are interesting. I love the Hayes family – all the siblings and their supportive parents – and don’t want to leave them any time soon. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it and the rest of the series without hesitation (and read everything else Tess Thompson has written while you’re at it). I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Christmas Treasures has everything: the good folks of Sugarville Grove, the holiday season, a lonely Hayes brother, a lonely woman who might have more in common with him and who may fit in better in Sugarville Grove than she thinks – and an adorable child. What more could you want? Well, maybe a peek at some of the characters from Clara Pines’ Sugarville Grove book Sweet Home – and you get that, too!
Max Hayes is the wandering brother. Not wild, really, but couldn’t stay in one place. Traveled the world, collecting memories and mementos, until he abruptly returned and bought the country store just outside town. Heartbroken, but he’s kept that to himself. The store is a success, stocking everything you think you could need, ranging from handcrafted soap to wine to locally smoked meats. He enjoys running the store, is a bit of a wine expert, is close to his family, and like the rest of the Hayes family he’s a solid Sugarville Grove citizen. He watches some of his brothers settle down with families, but even if his heart yearns a little bit for that, too, he knows it can’t be for him. Uncle Max – that’s his role.
Charlie Keene runs the “new” pizzeria in town. Five years still qualifies as new, right? The pizza is delicious, imaginative and amazing, Charlie is pleasant, friendly to customers, but very, very, reserved. No Christmas decorations in her store. If you look her up on the ever-helpful internet, you learn that she was once a tech genius, running her own company and is a millionaire. But she left that world and came to Sugarville Grove as abruptly as Max returned. She hasn’t shared those secrets with anyone and doesn’t plan to.
Max surprises even himself when he finds himself thinking about asking Charlie out. But he’s pretty sure she doesn’t like him, has hardly even noticed him. Oh, she’s noticed him all right, but her heart is in lockdown just like Max’s.
Christmas Treasures is the tender, sweet, funny, romantic story we’ve come to expect from author Tess Thompson. Max and Charlie are thrown together helping those who are in need during this holiday season. Little glances are exchanged, casual time is spent over a meal, common ground is found, that attraction that took them by surprise becomes stronger, and secrets are revealed. A couple of pretty significant secrets that could possibly be the strong foundation for something more, something wonderful.
I received an advance copy of Christmas Treasures from the author. As always, the words and phrases are perfect, the surroundings are beautiful, the people are interesting. I love the Hayes family – all the siblings and their supportive parents – and don’t want to leave them any time soon. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it and the rest of the series without hesitation (and read everything else Tess Thompson has written while you’re at it). I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
December 26, 2025
ALC - AUDIO REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Christmas Treasures by Tess Thompson - Book six in the Sugarville Grove series.
Performed in dual narration by Eleanor Caudill & Nick J. Russo
Christmas Treasures is book four in the Sugarville Grove series and is the story of Max Hayes and Charlie Keene, and as in the books before this one it has everything you can wish for in good folks of small town Sugarville Grove at Christmas season.
Max is the quiet, lonely Hayes brother who has itchy feet and can’t stay in one place for any length of time, so he travels the world and ends up falling in love with an Italian woman and her young child Bianca and decides that staying in Italy and being a family is everything, but tragedy strikes and he abruptly returns and buys the country store in town.
Heartbroken, he keeps himself to himself and concentrates on building the store, until yet again a fate throws him a cruel blow in the guise of a phone call telling him Bianca’s grandmother has died and she is now on her own and the promise he made to her mother that if anything happened he would take care of her as his own.
Charlie Keene isn’t all she seems, she’s a tech genius and designed a computer program that went viral landing her a company with 50 employees and making her a millionaire at a tender age, but when Charlie decided to take her company public her problems began with how she was seen in the corporate world fed up with being treated like a child she decided to buy and run the new pizzeria in town taking in her father’s footsteps and determined to let no one know the real her.
Max surprises even himself when he finds himself thinking about asking Charlie out, but he struggles with his self esteem due to his learning disabilities and he convinces himself that he is way below her and that she wouldn’t be interested in him or that she’s even even noticed him, but Charlie sees him but like Max her heart is in lockdown tight.
Max and Charlie are thrown together helping those who are in need during this holiday season. Little glances are exchanged, casual time is spent over a meal, common ground is found, that attraction that took them by surprise becomes stronger, and secrets are revealed. A couple of pretty significant secrets that could possibly be the strong foundation for something more, something wonderful.
The narration by Eleanor Caudill & Nick J. Russo is exceptional, being Max and Charlie and all the chemistry, banter and emotions fully to life.
This is another real festive cosy audiobook list and I highly recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Christmas Treasures by Tess Thompson - Book six in the Sugarville Grove series.
Performed in dual narration by Eleanor Caudill & Nick J. Russo
Christmas Treasures is book four in the Sugarville Grove series and is the story of Max Hayes and Charlie Keene, and as in the books before this one it has everything you can wish for in good folks of small town Sugarville Grove at Christmas season.
Max is the quiet, lonely Hayes brother who has itchy feet and can’t stay in one place for any length of time, so he travels the world and ends up falling in love with an Italian woman and her young child Bianca and decides that staying in Italy and being a family is everything, but tragedy strikes and he abruptly returns and buys the country store in town.
Heartbroken, he keeps himself to himself and concentrates on building the store, until yet again a fate throws him a cruel blow in the guise of a phone call telling him Bianca’s grandmother has died and she is now on her own and the promise he made to her mother that if anything happened he would take care of her as his own.
Charlie Keene isn’t all she seems, she’s a tech genius and designed a computer program that went viral landing her a company with 50 employees and making her a millionaire at a tender age, but when Charlie decided to take her company public her problems began with how she was seen in the corporate world fed up with being treated like a child she decided to buy and run the new pizzeria in town taking in her father’s footsteps and determined to let no one know the real her.
Max surprises even himself when he finds himself thinking about asking Charlie out, but he struggles with his self esteem due to his learning disabilities and he convinces himself that he is way below her and that she wouldn’t be interested in him or that she’s even even noticed him, but Charlie sees him but like Max her heart is in lockdown tight.
Max and Charlie are thrown together helping those who are in need during this holiday season. Little glances are exchanged, casual time is spent over a meal, common ground is found, that attraction that took them by surprise becomes stronger, and secrets are revealed. A couple of pretty significant secrets that could possibly be the strong foundation for something more, something wonderful.
The narration by Eleanor Caudill & Nick J. Russo is exceptional, being Max and Charlie and all the chemistry, banter and emotions fully to life.
This is another real festive cosy audiobook list and I highly recommend it.
June 12, 2025
Charlie Keene lives in Sugarville Grove and runs the delightful pizza shop. She loves working there even though she’s wealthy thanks for selling her business in high-tech, where they pushed her out after she sold it. Charlie sticks to herself. She’s not experienced in social scenes. She always worked, especially since she’s a genius. She also hates Christmas because she lost her mother and then her father around Christmas time. Max Hayes runs a country store in Sugarville Grove, his hometown. He’s always been adventurous but when he lost the love of his life he returned home. He’s store is successful. He gets news that he will be raising his love’s daughter since her nonna passed away. He made that promise. Can he be a father to her little girl, Bianca? He has always loved her. Can he help her through the change from Italy to Sugarville Grove? Will she be able to handle it? Charlie offers to help with Bianca since Charlie speaks Italian. As they work together to make it easy for Bianca, Charlie’s heart melts a little more. Can Charlie let go of the guilt of her mother’s death, the loss of her father, trust that Max isn’t interested in her money? Can she learn to trust? Will her heart let her? Did Max make a mistake including Charlie, since he doesn’t know her well enough or anything about her losses? The characters are wonderful. I was rooting for Charlie, Max and Bianca. Will Christmas magic happen? Will there be Christmas miracles? Can they become a family? I didn’t want to put it down. Worth the read. Tess made you feel like you were there with the characters. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily
June 8, 2025
Sugarville Grove is a small town, clean romance series by Tess Thompson and Clara Pines. This is book 6 and actually made me sniff and shed a few tears over the plot line and the characters in it.
Max Hayes is the one Hayes brothers who didn’t follow in his brother’s footsteps at all. He went and had adventures overseas instead, until heartbreak brought him home. We have seen Max’s character before when bought the country market and changed it into a successful business supporting local farmers, including his own family maple syrup business.
Charlie Keene was this incredibly smart woman who had things taken from her emotionally and financially so she was struggling with pain inside her heart & mind. She decided to hide from it all by going back to this small town that she remembered visiting with her father and opening up a pizzeria in his honor. There was just one small problem, one of the things she was also hiding from was Christmas and Sugarville Grove exploded with the holidays every year.
Max and Charlie knew each other from a distance and figured the other one wouldn’t like them for their own reasons. But then some rounds of cheese (yes cheese) a little girl who had suffered a huge loss herself and a fat cat all came together in their meddling ways that they realized they were in fact perfect for each other.
Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Max Hayes is the one Hayes brothers who didn’t follow in his brother’s footsteps at all. He went and had adventures overseas instead, until heartbreak brought him home. We have seen Max’s character before when bought the country market and changed it into a successful business supporting local farmers, including his own family maple syrup business.
Charlie Keene was this incredibly smart woman who had things taken from her emotionally and financially so she was struggling with pain inside her heart & mind. She decided to hide from it all by going back to this small town that she remembered visiting with her father and opening up a pizzeria in his honor. There was just one small problem, one of the things she was also hiding from was Christmas and Sugarville Grove exploded with the holidays every year.
Max and Charlie knew each other from a distance and figured the other one wouldn’t like them for their own reasons. But then some rounds of cheese (yes cheese) a little girl who had suffered a huge loss herself and a fat cat all came together in their meddling ways that they realized they were in fact perfect for each other.
Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 15, 2025
What a Heartwarming Delightful series Sugarville Grove is. Ms. Thompson and Ms. Pines have collaborated in bringing us readers this small town romantic series. Each author follows a different family and they are all absolute musts if you enjoy sweet, feel-good romances. They can all be read as standalones, but I highly recommend reading them in order for the characters to overlap from book to book. All that said, Christmas Treasure is Max Haye’s story. He is the brother who was always the life of the party and who everyone knew would never settle in one spot. To everyone's shock he came back to Sugarville Grove and bought the town's country story. While everyone has embraced his return, he still has that feeling like he’s just not enough. Also coming to town a few years back was Charlie Keene. A former tech geek who opened the town's pizza parlor. There's something sad about the beautiful woman that calls to Max, but she acts like she doesn’t like him. When he finds out about her past and her wealth he knows he doesn’t have a chance with her. But when an unexpected act causes Max to need her help, the two find out they have more in common than they realize. As they work together, sparks fly but not all of them are the good kind. Can these two possibly find happiness in the small town of Sugarville Grove?
Outstanding read, that I highly recommend. As for this reader, I am excited to see what comes next to the small town of Sugarville Grove, Vermont.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
Outstanding read, that I highly recommend. As for this reader, I am excited to see what comes next to the small town of Sugarville Grove, Vermont.
2 Thumbs Up and 5+ Stars
December 18, 2025
Again Sugarville grove hosts a Boisterous family of Hayes Clan. This time it’s the turn of Max, their positive & radiant. Until a toddler comes from Italy, totally upending his world. Charlie Keene is the pizzeria owning multi millionaire in their small town, and this mismatched pair somehow connect and how !!
I loved how Tess touches upon sensitive topics of dyslexia, autistic spectrum and insecurities of being “different” . The baby girl Bianca translates love into their found family and cozy hearts fly all over the pages.
Narration by Eleanor Caudill & Nick J. Russo is spectacular. Esp Eleanor’s Italian dialect and diction.
“4.5 stars for the cracks in heart that let light through”
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I loved how Tess touches upon sensitive topics of dyslexia, autistic spectrum and insecurities of being “different” . The baby girl Bianca translates love into their found family and cozy hearts fly all over the pages.
Narration by Eleanor Caudill & Nick J. Russo is spectacular. Esp Eleanor’s Italian dialect and diction.
“4.5 stars for the cracks in heart that let light through”
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December 20, 2025
Christmas Treasures
Sugarville Grove #6
By Tess Thompson
Narrated by Nick J Russo, Eleanor Caudill
Beautiful. It's not the romance, it's the feel of the whole story that has won me over with this one. And pizza, I can't forget pizza. Max is taken with Charlie. A successful businesswoman, she is beautiful, but personally very insecure and sad. Max recently has found out that he is the guardian to Bianca after the death of her mother, so he knows he comes with a lot, but Charlie loves spending time with them both. As the holiday becomes closer though, things get harder for Charlie. Will she be able to put her past behind her and find the new family she longs for? This is everything I love. Bianca has been through a lot, and is wise beyond her years, finding the right things to say and Max is patient and loving. I love all three of them as they find their way through all the feelings and heartache. Tess Thompson outdoes herself with this one, it's a story that will stick with you.
Nick J Russo and Eleanor Caudill give every feeling in this performance. There is so much to unpack and go through, each chapter building on the next emotion. I was sold from the beginning and loved every minute of this one!
Sugarville Grove #6
By Tess Thompson
Narrated by Nick J Russo, Eleanor Caudill
Beautiful. It's not the romance, it's the feel of the whole story that has won me over with this one. And pizza, I can't forget pizza. Max is taken with Charlie. A successful businesswoman, she is beautiful, but personally very insecure and sad. Max recently has found out that he is the guardian to Bianca after the death of her mother, so he knows he comes with a lot, but Charlie loves spending time with them both. As the holiday becomes closer though, things get harder for Charlie. Will she be able to put her past behind her and find the new family she longs for? This is everything I love. Bianca has been through a lot, and is wise beyond her years, finding the right things to say and Max is patient and loving. I love all three of them as they find their way through all the feelings and heartache. Tess Thompson outdoes herself with this one, it's a story that will stick with you.
Nick J Russo and Eleanor Caudill give every feeling in this performance. There is so much to unpack and go through, each chapter building on the next emotion. I was sold from the beginning and loved every minute of this one!
December 23, 2025
If you’re looking for a cozy, feel-good holiday romance that wraps you up like a warm blanket, Christmas Treasures absolutely delivers! 💕 Sugarville Grove is once again the perfect setting for Christmas magic, community warmth, and a love story that sneaks up on your heart.
Charlie and Max are such a lovely pair — both carrying emotional baggage, both feeling very real, and both easy to root for. I adored the slow-burn romance and the way healing and hope were woven into the story. The holiday atmosphere is strong, sweet, and comforting, making this an ideal December read. While the storyline is fairly gentle and predictable, that’s exactly what made it such a comforting escape for me. Sometimes you just want cozy, heartfelt, and happy — and this book delivers that in spades! 🎁🎄
Now let’s talk about the audiobook 🎧 — WOW. This is where the story truly shines! The narration brings so much emotion, warmth, and personality to the characters. The voices fit perfectly, the pacing is excellent, and the festive tone made it impossible not to smile while listening. This is the kind of audiobook you want playing while decorating the tree, baking cookies, or driving around looking at Christmas lights. Absolute 5-star listening experience
Charlie and Max are such a lovely pair — both carrying emotional baggage, both feeling very real, and both easy to root for. I adored the slow-burn romance and the way healing and hope were woven into the story. The holiday atmosphere is strong, sweet, and comforting, making this an ideal December read. While the storyline is fairly gentle and predictable, that’s exactly what made it such a comforting escape for me. Sometimes you just want cozy, heartfelt, and happy — and this book delivers that in spades! 🎁🎄
Now let’s talk about the audiobook 🎧 — WOW. This is where the story truly shines! The narration brings so much emotion, warmth, and personality to the characters. The voices fit perfectly, the pacing is excellent, and the festive tone made it impossible not to smile while listening. This is the kind of audiobook you want playing while decorating the tree, baking cookies, or driving around looking at Christmas lights. Absolute 5-star listening experience
June 9, 2025
Can opposite attract? Charlie is hiding a few things, the fortune she made and her grief and guilt that surrounds the Christmas season. She owns the towns only and best pizzeria, a bit standoffish and no Christmas spirit in a town that embraces the season.
Max after years traveling has come home to settle down and did the unthinkable, he purchased the Country Store. A place that held fond memories as a youth when he worked there. Max discovers he has a knack for the business and truly enjoys it. He also is curious about Charlie and the story that is behind her quiet and somewhat sad persona. He did find out that they do have something in common, the love of Italy. And when his world is turned upside down with the arrival of 8 year old Bianca who he is guardian of he naturally ask Charlie who speaks Italian to help. But with Charlie helping the little girl adjust to her new life, she herself is learning to embrace life and move forward from the past.
As always sweet small town romance with wonderful characters that will transport you to a happy place. Thank you for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own. #ChristmasTreasures
Max after years traveling has come home to settle down and did the unthinkable, he purchased the Country Store. A place that held fond memories as a youth when he worked there. Max discovers he has a knack for the business and truly enjoys it. He also is curious about Charlie and the story that is behind her quiet and somewhat sad persona. He did find out that they do have something in common, the love of Italy. And when his world is turned upside down with the arrival of 8 year old Bianca who he is guardian of he naturally ask Charlie who speaks Italian to help. But with Charlie helping the little girl adjust to her new life, she herself is learning to embrace life and move forward from the past.
As always sweet small town romance with wonderful characters that will transport you to a happy place. Thank you for this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own. #ChristmasTreasures
June 18, 2025
What can I say a beautiful read inside and out. This is the 6th book of the Sugarville Grove series. The Christmas theme season is around the corner, it's the story of Max Hayes and Charlie Keene. The storytelling unravels at a nice pace, Max has been traveling for some time and is back in Sugarville Grove close to his family. Charlie has built her life thanks to being a tech genius, changing around to running a pizza place. Max and Charlie are both dealing with personal traumas, making them a bit vulnerable to changes. Unexpected things happen, a little girl that needs to come "home". The Christmas preparations will develop into complicated situations. The story also puts forward family and traditions, to believe that changes can help heal the heart of Max, Charlie and Bianca. In this story there is also the cute cat Fig playing his part of getting together "his" family.
A big loving family keeping up traditions, sharing and preparing for Christmas, showing the way. The book was amazing and I'm grateful for the opportunity to read it. I can definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy cozy Christmas themed reads.
Charlotte N
A big loving family keeping up traditions, sharing and preparing for Christmas, showing the way. The book was amazing and I'm grateful for the opportunity to read it. I can definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy cozy Christmas themed reads.
Charlotte N
June 16, 2025
Christmas Treasures takes us to Sugarville Grove, Vermont for Charlie Keene and Max Hayes’s magical story and it’s book six in the Sugarville Grove Series. This is a well written, entertaining read that takes us to Vermont for Christmas.
Charlie is fairly new to the small town of Sugarville Grove and Christmas is not a holiday she celebrates or looks forward to but when Max asks for favour because she speaks Italian fluently she finds herself caught up in the magic of the holiday season. So will there be a Christmas miracle and will this couple find happiness when they least expect it….
I loved everything about this book from the small town and its Christmas traditions to the camaraderie the Hayes family share and everything in between. I fell hard and fast for the kind and caring in Max and I found myself wishing and hoping that Charlie could see past her baggage but what took this book to another level was the love they both showed to a little 8 year girl who has arrived in town because no other family apart from Max. This is a beautiful, sweet Christmas romance.
Charlie is fairly new to the small town of Sugarville Grove and Christmas is not a holiday she celebrates or looks forward to but when Max asks for favour because she speaks Italian fluently she finds herself caught up in the magic of the holiday season. So will there be a Christmas miracle and will this couple find happiness when they least expect it….
I loved everything about this book from the small town and its Christmas traditions to the camaraderie the Hayes family share and everything in between. I fell hard and fast for the kind and caring in Max and I found myself wishing and hoping that Charlie could see past her baggage but what took this book to another level was the love they both showed to a little 8 year girl who has arrived in town because no other family apart from Max. This is a beautiful, sweet Christmas romance.
June 23, 2025
This book was sweet and heartwarming. Max is always happy and loves his family, as well as, the holidays. He is intrigued by Charlie, but she seems to hate him. When he gets news that rocks him to the core, she comes into the store ready for an argument, but gets easy acquiescence.
While showing his ‘daughter’ through the heartbreak of losing her mother and grandmother, Max and Charlie grow closer. As they open up to each other, they both realize they have gone through a lot and need to take things slow. The daughter is precious and helps draw the family closer.
Just when things are looking good, everything comes crashing down. I loved the connection between Max and Charlie. He was supportive and understanding, while she was independent and awkward. I liked how he found her awkward endearing and how she helped him realize he was perfect because of his imperfectness.
I love Sugarville Grove. The stories are wholesome and pure. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
While showing his ‘daughter’ through the heartbreak of losing her mother and grandmother, Max and Charlie grow closer. As they open up to each other, they both realize they have gone through a lot and need to take things slow. The daughter is precious and helps draw the family closer.
Just when things are looking good, everything comes crashing down. I loved the connection between Max and Charlie. He was supportive and understanding, while she was independent and awkward. I liked how he found her awkward endearing and how she helped him realize he was perfect because of his imperfectness.
I love Sugarville Grove. The stories are wholesome and pure. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
July 5, 2025
Sugarville Grove Christmas Magic
The authors of the Sugarville Grove series have captured the essence of family life in this series.
Ms Thompson features the Hayes family, neighbours and friends of the Lawrence family in Ms Pines’ books.
Friendly and outgoing grocery store owner, Max, secretly admires pizza shop owner, Charlie, who shuns social contact whenever possible and, furthermore, hates Christmas.
The situation changes suddenly when Charlie encounters Max soon after he receives an unexpected request that overwhelms him. Against her better judgement, Charlie steps in to assist and, in the process, discovers love, acceptance and, most important of all, encounters the true spirit of Christmas with the help of Max and a little girl called Bianca.
This heart-warming story, from a talented author, portrays characters who are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, thereby gaining greater self-awareness and inspiring them to develop greater compassion for others.
This is my opinion of a review copy received from the author.
The authors of the Sugarville Grove series have captured the essence of family life in this series.
Ms Thompson features the Hayes family, neighbours and friends of the Lawrence family in Ms Pines’ books.
Friendly and outgoing grocery store owner, Max, secretly admires pizza shop owner, Charlie, who shuns social contact whenever possible and, furthermore, hates Christmas.
The situation changes suddenly when Charlie encounters Max soon after he receives an unexpected request that overwhelms him. Against her better judgement, Charlie steps in to assist and, in the process, discovers love, acceptance and, most important of all, encounters the true spirit of Christmas with the help of Max and a little girl called Bianca.
This heart-warming story, from a talented author, portrays characters who are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, thereby gaining greater self-awareness and inspiring them to develop greater compassion for others.
This is my opinion of a review copy received from the author.
June 11, 2025
Christmas Treasures is a wonderful read. I love this so much. You get all those great feels Tess Thompson is known for. Max is such a sweetheart. I love how he opens his heart and home up for an 8 year old little girl that he knew for a short time years ago in Italy. If that doesn't just give you the warm and fuzzys then hang onto your seats for Charlie. Charlie is not big on the month of December and she has her reasons. She is a talented chef and is made a mark on the town with her pizzeria. She is grumpy to Max's sunshine. I love the bond Charlie forms with Bianca as she steps in and helps translate for her to make her move to America a little easier. Bianca and Charlie share a the loss of loved ones in common. I love how Max steps in and slowly heals both of them. Max is so sweet and patient. Charlie never knew what she was missing until she dropped her walls. I could not put this down. I cannot wait for more to come in the Sugarville Grove series. One click this today.
June 19, 2025
4.5 Stars
Such a beautiful story. Oh my gosh I was feeling all the feels! When little Bianca came to Sugarville Grove my eyes filled with tears at the beauty of that moment. Max has such a heart of gold. Couldn't have picked anyone better than him for Charlie. Charlie needs some with a good heart because life has shown it's darker side. She needs to see good still exists out that and this small town shows her every day. Charlie instantly bonds with Bianca because they heartbreakingly share the grief of losing loved ones. I loved seeing some of this book through Bianca's eyes and seeing the wonder. I mean what could have been a better setting that at Christmas time when there is magic in the air. It was hard to put this book down. The characters stole my heart right away and will stay with me long after I finishing this book. Plus it doesn't hurt there is a cat in this book as well. A top fave of this series for me now.
Such a beautiful story. Oh my gosh I was feeling all the feels! When little Bianca came to Sugarville Grove my eyes filled with tears at the beauty of that moment. Max has such a heart of gold. Couldn't have picked anyone better than him for Charlie. Charlie needs some with a good heart because life has shown it's darker side. She needs to see good still exists out that and this small town shows her every day. Charlie instantly bonds with Bianca because they heartbreakingly share the grief of losing loved ones. I loved seeing some of this book through Bianca's eyes and seeing the wonder. I mean what could have been a better setting that at Christmas time when there is magic in the air. It was hard to put this book down. The characters stole my heart right away and will stay with me long after I finishing this book. Plus it doesn't hurt there is a cat in this book as well. A top fave of this series for me now.
December 27, 2025
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:
Christmas Treasures is book #6 in the Sugarville Grove series. Charlie has a thing against the month of December. No decorations, no holiday spirit...all due to a tragic loss. Max has also suffered a great loss, but has gained Bianca - a little girl who brings meaning back to his life. Max and Charlie spark up an unlikely friendship which deepens into some insta-love. Both feel inadequate, both love Bianca, and both love each other. The angst is real!! I didn't get into this story as much as the others, but it was still completely heartwarming and full of holiday goodness.
The dual narration was really good. Nick J. Russo is a fantastic narrator and I'm giving him PROPS for having to speak Italian when voicing Bianca!! Eleanor Caudill is a new narrator to me and I really enjoyed her as Charlie. Some tough moments to deliver and these two really brought the emotion. 5/5 stars!
Christmas Treasures is book #6 in the Sugarville Grove series. Charlie has a thing against the month of December. No decorations, no holiday spirit...all due to a tragic loss. Max has also suffered a great loss, but has gained Bianca - a little girl who brings meaning back to his life. Max and Charlie spark up an unlikely friendship which deepens into some insta-love. Both feel inadequate, both love Bianca, and both love each other. The angst is real!! I didn't get into this story as much as the others, but it was still completely heartwarming and full of holiday goodness.
The dual narration was really good. Nick J. Russo is a fantastic narrator and I'm giving him PROPS for having to speak Italian when voicing Bianca!! Eleanor Caudill is a new narrator to me and I really enjoyed her as Charlie. Some tough moments to deliver and these two really brought the emotion. 5/5 stars!
July 1, 2025
Christmas Treasures
Charlie and Max and Bianca have such a heartwarming story. Christmas brings only heartache and sadness to Charlie. She sells her pizzas and minds her own business, avoiding anything festive or cheerful in her small new town. Max is the most joyful man in town. He was able to purchase the country store where he stocked shelves as a teenager. All is well until he is faced with being a dad to the young girl he had known for a short while three years earlier. He made a promise to Bianca’s mother that he intends to keep. When an order mixup brings Max and Charlie together, they find that they can help each other rather than fighting. As Charlie bonds with Bianca, she begins also letting Max break done the walls of her heart. Will she discover that not all men are like the ones she has known in the past?
Charlie and Max and Bianca have such a heartwarming story. Christmas brings only heartache and sadness to Charlie. She sells her pizzas and minds her own business, avoiding anything festive or cheerful in her small new town. Max is the most joyful man in town. He was able to purchase the country store where he stocked shelves as a teenager. All is well until he is faced with being a dad to the young girl he had known for a short while three years earlier. He made a promise to Bianca’s mother that he intends to keep. When an order mixup brings Max and Charlie together, they find that they can help each other rather than fighting. As Charlie bonds with Bianca, she begins also letting Max break done the walls of her heart. Will she discover that not all men are like the ones she has known in the past?
December 26, 2025
Both Max and Charlie settled in Sugarville Grove because they both were needing something more in their lives. They needed fresh, new starts. For all the money that Charlie has, she is not arrogant but kind. Yet don't disrespect her or feel her wrath. Talking to you cheese vendor.
As soon as I met Bianca, I feel instantly in love with her. She is adorable and yet so strong. To lose your mother, is hard but it is even harder when it happens around the holiday time. I remember when I was a little girl and my mom's dad passed away weeks before Christmas. It was tough. He used to play games and hide and seek with me and my sister.
Nick Russo and Eleanor Caudill are great narrators. Love the duet narration. They helped to elevate the story with their voices. This book is another one of my top favorites in this series.
As soon as I met Bianca, I feel instantly in love with her. She is adorable and yet so strong. To lose your mother, is hard but it is even harder when it happens around the holiday time. I remember when I was a little girl and my mom's dad passed away weeks before Christmas. It was tough. He used to play games and hide and seek with me and my sister.
Nick Russo and Eleanor Caudill are great narrators. Love the duet narration. They helped to elevate the story with their voices. This book is another one of my top favorites in this series.
June 11, 2025
Christmas Treasures (A Small Town Christmas Romance): Sugarville Grove - Book 6 Kindle
by Tess Thompson
This newest book by Ms Thompson is filled with humor, grief, insecurity and a great deal of hope and warmth. It is also has a theme second chances.
Charlie Keene has moved to Sugarville Grove still grieving the passing of her father. Max Hayes settles back in his hometown of Sugarville Grove grieving the love of his life. Their lives begin to intertwine while neither is looking for a relationship. An eight year old girl enters Max’s life and he adores her. It is so much fun to be the reader of this book because we can’t wait to see what will happen next. It is always refreshing to read a clean story with real life events. You will love these characters also!
by Tess Thompson
This newest book by Ms Thompson is filled with humor, grief, insecurity and a great deal of hope and warmth. It is also has a theme second chances.
Charlie Keene has moved to Sugarville Grove still grieving the passing of her father. Max Hayes settles back in his hometown of Sugarville Grove grieving the love of his life. Their lives begin to intertwine while neither is looking for a relationship. An eight year old girl enters Max’s life and he adores her. It is so much fun to be the reader of this book because we can’t wait to see what will happen next. It is always refreshing to read a clean story with real life events. You will love these characters also!
June 12, 2025
5 Star Review Christmas Treasures by (Sugarville Grove #6) by Tess Thompson
It was great to be back in to Sugarville Grove, Vermont for Charlie Keene and Max Hayes’s story.
Christmas is not a holiday that Charlie celebrates but Max is determined to put a smile on her face.
I fell hard and fast for Max, such a caring, protective and swoon worthy man.
I loved that they partnered up to feed those in need. The sparks flew as they got to know one another but both have baggage that will need to be over one of they are to make a go of their relationship.
Can they come to terms with their past and in doing so find lasting happiness? Can the miracle of the Christmas season give these two the happily ever after they both deserve?
It was great to be back in to Sugarville Grove, Vermont for Charlie Keene and Max Hayes’s story.
Christmas is not a holiday that Charlie celebrates but Max is determined to put a smile on her face.
I fell hard and fast for Max, such a caring, protective and swoon worthy man.
I loved that they partnered up to feed those in need. The sparks flew as they got to know one another but both have baggage that will need to be over one of they are to make a go of their relationship.
Can they come to terms with their past and in doing so find lasting happiness? Can the miracle of the Christmas season give these two the happily ever after they both deserve?
June 14, 2025
This book really had everything one would want in a holiday romance—cozy, heartfelt, and full of small-town charm.
Charlie’s strong and independent, running her pizzeria in honor of her late father. Max is outgoing and seems like he's avoiding relationships. But watching him fall for Charlie did something to me. Their chemistry was sweet and slow-burning, and it was driving me crazy.
If you love clean, wholesome romances with depth, heart, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, this one’s a must-read. All the story that are positioned in Sugarville Grove make me wish i could move there!
***Reivew copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Charlie’s strong and independent, running her pizzeria in honor of her late father. Max is outgoing and seems like he's avoiding relationships. But watching him fall for Charlie did something to me. Their chemistry was sweet and slow-burning, and it was driving me crazy.
If you love clean, wholesome romances with depth, heart, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, this one’s a must-read. All the story that are positioned in Sugarville Grove make me wish i could move there!
***Reivew copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
June 16, 2025
Max is wonderful. What a warm, loving, and charismatic person. He is the owner of a store that specializes in local goods to help the farmers and artisans sell their products. Charlie runs a local pizzeria. Both admire each other from afar but don’t think the other cares for them. When a cheese order mix up goes awry and at the same time Max gets life changing news can these two make a relationship work? Bianca’s arrival brought both joy and sadness to the story. Seeing how she adapted and brought Max and Charlie closer was heartfelt. I laughed, cried and enjoyed this story. You won’t want to miss this book. It is pure Christmas in Sugarville Grove and magical! There were several sweet and inspiring sayings in this book. 5+ stars.
June 19, 2025
Charlie is running a pizzeria in Sugarville Grove. Max has returned home to Sugarville Grove after his travels. Max thinks he is totally inadequate due to his learning disabilities, so he is content to run his general store and live a quiet life. During his travels to Italy, he fell in love with a restaurant owner who had a young daughter. When she was dying of cancer, he promised to take care of her daughter if anything happened to her grandmother. When news arrives that Bianca is on her way to be with him, Max is in a panic. Fortunately, Charlie is fluent in Italian, and she promises to help him with her. Saying more would be too much. You have to read it to get the rest of the story.
Thank you to the publisher and author for allowing me to read an ARC.
Thank you to the publisher and author for allowing me to read an ARC.
June 21, 2025
Its great to be back with the Hayes family in Sugarville Grove! Max is the odd brother, the wanderer. He's attracted to Charlie, but doesn't believe he's good enough for her. However, there's a mystery about Charlie too, and she is full of her own doubts. I found the central conflict between them to be very realistic, he does exactly the wrong thing and hurts Charlie very deeply. How they work through it, drawn together by a lonely little girl, is a very moving story. I highly recommend this book, I think it's my favorite in the series so far. This can be read as a standalone, you don't need to read the series to enjoy this book. The characters are realistic with natural human reactions. Excellent writing.
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