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Hope Island #3
Kerst in Mistletoe Cove
Eden Lancaster heeft altijd geloofd dat dromen uitkomen als je maar hard genoeg wenst. Maar Edens grootste wens is gelinkt aan haar grootste geheim: ze is al haar hele leven hopeloos verliefd op Dougie Harrison, haar aantrekkelijke en charmante jeugdvriend. Wanneer Dougie zijn succesvolle leven in New York achterlaat om terug te keren naar Hope Island, kan Eden haar gevoelens niet langer negeren. Komt haar romantische droom dan eindelijk uit? Deze kerst zou zomaar alles kunnen veranderen…
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2017
470 people are currently reading
1402 people want to read
About the author
Holly Martin
57 books1,536 followersHolly lives in a little white cottage by the sea. She studied media at university which led to a very glitzy career as a hotel receptionist followed by a even more glamorous two years working in a bank. The moment that one of her colleagues received the much coveted carriage clock for fifteen years’ service was the moment when she knew she had to escape. She quit her job and returned to university to train to be a teacher. Three years later, she emerged wide eyed and terrified that she now had responsibility for the development of thirty young minds. She taught for four years and then escaped the classroom to teach history workshops, dressing up as a Viking one day and an Egyptian High Priestess the next. But the long journeys around the UK and many hours sat on the M25 gave her a lot of time to plan out her stories and she now writes full time, doing what she loves.
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
December 12, 2017
This was a delightfully surprising love story - I thought I was in for a fun Christmas read and this turned out to be a beautiful romance. It became unexpectedly steamy at parts, so prepare yourself for that, dear reader. This is my first time reading this author, I flew through this one quickly and I will definitely be back for more. I was really rooting for the characters and Dougie was pretty much every girl's dream.
This is book 3 in a series, but it reads fine as a standalone. I may have to catch up on the other two books soon!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Holly Martin and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2017
With best-friends Eden and Dougie's feelings for one another bubbling away throughout the previous books in the Hope Island series, I couldn't wait to see how their story would play out: as evident as it may be to us that their love for one another goes deeper than that of the closest friendship possible, the pair of them are completely oblivious as to how the other really feels.
"...you always believed in magic and dreams and wishes coming true."
A few pages in and Christmas at Mistletoe Cove gave me positive vibes—the way Dougie and Eden are at complete ease around each other, the looks they share, the secret glances when they don't think the other is watching, and the brief touches as they pass one another—it was all very romantic and they have something special. But after they venture to Mistletoe Cove, where it's rumoured wishes come true, for me it lost some of that charm, becoming too saccharine as Dougie begins to overdo it with his gestures of love, and a tad OTT with drama as Eden is riddled with doubt.
...we’ve been best friends all our lives and now everything has changed."
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't a difficult read: there were moments I adored and I did like Dougie and Eden, I just didn't fall in love them as much as I'd hoped or as much as the couples in the previous books. But I can’t deny their story seemed a little on the far fetched side as opposed to magical. That said, the heated moments were passionate, there was once again laugh-out-loud humour courtesy of Eden's dad and overall this has been an enjoyable series with a great bunch of characters.
"...there’s a whole world out there to explore. I want to explore it with you."
Copy received courtesy of Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"...you always believed in magic and dreams and wishes coming true."
A few pages in and Christmas at Mistletoe Cove gave me positive vibes—the way Dougie and Eden are at complete ease around each other, the looks they share, the secret glances when they don't think the other is watching, and the brief touches as they pass one another—it was all very romantic and they have something special. But after they venture to Mistletoe Cove, where it's rumoured wishes come true, for me it lost some of that charm, becoming too saccharine as Dougie begins to overdo it with his gestures of love, and a tad OTT with drama as Eden is riddled with doubt.
...we’ve been best friends all our lives and now everything has changed."
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't a difficult read: there were moments I adored and I did like Dougie and Eden, I just didn't fall in love them as much as I'd hoped or as much as the couples in the previous books. But I can’t deny their story seemed a little on the far fetched side as opposed to magical. That said, the heated moments were passionate, there was once again laugh-out-loud humour courtesy of Eden's dad and overall this has been an enjoyable series with a great bunch of characters.
"...there’s a whole world out there to explore. I want to explore it with you."
Copy received courtesy of Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
September 4, 2017
It certainly isn't Christmas unless there is a Holly Martin book, and this has surpassed expectations. Dougie is one of the most romantic heroes that I have read about, and it was only a few pages in when I fell head over heels in love with him.
Eden has been in love with Dougie all of her life, and she is half dreading his permanent return to Hope Island as he has never expressed interest in her in that way. Yet within a few days of his return Dougie was like a man on a mission to make Eden fall in love with him.
There is even plenty of wooing (don't recall the last time I read about some good old romantic wooing!), and some remarkably impressive gestures as Dougie attempts to make all of Eden's wishes and dreams come true.
This is the sort of book that not only will turn a cynic into a romantic, but also into a believer of fairy dust and magical wishes. Mistletoe Cover besides having an incredibly Christmassy sounding name is just a fabulous cove that plays a huge part in Eden and Dougie's story.
The festive feeling is very present in this book, with the week long Christmas festival on the island. I loved the couples snowman building competition, the mince pie flavoured pancakes were inventive and anything with sleigh rides and Christmas gifts is a winner for me!
This is the third book set on Hope Island, and can easily be read as a standalone. The focus is on Eden and Dougie and fans of the previous two books will be delighted to see the continuation of Bella and Freya's stories too.
Fully of romance, wishes, beautiful setting, great friendship, and just all around great feelings, this is a wonderful story that was a delight to read. I'm just worried that future book boyfriends won't measure up to Dougie, in terms of thoughtfulness and all around sex appeal!
Christmas at Mistletoe Cove is simply wonderful and whether you curl up with some mulled wine, or read it in the middle of summer, it is a story well worth reading and enjoying, if you like loveable characters and a big helping a romance!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have read honestly and voluntarily.
Eden has been in love with Dougie all of her life, and she is half dreading his permanent return to Hope Island as he has never expressed interest in her in that way. Yet within a few days of his return Dougie was like a man on a mission to make Eden fall in love with him.
There is even plenty of wooing (don't recall the last time I read about some good old romantic wooing!), and some remarkably impressive gestures as Dougie attempts to make all of Eden's wishes and dreams come true.
This is the sort of book that not only will turn a cynic into a romantic, but also into a believer of fairy dust and magical wishes. Mistletoe Cover besides having an incredibly Christmassy sounding name is just a fabulous cove that plays a huge part in Eden and Dougie's story.
The festive feeling is very present in this book, with the week long Christmas festival on the island. I loved the couples snowman building competition, the mince pie flavoured pancakes were inventive and anything with sleigh rides and Christmas gifts is a winner for me!
This is the third book set on Hope Island, and can easily be read as a standalone. The focus is on Eden and Dougie and fans of the previous two books will be delighted to see the continuation of Bella and Freya's stories too.
Fully of romance, wishes, beautiful setting, great friendship, and just all around great feelings, this is a wonderful story that was a delight to read. I'm just worried that future book boyfriends won't measure up to Dougie, in terms of thoughtfulness and all around sex appeal!
Christmas at Mistletoe Cove is simply wonderful and whether you curl up with some mulled wine, or read it in the middle of summer, it is a story well worth reading and enjoying, if you like loveable characters and a big helping a romance!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have read honestly and voluntarily.
September 24, 2017
If you are in the mood for a delightful, second chance, festive romance don't bother reading my review - just start reading this brilliant book! Whilst it is the third in the series and does mention other characters from the earlier books, I still believe it works well as a standalone.
They grew up together, were always a pair, but soon after kissing Eden for the first time Dougie Harrison left with his parents to live in America. Whenever he returns to Hope Island he stays with his best friend, Eden Lancaster and that's been going on for the last twelve years. Now he's left his New York life behind to return home to Hope Island bringing his dreams with him. Eden has always had dreams of her own and most have revolved around Dougie wanting her as so much more than his best friend . . . Both are reticent and wary of moving their relationship on - but twelve years is a long time and maybe their feelings might be returned? Can they trust their hearts to each other? Will Christmas change everything for them this year?
This is a heartwarming story of taking a chance on love, good old-fashioned wooing, fairy wishes and a magical well. It is a moving, cosy festive read, ideal for curling up with and escaping into - and some of the romantic gestures Dougie makes will definitely have you swooning your way through this story which is a great addition to the delectable series. Take yourself off to the Scilly Isles for a great story with plenty of reassurance needed in this emotive, snowy, festive romance!
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
They grew up together, were always a pair, but soon after kissing Eden for the first time Dougie Harrison left with his parents to live in America. Whenever he returns to Hope Island he stays with his best friend, Eden Lancaster and that's been going on for the last twelve years. Now he's left his New York life behind to return home to Hope Island bringing his dreams with him. Eden has always had dreams of her own and most have revolved around Dougie wanting her as so much more than his best friend . . . Both are reticent and wary of moving their relationship on - but twelve years is a long time and maybe their feelings might be returned? Can they trust their hearts to each other? Will Christmas change everything for them this year?
This is a heartwarming story of taking a chance on love, good old-fashioned wooing, fairy wishes and a magical well. It is a moving, cosy festive read, ideal for curling up with and escaping into - and some of the romantic gestures Dougie makes will definitely have you swooning your way through this story which is a great addition to the delectable series. Take yourself off to the Scilly Isles for a great story with plenty of reassurance needed in this emotive, snowy, festive romance!
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
September 29, 2017
3 - "Magic and dreams and wishes..." Stars.
We finally get to Eden and Dougie’s story, with the fact they are both attracted to the other, but unwilling to admit it running as a strong secondary trope through the previous two books, I was itching to get my hands on this one, and add to it that it’s set around my favorite season and I was excited to start Christmas at Mistletoe Cove.
Sadly, this was my least enjoyable book of the series, I just found it too juvenile in parts with the erroneous drama between the two of them and Eden’s reactions and doubts took too much precedence, and whereas I think Dougie’s actions were supposed to come across sweet and thoughtful once they arrived in Mistletoe Cove they were for the most part endearing, but I just found it all a little too Saccharine rather than romantic at points.
It still gave a good Christmassy vibe, I loved catching up with previous and secondary characters, and there were the usual Holly Martin giggles along the way. But I just wanted a little less sugar, more relevant emotion and a lower level of drama.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
We finally get to Eden and Dougie’s story, with the fact they are both attracted to the other, but unwilling to admit it running as a strong secondary trope through the previous two books, I was itching to get my hands on this one, and add to it that it’s set around my favorite season and I was excited to start Christmas at Mistletoe Cove.
Sadly, this was my least enjoyable book of the series, I just found it too juvenile in parts with the erroneous drama between the two of them and Eden’s reactions and doubts took too much precedence, and whereas I think Dougie’s actions were supposed to come across sweet and thoughtful once they arrived in Mistletoe Cove they were for the most part endearing, but I just found it all a little too Saccharine rather than romantic at points.
It still gave a good Christmassy vibe, I loved catching up with previous and secondary characters, and there were the usual Holly Martin giggles along the way. But I just wanted a little less sugar, more relevant emotion and a lower level of drama.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
September 30, 2017
Ooh, I have such mixed views about this book. A part of me loved the aspect of the story that focused on having hopes and dreams and believing in magic. However, at the same time the romance side of the story didn’t fully work for me.
If you love soppy romance books, then Christmas at Mistletoe Cove may be the book for you. However, I’m not a huge fan of romance, and this story most certainly exceeded my soppy romance tolerance level. I think you definitely need to leave reality at the door when you enter this one, otherwise you’ll end up screaming at the characters for not noticing the obvious, like I did.
I was infuriated by Eden’s self-destructive negativity, and her inability not to doubt the man she’d known so well and loved pretty much forever. I found myself in the middle of a mind-boggling battle with myself to get my head around these two characters who were supposed to have known each other really well for many years, and them acting like they were practically strangers at times. Don’t get me wrong, I have no problem with getting frustrated by characters and their irrational behaviour, that’s part of the fun of a story, but I’m not sure this completely worked for me as the kind of Christmas escapism I prefer to enjoy in the winter months.
On the plus side, there were some good characters and a lovely close-knit community setting. This story made me laugh and cringe in a good way, and brought back a couple of early memories with my husband when we first met over two decades ago. I also loved the idea of making three wishes and the very last sentence of this story before the epilogue.
I've only read one other book by this author, which was Fairytale Beginnings, and I thoroughly enjoyed that wonderfully fun and fanciful romance with a strong fairy tale feel throughout, so definitely recommend that one.
If you love soppy romance books, then Christmas at Mistletoe Cove may be the book for you. However, I’m not a huge fan of romance, and this story most certainly exceeded my soppy romance tolerance level. I think you definitely need to leave reality at the door when you enter this one, otherwise you’ll end up screaming at the characters for not noticing the obvious, like I did.
I was infuriated by Eden’s self-destructive negativity, and her inability not to doubt the man she’d known so well and loved pretty much forever. I found myself in the middle of a mind-boggling battle with myself to get my head around these two characters who were supposed to have known each other really well for many years, and them acting like they were practically strangers at times. Don’t get me wrong, I have no problem with getting frustrated by characters and their irrational behaviour, that’s part of the fun of a story, but I’m not sure this completely worked for me as the kind of Christmas escapism I prefer to enjoy in the winter months.
On the plus side, there were some good characters and a lovely close-knit community setting. This story made me laugh and cringe in a good way, and brought back a couple of early memories with my husband when we first met over two decades ago. I also loved the idea of making three wishes and the very last sentence of this story before the epilogue.
I've only read one other book by this author, which was Fairytale Beginnings, and I thoroughly enjoyed that wonderfully fun and fanciful romance with a strong fairy tale feel throughout, so definitely recommend that one.
July 6, 2022
Christmas 2019 - Naughty
I wonder if "Holly Martin" is maybe the nom de plume of a cloistered nun, writing at night by flashlight in her cell. She has never actually interacted romantically with a man, and giddily imagines this is how human beings behave.
Dougie and Eden grew up on the Scilly Islands and were in love with each other since they were children. Dougie moved away to America for 12 years, but they kept in constant touch and he visited frequently, always staying with Eden and doing the most incredibly romantic and thoughtful things for her. But each was somehow convinced the other didn't love them back in "that way" and they were afraid of being hurt and ruining the friendship. I know that because the author considerately repeated these concepts at least three times on every page. (Then again, the author repeated every concept over and over and over again like a child writing an essay who had to fill a certain number of pages.)
So as our story begins, Dougie has returned to the island "for good." Eden and Dougie finally declare their love for each other; they are young, healthy, attractive, unattached and alone in front of a fire with no chance of being interrupted. Eden then declares her strong desire to have sex with Dougie RIGHT NOW and what does he do? He says no, because he wants to "woo" her properly. (Even though she's already in love with him and self-declared horny.) Before I threw in the towel, the wooing included playing board games, cuddling platonically by the fire, and taking a bubble bath together during which Eden was naked but Dougie kept his underpants on. (An eye-roll emoji is needed here.)
Other characters in the book also behave idiotically whenever they appear. Eden's weird parents embarrass themselves with inappropriate sexual anecdotes; a stepsister is planning a wedding that she doesn't want; and no one else on the island seems to have anything going on in their lives except trying to get Eden and Dougie together. Then there is all this (constantly repeated) nonsense about fairy dust and magic blowholes and wishes.
After much suffering, I finally screamed "Oh for F#cks Sake!!" and threw the book across the room, much to the annoyance of my cat. I realized shortly after starting that I had finished another Christmas romance by this author and I was kind of on the fence about it; this book was so bad it made me retroactively hate the other one as well.
I wonder if "Holly Martin" is maybe the nom de plume of a cloistered nun, writing at night by flashlight in her cell. She has never actually interacted romantically with a man, and giddily imagines this is how human beings behave.
Dougie and Eden grew up on the Scilly Islands and were in love with each other since they were children. Dougie moved away to America for 12 years, but they kept in constant touch and he visited frequently, always staying with Eden and doing the most incredibly romantic and thoughtful things for her. But each was somehow convinced the other didn't love them back in "that way" and they were afraid of being hurt and ruining the friendship. I know that because the author considerately repeated these concepts at least three times on every page. (Then again, the author repeated every concept over and over and over again like a child writing an essay who had to fill a certain number of pages.)
So as our story begins, Dougie has returned to the island "for good." Eden and Dougie finally declare their love for each other; they are young, healthy, attractive, unattached and alone in front of a fire with no chance of being interrupted. Eden then declares her strong desire to have sex with Dougie RIGHT NOW and what does he do? He says no, because he wants to "woo" her properly. (Even though she's already in love with him and self-declared horny.) Before I threw in the towel, the wooing included playing board games, cuddling platonically by the fire, and taking a bubble bath together during which Eden was naked but Dougie kept his underpants on. (An eye-roll emoji is needed here.)
Other characters in the book also behave idiotically whenever they appear. Eden's weird parents embarrass themselves with inappropriate sexual anecdotes; a stepsister is planning a wedding that she doesn't want; and no one else on the island seems to have anything going on in their lives except trying to get Eden and Dougie together. Then there is all this (constantly repeated) nonsense about fairy dust and magic blowholes and wishes.
After much suffering, I finally screamed "Oh for F#cks Sake!!" and threw the book across the room, much to the annoyance of my cat. I realized shortly after starting that I had finished another Christmas romance by this author and I was kind of on the fence about it; this book was so bad it made me retroactively hate the other one as well.
September 26, 2017
This is the third book set on Hope Island and although I have loved and would recommend the first 2, this can also be read as a standalone. Eden and Dougie are the stars of this show although characters from the other 2 books (Bella and Freya) also get a look in too. Hope Island is a small (but beautiful sounding) place and everybody knows everybody. Eden has been in love with Dougie since she was a young girl but when he left for America she assumed she would get over him. For all the years he has been away their friendship continued and for Eden it just got more difficult seeing him on his flying visits back to Hope Island. However, this time around his visit will be the last as he is planning on staying for good this time.
I have loved all the characters featured since the first book and because I have read the other 2 I felt like I already knew Eden and have been rooting for her since the beginning. We see Eden battle against all of her instincts and she struggles to face what could become her new reality. As always Holly Martin has created a wonderfully warm and romance packed book that makes the perfect Christmas Gift. I love this series of books and thoroughly enjoyed this. One set of character should that are excellent are Eden's Mum and Day they are hilarious and totally deserve their own book. Another cracking read where the perfect accompaniment would be a roaring fire and a mug of hot chocolate!!!
I have loved all the characters featured since the first book and because I have read the other 2 I felt like I already knew Eden and have been rooting for her since the beginning. We see Eden battle against all of her instincts and she struggles to face what could become her new reality. As always Holly Martin has created a wonderfully warm and romance packed book that makes the perfect Christmas Gift. I love this series of books and thoroughly enjoyed this. One set of character should that are excellent are Eden's Mum and Day they are hilarious and totally deserve their own book. Another cracking read where the perfect accompaniment would be a roaring fire and a mug of hot chocolate!!!
September 21, 2017
The third book in the series focuses on Eden and Dougie. Eden has been in love with Dougie for a long time, they shared a kiss at Mistletoe cove 12 years ago. After the kiss Dougie moved to New York, but Eden didn’t stop loving him, each visit he paid back home reminded her the feelings she’s always had. After being away for so long, Dougie is finally back on Hope Island and this time he’s back for good. Eden is feeling happy and miserable at the same time, but she’s happy to have him back nevertheless. Will the Christmas and Mistletoe cove magic help Eden and Dougie to find their way to each other?
It’s a sweet and cosy Christmas read that is filled with humor, friendship, love and festive atmosphere. I adored Dougie, he was such a charming and romantic guy and I also liked how funny Eden’s parents were. It spent great time with all the characters on Hope Island.
It’s a sweet and cosy Christmas read that is filled with humor, friendship, love and festive atmosphere. I adored Dougie, he was such a charming and romantic guy and I also liked how funny Eden’s parents were. It spent great time with all the characters on Hope Island.
December 7, 2021
I really enjoyed listening to this book. It was a cute friends to lovers romance, in the Christmas time - just perfect!!
September 13, 2017
I was extremely excited to start reading this book, and I wasn't let down it contained everything that I love about Holly Martin book's.
Firstly that fabulous cover is so festive and magical, as soon as you see it you just want to curl up in front of the warm fire and a huge cuppa and delve right in.
Then onto the story itself, from that very first chapter you are hooked in and you aren't able to put the book down it is that good. It is another beautifully written romantic book, based on Eden & Dougie.
They have a bit of a history together, after sharing a kiss when they were young, then Dougie left for America now he is back and they start to spend a lot of time together, its clear they are both in love with each other but they don't want to jeapordise their friendship by admitting their true feelings to each other.
I really enjoyed the fairytale element to the book, the whole wishing well and the fairy dust made it really exciting and interesting to see if the wishes came true.
I really loved the return of previous characters that I adored from other books by Holly Martin and seeing what they are up to and how their lives have changed, it really makes the book feel familiar and easy to read.
A real contendar for the best christmas book 2017!
Firstly that fabulous cover is so festive and magical, as soon as you see it you just want to curl up in front of the warm fire and a huge cuppa and delve right in.
Then onto the story itself, from that very first chapter you are hooked in and you aren't able to put the book down it is that good. It is another beautifully written romantic book, based on Eden & Dougie.
They have a bit of a history together, after sharing a kiss when they were young, then Dougie left for America now he is back and they start to spend a lot of time together, its clear they are both in love with each other but they don't want to jeapordise their friendship by admitting their true feelings to each other.
I really enjoyed the fairytale element to the book, the whole wishing well and the fairy dust made it really exciting and interesting to see if the wishes came true.
I really loved the return of previous characters that I adored from other books by Holly Martin and seeing what they are up to and how their lives have changed, it really makes the book feel familiar and easy to read.
A real contendar for the best christmas book 2017!
September 27, 2017
This was such a beautiful book- it makes you believe in the magic of romance and friendships. Mistletoe Cove sounds such a wonderful place full of meaning for Dougie and Eden as they shared a kiss there when they were teenagers. Unfortunately Dougie moved to America with his parents shortly afterwards and shattered Eden's childhood dreams.
This is a lovely story where great friends realise that they have both loved each other for years, although they are still a bit cautious. The romance throughout is really special and who wouldn't want a Dougie to come back into their lives with lots of romantic gestures warming the heart.
Although part of a series this is easily read as a standalone- but you really don't want to miss out on the other books in this series.
This is a lovely story where great friends realise that they have both loved each other for years, although they are still a bit cautious. The romance throughout is really special and who wouldn't want a Dougie to come back into their lives with lots of romantic gestures warming the heart.
Although part of a series this is easily read as a standalone- but you really don't want to miss out on the other books in this series.
September 22, 2017
Christmas at Mistletoe Cove was such a delightful read, I thoroughly enjoyed it, fell in love with Eden and Dougie, they made the perfect couple, love Holly Martin's style of writing her writing gets better and better with beautiful book covers to go with the perfect story to cosy up with!
November 4, 2018
So the Christmas book reading has started and I began with Christmas at Mistletoe Cove by Holly Martin. I do like Holly's books, they are nice and easy to read, have good characters and a nice plot line.
This book follows Eden, who has lived on Hope Island all her life. She is a believer that if you wish for something hard enough, then your dream can come true. Eden's biggest wish is that her best friend Dougie would fall in love with her. This dream is also her biggest secret as Dougie has no idea that she feels this way about him. Dougie has been living in New York but has decided to return to Hope Island. This book tells the story of what happens when Dougie returns, and looks at whether Eden will find true love. A great book to read, to get you in the Christmas mood, with a nice bit of romance added in.
This book follows Eden, who has lived on Hope Island all her life. She is a believer that if you wish for something hard enough, then your dream can come true. Eden's biggest wish is that her best friend Dougie would fall in love with her. This dream is also her biggest secret as Dougie has no idea that she feels this way about him. Dougie has been living in New York but has decided to return to Hope Island. This book tells the story of what happens when Dougie returns, and looks at whether Eden will find true love. A great book to read, to get you in the Christmas mood, with a nice bit of romance added in.
September 24, 2017
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This book is so full of loveliness I didn't want to put it down!! It is full of Christmas love, glitter and sparkle and I just I adore Dougie - he is most definitely one of my favourite book characters. The whole story is brilliant, I loved the relationships created and how all the different characters interacted and the setting for the book is spot on - a warm and cosy 5 stars from me for this one, I loved it from the front cover! Just perfect for a warm and cosy winter evening :)
This book is so full of loveliness I didn't want to put it down!! It is full of Christmas love, glitter and sparkle and I just I adore Dougie - he is most definitely one of my favourite book characters. The whole story is brilliant, I loved the relationships created and how all the different characters interacted and the setting for the book is spot on - a warm and cosy 5 stars from me for this one, I loved it from the front cover! Just perfect for a warm and cosy winter evening :)
November 10, 2018
I read the first two books in the Hope Island Trilogy last year and loved them. For some reason, I did not read this one, so with Christmas on the way, I anticipated a lovely visit with siblings Rome, Eden and Bella. Best-friends Eden and Dougie have been fumbling around, neither realizing how the other felt for them in the previous books. I couldn't wait to see how their story would play out, knowing that it was just a matter of time before they finally acting upon those feelings. The book opens with the news that Dougie has sold his business in the US and is moving home to Hope Island. When he arrives, we see that easy going relationship between the two best friends, the looks they share, the secret glances when they don't think the other is watching, and the brief touches as they pass one another. It is very apparent to the reader and everyone else in the village that there is something special going on. But, after they venture to Mistletoe Cove, where it's rumoured wishes come true, the story lost some of that charm, becoming too sweet as Dougie begins to overdo it with his gestures of love. Add in Eden's over the top doubt and drama and the book lost some of its charm and worked too hard.
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't a bad story; there were moments I adored and I did like Dougie and Eden, I just didn't love their story as much as the couples in the previous books. This story was supposed to be magical, but it seemed a little far-fetched as opposed to magical. There were also some passionate moments with some explicit scenes that I was not expecting. There was some laugh-out-loud humour courtesy of Eden's dad, Finn, and the family relationships that helped each other get over some difficult situations were also present. Bella and Issac have a few moments of angst as well, but they were finally married in a beautiful ceremony. Overall this has been an enjoyable series with a great bunch of characters that I enjoyed, unfortunately, it did not end with the best story of the three. I will still continue to read Holly Martin's stories as they always leave me with a good feeling upon finishing.
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't a bad story; there were moments I adored and I did like Dougie and Eden, I just didn't love their story as much as the couples in the previous books. This story was supposed to be magical, but it seemed a little far-fetched as opposed to magical. There were also some passionate moments with some explicit scenes that I was not expecting. There was some laugh-out-loud humour courtesy of Eden's dad, Finn, and the family relationships that helped each other get over some difficult situations were also present. Bella and Issac have a few moments of angst as well, but they were finally married in a beautiful ceremony. Overall this has been an enjoyable series with a great bunch of characters that I enjoyed, unfortunately, it did not end with the best story of the three. I will still continue to read Holly Martin's stories as they always leave me with a good feeling upon finishing.
September 12, 2017
First and foremost, I absolutely love Holly Martin's book, which meant that I had really high hopes for this one. Unfortunately however, I found that the plot was so very similar to two of her other books, almost as though she had a template story and then interchanges the names and details.
The story ended exactly how I expected the story to end, and although sometimes I enjoy the predictability and romance of books like this, on this occasion it was TOO predictable. Not only that, but Eden and Dougie, a likeable as they were as the main protagonists, also were far too sickly sweet. Dougie's approach to Eden was at times vomit-inducing! This isn't a story I could relate to for that reason alone.
I was even more put off about 70% of the way through when Eden's wish came true and a huge amount of money appeared in her bank account. It all became a bit fantastic at this point, which just resulted in a lot of eye-rolling from me! I think Holly's writing style is brilliant, and her books are so easy to get wrapped up in, but I had hoped for a different plot this time. Hopefully her next book will mix things up a bit.
(Thanks NetGalley for this copy).
The story ended exactly how I expected the story to end, and although sometimes I enjoy the predictability and romance of books like this, on this occasion it was TOO predictable. Not only that, but Eden and Dougie, a likeable as they were as the main protagonists, also were far too sickly sweet. Dougie's approach to Eden was at times vomit-inducing! This isn't a story I could relate to for that reason alone.
I was even more put off about 70% of the way through when Eden's wish came true and a huge amount of money appeared in her bank account. It all became a bit fantastic at this point, which just resulted in a lot of eye-rolling from me! I think Holly's writing style is brilliant, and her books are so easy to get wrapped up in, but I had hoped for a different plot this time. Hopefully her next book will mix things up a bit.
(Thanks NetGalley for this copy).
December 24, 2024
The sexiest outfit this 30 year old woman can come up with is a bright blue dress with unicorns on it, sparkly hair clips, a pink, crystal-studded tiara, and sparkly unicorn converse. And this is perfectly in line with her behaviour and personality traits throughout the book, constantly making me forget whether the main characters are supposed to be 30 or 13.
December 16, 2017
This was another quick, fun, and mostly sweet (sometimes a bit sexy) Christmas read. I did want to give the characters a big shake though - talk to eachother people! 😝
September 23, 2017
This is the story of Eden and Dougie, two very close friends who have had sparks flying for years but who have done nothing about it. It was less of a "will they, won't they" and more of a "WHEN will they" for me, and that is just fine. Their story was sweet and this book was just the right kind of read inbetween the thrillers that I tend to devour.
I have read a couple of Holly Martin's books before and sometimes they kind of veer into unlikely and this was a little like that, but not enough to be annoying. Dougie is very romantic, probably a little over the top for me, but nevertheless I had tears in my eyes at some of his gestures of love. Eden is a little slower to respond than he would like and the lengths he goes to, to woo her, are really lovely. Everyone should be loved by a Dougie, I think!
I would recommend this book if you are looking for a nice holiday read with a Christmassy touch.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
I have read a couple of Holly Martin's books before and sometimes they kind of veer into unlikely and this was a little like that, but not enough to be annoying. Dougie is very romantic, probably a little over the top for me, but nevertheless I had tears in my eyes at some of his gestures of love. Eden is a little slower to respond than he would like and the lengths he goes to, to woo her, are really lovely. Everyone should be loved by a Dougie, I think!
I would recommend this book if you are looking for a nice holiday read with a Christmassy touch.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
December 17, 2019
Perfect Christmas read and will be perfect to read and enjoy. Amazingly well written and has great characters and you real feel you are transferred to mistletoe cove. Full of friendships and romance and mystery just a fantastic read.
Eden has always grown up living at hope Island and always thought if you wished hard enough it would come true. Her greatest wish is that her childhood friend Dougie would come back to live from America as she has always loved him but he doesn't know it. He does however decide to come back to the island and he stays with Eden to start with while his place is finished being renovated. She really wants her wishes to come true and she goes down to mistletoe cove and thinks she leaves her wishes there and when they start coming true she can't believe it. Then she worries when he dies fall for her that it's all because of her wish and he doesn't really love her so when she goes to wish for him to fall out if love and he sees he he gets upset. Can they be happy ever after together or is it just to complicated. Will Eden get her wish or not.
Eden has always grown up living at hope Island and always thought if you wished hard enough it would come true. Her greatest wish is that her childhood friend Dougie would come back to live from America as she has always loved him but he doesn't know it. He does however decide to come back to the island and he stays with Eden to start with while his place is finished being renovated. She really wants her wishes to come true and she goes down to mistletoe cove and thinks she leaves her wishes there and when they start coming true she can't believe it. Then she worries when he dies fall for her that it's all because of her wish and he doesn't really love her so when she goes to wish for him to fall out if love and he sees he he gets upset. Can they be happy ever after together or is it just to complicated. Will Eden get her wish or not.
October 8, 2017
You can not go wrong with a Holly Martin Christmas book. This is a fun,festive book of love held on the back burner for years discovered and acted upon. Dougie is such a romantic. This book is a warm hug on a Winter's day!
Pub Date 22 Sep 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Pub Date 22 Sep 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 10, 2019
Actual Rating: 2.5 Stars.
I bought this book in a kindle sale a month ago as I knew the reading challenges I usually sign up for were bound to have a Xmas theme reading aspect for December (and they did). I hadn't read book #1 or #2 in this series, but it didn't really detract as you could get into the story pretty quickly and they do seem very stand alone.
The reality is there really was not much of a story to be had. She loves him. He loves her. Some really painful dialogue/scenes/juvenile antics and this could have been wrapped up around 50% of the way through the book. I usually like romance books - but even this was too sickly over the top for me with super boring characters and zero motivation/story line and very wooden dialogue. I also couldn't get excited by a lead male character with the name of Dougie (even if he supposedly was a millionaire). Dougie just reminded me of a cute little 2 year old cherub and once that thought was in my head, well he was never going to win me over :-p.
This is not for me - but many other readers seem to have enjoyed it so take this review with a grain of salt as this may just be my inner scrooge talking :-)
Reading Challenge
Aussie Reader's December 2019 Reading Challenge: Read a Christmas book
I bought this book in a kindle sale a month ago as I knew the reading challenges I usually sign up for were bound to have a Xmas theme reading aspect for December (and they did). I hadn't read book #1 or #2 in this series, but it didn't really detract as you could get into the story pretty quickly and they do seem very stand alone.
The reality is there really was not much of a story to be had. She loves him. He loves her. Some really painful dialogue/scenes/juvenile antics and this could have been wrapped up around 50% of the way through the book. I usually like romance books - but even this was too sickly over the top for me with super boring characters and zero motivation/story line and very wooden dialogue. I also couldn't get excited by a lead male character with the name of Dougie (even if he supposedly was a millionaire). Dougie just reminded me of a cute little 2 year old cherub and once that thought was in my head, well he was never going to win me over :-p.
This is not for me - but many other readers seem to have enjoyed it so take this review with a grain of salt as this may just be my inner scrooge talking :-)
Reading Challenge
Aussie Reader's December 2019 Reading Challenge: Read a Christmas book
October 4, 2017
Dougie and Eden had been best friends their whole lives; that was evident in the way the were with each other, knowing and enjoying each others flaws, anticipating each others reactions and generally moving in synchronisation. The only thing they didn't get right were their love lives.
Cue a little magic and a few nudges in the right direction and what you have is a beautifully charming, sweep-you-away romance in the style I've come to expect from a Holly Martin novel. I loved revisiting Hope Island and all of its characters. Holly's writing is again superb-the descriptive text allows you fall into her make-believe world and live amongst these characters that you can't help but fall in love with.
Dougie was super sweet, affectionate, thoughtful, sexy and damn near perfect. His efforts to give Eden all she'd ever wished for was what romantic dreams are made of! No wonder Eden has a hard time believing it all could be true. Loved him!
If you haven't yet picked up a Holly Martin book you are missing out!
Cue a little magic and a few nudges in the right direction and what you have is a beautifully charming, sweep-you-away romance in the style I've come to expect from a Holly Martin novel. I loved revisiting Hope Island and all of its characters. Holly's writing is again superb-the descriptive text allows you fall into her make-believe world and live amongst these characters that you can't help but fall in love with.
Dougie was super sweet, affectionate, thoughtful, sexy and damn near perfect. His efforts to give Eden all she'd ever wished for was what romantic dreams are made of! No wonder Eden has a hard time believing it all could be true. Loved him!
If you haven't yet picked up a Holly Martin book you are missing out!
September 28, 2017
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
We are back on Hope Island, yay!!! This is the third book of the series and follows Eden Lancaster and Dougie Harrison. We know especially Eden already, because her siblings Bella and Rome, had their own stories told in the previous two books.
Eden and Dougie shared their first and only (so far) kiss on Mistletoe Cove 12 years ago. Eden has been in love with Dougie for a really long time, but he moved to NYC. Now he is back and Eden’s feelings are still there.
Dougie is nice to all the girls and treats Eden like a best friend and a bit more. The way he touches her and holds her is not only friendship. The more time these two spend with each other the more the sparks fly. They are there from the beginning, but they grow stronger rapidly. Holly Martin captures that beautifully, her writing is on point! It was a pleasure following these two characters.
We get to read more about Freya’s, Rome’s, Bella’s and Isaac’s life as well, which is just fabulous. I absolutely adored their stories.
This book is full of romance, friendship, humour, love, passion and the christmassy atmosphere around it, makes it just so magical. It also contains a bit of fairytale touch, with the wishes and the fairy dust surrounding Mistletoe Cove.
A very festive and charming read! Can we have Christmas now please?!
We are back on Hope Island, yay!!! This is the third book of the series and follows Eden Lancaster and Dougie Harrison. We know especially Eden already, because her siblings Bella and Rome, had their own stories told in the previous two books.
Eden and Dougie shared their first and only (so far) kiss on Mistletoe Cove 12 years ago. Eden has been in love with Dougie for a really long time, but he moved to NYC. Now he is back and Eden’s feelings are still there.
Dougie is nice to all the girls and treats Eden like a best friend and a bit more. The way he touches her and holds her is not only friendship. The more time these two spend with each other the more the sparks fly. They are there from the beginning, but they grow stronger rapidly. Holly Martin captures that beautifully, her writing is on point! It was a pleasure following these two characters.
We get to read more about Freya’s, Rome’s, Bella’s and Isaac’s life as well, which is just fabulous. I absolutely adored their stories.
This book is full of romance, friendship, humour, love, passion and the christmassy atmosphere around it, makes it just so magical. It also contains a bit of fairytale touch, with the wishes and the fairy dust surrounding Mistletoe Cove.
A very festive and charming read! Can we have Christmas now please?!
January 14, 2019
I thought to myself just one more Christmas read and this one was the perfect one to read. I didn't want to put it down as I felt so engrossed in the story, which is about Eden and her childhood sweetheart Dougie, we see him returning to Hope Island and basically Eden still holds a flame for him and she doesn't know that he loves her too, ask for a bit of magic and romance at Christmas time and you never know what you may get. I didn't want this book to end, I wonder if there will be a follow on.
September 7, 2017
'New to me' author that is quickly becoming a name I will watch for. What a sweet book this was! There is some reunion from other books in the series, but not so much that it can't standalone.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 19, 2025
Funny and cute. Finished it in a day!
December 7, 2024
Beetje poeha maar wel sfeer! En origineel
December 11, 2017
I enjoyed this sweet little Christmas romance.
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