From the newest sensation in contemporary romance comes a delightfully heartwarming holiday story that’s perfect for fans of RaeAnne Thayne, Denise Hunter, and Debbie Macomber.
Art buyer Charlotte Moore is given the chance of a lifetime to be head buyer for the esteemed Wallace Gallery’s Christmas charity gala. But when she arrives at auction, after the most prominent pieces are all bought up, in a panic, she bids on the final painting—an unsigned sunset landscape she’s nearly sure her boss will despise.
To save her job, she finds herself in the beautifully festive New England coastal town of Seabreeze, the setting of the painting. When a nor’easter blows through, she’s stuck at the adorable Cove Hill Inn, all decorated for the holiday and brimming with Christmas magic. While it’s not an awful place to be snowed in, her ability to work is at a standstill, with the gala looming closer.
And she isn’t expecting to meet the innkeeper’s soon, ruggedly handsome Aiden Bennett, a distraction she definitely doesn’t need. Even the inn’s cherry scones and the town’s Christmas fair are no match for Aiden’s charm.
However, when she uncovers a family secret that could impact everyone, including herself and Aiden, it might shake up more than just the holiday. Under the shimmer of the town twinkle lights and the snow-covered Christmas trees, will Charlotte find the answers she’s looking for? Or has she unearthed something else entirely?
A heartwarming, holiday love story that will have you on the edge of your seat, reaching for the gingerbread cookies and hot cocoa.
Lindsay’s first book, her memoir, Just Be: How my Stillborn Son Taught Me to Surrender, won the Book Excellence finalist award in 2018. She has been featured in Elephant Journal, Green Child Magazine, and Self Magazine.
Lindsay Gibson is the bestselling author of emotional New England romance and mystery, and she also brings heart to young readers through her children’s series Obi the Dobi. Her debut, The Christmas Promise, became a #1 Christmas bestseller on Amazon and was featured on Everyday Eyecandy’s list of “Over 50 Most Read Kindle Unlimited Christmas Romance Books.” Her novels continue to reach wide audiences, with Fly Away Summer landing in the Top 50 for Feel-Good Fiction and The Christmas Coin breaking into the Top 5 eBooks in the Christmas category.
Her writing career began with her award-winning memoir Just Be: How My Stillborn Son Taught Me to Surrender, a 2018 Book Excellence Award finalist. Since then, her stories of love, mystery, and family legacy have been featured in Elephant Journal, Green Child Magazine, and Self Magazine.
A native New Englander, Lindsay now splits her time between Connecticut and coastal South Carolina, where she juggles storytelling with raising three daughters and laughing alongside her Irish husband, whose brogue still makes her blush. She also shares weekly reflections on wellness, character connection, recipes, and more through her blog Well Plotted.
Lindsay is available for book talks, speaking engagements, and interviews both online and in person. Email: authorlindsaygibson@gmail.com
*Sigh* 🥹 First and foremost, this novel is timeless. I’m always blown away when I read a book, especially a Christmas book, that can stand the test of time. This is one of those books you keep on your shelf for your children to read.
Dual timeline romances are my weakness, throw in Christmas and I’m a puddle! This book was truly wonderful and utterly magical. The intricate story lines, family connections, and overall emphasis on being your true self had me staying up well past my bed time.
Charlotte, our MC, was an artist but has sort of let that fall to the wayside. When she stumbles across this gorgeous art piece at an auction, she buys it as the main show piece for her bosses gallery. Little does she know, the story behind this painting will open her eyes to new beginnings and a deeper connection to art.
As I read the acknowledgments, I realized this is a debut for the author and I’m so surprised, I never would have guessed! She has created a beautiful story and I will definitely be reading her future books!
〝now it's time for my wish to come true creating an ending for a promise that had sat waiting for a century.〞
★★★★
art buyer charlotte moore is given the chance of a lifetime to be head buyer for the esteemed wallace gallery’s christmas charity gala. but when she arrives late to an auction and bids on the final painting in a blind panic she's sure she'll loose her job. to remedy the situation, she finds herself in the beautifully festive new england coastal town of seabreeze, the setting of the painting, to find out more about it. she's just there to save her job but instead she meets the ruggedly handsome aiden bennett and uncovers a family secret that could impact everyone, including herself and aiden. under the shimmer of the town twinkle lights and the snow-covered christmas trees, will charlotte find the answers she’s looking for? or has she unearthed something else entirely?
I'm very easy to please when it comes to christmas novels. as long as it's readable and puts me in the christmas mood I'll love it. if you picked this up expecting a holiday romance I think you'd be disappointed because that's not really the main focus of the story but since I'm more into contemporary and literary fiction this was just a positive for me. I feel like it would better be described as a generational tale or feel-good holiday novel with a side of romance. the different storylines had me really intrigued the whole way through and I was holding my breath waiting to find out how they would connect in the end. I feel like it brought a different depth to a genre that is often very "fluffy", especially when it's set during a holiday, who I thoroughly enjoyed. I sadly saw the end coming pretty early which is often the case for me with this genre but it was still intriguing to see how everything would connect.
overall, I feel like the most important thing is that this got me in the christmas mood. the atmosphere was the best part of the story and I can't wait for christmas now even if it's only september. I think that this is exactly what you can expect from a christmas feel-good novel and a great read this winter if you're more into contemporary or literary fiction or something to break up all the holiday romances.
thank you to netgalley and harpeth road press for giving me access to this arc.
Charlotte Moore, lives in Boston and is an art dealer for a gallery. Her life is not going as planned since her boyfriend has just broken up with her and she has made a major mistake by buying a painting her boss, Troy, may not like for the holiday gala. When she thinks this is a career- ending mistake, Troy actually reacts the opposite and wants her to dig deeper to find out who painted it, but the only caveat is she has 12 days to figure it out before they sell it at the holiday gala. Troy sends her on a work trip to Seabreeze, New Hampshire, as he finds out that this is where the artist is from. What will Charlotte discover in the process? Will she be able to get the info on time? This book will have you turning the pages to find out.
From the characters, to the story, to the satisfying ending, this heartfelt read will get you in the holiday spirit! I enjoyed how the author included a mystery aspect with an unexpected plot twist surrounding the painting and ring. This made for an entertaining read! Perfect for book clubs as it will lead to many great discussions!
I was lucky enough to snag an ARC of The Christmas Promise by Lindsay Gibson from Netgalley.
I really enjoyed the book, as it did everything I want from a good Christmas story! There's hot chocolate, cookies, a pretty town decorated for the holidays, a warm community and of course a romance.
The romance in here is of the slow and cute sort, which I personally much prefer over quick and spicy. The hook in the book also isn't annoying drama between the two would be lovers, but instead comes from a mystery from the past - and a second timeline back in 1919. For me those things made book all the more enjoable, as I prefer people to behave like adults instead of the constant back and forth.
The mystery was interesting to unravel, though some of the hints were done a bit heavy handed. I would have liked a few less clues, or for Charlotte to be a bit quicker on the uptake. She's there to find out about an old painting, but she misses all the oportunities to actually do some research, which felt a bit odd. If I'm waiting for a really important call, I won't miss it twice in a row for no good reason, as one example. The way it was done just felt like it was just so it was plot convenient and to keep the suspense up loger, but for me it had me frustrated with the main character a bit instead.
However this didn't really hamper my cosy feelings while reading this wintry book too much, as I liked all the characters, and would have loved a holiday in Seabreeze myself! The people and setting where just lovely, and I adored the cute way the romance was building up, so overall I would still more than happily recommend this to anyone who loves books by Heidi Swain for example!
The Wallace Gallery’s Christmas charity gala is approaching and Charlotte Moore is given her dream job. She is the lead buyer for the gala. While at the auction, everything is sold, she bids on the last painting, of a beautiful sunset, even though it is not signed. Charlotte wants to know the history of the painting, and travels to the picturesque coastal town of Seabreeze in New England. She stays at the quaint and cozy Cove Hill Inn, which is decorated for Christmas inside and out. The magic of Christmas fills the air, with the twinkling lights, and the scent of warm cookies fresh out of the oven. The snow is falling outside and it doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. Charlotte is snowed in and that brings her purpose for being there to an abrupt halt. She meets the innkeeper, Aiden Bennett, and with the magic of Christmas and the local Christmas fair in full swing, this visit to the coast is exactly what she needed.
The Christmas Promise written by author Lindsay Gibson, is a magical Christmas story that I couldn't wait to jump into. This new author is automatically a favorite. Her writing style is smooth and enjoyable and makes it easy for the reader to fly through the pages. This is an unputdownable story that I absolutely loved. This story has all the feels and then some. It wraps you up and warms your heart like your favorite Christmas pajamas on a cold winter night. Grab your fuzzy slippers, pour the hot cocoa and curl up in your comfy chair. This magical read will propel you into the Christmas season and make you want to put up the tree and the twinkle lights. This cozy story is an absolute must read, from its vivid description of the quaint town of Seabreeze to the phenomenal ending. This would make a lovely Christmas movie that I would love to watch. I highly recommend this wonderful story, I loved everything about it.
Thanks to Netgalley for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review
"The Christmas Promise" by Lindsay Gibson is an impressive debut novel that seamlessly blends a dual timeline, creating a rich and captivating love story that unfolds against the charming backdrop of Seabreeze.
One of the novel's standout features is its meticulous and thoughtful construction. Without prior knowledge, it's challenging to believe that this is a debut work. Gibson skillfully weaves two parallel love stories—one set in the present with the main couple, Charlotte and Aiden, and another in 1919—into a tapestry that gradually reveals its intricate connections. The narrative unfolds with a precision and elegance that keeps readers engrossed from start to finish.
The portrayal of Seabreeze, the small town where the story unfolds, adds depth to the narrative. It becomes almost a character in itself, enriching the overall experience and providing a charming backdrop for the blossoming romance.
The dual timeline narrative is executed with finesse, offering readers a compelling blend of past and present. As we uncover the secrets of the 1919 couple and their connection to Charlotte and Aiden, the story gains an additional layer of intrigue. This narrative technique adds complexity and depth to the characters and their relationships.
Gibson's writing is evocative and well-crafted, drawing readers into the emotional lives of the characters. The dialogue is authentic and meaningful, enhancing the chemistry between the main couple and enriching their connection.
In summary, "The Christmas Promise" is an extraordinary debut novel that skillfully navigates dual timelines and delivers a captivating love story. Lindsay Gibson's storytelling prowess, attention to detail, and ability to interweave the past and present make this a must-read for fans of romance and historical fiction.
The Christmas Promise is a delightful read for fans of heartwarming and uplifting stories set in beautiful settings. Gibson’s story is written between two time lines immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the story. The tempo is well balanced keeping the reader engaged and invested in the characters journeys.
Charlotte Moore is an Art buyer for Wallace Gallery, and is given the chance to be head buyer for the annual Christmas charity gala. But when she arrives at the auction, most of the prominent pieces are bought up, and in a panic she bids and wins the final painting, an unsigned piece she’s sure her boss will despise.
In an effort to save her job, she finds herself in the beautiful festive coastal island town of Seabreeze, New Hampshire, to find information regarding the painting’s origins. A nor’easter has her stuck at the charming Cove Hill Inn, brimming with twinkle lights and holiday magic. It’s a fabulous place to be snowed in but she is no closer to finding out the origin of the painting, with the gala looming closer.
Charlotte wasn’t expecting to meet the handsome and charming Aiden Bennett. However, she uncovers a family secret that could impact everyone, including herself and Aiden, in this town of twinkle lights, snow, and holiday charm.
The Christmas Promise explores themes of love, family, healing and the power of love to heal and transform lives. A heartwarming holiday debut from author Lindsay Gibson.
The Christmas Story is a lovely, heartwarming Christmas story. Set in snowy England, this is a story of love, and a story of the journey we take to find our family, our home, our purpose. Charlotte is an endearing main character, and she is supported by a cast of equally charming characters.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review thanks to Harpeth Road Press.
Blurb
Art buyer Charlotte Moore is given the chance of a lifetime to be head buyer for the esteemed Wallace Gallery’s Christmas charity gala. But when she arrives at auction, after the most prominent pieces are all bought up, in a panic, she bids on the final painting—an unsigned sunset landscape she’s nearly sure her boss will despise.
To save her job, she finds herself in the beautifully festive New England coastal town of Seabreeze, the setting of the painting. When a nor’easter blows through, she’s stuck at the adorable Cove Hill Inn, all decorated for the holiday and brimming with Christmas magic. While it’s not an awful place to be snowed in, her ability to work is at a standstill, with the gala looming closer.
And she isn’t expecting to meet the innkeeper’s soon, ruggedly handsome Aiden Bennett, a distraction she definitely doesn’t need. Even the inn’s cherry scones and the town’s Christmas fair are no match for Aiden’s charm.
However, when she uncovers a family secret that could impact everyone, including herself and Aiden, it might shake up more than just the holiday. Under the shimmer of the town twinkle lights and the snow-covered Christmas trees, will Charlotte find the answers she’s looking for? Or has she unearthed something else entirely?
My Opinion
This is a stunning debut novel by Lindsay Gibson. When Harpeth Road email me about an upcoming release I have no reason to refuse, so far every book I have read has been stunning and this by no means lets the side down.
This book has it all - adorable characters, festive spirit and is a very satisfying read. I read this in one sitting and I have no doubt that others will easily do the same. There is a lot going on that will gave a great deal of talking points to a book club. A real heart-warming book for the upcoming festive season.
What an absolutely charming book! This one takes place in both New England and NYC.
Charlotte, an aspiring painter/artist, has temporarily (we hope) given up her dream of painting, and instead is working at an esteemed Gallery. When she is given the chance to bid on and buy a piece, she misses out on almost all of the paintings…and is stuck buying the last one available, Afraid she will get fired for this, instead, her boss sends her to New England to find the backstory on the painting that revolves around a beautiful Ruby Ring, a Lighthouse, a sunset and a beach. And so she’s off….
Add to this that we actually have two timelines: 1919 and present day! Then add in the charming home/cottage that Charlotte will be staying in and the wonderful family who run it. Mix in Charlotte’s sister Claire, who sticks with her like glue…as any sister would! Her charming Mom and Grandma who are constantly worried about her… Add in an epic snow storm, a hunky guy, and the beautiful elements of a small town that all know and care for each other and come together in an emergency…and you have the perfect Christmas Mix…and Book!
The Christmas Promise is not only a book, but the very center of the entire story! And what a beautiful story it is! As it unfolds you will be happy, sad, and full of love! And as all of the pieces all finally come together, I hope you will be as awed as I was. It was profoundly sad, and yet beautifully uplifting as well!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
Thanks to #NetGalley, #DreamscapeSelect and #HarpethRoadPress for the ARC of the audiobook which will be released on 9.26.23.
#TheChristmasPromise by #LindsayGibson and narrated by #KimberlyAustin.
If you like my review, please ‘like’ and feel free to follow me for other books on instagram at #BookReviews_with_emsr. Thank you!!
PS…Goodreads, Thanks for adding it to your site! 😉
First, I want to thank Lindsay Gibson and Harpeth Road Press for providing me this book so I can bring you this review!
It may be October but thanks to Lindsay Gibson I am getting into the Christmas Spirit a bit earlier this year! The Christmas Promise is a beautiful story that will put a smile on your face, love in your heart and wanting to start your Christmas cookie baking!
Harpeth Road Press’s Graphic Designers did a beautiful job on this breathtaking book cover! The colors were so pretty! I don’t think there has ever been a cover by Harpeth Road Press that I didn’t like.
Lindsay transported her readers back to the 1919’s where we learned about Oliver’s and Alice’s beautiful love story. Oh how this storyline gave me all the feels!
Being a worry wort and overthinker being put into the situation Charlotte was I would have acted the same way.
Oh how I want to jump in the book and stay at the hotel at Seabreeze! It seemed so warm, cosey, inviting, and full of small town Christmas spirit. Not to mention the meals described sounded amazing!
If you are looking for some Christmas spirit give The Christmas Promise a try.
I jumped right into Lindsey Gibson’s first novel as part of my Christmas in July reading series and was NOT disappointed! Thank you @harpethroad for my copy of this cozy little Christmas novel that is out TODAY! Happy Pub Day, Lindsey!
We follow Charlotte Moore as she travels from Boston to a quaint little seaside town to solve the mystery of a painting she acquired at auction, on a whim. While in this quaint little town she’s immediately swept up into the spirit of Christmas and all of the sweetest side characters support her search for the artist.
Charlotte re-ignites her desire to paint as an artist and find many surprises at just about every turn of this novel- loved all of the mystery as she learned more and more about the beautiful painting, and the missing ruby engagement ring.
Loved the ending- it's like the perfect Christmas hug!
How’s your Cozy Christmas reads list for this year? Do you have some good ones on the list? Haven’t made a list at all yet?
The Christmas Promise is a dual timeline story. We get Oliver and Alice's story in 1919 and Charlotte and Aiden's story in persent day.
Charlotte is given a chance to be head art buyer for Wallace Gallery’s Christmas charity gala. She buys a piece called The Promise. She and her boss Tony are so intrigued by the piece that he discovers the lighthouse in the painting is located in Seabreeze. He sends Charlotte to Seabreeze to see if she can find out more about the piece. She meets Aiden Bennett. As she learns more about the piece, Charlotte starts have to have feelings for Aiden. Her grandma Helen becomes a big piece of the puzzle.
We find out Alice painted The Promise for Oliver’s family but due to their break up in 1919 never give it to them and the beautiful Ruby ring featured in the painting has been missing from the Bennett family since 1920.
This was a very captivating listen and can’t wait to buy a physical copy. I received an audiobook copy from NetGalley.
I don’t live in the US, and I’ve never visited New England, but now I want to go and visit the fictional town of Seabreeze and stay at Cove Hill Inn. I want to watch the snow falling, make gingerbread cookies and curl up in front of a roaring fire.
The Christmas Promise is my second Christmassy read. It’s beautiful and warm and cosy and romantic and I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in Charlotte’s family’s lives for just 24 hours, because that’s how long it took me to read it. Granted, I was in the car for 6 of those hours (I wasn’t driving) and I read for the whole time!
Charlotte is on a mission to discover the history behind a painting she’s recently purchased for the art gallery she works at and the answers will hopefully lie in the small coastal town on Seabreeze.
If you’re ready for a Christmas read then I’d thoroughly recommend that you get yourself a copy of this, make yourself a hot chocolate, pretend that it’s already snowing outside and lose yourself in this snuggly story.
Thank you to Harpeth Road Press for the opportunity to read and review a copy of The Christmas Promise by Lindsay Gibson.
This debut novel by Lindsay Gibson is just breathtaking. Yes, I read most of it on 80 degree days in October but I just couldn't wait to read it. If you love Hallmark holiday movies, you will adore this book. Think cozy, with a hot cocoa and warm blanket. Follow along with Alice and Oliver's love story and the twists and surprises that follow the younger characters, Charlotte and Aiden. You will absolutely love this book. I can't wait to read what Lindsay writes next! And I really hope this is not the last we hear of Charlotte and Aiden.
This was such a cozy, heartwarming read! I loved how the author weaved in the two storylines, shifting from the past to the present, slowly connecting each thread to the sweetest, romantic ending. Learning about New England winters was a bonus. I felt like I was in the quaint town of Seabreeze right alongside the characters. If you're looking for the perfect holiday read, I highly recommend this one!
This is a keeper! I love a good Christmas story, and this one was the best. It was everything I wanted in a story. It has a little mystery and family taking care of family. Yes, some romance, too. It was such a great book that you will want to put on your keeper shelf. This was a new author for me but I can't wait to read more from her! Enjoy
Charlotte thinks she is failing at life. She wants to have a career as an artist she finds herself working for an art gallery bidding on art and preparing for the holiday gala. She impulsively bids on a piece of art she is starting to think is worth nothing. She now finds herself looking into the history of one of her latest finds. But is history all she finds with her new partner in crime? Very cute holiday romance! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for my honest feedback!
This isn’t your typical cheesey, predictable Christmas romance. This story really felt like a mystery to me, with Christmas joy sprinkled throughout. I had a list going, jotting down who was who and who was related to who, in the best way. I was so invested in this story. To me it was almost like clue, who done it! I think everyone can relate to our female mc, recovering from a traumatic relationship that she didn’t realize was as bad as it was and finding herself along the way. The only part I waffled on was how close the past and present storylines aligned. I was torn between it being like fate/meant to be and wishing our present day characters had their own experiences that weren’t near replicas of the past. Overall, I definitely recommend, especially if the cheesey Christmas romances are getting old, through The Christmas Promise in the mix. You won’t regret it!
This is the 40th book I’ve read this year and it was by far the best one. Now I’m anxious to read the next one by Lindsay Gibson. And I hope to thank her in person the next time we visit our kids.
A wonderful unputdownable novel about an artist, a painting of a ruby ring & a lighthouse in New England…two families a century apart…highly recommend!!
Can’t wait to see what this author has next. One of my favorite parts was the way she displayed a hand written note or a text book! I couldn’t put this book down. It felt as if I was right there with all the characters
This debut novel is by new author Lindsay Gibson who, based on the lovely writing style, has clearly been coached by Harpeth Road founder and bestselling author, Jenny Hale. Overall, it is a pleasant, Christmas read with all the cozy festive vibes one would expect. And the setting in New England was very pleasant. However, I wasn't too riveted by the unfolding plot. The stakes of the concept didn't feel high enough, and the coincidence (family secret) fell a bit flat for me, however, it is a promising piece and it will be interesting to see what she comes up with next!
The Christmas Promise is a gorgeous holiday book that is so easy to fall in love with.
It’s that time of year when all the Christmas romance ARCs are coming our way. I am loving all the Christmas books that are coming out this year. The Christmas Promise is perfect for fans who love watching those Christmas Hallmark movies or reading any book written by Jenny Hale. I found myself loving all the rich detail Lindsay put into this story. Everything just felt like it came to life in this book. I loved all the descriptions of Seabreeze and the Cove Hill Hotel Charlotte was staying at. It made me want to pack my bags and escape to this tiny community. If you love small-town romances, you will love this book’s vibes. The Christmas Promise just nailed all the things I love about small-town romances.
This book has dual timelines. One takes place in 1919 and follows Alice and Oliver, and the other takes place in the present and follows Charlotte and Aiden. There is a mystery in this book, and it centers around this painting that Charlotte has found and has been tasked with trying to find out who the artist is. You know that Alice and Oliver’s story is somehow connected to the painting and possibly to Charlotte herself, but you don’t know how. Lindsay masterfully gives her readers little bits of information as the story goes on to help slowly piece together this mystery. I enjoyed how this aspect of the story was set up. It helped keep me engaged with what was happening.
I loved all the characters; they had this wonderful balance of feeling real (especially Charlotte’s character) while still helping to create this charming, heartwarming setting. Charlotte’s character is riddled with insecurities after breaking up with her boyfriend. She has lost her spark to paint. It was great watching her regain her confidence not only in her artistic talent but also in opening her heart to the possibility of a new romance with Aiden. Aiden is a real charmer; he is that perfect Hallmark hero who melts my heart. He is just a good guy at his core.
If you like snowed-inn, charming slow-burn romances, you will adore Aiden and Charlotte’s relationship. These two spend so much time together, and I love every minute of it. Their relationship has this real Hallmark-y feel to it. There are no really big misunderstandings or hurdles that they have to overcome. We get to enjoy watching this connection between them deepen. It was a nice change of pace not to have to read a romance filled with lots of drama.
The Christmas Promise is a lush and gorgeous holiday romance that will sweep you off your feet.
Thank You, Harpeth Road, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Charlotte Moore loves her job as head buyer for Wallace Gallery. When Charlotte is given the chance to go to an art auction on her own, she is thrilled at the chance, and on a whim, she bids on the last painting because somewhere deep inside it touches her. Then the panic sets in, what if this piece is worthless? Charlotte is sure this will be the end of her career. Her boss suggests Charlotte go to the coastal town that the painting is set in and find the story behind the piece. This will be the showcase painting of the gallery’s upcoming Christmas gala, so Charlotte is determined to find out everything she can. When Charlotte arrives in Seabreeze, the small coastal town captures her heart. With Christmas approaching, the town is decked out in lights and Charlotte can feel the Christmas spirit. She is welcomed with open arms into the small inn she is staying at and now all she has to do is solve the mystery of the painting. What Charlotte does not count on is how peaceful she feels in this small town and how Aiden, the innkeeper’s son is stirring up feelings in her. When the mystery starts to unravel, secrets long buried are uncovered and the painting comes to life in this small town.
I absolutely adored this novel by author Lindsay Gibson. It has the warmth of a small town, a mystery and a budding romance. What else could you possibly wish for in a Christmas novel! I loved the characters and enjoyed watching the mystery unfold. My sincere thanks to Harpeth Road Press and the author Lindsay Gibson for my advanced copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily. The perfect holiday novel.
The Christmas Promise is the fourth book in the Christmas Hope series by Lindsay Gibson. Charlotte Moore was recently promoted to top buyer for the Wallace Galleries in Boston. Troy Wallace had taken her under his wing some time ago and he had trained her as his second. But this year he has sent her alone to choose and bid on the painting that will be premier in the Wallace Christmas charity gala.
Through a series of unfortunate events, Charlotte is left with only one mystically majestic painting that illuminates a sandy beach, a beautiful ruby ring, and a distant lighthouse. Charlotte is so taken by this painting that she pays more than she should. But Troy isn’t upset, he only wants the backstory. When he determines that the distant sign by the lighthouse shows Seabreeze, he makes arrangements for Charlotte to travel to the Cove Hill Inn in Seabreeze, NH, with a week stay to learn the history and who the ephemeral artist with the pine tree signature was.
In her stay, Charlotte meets the inn owners as well as their son, Aiden Bennett. Together they unravel the mystery of the painting, others like it, and history that ultimately effects them both.
This is a delightful holiday story with a,picturesque setting and lovable characters. There is nothing like discovering and unraveling a family mystery and the plotting of this such tale is impeccable. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
Art buyer Charlotte Moore has been tasked with buying the featured painting for her gallery’s Christmas gala. At the auction, the most prominent paintings have already been purchased, so she panics and buys the last painting, an unsigned sunset landscape. Her boss sends her to Seabreeze, the coastal New England town featured in the painting, to see what she can learn of the artist and/or history of the painting. Charlotte finds herself taken with the town, the adorable Cove Hill Inn where she is staying, and the innkeeper’s son, Aiden. Will Charlotte find the answers she is looking for?
I could easily see this sweet story being turned into a Hallmark movie; the story felt like a warm hug. Interspersed with Charlotte’s journey are snippets from 1919 to give you insight into the story behind the painting. Unlike many dual-timeline stories, these are a small bit of the book, with the majority focus staying on Charlotte. This book is a fiction debut for the author, and I can’t wait to see what she comes out with in the future!
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.