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Christmas Town, Maine
Christmas, Actually
Discover the magic of Christmas Town, Maine!
Jack Banning promised to support the mother of his unborn child… But she doesn't need money, she only needs him.
Callie Banning's student has declared war on Christmas, so it's up to her to help the little girl—and her widowed father—believe again.
Gina Vernay is about to meet her online mystery date…and she's in for the surprise of a lifetime!
Jack Banning promised to support the mother of his unborn child… But she doesn't need money, she only needs him.
Callie Banning's student has declared war on Christmas, so it's up to her to help the little girl—and her widowed father—believe again.
Gina Vernay is about to meet her online mystery date…and she's in for the surprise of a lifetime!
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2014
94 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
Anna Adams
79 books233 followersAnna Adams was in the US Navy, also working on a business degree full-time, when her first child was born. That little guy changed her life--created priorities. She wanted her children to grow up, believing they could do the most unlikely things.
Like writing--which she'd done since she was old enough to force someone to listen to stories and then old enough to pick up a pencil and a piece of paper.
She switched to an English degree--and ignored her husband when he asked if she planned to "open an English store," and eventually found jobs doing any kind of writing. And she learned to write books.
Twenty-something books later, she's a USA Today Bestseller, and she's still believes in unlikely things. Like true love that everyone can believe in.
Like writing--which she'd done since she was old enough to force someone to listen to stories and then old enough to pick up a pencil and a piece of paper.
She switched to an English degree--and ignored her husband when he asked if she planned to "open an English store," and eventually found jobs doing any kind of writing. And she learned to write books.
Twenty-something books later, she's a USA Today Bestseller, and she's still believes in unlikely things. Like true love that everyone can believe in.
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December 26, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
CHRISTMAS, ACTUALLY (Christmas Town, Maine series) by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart is a trio of sweet holiday romance novellas featuring three siblings living in Christmas Town, Maine. This Christmas may be the one where they will finally meet the person they want to kiss beneath the mistletoe in the gazebo and fulfill the local legend.
The Banning siblings have all grown up in Christmas Town, but they all have led very different lives.
In the first novella, The Christmas Gift by Anna Adams, Dr. Jack Banning has come home to work as a trauma surgeon in the local hospital after years of service in Afghanistan. Since he has been home, he has buried himself in his work rather than deal with his memories. Sophie Palmer is on her way to Bangor to try to reconnect with her mother and work in a less stressful job than the ER since she is going to be a single mom. After she is hit by on oncoming car, her reflexes kick in and she saves the other driver’s life until Jack and the hospital’s Life Flight arrive. Jack is instantly attracted to Sophie and recognizes her PTSD symptoms. Will Sophie be able to share with Jack and take a chance on an instant attraction or will Jack’s own reticence to share keep them apart.
The second novella, The Christmas Wish by Anna J. Stewart, has Callie Banning trying to fill everyone’s expectations and requests for help over the Christmas season, since her mother is away. Callie is a second-grade teacher and has duties of her own, but she just cannot say “no”. When Callie calls in single father, Dean Galloway about his daughter Eliza’s problems with all things Christmas, she wants to help get to the reason rather than punish her. Dean is a free-lance photographer who is constantly on the move with Eliza in their RV home since his wife’s death three years ago. They have their work cut out for them because Eliza no longer believes in Christmas wishes.
In the third novella, The Christmas Date by Melinda Curtis, Nick Banning is a divorced father of one young son and the town handyman. He has never felt as accomplished as his siblings who all have college degrees, but he has a dream of getting his contractor’s license and restoring historic homes. He has had a crush on Gina Vernay, the owner of The Tea Pot since they were young. Gina had an accident that left a scar on her face and has eroded her confidence around people. When Nick discovers Gina has gone on a dating website, he replies, and they share things they haven’t in person. Nick is learning that people believe in him more than he does himself and he wants Gina to realize she is more than her scar that he just considers a part of her. Nick and Gina have the same dreams if they are willing to rely on each other and bravely face the future together.
I enjoyed this trio of novellas so much! I do not normally give novellas five stars, but these three stories have beautifully fully drawn characters and realistic scenarios all leading to heartfelt HEAs. They are the perfect sweet quick reads to get you in the mood for holiday romance.
CHRISTMAS, ACTUALLY (Christmas Town, Maine series) by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart is a trio of sweet holiday romance novellas featuring three siblings living in Christmas Town, Maine. This Christmas may be the one where they will finally meet the person they want to kiss beneath the mistletoe in the gazebo and fulfill the local legend.
The Banning siblings have all grown up in Christmas Town, but they all have led very different lives.
In the first novella, The Christmas Gift by Anna Adams, Dr. Jack Banning has come home to work as a trauma surgeon in the local hospital after years of service in Afghanistan. Since he has been home, he has buried himself in his work rather than deal with his memories. Sophie Palmer is on her way to Bangor to try to reconnect with her mother and work in a less stressful job than the ER since she is going to be a single mom. After she is hit by on oncoming car, her reflexes kick in and she saves the other driver’s life until Jack and the hospital’s Life Flight arrive. Jack is instantly attracted to Sophie and recognizes her PTSD symptoms. Will Sophie be able to share with Jack and take a chance on an instant attraction or will Jack’s own reticence to share keep them apart.
The second novella, The Christmas Wish by Anna J. Stewart, has Callie Banning trying to fill everyone’s expectations and requests for help over the Christmas season, since her mother is away. Callie is a second-grade teacher and has duties of her own, but she just cannot say “no”. When Callie calls in single father, Dean Galloway about his daughter Eliza’s problems with all things Christmas, she wants to help get to the reason rather than punish her. Dean is a free-lance photographer who is constantly on the move with Eliza in their RV home since his wife’s death three years ago. They have their work cut out for them because Eliza no longer believes in Christmas wishes.
In the third novella, The Christmas Date by Melinda Curtis, Nick Banning is a divorced father of one young son and the town handyman. He has never felt as accomplished as his siblings who all have college degrees, but he has a dream of getting his contractor’s license and restoring historic homes. He has had a crush on Gina Vernay, the owner of The Tea Pot since they were young. Gina had an accident that left a scar on her face and has eroded her confidence around people. When Nick discovers Gina has gone on a dating website, he replies, and they share things they haven’t in person. Nick is learning that people believe in him more than he does himself and he wants Gina to realize she is more than her scar that he just considers a part of her. Nick and Gina have the same dreams if they are willing to rely on each other and bravely face the future together.
I enjoyed this trio of novellas so much! I do not normally give novellas five stars, but these three stories have beautifully fully drawn characters and realistic scenarios all leading to heartfelt HEAs. They are the perfect sweet quick reads to get you in the mood for holiday romance.
November 19, 2014
I was excited to read this collection of Christmas novellas! I wasn't crazy about the first story but really enjoyed the other two. The stories are about three siblings who live in Christmas Town, Maine. Their parents are out of town for the holidays. The stories are told at the same time and we go on each of their journeys to find love.
In the first, Sophie comes to Christmas Town to find Jack, the father of her baby, to try to convince him to be part of their unborn daughter's life. Jack has his reasons for leaving, which we find out at the end. He seems like a nice guy but is harsh towards Sophie. He also seems to want her to stay yet keeps pushing her away. I found it hard to believe that they were together for two years and she wasn't aware of how he felt about becoming a father before she got pregnant. I'm sure most people will love their story but it just didn't appeal to me.
Callie is a second-grade schoolteacher and has a little trouble maker (Eliza) in her class. She and her single father, Dean, are in town temporarily while he finishes an assignment. Callie comes to understand Eliza better by figuring out what's really bothering her. It doesn't hurt that in the meantime, she gets to know Dean better, too! The only problem: They'll be leaving soon and Callie's life is in Christmas Town. I liked how Callie and Dean's friendship flowed and they had some great moments together. Callie and Eliza also had some touching scenes. I also liked what Callie learned about trying to take her mom's place as the town holiday helper.
Nick married young and put his wife through school, but when it came time for her to return the favor, she decided she wanted a divorce instead. So now Nick is the handyman of the town and a single father. He has been wanting to date Gina, the owner of The Tea Pot. He rushes to help her whenever she calls but she seems to look past him as a love interest. He finds out she signed up for an online dating service, so he signs up for the same one. She's fallen for him as user Football20, but will he get up the nerve to confess to her who he really is? I loved Nick and, from the beginning of his story, I was cheering for him. I liked how he was helpful to others, even though his own dreams had been shattered. Gina has her own issues that she's dealing with. Their story takes place in the shortest amount of time but it is definitely sigh worthy!
I loved seeing the siblings in each other's stories and enjoyed getting to know them. These stories are quick, easy reads which are perfect to get you in the mood for Christmas. I love that they're all clean so I can recommend it to everyone! Christmas Town was a fun place to visit!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
In the first, Sophie comes to Christmas Town to find Jack, the father of her baby, to try to convince him to be part of their unborn daughter's life. Jack has his reasons for leaving, which we find out at the end. He seems like a nice guy but is harsh towards Sophie. He also seems to want her to stay yet keeps pushing her away. I found it hard to believe that they were together for two years and she wasn't aware of how he felt about becoming a father before she got pregnant. I'm sure most people will love their story but it just didn't appeal to me.
Callie is a second-grade schoolteacher and has a little trouble maker (Eliza) in her class. She and her single father, Dean, are in town temporarily while he finishes an assignment. Callie comes to understand Eliza better by figuring out what's really bothering her. It doesn't hurt that in the meantime, she gets to know Dean better, too! The only problem: They'll be leaving soon and Callie's life is in Christmas Town. I liked how Callie and Dean's friendship flowed and they had some great moments together. Callie and Eliza also had some touching scenes. I also liked what Callie learned about trying to take her mom's place as the town holiday helper.
Nick married young and put his wife through school, but when it came time for her to return the favor, she decided she wanted a divorce instead. So now Nick is the handyman of the town and a single father. He has been wanting to date Gina, the owner of The Tea Pot. He rushes to help her whenever she calls but she seems to look past him as a love interest. He finds out she signed up for an online dating service, so he signs up for the same one. She's fallen for him as user Football20, but will he get up the nerve to confess to her who he really is? I loved Nick and, from the beginning of his story, I was cheering for him. I liked how he was helpful to others, even though his own dreams had been shattered. Gina has her own issues that she's dealing with. Their story takes place in the shortest amount of time but it is definitely sigh worthy!
I loved seeing the siblings in each other's stories and enjoyed getting to know them. These stories are quick, easy reads which are perfect to get you in the mood for Christmas. I love that they're all clean so I can recommend it to everyone! Christmas Town was a fun place to visit!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
November 4, 2014
Christmas, Actually was a very enjoyable, sweet collection of three connected novellas. I enjoyed all three stories, and love that they cover the romances of the three Banning siblings. The characters felt realistic and the stories did not feel rushed to me. I enjoyed all three stories and don’t think I can choose a favorite!
I felt frustrated with Jack Banning in the first story, even though I grew to understand why he was behaving the way he was. Sophie had to be so strong for herself and their unborn child. Her perseverance was admirable, and I still liked Jack, even though he was being difficult.
Callie Banning was such a likeable character in the second story and I loved the way she dealt with her student who was an emotionally traumatized little girl. I loved the connection that began almost immediately between Callie and Dean, the little girl’s father. But, knowing that Dean and his daughter would soon be moving on from Christmas Town added some tension to their growing attraction.
In the third story, Nick Banning pursues Gina, who feels very self-conscious about the scar that runs along the side of her face. He has been interested in her for quite awhile, but unable to make her realize that he is attracted to her as more than a friend. But, when she learns of his deception with an online dating site, the question is whether she will be able to forgive and trust him.
These stories are part of Harlequin’s Heartwarming series. They are not inspirational fiction, however, they are completely clean reads. These were great stories that I really had a good time reading.
My thanks to the authors for the complimentary copy I received of this novella collection. The thoughts and opinions stated in this review are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
I felt frustrated with Jack Banning in the first story, even though I grew to understand why he was behaving the way he was. Sophie had to be so strong for herself and their unborn child. Her perseverance was admirable, and I still liked Jack, even though he was being difficult.
Callie Banning was such a likeable character in the second story and I loved the way she dealt with her student who was an emotionally traumatized little girl. I loved the connection that began almost immediately between Callie and Dean, the little girl’s father. But, knowing that Dean and his daughter would soon be moving on from Christmas Town added some tension to their growing attraction.
In the third story, Nick Banning pursues Gina, who feels very self-conscious about the scar that runs along the side of her face. He has been interested in her for quite awhile, but unable to make her realize that he is attracted to her as more than a friend. But, when she learns of his deception with an online dating site, the question is whether she will be able to forgive and trust him.
These stories are part of Harlequin’s Heartwarming series. They are not inspirational fiction, however, they are completely clean reads. These were great stories that I really had a good time reading.
My thanks to the authors for the complimentary copy I received of this novella collection. The thoughts and opinions stated in this review are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
December 4, 2023
1) The Christmas Gift by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart. This is the first story. It's about a nurse named Sophie and a Dr named Jack Banning. They met in the middle of an accident. Sophie's car was hit by another. She wasn't hurt, so she started trying to help the other person in the other car. Jack ended up coming on chopper that came to pick up the seriously hurt driver. Jack was attracted to her, and he kept being nice to her, trying to convince Sophie they were met to be together. They had both been through Truma and learned to control their feelings so they could do their job. The feelings for each other grew for each other. I can only say it had a good ending. It was very unusual, and I don't think I could trust someone that fast just bec he said he had feelings for me. If you love to read about relationships at Christmas time, you will love this book.
2) The second book is The Christmas Wish Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart. It is about Callie Banning, Jack's sister, and the man Dean Galloway she starts having feelings for. She's a teacher to his daughter. Eliza has emotional issues, and Callie spends extra time w her to figure it out what's causing her issues. It's a really good story, and I enjoyed the great ending.
3) The third book in the series is The Christmas Date by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart. It's about Nick Banning, the brother of Callie and Jack Banning, and the woman, Gina, in Christmas Town that he had a crush on for some time. He's a handyman and comes to Gina's bakery to fix things that break or need to be fixed. Gina had signed up on an online dating app. When Nick found d out, he signed up, too. Then they started talking to each other. Gina did not know it was Nick, the handy man from Christmas Town. As time goes on, Nick tries to let her know he's interested, but Gina doesn't believe him. Gina has a scar on her face from a childhood accident, and it has made Gina feel unlovable. The more time he spends w her, the more she figures out if his feelings are real. I don't want to give it away, but it's a good ending.
2) The second book is The Christmas Wish Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart. It is about Callie Banning, Jack's sister, and the man Dean Galloway she starts having feelings for. She's a teacher to his daughter. Eliza has emotional issues, and Callie spends extra time w her to figure it out what's causing her issues. It's a really good story, and I enjoyed the great ending.
3) The third book in the series is The Christmas Date by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, and Anna J. Stewart. It's about Nick Banning, the brother of Callie and Jack Banning, and the woman, Gina, in Christmas Town that he had a crush on for some time. He's a handyman and comes to Gina's bakery to fix things that break or need to be fixed. Gina had signed up on an online dating app. When Nick found d out, he signed up, too. Then they started talking to each other. Gina did not know it was Nick, the handy man from Christmas Town. As time goes on, Nick tries to let her know he's interested, but Gina doesn't believe him. Gina has a scar on her face from a childhood accident, and it has made Gina feel unlovable. The more time he spends w her, the more she figures out if his feelings are real. I don't want to give it away, but it's a good ending.
November 21, 2014
What a fun story! The reader is taken on a journey through Christmas Town, Maine and we get to see snippets of what makes this town special through the eyes of three different characters.
In The Christmas Gift, Dr. Jack Banning is struggling with some issues, but being a very good Dr and surgeon isn't among them. When he found out he was going to be a father, he ran and wants nothing to do with his unborn baby. Jack is such a strong character and it's hard to imagine him not taking a challenge head on, but, as we find out, he has his reasons. I love Sophie, the mother-to-be. Her patience is amazing, as is her genuine care for those around her. I would have liked to see Jack ease into his feelings, instead of being so hot and cold.
The Christmas Wish is about Jack's sister, Callie, a school teacher. She has a troubled student who is up to mischief at every turn, since this young girl hates Christmas and anything associated with it. Eliza doesn't know how to express herself and Callie is determined to understand why. Meeting with Eliza's father, Dean, proves to be a battle, since there's an attraction. Callie is very creative in her dealings with Eliza and such a sweet woman. Dean does the best he can as a father and is willing to make changes to make things even better. I loved the way the story came together.
Nick Banning is the resident handyman and the brother of Jack and Callie in The Christmas Date. He's working hard to help Gina, a shop owner, make repairs to her store, as well as to her self esteem. Gina has met a man online and just can't quite let her heart follow Nick without giving Football20 a chance. Gina had some pretty big insecurities to deal with. I could understand why she felt that way, yet I wanted her to let it go. I enjoyed watching her blossom. Nick is a man who can do everything, yet he's very humble. I love the way he would build up those around him.
These were fun, clean holiday stories. I only wish the main characters from the other books would have shown up more in other stories.
Content: no language; no violence; clean kissing. Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
In The Christmas Gift, Dr. Jack Banning is struggling with some issues, but being a very good Dr and surgeon isn't among them. When he found out he was going to be a father, he ran and wants nothing to do with his unborn baby. Jack is such a strong character and it's hard to imagine him not taking a challenge head on, but, as we find out, he has his reasons. I love Sophie, the mother-to-be. Her patience is amazing, as is her genuine care for those around her. I would have liked to see Jack ease into his feelings, instead of being so hot and cold.
The Christmas Wish is about Jack's sister, Callie, a school teacher. She has a troubled student who is up to mischief at every turn, since this young girl hates Christmas and anything associated with it. Eliza doesn't know how to express herself and Callie is determined to understand why. Meeting with Eliza's father, Dean, proves to be a battle, since there's an attraction. Callie is very creative in her dealings with Eliza and such a sweet woman. Dean does the best he can as a father and is willing to make changes to make things even better. I loved the way the story came together.
Nick Banning is the resident handyman and the brother of Jack and Callie in The Christmas Date. He's working hard to help Gina, a shop owner, make repairs to her store, as well as to her self esteem. Gina has met a man online and just can't quite let her heart follow Nick without giving Football20 a chance. Gina had some pretty big insecurities to deal with. I could understand why she felt that way, yet I wanted her to let it go. I enjoyed watching her blossom. Nick is a man who can do everything, yet he's very humble. I love the way he would build up those around him.
These were fun, clean holiday stories. I only wish the main characters from the other books would have shown up more in other stories.
Content: no language; no violence; clean kissing. Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
November 23, 2014
Three siblings find love during one magical Christmas season.
The Christmas Gift: This novella provides a nice introduction to Christmas Town and its citizens. While I liked both Jack and Sophie, I did think his behavior was a bit far-fetched, even for someone suffering from PTSD. But it's a sweet novella with a happy ending, and I could easily see it as an entry in Hallmark or Lifetime's Christmas lineup. 3 stars.
The Christmas Wish: I enjoyed The Christmas Wish, a sweet story about Callie, a teacher who takes a troubled student under her wing and ends up falling for the student's single father. 3-1/2 stars.
The Christmas Date: The instant I started reading this story, I knew I was going to love it. There's just something about those You've Got Mail-esque stories that I love. Nick and Gina are both so likeable, and their chemistry lept off the page. This was easily my favorite of the three stories! 5 stars.
As a whole, I think this collection would have worked better if the novellas hadn't been connected. All three of these stories are supposed to take place during the same Christmas season in the same small town to people from the same family. Yet, as a whole, these siblings know nothing about the others' romances. (The exception is Callie's knowledge of Nick's feelings for Gina.) I think the series would have played better had the stories taken place in different years or been connected solely by Christmas Town. Still, the stories are enjoyable, and they're perfect for reading in front of a cozy fire. 3-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for review through Prism Book Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The Christmas Gift: This novella provides a nice introduction to Christmas Town and its citizens. While I liked both Jack and Sophie, I did think his behavior was a bit far-fetched, even for someone suffering from PTSD. But it's a sweet novella with a happy ending, and I could easily see it as an entry in Hallmark or Lifetime's Christmas lineup. 3 stars.
The Christmas Wish: I enjoyed The Christmas Wish, a sweet story about Callie, a teacher who takes a troubled student under her wing and ends up falling for the student's single father. 3-1/2 stars.
The Christmas Date: The instant I started reading this story, I knew I was going to love it. There's just something about those You've Got Mail-esque stories that I love. Nick and Gina are both so likeable, and their chemistry lept off the page. This was easily my favorite of the three stories! 5 stars.
As a whole, I think this collection would have worked better if the novellas hadn't been connected. All three of these stories are supposed to take place during the same Christmas season in the same small town to people from the same family. Yet, as a whole, these siblings know nothing about the others' romances. (The exception is Callie's knowledge of Nick's feelings for Gina.) I think the series would have played better had the stories taken place in different years or been connected solely by Christmas Town. Still, the stories are enjoyable, and they're perfect for reading in front of a cozy fire. 3-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for review through Prism Book Tours. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
December 16, 2014
This was a really great series about a small town named Christmas Town! The Christmas spirit is alive and kicking here, but there are a few residents that might need a little romance to keep their season jolly. The Banning family is about to find their true loves in some fairly unlikely places.
Callie's story (the second one) was my favorite of the bunch. It was full of emotion and I'm always a sucker for a cute little kid. This one was also a true Christmas miracle as the said cute little kid had given up on Christmas and family. The ending had me full of misty eyes and smiles and laughs.
Jack's story had some interesting twists and turns to it. There was a history to Jack that was very unexpected and heart wrenching. I'm so glad that no one gave up on him and he was dragged (practically kicking and screaming) to where he needed to be to move and put his past to rest.
Gina's story was just a lot of fun. She was my favorite character overall, and had an amazing personality - and some serious insecurities to go along with it. When all was said and done, the entire family had a beautiful surprise and quite the merry Christmas.
Callie's story (the second one) was my favorite of the bunch. It was full of emotion and I'm always a sucker for a cute little kid. This one was also a true Christmas miracle as the said cute little kid had given up on Christmas and family. The ending had me full of misty eyes and smiles and laughs.
Jack's story had some interesting twists and turns to it. There was a history to Jack that was very unexpected and heart wrenching. I'm so glad that no one gave up on him and he was dragged (practically kicking and screaming) to where he needed to be to move and put his past to rest.
Gina's story was just a lot of fun. She was my favorite character overall, and had an amazing personality - and some serious insecurities to go along with it. When all was said and done, the entire family had a beautiful surprise and quite the merry Christmas.
December 22, 2014
Three stories intertwined by the characters. All three were nice, fun, romantic Christmas reads.
The Christmas Gift - Anna Adams - 4 Stars
I really liked this one. It had a lot of emotion and some twists. I loved the characters, the character development was very good. I liked the way Sophie never gave up! She had spunk.
The Christmas Wish - Anna J Stewart - 3 Stars
I liked the idea of this story. What I didn't care for was that Santa was almost God like. Ask Santa and he will answer, almost like praying it seemed to me. I am sure the author didn't mean it that way but that's the feeling I got from it. But besides that it was a sweet story.
The Christmas Date - Melinda Curtis - 4 Stars
Liked this one a lot. Very good original storyline. It was sweet and very touching. I loved the male character, he was kind but strong. And again - I liked that he never gave up on Gina.
I won this book from "Free Book Friday" - Thanks!
The Christmas Gift - Anna Adams - 4 Stars
I really liked this one. It had a lot of emotion and some twists. I loved the characters, the character development was very good. I liked the way Sophie never gave up! She had spunk.
The Christmas Wish - Anna J Stewart - 3 Stars
I liked the idea of this story. What I didn't care for was that Santa was almost God like. Ask Santa and he will answer, almost like praying it seemed to me. I am sure the author didn't mean it that way but that's the feeling I got from it. But besides that it was a sweet story.
The Christmas Date - Melinda Curtis - 4 Stars
Liked this one a lot. Very good original storyline. It was sweet and very touching. I loved the male character, he was kind but strong. And again - I liked that he never gave up on Gina.
I won this book from "Free Book Friday" - Thanks!
November 12, 2014
I was super excited to read this three book collection from Harlequin Heartwarming. If you follow my blog, you know I'm a fan of the Heartwarming line because they are always squeaky clean romances. I know exactly what I'm going to get.
These books are about the three siblings of the Banning family. They live in Christmas Town and there is no better place for Christmas celebrations than in Christmas Town! Each story is happening simultaneously but you only see it from one person's perspective at a time.
Yeah, I really loved my time in Christmas Town with the Banning family. Each story was unique and romantic. I loved all the characters. They were real and identifiable. It is the perfect book to curl up with as the days get colder and we get closer to Christmas.
These books are about the three siblings of the Banning family. They live in Christmas Town and there is no better place for Christmas celebrations than in Christmas Town! Each story is happening simultaneously but you only see it from one person's perspective at a time.
Yeah, I really loved my time in Christmas Town with the Banning family. Each story was unique and romantic. I loved all the characters. They were real and identifiable. It is the perfect book to curl up with as the days get colder and we get closer to Christmas.
December 2, 2014
I was super excited to read this three book collection from Harlequin Heartwarming. If you follow my blog, you know I'm a fan of the Heartwarming line because they are always squeaky clean romances. I know exactly what I'm going to get.
These books are about the three siblings of the Banning family. They live in Christmas Town and there is no better place for Christmas celebrations than in Christmas town! Each story is happening simultaneously but you only see it from one person's perspective at a time.
Yeah, I really loved my time in Christmas Town with the Banning family. Each story was unique and romantic. I loved all the characters. They were real and identifiable. It is the perfect book to curl up with as the days get colder and we get closer to Christmas.
These books are about the three siblings of the Banning family. They live in Christmas Town and there is no better place for Christmas celebrations than in Christmas town! Each story is happening simultaneously but you only see it from one person's perspective at a time.
Yeah, I really loved my time in Christmas Town with the Banning family. Each story was unique and romantic. I loved all the characters. They were real and identifiable. It is the perfect book to curl up with as the days get colder and we get closer to Christmas.
November 17, 2014
Three siblings live in a town in Maine named Christmas Town. The three are actively involved with the Christmas traditions of the town, but each has their reasons for not looking forward to the season.
I enjoyed reading the three stories, written by three authors, that take place at the same time. The town sounds like a wonderful place to be to celebrate Christmas. I'm glad that I got to spend time with the stories just before entering the Christmas season.
Each of the author's did a great job in telling their story. I liked the descriptions and the characters.
This book is a fun way to get into the holiday season and find a little clean Christmas romance.
I enjoyed reading the three stories, written by three authors, that take place at the same time. The town sounds like a wonderful place to be to celebrate Christmas. I'm glad that I got to spend time with the stories just before entering the Christmas season.
Each of the author's did a great job in telling their story. I liked the descriptions and the characters.
This book is a fun way to get into the holiday season and find a little clean Christmas romance.
December 6, 2022
"Christmas, Actually" was a terrific collection. This was a great collection of Christmas romances. I loved reading about the Banning's siblings and everyone in Christmas Town, Maine. I had never read anything by either Anna before and was already a fan of Melinda. After reading this collection, I am now a fan of all three of these authors. Highly recommend this collection to everyone that loves a great Christmas romance.
This set includes:
"The Christmas Gift" by Anna Adams
"The Christmas Wish" by Anna Stewart
"The Christmas Date" by Melinda Curtis
This set includes:
"The Christmas Gift" by Anna Adams
"The Christmas Wish" by Anna Stewart
"The Christmas Date" by Melinda Curtis
March 14, 2015
Sweet Christmas anthology. I enjoyed all three tales. My favorite was Melinda's CHRISTMAS DATE. All three ladies were able to give us so much in a short story. I enjoyed getting to know everyone in Christmas Town, Maine!
December 8, 2015
3 books ... really enjoyed these. nothing surprising or exciting... just a good set of books ... like a hallmark movie.
December 27, 2023
Short stories about siblings finding instant love. Enjoyable enough but reading about instant love and resolving deep seeded psychological issues in days isn't usually my favorite.
January 12, 2023
Rocky Start, But Worth the Read
I'll admit that I wasn't holding out much hope for this three-book set when I read the prologue that sets up the three stories. While I loved the cute name for the female retirees’ knitting club, the Knotty Elves, the way that knitting was depicted in that prologue was just so inaccurate! Yes, it's an odd thing for a reviewer to quibble about, but I had a very hard time believing that a group of knitters, who had been knitting for decades, couldn't figure out lace and gave up in less than a week of trying! Seriously, lace isn't that difficult. If you can do yarn-overs and read a pattern, you can make lace! Now, all types of lace aren’t easy, especially ones done with thread and tiny needles, but it's hard to fathom a group of experienced knitters not being able to successfully make lace. And lace is not made of knots, as was stated in the book as well. Okay…leaving that behind.
The first story is a doctor/nurse romance, and as I am a nurse myself, after reading about the knitting faux pas, I wondered how accurate the medical/nursing aspect would be. While I love a medical romance—well-done medical romance—I'm a stickler for details in a story that has anything to do with medicine.
But this pleasantly surprised me. While I'm not an ER nurse, how she was depicted from the very first dramatic scene rang true for those ER nurses I know. The doctor, however, is quite unlike any doctor I've known professionally, and indeed, unlike most men! But in a good way. I love the way he is very much in touch with his emotions, even if he struggles with them, and is in tune with the heroine’s from nearly the first moment they meet. It's quite charming the way he feels toward her. He sees in her a reflection of himself, a hard worker dedicated to patients and their care, yet also dealing with trauma from the past. Both have complex backstories that the author artfully teases out, which I love, and the story certainly brought all the feels, especially when the good doctor gets injured when he was in the throes of remembering his past tour of duty in Afghanistan.
This set of books takes place in a little hamlet called Christmas Town, and as you might imagine, it is a very festive place! Even the nurse traveling through the town (our heroine), who is on her way to where her mother lives when she gets sidetracked by a serious car accident, can't help but be touched by all she sees and experiences. I love a good holiday romance, especially when it's set in a charming small town that exudes the Christmas spirit. The three books in this series focus on the Banning siblings, with Dr. Jack Banning being the first sibling to be featured in a book.
Highly recommended. Great stories that deliver all the romance feels along with the Christmas spirit you hope for in a holiday romance.
I received a free copy of this box set, but that did not affect my review.
I'll admit that I wasn't holding out much hope for this three-book set when I read the prologue that sets up the three stories. While I loved the cute name for the female retirees’ knitting club, the Knotty Elves, the way that knitting was depicted in that prologue was just so inaccurate! Yes, it's an odd thing for a reviewer to quibble about, but I had a very hard time believing that a group of knitters, who had been knitting for decades, couldn't figure out lace and gave up in less than a week of trying! Seriously, lace isn't that difficult. If you can do yarn-overs and read a pattern, you can make lace! Now, all types of lace aren’t easy, especially ones done with thread and tiny needles, but it's hard to fathom a group of experienced knitters not being able to successfully make lace. And lace is not made of knots, as was stated in the book as well. Okay…leaving that behind.
The first story is a doctor/nurse romance, and as I am a nurse myself, after reading about the knitting faux pas, I wondered how accurate the medical/nursing aspect would be. While I love a medical romance—well-done medical romance—I'm a stickler for details in a story that has anything to do with medicine.
But this pleasantly surprised me. While I'm not an ER nurse, how she was depicted from the very first dramatic scene rang true for those ER nurses I know. The doctor, however, is quite unlike any doctor I've known professionally, and indeed, unlike most men! But in a good way. I love the way he is very much in touch with his emotions, even if he struggles with them, and is in tune with the heroine’s from nearly the first moment they meet. It's quite charming the way he feels toward her. He sees in her a reflection of himself, a hard worker dedicated to patients and their care, yet also dealing with trauma from the past. Both have complex backstories that the author artfully teases out, which I love, and the story certainly brought all the feels, especially when the good doctor gets injured when he was in the throes of remembering his past tour of duty in Afghanistan.
This set of books takes place in a little hamlet called Christmas Town, and as you might imagine, it is a very festive place! Even the nurse traveling through the town (our heroine), who is on her way to where her mother lives when she gets sidetracked by a serious car accident, can't help but be touched by all she sees and experiences. I love a good holiday romance, especially when it's set in a charming small town that exudes the Christmas spirit. The three books in this series focus on the Banning siblings, with Dr. Jack Banning being the first sibling to be featured in a book.
Highly recommended. Great stories that deliver all the romance feels along with the Christmas spirit you hope for in a holiday romance.
I received a free copy of this box set, but that did not affect my review.
December 11, 2022
I love sets of stories especially when it’s a set that centers around three siblings and in this collection it’s the Banning siblings - - Callie, Jack, and Nick. I enjoyed each sibling and their own specific story and of course the other siblings pop in to give their two cents, like they would do in real life. Each story is perfect for that specific person from Jack and Sophie where they have each dealt with some trauma in one way or another and finding someone who might be ‘the one’ and seeing where that goes. We have Callie and Dean and his daughter Eliza and learning to say ‘no’ when Callie was trying to be everything to everyone and finding the magic in Christmas Town for Dean and Eliza. Finally, we have Nick and Gina, who have been friends and Gina who went through something in the past and has the scar as a reminder and Nick who feels like he isn’t enough. These two definitely danced around each other a lot especially when you can see that they were meant to be together. I appreciated how their story progressed from a major misunderstanding to Gina coming out of her shell in a big way and stepping up and making her intentions known towards Nick. My favorite part is the surprise at the ending especially for the siblings. As I was reading this collection I was hoping in the back of my mind, that would happen and what a perfect way for this trio of stories to end. Great stories!
July 17, 2025
This is a three book compilation about the Banning siblings who live in Christmas Town.
The first book is about the eldest sibling, Jack, a trauma surgeon who meets Sophie, a pregnant ER nurse from Boston who is involved in a car accident. They have an instant connection and have a lot in common but Sophie is reluctant to become involved in a new relationship so quickly.
The second book is about Callie, a schoolteacher who meets widower and travel journalist, Dean through his seven year old daughter who is a pupil in her class. Dean's daughter hates Christmas and is not above a bit of theft or sabotage to make her dislike for the season known. They have been living a nomadic lifestyle for a few years but perhaps it's time for a change...
The last story is about Nick, the town's divorced handyman with a young son and Gina, the owner of a bakery who has a facial scar that causes her a lot of insecurity. Nick has had feelings for Gina for several years but she has always friend zoned him. He secretly connects with her through a dating app but what happens when she discovers the truth about who he is?
This series of books was clean and predictable but the stories were heartwarming and the characters were endearing.
The first book is about the eldest sibling, Jack, a trauma surgeon who meets Sophie, a pregnant ER nurse from Boston who is involved in a car accident. They have an instant connection and have a lot in common but Sophie is reluctant to become involved in a new relationship so quickly.
The second book is about Callie, a schoolteacher who meets widower and travel journalist, Dean through his seven year old daughter who is a pupil in her class. Dean's daughter hates Christmas and is not above a bit of theft or sabotage to make her dislike for the season known. They have been living a nomadic lifestyle for a few years but perhaps it's time for a change...
The last story is about Nick, the town's divorced handyman with a young son and Gina, the owner of a bakery who has a facial scar that causes her a lot of insecurity. Nick has had feelings for Gina for several years but she has always friend zoned him. He secretly connects with her through a dating app but what happens when she discovers the truth about who he is?
This series of books was clean and predictable but the stories were heartwarming and the characters were endearing.
December 31, 2022
This anthology is about the Banning siblings, Jack, Callie and Nick.
Jack meets Sophie in a heart stopping way and whilst there is insta love both have walls that need to come down in order to let each other love and I just loved how they were perfect for each other not just with love but challenging each other.
Callie meets Dean via his daughter Eliza who has hated Christmas ever since her Mum passed and due to Callie's big heart she is able to slowly get Eliza to open up to her. You sigh with happiness as you see them all grow close to each other and have your hopes on Dean seeing that staying in Christmas Town is a great idea!
The best was left for last with Nick and Gina, Nick feels like he isn't enough as he is the local handyman after losing his chance to go to colleague thanks to his ex while Gina thinks she needs to hide behind her bangs due to her scar. These to were my favourite as they are soo sweet and both truly deserve to be loved and the strength they give each other, although I did want to smack Nick on the back of the head for his dating website stunt!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jack meets Sophie in a heart stopping way and whilst there is insta love both have walls that need to come down in order to let each other love and I just loved how they were perfect for each other not just with love but challenging each other.
Callie meets Dean via his daughter Eliza who has hated Christmas ever since her Mum passed and due to Callie's big heart she is able to slowly get Eliza to open up to her. You sigh with happiness as you see them all grow close to each other and have your hopes on Dean seeing that staying in Christmas Town is a great idea!
The best was left for last with Nick and Gina, Nick feels like he isn't enough as he is the local handyman after losing his chance to go to colleague thanks to his ex while Gina thinks she needs to hide behind her bangs due to her scar. These to were my favourite as they are soo sweet and both truly deserve to be loved and the strength they give each other, although I did want to smack Nick on the back of the head for his dating website stunt!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2021
Three loosely interconnected stories about three siblings who live in Christmas Town, Maine.
THE CHRISTMAS GIFT by Anna Adams ///
Sophie Palmer and Jack Banning have a lovely relationship until she gets pregnant and then Jack coldly breaks things off and moves away back to his hometown of Christmas Town, Maine. Sophie recognizes he has wounds he isn’t willing to address but is willing to press for the good of her child.
Lovely read but I think there was rather too much for the restrictions of a novella.
THE CHRISTMAS WISH by Anna J Stewart ////
Callie Banning and widower Dean Galloway meet in Christmas Town as she’s his daughter’s teacher. He’s a photographer and travels to his subjects, so he and Eliza make their way around the US. Callie and Dean and Eliza have the chance to find some healing and joy in the season.
Ms Stewart writes movingly about these three and their hearts.
Beautiful characters and a story that tugs at the heartstrings.
THE CHRISTMAS DATE by Melinda Curtis ///.
Tea shop owner Gina Vernay and handyman Nick Banning have become friends and are open to more except that Nick has been keeping a secret from Gina.
Great characters and a heartwarming story.
THE CHRISTMAS GIFT by Anna Adams ///
Sophie Palmer and Jack Banning have a lovely relationship until she gets pregnant and then Jack coldly breaks things off and moves away back to his hometown of Christmas Town, Maine. Sophie recognizes he has wounds he isn’t willing to address but is willing to press for the good of her child.
Lovely read but I think there was rather too much for the restrictions of a novella.
THE CHRISTMAS WISH by Anna J Stewart ////
Callie Banning and widower Dean Galloway meet in Christmas Town as she’s his daughter’s teacher. He’s a photographer and travels to his subjects, so he and Eliza make their way around the US. Callie and Dean and Eliza have the chance to find some healing and joy in the season.
Ms Stewart writes movingly about these three and their hearts.
Beautiful characters and a story that tugs at the heartstrings.
THE CHRISTMAS DATE by Melinda Curtis ///.
Tea shop owner Gina Vernay and handyman Nick Banning have become friends and are open to more except that Nick has been keeping a secret from Gina.
Great characters and a heartwarming story.
December 8, 2018
Welcome to the magic of Christmas Town, Maine!
The Christmas Gift by Anna Adams
Sophie wants Jack to be there for thir unborn child. He has promised monetary support, but she really just needs him. Can he move past the hurts to realize that he is what Sophie and their child need?
The Christmas Wish by Anna J Stewart
Callie has a young student who has given up on Christmas. Callie has to show the little girl that it is ok to believe in Christmas wishes again. Can she also get Dean to believe, too?
The Christmas Date by Melinda Curtis
Gina is about to meet her mystery man she has been chattig with online for awhile. Little does she know who she is truly meeting. Can Nick show her that a promise for a future is truly meant to be?
3 great Christmas stories to enjoy; all wrapped up in one great Harlequin book!
The Christmas Gift by Anna Adams
Sophie wants Jack to be there for thir unborn child. He has promised monetary support, but she really just needs him. Can he move past the hurts to realize that he is what Sophie and their child need?
The Christmas Wish by Anna J Stewart
Callie has a young student who has given up on Christmas. Callie has to show the little girl that it is ok to believe in Christmas wishes again. Can she also get Dean to believe, too?
The Christmas Date by Melinda Curtis
Gina is about to meet her mystery man she has been chattig with online for awhile. Little does she know who she is truly meeting. Can Nick show her that a promise for a future is truly meant to be?
3 great Christmas stories to enjoy; all wrapped up in one great Harlequin book!
March 11, 2023
Siblings, Dr Jack, handyman Nick and teacher Callie Banning, are preparing to spend their first Christmas without their parents who are away on an extended trip. They are all focused on serving the community of Christmas Town in their unique ways, often forgetting their own personal needs.
Each novella focuses on one of the siblings as they meet their prospective life partners. The authors have woven captivating story-lines for each of the siblings, high-lighting their areas of expertise with complementary partners. The unique atmosphere of the town is brought to life in the descriptions and interactions of the inhabitants.
The best surprise for the siblings comes at the end of Book 3.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Each novella focuses on one of the siblings as they meet their prospective life partners. The authors have woven captivating story-lines for each of the siblings, high-lighting their areas of expertise with complementary partners. The unique atmosphere of the town is brought to life in the descriptions and interactions of the inhabitants.
The best surprise for the siblings comes at the end of Book 3.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2023
Three very short stories about three siblings in the small Maine town of Christmas Town.
Jack is a surgeon who has walked away from his pregnant girl friend because he feels deep guilt.
Cassie is an elementary school teacher who sees a small girl who needs someone to help her find a solution for sorrow and fear.
Nick is the town’s handyman who gives to everyone he sees. Now he wants to connect to a woman he has known since they were both in elementary school and she does not believe in herself enough to recognize what she is being offered.
The stories are sweet and touching. The people are each wonderful. No one goes through life without an issue, but the people in these stories find the paths to face their future.
I enjoyed this book.
Jack is a surgeon who has walked away from his pregnant girl friend because he feels deep guilt.
Cassie is an elementary school teacher who sees a small girl who needs someone to help her find a solution for sorrow and fear.
Nick is the town’s handyman who gives to everyone he sees. Now he wants to connect to a woman he has known since they were both in elementary school and she does not believe in herself enough to recognize what she is being offered.
The stories are sweet and touching. The people are each wonderful. No one goes through life without an issue, but the people in these stories find the paths to face their future.
I enjoyed this book.
January 3, 2019
Reviewed at Heart Full of Christmas
Since my review was long I'm simply going to do the wrap-up here and invite you over to Heart Full of Christmas at the link above to read the entire review.
Jack, Callie, and Nick are siblings who find love this Christmas season. I enjoyed this anthology very much and would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance, especially around Christmas. It’s also the kick-off to a long and enjoyable set of Christmas stories set in Christmas Town, Maine over the last several years. This is a great place to start on that adventure.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
Since my review was long I'm simply going to do the wrap-up here and invite you over to Heart Full of Christmas at the link above to read the entire review.
Jack, Callie, and Nick are siblings who find love this Christmas season. I enjoyed this anthology very much and would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance, especially around Christmas. It’s also the kick-off to a long and enjoyable set of Christmas stories set in Christmas Town, Maine over the last several years. This is a great place to start on that adventure.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
December 30, 2022
perfect not only for the holidays
I enjoyed reading about Christmas Town very much, this book is perfect to get you into holiday mood, but the atmosphere in this town makes you want to live there year round. Don´t we all wish to know someone has our back, shouldn´t we care more about our neighbours, wouldn´t the world be a better place if we reached out more, offered help and not just around Christmastime?
I loved the balance between making me feel cozy and being reminded what is really important in life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed reading about Christmas Town very much, this book is perfect to get you into holiday mood, but the atmosphere in this town makes you want to live there year round. Don´t we all wish to know someone has our back, shouldn´t we care more about our neighbours, wouldn´t the world be a better place if we reached out more, offered help and not just around Christmastime?
I loved the balance between making me feel cozy and being reminded what is really important in life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2023
This book deals with the Banning Family in the small town of Christmas Town, Maine. Deals with each couples finally getting their Christmas wish.
The first story follows :
Jack and Sophie in: The Christmas Gift.
Callie and Dean in : The Christmas Wish
Nick and Gina in: The Christmas Date
Each story deals with a different couple , their Christmas Season and their confrontations. All the characters were well developed and the storyline was perfect for each story. A sweet collection with wonderful HEA's.
First book that I've read by this author. I really enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first story follows :
Jack and Sophie in: The Christmas Gift.
Callie and Dean in : The Christmas Wish
Nick and Gina in: The Christmas Date
Each story deals with a different couple , their Christmas Season and their confrontations. All the characters were well developed and the storyline was perfect for each story. A sweet collection with wonderful HEA's.
First book that I've read by this author. I really enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2022
This is an introduction to Christmas Town. I have read many of the novellas in this series, so it was a pleasure to go back to see how Christmas Town was first created. While the stories are good, I do think this series improved over time. I did feel the stores were a bit slow, but that might be since I was rooting for the couple to see beyond the obstacles and realized they were meant to be together.
Novellas are always a goods way to read new authors, and this book has three authors that I would recommend highly.
Novellas are always a goods way to read new authors, and this book has three authors that I would recommend highly.
December 8, 2022
Christmas, Actually: Three short stories by three authors set in the same town and at the same time frame. 4*
The Christmas Gift, Anna Adams - A sweet, but quick romance between two people who understood each other from the beginning. 4*
The Christmas Wish, Anna J. Stewart - I could not get into this story and stopped reading after a few chapters.
The Christmas Date, Melinda Curtis - My second favorite of the three short stories. At least, this romance was in the years making, not a quickie. Good ending. 4*
The Christmas Gift, Anna Adams - A sweet, but quick romance between two people who understood each other from the beginning. 4*
The Christmas Wish, Anna J. Stewart - I could not get into this story and stopped reading after a few chapters.
The Christmas Date, Melinda Curtis - My second favorite of the three short stories. At least, this romance was in the years making, not a quickie. Good ending. 4*
December 28, 2022
Authors Melinda Curtis, Anna Adams and Anna J. Stewart contributed to this anthology, Christmas Actually. The three stories in this anthology are sweet romances filled with lots of Christmas spirit. It's always a good time visiting Christmas Town. In this anthology the three Banning siblings, Jack, Nick and Callie find their "one" amidst all the festivities in town just before Christmas. These characters are very likable and the authors do a great job of drawing you into their stories. I love Christmas stories and this anthology was a very enjoyable read.
December 19, 2022
I loved these three sweet stories by different authors. I enjoyed each one. They each gave me a calm Christmas feeling as I read them. In the second story, I could understand how personal loss affects people as this year I have experienced that myself.
Jack, Callie and Nick were engaging characters and the stories are all in the same town and were sweet Christmas romances.
I received a copy of this book from an author. All thoughts are my own.
Jack, Callie and Nick were engaging characters and the stories are all in the same town and were sweet Christmas romances.
I received a copy of this book from an author. All thoughts are my own.
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