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Love in Store #2
Believe in Me
Bah, humbug!
All Cara Talbot wants for Christmas is for it to be over.
The workaholic accountant has good reason to hate Christmas, along with charmers like actor Nick Callaghan, playing celebrity Santa at the failing London department store she has the thankless job of managing.
She’s determined to save her staff’s jobs, Hollywood golden boy Nick just wants to live up to his Mr Unattached reputation and enjoy life. They couldn't be more opposite. But if accepting Nick’s dare – dates showing her the magic of a London Christmas – can raise enough publicity to keep the store open, she’ll do it. Even if she risks falling in love with him in the process.
Can this surprising Santa allow love to deepen his untested faith and learn to commit, while helping Ms Scrooge believe in Christmas, and in God, once more?
Book 2 in the Love In Store series of sweet inspirational romances.
Believe In Me semi-finalled in Harlequin's So You Think You Can Write contest 2013
WARNING
Believe In Me is a Christian romance!
Please don't buy this book if you are offended by the G-bomb (God), Jesus, and mention of prayer, church, or the Bible.
68,000 words, approximately 284 print pages
Includes Santa costumes, kissing, and past heartbreak to overcome, as well as British spelling.
Faith, Hope, & Heartwarming - inspirational romance to make you smile!
All Cara Talbot wants for Christmas is for it to be over.
The workaholic accountant has good reason to hate Christmas, along with charmers like actor Nick Callaghan, playing celebrity Santa at the failing London department store she has the thankless job of managing.
She’s determined to save her staff’s jobs, Hollywood golden boy Nick just wants to live up to his Mr Unattached reputation and enjoy life. They couldn't be more opposite. But if accepting Nick’s dare – dates showing her the magic of a London Christmas – can raise enough publicity to keep the store open, she’ll do it. Even if she risks falling in love with him in the process.
Can this surprising Santa allow love to deepen his untested faith and learn to commit, while helping Ms Scrooge believe in Christmas, and in God, once more?
Book 2 in the Love In Store series of sweet inspirational romances.
Believe In Me semi-finalled in Harlequin's So You Think You Can Write contest 2013
WARNING
Believe In Me is a Christian romance!
Please don't buy this book if you are offended by the G-bomb (God), Jesus, and mention of prayer, church, or the Bible.
68,000 words, approximately 284 print pages
Includes Santa costumes, kissing, and past heartbreak to overcome, as well as British spelling.
Faith, Hope, & Heartwarming - inspirational romance to make you smile!
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2014
164 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Autumn Macarthur
92 books193 followersAutumn Macarthur is an Australian writer of inspirational romance living near London with her very English husband and six spoiled cats. She loves reading, cooking, gardening, and writing deeply emotional stories to make you smile and remind you how big and wide and deep God's love and forgiveness can be.
She tends to talk a little too much, laugh a little too loud, and eat a little more than maybe she should. She's thankful to be blessed with some good friends and a very patient husband. Most of all, she's eternally grateful for God's great love and mercy.
When she's not writing or talking to her strawberry plants and cherry blossoms, she can be found blogging at www.faithhopeandheartwarming.com or on Substack.
She'd love to hear from you!
Sign up for the newsletter at her website and access exclusive subscriber only behind-the-book content and giveaways!
She tends to talk a little too much, laugh a little too loud, and eat a little more than maybe she should. She's thankful to be blessed with some good friends and a very patient husband. Most of all, she's eternally grateful for God's great love and mercy.
When she's not writing or talking to her strawberry plants and cherry blossoms, she can be found blogging at www.faithhopeandheartwarming.com or on Substack.
She'd love to hear from you!
Sign up for the newsletter at her website and access exclusive subscriber only behind-the-book content and giveaways!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 26, 2018
Sweetness and love...and completely adorable
I actually read A Model Bride first, as its Book 1 in another series while also Book 3 in this one. I was so excited to read Nick and Cara’s story, and it more than exceeded my expectations. The story beautifully works through Nick’s insecurities about his own lack of substance, while he helps to pull Cara out of her gray life of guilt and grief. Well developed characters, an entertaining and emotionally engaging plot, plus a whole lot of holiday fun make this a perfect pick-me-up on a wintry day.
I actually read A Model Bride first, as its Book 1 in another series while also Book 3 in this one. I was so excited to read Nick and Cara’s story, and it more than exceeded my expectations. The story beautifully works through Nick’s insecurities about his own lack of substance, while he helps to pull Cara out of her gray life of guilt and grief. Well developed characters, an entertaining and emotionally engaging plot, plus a whole lot of holiday fun make this a perfect pick-me-up on a wintry day.
January 25, 2015
charming and delightful
November 26, 2023
Before reading this book, I was sure I would like it based on the descriptions of the characters and the interesting premise, but when I was at about the 20% mark, I expected to hate it, mainly because of the characters. Very early in the book, Nick annoyed me because he was too flirty and pushy. As the story went on, I tolerated him more, though he will certainly never be one of my favorite male leads. At least he was nice to Cara and helped her through a lot of her pain.
Cara also got on my nerves, mainly because the book blurb described her as a “Ms. Scrooge”. She was very little like Ebenezer Scrooge! Sure, she hated Christmas, but for understandable reasons, and she only saved her money because she wanted to give it away. I suppose some authors shy away from writing unlikeable characters. I would have enjoyed this book far more if Cara had actually reminded me of Scrooge.
The romance in this book was based on a large amount of instant physical attraction. Why do authors resort to that unpleasant, overused trope so often? As soon as they met, Nick and Cara were enamored with the other’s appearance. The romance would have been so much more meaningful if they had come to love each other based on who they were rather than what they looked like. Also, Cara wasn’t a Christian for most of the book, and I don’t believe Nick should have allowed himself to become so close to her, since he was a Christian.
There were other problems with this book, like the highly unlikely plot, but I won’t go into detail. However, by the end of the book, I didn’t entirely hate it. Even though I liked neither Nick nor Cara, they were a good match for each other and improved the other.
The only part of this book that I actually liked, other than the London setting, was the fact that, even though it was an improbable Christmas rom-com, it didn’t shy away from discussing hard, realistic topics. I ended up feeling for Cara, who had quite a terrible early life. I also appreciated that there was some Christian content, though I wished the Christian aspect of the plot had been developed as much as the romantic aspect.
Cara also got on my nerves, mainly because the book blurb described her as a “Ms. Scrooge”. She was very little like Ebenezer Scrooge! Sure, she hated Christmas, but for understandable reasons, and she only saved her money because she wanted to give it away. I suppose some authors shy away from writing unlikeable characters. I would have enjoyed this book far more if Cara had actually reminded me of Scrooge.
The romance in this book was based on a large amount of instant physical attraction. Why do authors resort to that unpleasant, overused trope so often? As soon as they met, Nick and Cara were enamored with the other’s appearance. The romance would have been so much more meaningful if they had come to love each other based on who they were rather than what they looked like. Also, Cara wasn’t a Christian for most of the book, and I don’t believe Nick should have allowed himself to become so close to her, since he was a Christian.
There were other problems with this book, like the highly unlikely plot, but I won’t go into detail. However, by the end of the book, I didn’t entirely hate it. Even though I liked neither Nick nor Cara, they were a good match for each other and improved the other.
The only part of this book that I actually liked, other than the London setting, was the fact that, even though it was an improbable Christmas rom-com, it didn’t shy away from discussing hard, realistic topics. I ended up feeling for Cara, who had quite a terrible early life. I also appreciated that there was some Christian content, though I wished the Christian aspect of the plot had been developed as much as the romantic aspect.
November 30, 2019
A very sweet love story between Ms. Scrooge and Mr. Unattached. The setting is London and that makes it such a nice way to begin a Christmas Story. I love to read books centered around Christmas.
November 1, 2014
Believe In Me by Autumn Macarthur is the second book in the Love In Store series, and I was over joyed and blessed to receive a copy.
London department store Mayfield and Pettett is in trouble, so Hollywood heart throb, Nick has promised to work with the store's Santa, in the three weeks leading up to Christmas. Deputy manager Cara is responsible for his every whim.
Nick, the son of a pastor and who loves Christmas, challenges Cara, who dislikes Christmas to a dare - that he can change her feelings to the festive season. Mrs Pettett thinks this could be an opportunity to get favourable publicity for her ailing department store. Cara is reluctant, but agrees for the sake of the jobs of the eighty plus staff.
Cara is nursing a secret - one that means she stopped believing in God eleven years ago, when she was seventeen years old. Nick sees her hurt, and wants to help her, but will she open up to him?
Nick has everything that money can buy, but he is seen as shallow and lacking commitment. Will these three weeks in London in December help Nick to decide what he really wants from life?
Believe In Me is a wonderful novel, not just to be read in the lead up to Christmas, but at any time. It highlights the importance of believing in God's promises - no matter what has happened in the past, God still loves you. No one is ever too far from God. And feelings of guilt are from the enemy, and no one should wallow in them.
As with book number one in the series, The Wedding List, I found the characters well drawn and charming. Believe In Me is a lovely story - both on the surface and going deeper. Autumn Macarthur is a wonderful writer, and I cannot wait for the next novels in this series. So give yourself a treat...buy or download the Love In Store novels, you're in for a treat.
London department store Mayfield and Pettett is in trouble, so Hollywood heart throb, Nick has promised to work with the store's Santa, in the three weeks leading up to Christmas. Deputy manager Cara is responsible for his every whim.
Nick, the son of a pastor and who loves Christmas, challenges Cara, who dislikes Christmas to a dare - that he can change her feelings to the festive season. Mrs Pettett thinks this could be an opportunity to get favourable publicity for her ailing department store. Cara is reluctant, but agrees for the sake of the jobs of the eighty plus staff.
Cara is nursing a secret - one that means she stopped believing in God eleven years ago, when she was seventeen years old. Nick sees her hurt, and wants to help her, but will she open up to him?
Nick has everything that money can buy, but he is seen as shallow and lacking commitment. Will these three weeks in London in December help Nick to decide what he really wants from life?
Believe In Me is a wonderful novel, not just to be read in the lead up to Christmas, but at any time. It highlights the importance of believing in God's promises - no matter what has happened in the past, God still loves you. No one is ever too far from God. And feelings of guilt are from the enemy, and no one should wallow in them.
As with book number one in the series, The Wedding List, I found the characters well drawn and charming. Believe In Me is a lovely story - both on the surface and going deeper. Autumn Macarthur is a wonderful writer, and I cannot wait for the next novels in this series. So give yourself a treat...buy or download the Love In Store novels, you're in for a treat.
November 30, 2014
Wonderful book about an emotionally wounded heroine and movie star charming hero. They are immediately drawn to each other, but their road to HEA is not an easy one. Strong elements of faith and family. Some really sweet kissing scenes. A very touching scene between the hero and his dad. Totally sigh-worthy ending. This book will get you in the holiday spirit. Highly recommend. I was given a copy of this book by the author, that in no way influenced my review.
December 23, 2022
A perfect Christmas read. Cara has had a lot of heartache to deal with in her life and feels she needs to atone for her father’s past mistakes and her own guilt. She hates Christmas because of it. Much to her horror, she starts falling for Nick, who loves Christmas and wants her to love it too. The transition in Cara’s life as she learns to accept God’s plan and forgiveness is touching.
April 21, 2019
I have a friend who prefers to read holiday stories in season--it's never much bothered me to read stories set at holiday times at other times, but this one, I might agree with her and say that it might be better read during the Christmas season.
Cara Talbot takes a lot on herself. She feels she needs to atone for the behavior and actions of her father and she feels the guilt of not checking on her mother sooner. Since her father's actions put his employees out of work just before Christmas and her mother committed suicide at Christmas, Christmas is not her favorite holiday. Yet, Cara is determined to save not only her own job but the jobs of the other employees at the small department store where she works.
I don't think I could work for Cara's boss who always seems just a tick away from firing Cara--and who comes up with monthly schemes to increase business at the store. At least her December idea does seem to bear fruit and she does seem to listen to Nick (who's somehow related to a friend of hers).
I didn't catch what song they were doing at first. I thought it had to do with the 12 days of Christmas. So the "sable under the tree" was a bit confusing when you're thinking "partridge in a pear tree". It did eventually become clear--it might have been nice if the author could have included the song lyrics (or a link to them) somewhere in the book to clue those of us who don't know "Santa, Baby" by heart in to what was going on.
I liked that Cara had a heart. She helped William, the homeless man. She volunteers at a suicide hotline, and later at the homeless shelter that helped William. She's concerned for her fellow employees (even though many don't seem to treat her nicely). But she does take on things that aren't hers to correct too.
I liked the idea of creating window displays that coincided with the publicity that was being done for the store. They seem creative.
Cara Talbot takes a lot on herself. She feels she needs to atone for the behavior and actions of her father and she feels the guilt of not checking on her mother sooner. Since her father's actions put his employees out of work just before Christmas and her mother committed suicide at Christmas, Christmas is not her favorite holiday. Yet, Cara is determined to save not only her own job but the jobs of the other employees at the small department store where she works.
I don't think I could work for Cara's boss who always seems just a tick away from firing Cara--and who comes up with monthly schemes to increase business at the store. At least her December idea does seem to bear fruit and she does seem to listen to Nick (who's somehow related to a friend of hers).
I didn't catch what song they were doing at first. I thought it had to do with the 12 days of Christmas. So the "sable under the tree" was a bit confusing when you're thinking "partridge in a pear tree". It did eventually become clear--it might have been nice if the author could have included the song lyrics (or a link to them) somewhere in the book to clue those of us who don't know "Santa, Baby" by heart in to what was going on.
I liked that Cara had a heart. She helped William, the homeless man. She volunteers at a suicide hotline, and later at the homeless shelter that helped William. She's concerned for her fellow employees (even though many don't seem to treat her nicely). But she does take on things that aren't hers to correct too.
I liked the idea of creating window displays that coincided with the publicity that was being done for the store. They seem creative.
December 17, 2018
Authors raise same questions but no one answers them
When in too many Christian novels the question of God not being there for them in their time of need is raised, among other things, it is tantamount to recklessness when at the end of the book, the question still goes unanswered. Is it because the authors only know the question but not the answers? Or is it because someone decided in a marketing room that this question is a good draw? Or perhaps it is because in the European and American cultures of seeming entitlement, people brought up in religion within an institution are never informed of the relevance of John 3: 3-6?
Religion presumes relationship where there is none. And when we pray outside of said relationship we often presume hope, deep desire and zeal are identical to faith. They are not.
It is therefore unjust to a just God to raise questions about Him, never give the answers and leave the audience as ignorant as they were at the beginning of the book. The question then becomes : what truly is the relevance of raising a matter, identifying a problem, without in any way pointing the reader to the right way of thinking upon the matter or providing a solution to the problem ?
Ignorance promotes greater ignorance.
And people perish wherever their is the wrong instruction as to how to think or approach God?
Indeed, one may ask is God not allowed to say no? And where is the premise for such a way of thinking? And should we fail to understand then it is imperative that we read Elihu's answer to Job. It is also imperative that we read again the gospels preceded by the prayers in Ephesians or the one in Colossians.
And should you be offended immediately and take greater offense at the question raised that the vast evidence of the lack of an answer, then we must ask ourselves why and whether or not we are doing Jesus a disservice.
When in too many Christian novels the question of God not being there for them in their time of need is raised, among other things, it is tantamount to recklessness when at the end of the book, the question still goes unanswered. Is it because the authors only know the question but not the answers? Or is it because someone decided in a marketing room that this question is a good draw? Or perhaps it is because in the European and American cultures of seeming entitlement, people brought up in religion within an institution are never informed of the relevance of John 3: 3-6?
Religion presumes relationship where there is none. And when we pray outside of said relationship we often presume hope, deep desire and zeal are identical to faith. They are not.
It is therefore unjust to a just God to raise questions about Him, never give the answers and leave the audience as ignorant as they were at the beginning of the book. The question then becomes : what truly is the relevance of raising a matter, identifying a problem, without in any way pointing the reader to the right way of thinking upon the matter or providing a solution to the problem ?
Ignorance promotes greater ignorance.
And people perish wherever their is the wrong instruction as to how to think or approach God?
Indeed, one may ask is God not allowed to say no? And where is the premise for such a way of thinking? And should we fail to understand then it is imperative that we read Elihu's answer to Job. It is also imperative that we read again the gospels preceded by the prayers in Ephesians or the one in Colossians.
And should you be offended immediately and take greater offense at the question raised that the vast evidence of the lack of an answer, then we must ask ourselves why and whether or not we are doing Jesus a disservice.
December 22, 2023
📚THE STORY📚
Cara Talbot isn't a fan of the Christmas holidays. They contain too many painful memories for her. But as the accountant helping manage a London department store, she knows she has to bring her best for the season in order to keep the store afloat and prevent her coworkers from losing their jobs at Christmas.
Now her boss has brought in Nick Gallagher, an American actor - one Cara had a massive crush on as a kid after watching him in a beloved Christmas movie - to try and bring in customers. Cara's been tasked with showing him around and supporting this project.
She tells herself to just treat it like a job and get through it as quickly as possible. But her Scrooge-like attitude touches a nerve in Nick, who nearly sparkles with Christmas spirit. He decides to try as hard as he can to help her experience some Christmas magic and challenges her to go on "the Twelve Dates of Christmas" with him.
Cara resists. The skeletons in her closet make her feel ashamed, anxious, and cut off. But she might be able to save the store by pretending to go out with Nick, posing for photographs and spinning a fairy tale romance that draws shoppers in. So she agrees - only as a publicity operation.
Their time together doesn't just help the department store, though. Cara's tough exterior starts to crack, and Nick starts to realize that he might be feeling something stronger and more permanent than some Christmas excitement.
Will the secrets of Cara's past and the pressures of Nick's acting career force their romance to end with the New Year, or will their love outlast the tinsel and trees?
💕THE ROMANCE💕
Nick and Cara see and draw out the best in each other. Nick feels like he doesn't have much substance, and being with Cara gives in an opportunity to explore the deeper parts of himself. Cara feels weighed down and unworthy of love, and being with Nick helps her lighten up and see that there's more to life than fear and shame.
Nick's creative Christmas-themed dates are really fun, and the fact that Cara has a strong incentive to playact the romance gives her permission to fall a little harder than she otherwise might.
🎄CHRISTMAS🎄
This book is beyond Christmas-y. It takes place in a department store, complete with a longtime Santa and artistic window displays. Nick's dates are all based on the lyrics of the song Santa Baby - a tree trimmed with Tiffany, a light blue convertible, a city shining like platinum. Even his nickname in the press is Saint Nick, and her certainly delivers the Christmas magic.
Meanwhile, Cara is the Grinch to Nick's glittery personality. This twist on the grumpy/sunshine trope and the Christmas-themed bet at the center of the romance just make things even more fun.
✝️FAITH ELEMENTS✝️
Nick is a strong Christian, with a fervent belief that God created people for love, creativity, and joy. He revels in everything about Christmas, from the birth of Jesus to the more modern/commercial aspects. It's acknowledged that his joyful faith may partly stem from his privileged life, but the fact that he has a lot to be grateful for doesn't mean his posture of gratitude doesn't shine out.
Early on, Nick is convinced that God put him in Cara's life to teach her an important lesson about the meaning of Christmas, but this belief becomes more nuanced when he realizes that he also has a lot to learn.
Cara's faith has been sorely tested. At times, she feels like she has lost her faith entirely. At others, she feels annoyed at the way Christmas has been pulled away from its true meaning. Through Nick's loving example, she realizes that God intends for her a life of forgiveness, grace, and joy and has a Christmas-themed "road to Damascus" type moment at the book's climax.
📝MY THOUGHTS📝
So fun! So Christmas! I loved the side characters and the side plots, which I won't spoil here, but are
as sweet and satisfying as a Christmas ham. Cara's journey is believable and inspirational. Nick's struggles to figure out who he truly is and what he truly wants add depth to the star/billionaire hero archetype.
Cara Talbot isn't a fan of the Christmas holidays. They contain too many painful memories for her. But as the accountant helping manage a London department store, she knows she has to bring her best for the season in order to keep the store afloat and prevent her coworkers from losing their jobs at Christmas.
Now her boss has brought in Nick Gallagher, an American actor - one Cara had a massive crush on as a kid after watching him in a beloved Christmas movie - to try and bring in customers. Cara's been tasked with showing him around and supporting this project.
She tells herself to just treat it like a job and get through it as quickly as possible. But her Scrooge-like attitude touches a nerve in Nick, who nearly sparkles with Christmas spirit. He decides to try as hard as he can to help her experience some Christmas magic and challenges her to go on "the Twelve Dates of Christmas" with him.
Cara resists. The skeletons in her closet make her feel ashamed, anxious, and cut off. But she might be able to save the store by pretending to go out with Nick, posing for photographs and spinning a fairy tale romance that draws shoppers in. So she agrees - only as a publicity operation.
Their time together doesn't just help the department store, though. Cara's tough exterior starts to crack, and Nick starts to realize that he might be feeling something stronger and more permanent than some Christmas excitement.
Will the secrets of Cara's past and the pressures of Nick's acting career force their romance to end with the New Year, or will their love outlast the tinsel and trees?
💕THE ROMANCE💕
Nick and Cara see and draw out the best in each other. Nick feels like he doesn't have much substance, and being with Cara gives in an opportunity to explore the deeper parts of himself. Cara feels weighed down and unworthy of love, and being with Nick helps her lighten up and see that there's more to life than fear and shame.
Nick's creative Christmas-themed dates are really fun, and the fact that Cara has a strong incentive to playact the romance gives her permission to fall a little harder than she otherwise might.
🎄CHRISTMAS🎄
This book is beyond Christmas-y. It takes place in a department store, complete with a longtime Santa and artistic window displays. Nick's dates are all based on the lyrics of the song Santa Baby - a tree trimmed with Tiffany, a light blue convertible, a city shining like platinum. Even his nickname in the press is Saint Nick, and her certainly delivers the Christmas magic.
Meanwhile, Cara is the Grinch to Nick's glittery personality. This twist on the grumpy/sunshine trope and the Christmas-themed bet at the center of the romance just make things even more fun.
✝️FAITH ELEMENTS✝️
Nick is a strong Christian, with a fervent belief that God created people for love, creativity, and joy. He revels in everything about Christmas, from the birth of Jesus to the more modern/commercial aspects. It's acknowledged that his joyful faith may partly stem from his privileged life, but the fact that he has a lot to be grateful for doesn't mean his posture of gratitude doesn't shine out.
Early on, Nick is convinced that God put him in Cara's life to teach her an important lesson about the meaning of Christmas, but this belief becomes more nuanced when he realizes that he also has a lot to learn.
Cara's faith has been sorely tested. At times, she feels like she has lost her faith entirely. At others, she feels annoyed at the way Christmas has been pulled away from its true meaning. Through Nick's loving example, she realizes that God intends for her a life of forgiveness, grace, and joy and has a Christmas-themed "road to Damascus" type moment at the book's climax.
📝MY THOUGHTS📝
So fun! So Christmas! I loved the side characters and the side plots, which I won't spoil here, but are
as sweet and satisfying as a Christmas ham. Cara's journey is believable and inspirational. Nick's struggles to figure out who he truly is and what he truly wants add depth to the star/billionaire hero archetype.
August 25, 2023
LOVED this book!! This is the 2nd time I've read this book! The first time was way back when I didn't know how important reviews are! Cara is called Ms. Scrooge by her co-workers. She's not friends with any of them, as she's closed her heart to everything since her life imploded when she was seventeen. When she meets Nick, she's sure he's nothing but a playboy and doesn't want to have to work with him. When she realizes that she's not going to be able to get out of it, slowly but surely the walls around her heart come down. Once she realizes how much she means to God and to Nick, her defenses come down and she realizes that she can be happy, and deserves to be happy. She can't take on the weight that everything that happened when she was seventeen was her fault, when it clearly wasn't. Nick also learns about himself, that he needs to listen to what God has been trying to tell him. He realizes that his love for Cara has changed him, too. Love how he depends on God, and how God uses him to reach Cara for Him, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
January 19, 2019
This was a fun book to read.
It was full of wonderful images of London and all the glamour of the Christmas time.
Yet, it also had deep emotions of overcoming past pains and beliefs.
Cara, a lonely young lady, who as told by her co-workers was, "only twenty-eight going on fifty-eight." She didn't believe she deserved anything good in her life and had stopped believing in Christmas.
In walks Nick, who's an actor from America. He's there to help the store but thinks maybe he's also there to help Cara.
Oh my goodness, this book had so many entertaining scenes. The author, Autumn Macarthur, knows how to weave a story and make you feel you're right there with the characters experiencing all they did. I think I'd love to go to London and visit that store.
Ms. Macarthur also brought into this story the beautiful love and acceptance of God. No matter what is in our past, He's there. Never to leave us or forsake us.
I received this book from the author for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
It was full of wonderful images of London and all the glamour of the Christmas time.
Yet, it also had deep emotions of overcoming past pains and beliefs.
Cara, a lonely young lady, who as told by her co-workers was, "only twenty-eight going on fifty-eight." She didn't believe she deserved anything good in her life and had stopped believing in Christmas.
In walks Nick, who's an actor from America. He's there to help the store but thinks maybe he's also there to help Cara.
Oh my goodness, this book had so many entertaining scenes. The author, Autumn Macarthur, knows how to weave a story and make you feel you're right there with the characters experiencing all they did. I think I'd love to go to London and visit that store.
Ms. Macarthur also brought into this story the beautiful love and acceptance of God. No matter what is in our past, He's there. Never to leave us or forsake us.
I received this book from the author for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 30, 2020
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Cara is a workaholic manager of a London department store. Actor Nick has come to play Santa for the season. Cara had a crush on Nick when she young. She hates Christmas and needs more sales to save the store. Nick has a relationship with the Lord and asks Him what to do in regards to his Santa contract, he thinks God has it all planned. Cara turns out to be in charge of Nick and she is not happy about it! Nick suggests a 12 days of Christmas for her to rediscover the joy of Christmas. Cara has a few things to work out from her past and needs to stop punishing herself and start realizing that nothing is to big for God to forgive. God can take all of your guilt. The best thing for her to do now is pray for God to show her the way. Read this book and see what happens to Cara and Nick and how their relationship with God blossoms.
September 17, 2018
I really enjoyed reading about Cara and Nick. Cara come from a broken family she was carrying a lot by herself she was left to fend for herself. She needed to learn to open her heart and trust as she was betrayed and had a lot of guilt. Nick came from a good loving family and he has the faith to help Cara through her problems he is sweet and caring. A romantic Christian story that will have you hooked and not be able to put it down till it’s the end. Loved the Christian messages gives you hope to believe.
December 6, 2019
"Christmas should be about Jesus. The reason for the season, and all that. But I like presents too." How does Nick who loves Christmas and also a famous actor get along with Cara who absolutely hates Christmas and avoids it as well as personal relationships at all cost? They're stuck dating for a publicity stunt to boost sales, and they're as different as East is from West. Or are they? A fun Christmas read, though there were several typos. I also am not familiar with the song and recommend the author add the lyrics as a reference along with her British English glossary.
July 23, 2020
Believe in me
Cara in accounted from a store in Londen hates Christmas. Nick a famous Hollywood star loves Christmas. The store where Cara works is in financial trouble and Nick I hired to help the store to come around. Nick and Cara are Opposites from each other but are forst to work together for thee weeks to try to safe the store. Nick is a Christian but cara lost her believe. A lot is happening in the book and there is a lot of confusion but in they end everything is going to be alright. It's a heart-warming clean wel written christian romance
Cara in accounted from a store in Londen hates Christmas. Nick a famous Hollywood star loves Christmas. The store where Cara works is in financial trouble and Nick I hired to help the store to come around. Nick and Cara are Opposites from each other but are forst to work together for thee weeks to try to safe the store. Nick is a Christian but cara lost her believe. A lot is happening in the book and there is a lot of confusion but in they end everything is going to be alright. It's a heart-warming clean wel written christian romance
December 17, 2022
A good Christmas read! with Faith and Romance. Even though the story summary sounds like a typical Rich Man / Poor Woman - Nick and Cara compensate each other and balance each other's void and strength.
If you ask me whether it is light? I would say "Not at all" because of Cara's guilt driven inferiority complex. Ms. Autumn has repeated the guilt driven thoughts of Cara, throughout the story and it sounded a bit excessive along the way. But other than that, the story and the pace are pretty bright and lovable.
If you ask me whether it is light? I would say "Not at all" because of Cara's guilt driven inferiority complex. Ms. Autumn has repeated the guilt driven thoughts of Cara, throughout the story and it sounded a bit excessive along the way. But other than that, the story and the pace are pretty bright and lovable.
April 12, 2023
I have to say this book was really good. I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it, but this one was even better. When I read a Christian book I want it to point to Christ and I was not disappointed. Sweet Cara had suffered so long with grief and guilt. She was overwhelmed and refused to let God heal her. Along comes Nick, her movie star crush as a child. But Nick is grown up and loves the Lord and feels led to make Cara happy. It works and Cara has a ‘meet with Jesus’ moment. All wrapped up nicely in a Christmas theme. Looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2023
Believe in Me is a wonderful holiday romance. Cara and Nick are great characters. I love the way that they grow and change throughout the book. The dates that Nick comes up with are fantastic! I wasn't familiar enough with the song to know how Santa Baby matched up. I think it would have been even more enjoyable a read for me if I had looked up the song lyrics before reading it to see how Nick was working it into each date. I recommend this to readers of clean romance and of Christian romance and to lovers of all things Christmas.
December 23, 2025
There are so many stories incorporating the 12 Days of Christmas song so I was happy to see a different song being used by Nick to show Cara the magic of Christmas. It did take me some time to get invested in Cara because even though her backstory was a tragic one, she dwelled too deeply on it in the beginning embracing a victim mentality. However, I loved Nick and his efforts to bring joy to this emotionally scarred woman. Eventually, as Cara began to thaw and see herself through Nick’s eyes, her struggles to overcome her past made me root for her.
February 24, 2018
Grace- The real story of Christmas!
At first the story line seemed to be to repetitive, but after continuing on the complexity of Cara's hurtful past was reminding me of how much guilt and shame can and will keep each of us down until we surrender to God's unconditional Love! Great name for Nick and a great ending. I couldn't wait to find out how the story ended and you won't be either Great to read any time of the year.
At first the story line seemed to be to repetitive, but after continuing on the complexity of Cara's hurtful past was reminding me of how much guilt and shame can and will keep each of us down until we surrender to God's unconditional Love! Great name for Nick and a great ending. I couldn't wait to find out how the story ended and you won't be either Great to read any time of the year.
April 4, 2022
Cara is a using her life and income to repay for the sins of her father that has become a dutiful drudgery reflected in her interests and clothing. Nick cruises through life of success until challenged by his costar to commit to something. Cara and Nick could learn from the others way of living to possibly find that something missing in their life if they are willing to. Enjoyed the Christmas moments. Meeting Maggie in this book gives a look into next book in series.
June 12, 2017
I enjoyed reading a Christmas story in the summertime. This story demonstrates that a Christian relationship make both people better. Perhaps opposites attract because they tend to change for the better. In this case, Cara became less rigid and serious and Nick became less superficial and more serious.
August 26, 2017
Happy Christmas to All
A Christmas love story set in London, with all the festive trimmings. A lonely accountant at a failing department store meets an American actor in London just for the holiday season. They take the reader on a lovely tour of the town, to watch as their bruised and broken hearts try to mend. A wonderful story of trust, guilt, hope, love, and the prodigal.
A Christmas love story set in London, with all the festive trimmings. A lonely accountant at a failing department store meets an American actor in London just for the holiday season. They take the reader on a lovely tour of the town, to watch as their bruised and broken hearts try to mend. A wonderful story of trust, guilt, hope, love, and the prodigal.
April 11, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Autumn Macarthur, but it will definitely not be the last. I read it with tears in my eyes much of the time. I felt Cara’s pain, as she lived with a lot of guilt and blamed herself for the actions of her parents. Through her relationship with Nick, her faith in God was renewed and she found love once again.
January 2, 2018
Cara Talbot is a workaholic account at a London department where the elderly owner wants everything her way. And her way is not working. Cara is determined to save the staff's jobs.
Because of Cara's past, she hates Christmas.
Nick Callaghan come from the US to play a celebrity Santa. Nick loves Christmas. Can this save the store?
He offers a challenge to Cara.....through this challenge can they save the store....
Because of Cara's past, she hates Christmas.
Nick Callaghan come from the US to play a celebrity Santa. Nick loves Christmas. Can this save the store?
He offers a challenge to Cara.....through this challenge can they save the store....
July 23, 2018
Ms Macarthur refers to her work as Inspirational Fiction, and that's just what it is. This book deals with issues around forgiveness and pride. I don't know what I can say to do justice to it; it's a beautiful piece of work, a beautiful story, and conveys a most beautiful cargo of faith instruction. Very highly recommended.
December 14, 2018
Believe in me
What a great story. Had to keep reading till the end it was so good. The whole story is one many can believe as parts of it felt so true it brought tears to my eyes. The love of the Lord and Christmas all rolled into one made it a great story. This is one I will recommend to everyone who reads. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
What a great story. Had to keep reading till the end it was so good. The whole story is one many can believe as parts of it felt so true it brought tears to my eyes. The love of the Lord and Christmas all rolled into one made it a great story. This is one I will recommend to everyone who reads. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
January 21, 2020
Believing in the true story of Christmas
A wonderful story of bringing the love of Christmas and Christ back to someone who says she no longer believes. I like how the author breaks down Christ like examples and presents them in practical everyday live events and activities. A moving Christian inspirational romance.
A wonderful story of bringing the love of Christmas and Christ back to someone who says she no longer believes. I like how the author breaks down Christ like examples and presents them in practical everyday live events and activities. A moving Christian inspirational romance.
October 3, 2023
You will not want to put this book down! The characters have real issues they deal with. This is not just an easy read. It will have you looking to see where God wants you in your life at this time in your life.
You’ll laugh, cry and cheer as you walk with Cara and Nick through this beautifully written story.
You’ll laugh, cry and cheer as you walk with Cara and Nick through this beautifully written story.
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