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The Perfect Christmas
A holiday short story that proves that true love is forever, not just for Christmas…
Hollywood movie star Maggie and friend and manager Zoe need an escape from their complicated star-studded lives in LA. With its history and Christmas charm, London feels like the perfect getaway.
But can they truly leave their realities behind?
In their luxurious quarters, the girls meet Holly who is ideal at showing Maggie and Zoe the sumptuous sights and sounds of London in their most glittering light. But behind her bright façade, Holly is hiding a secret: suffering from unrequited love, she’s looking for a Christmas miracle. Desperate to see an unattainable love story for Holly come together, will our LA starlets succeed in providing a Hollywood ending before the dawn of Christmas Day?
Packed to the brim with festive cheer, this is the only story you’ll need this Christmas…
Hollywood movie star Maggie and friend and manager Zoe need an escape from their complicated star-studded lives in LA. With its history and Christmas charm, London feels like the perfect getaway.
But can they truly leave their realities behind?
In their luxurious quarters, the girls meet Holly who is ideal at showing Maggie and Zoe the sumptuous sights and sounds of London in their most glittering light. But behind her bright façade, Holly is hiding a secret: suffering from unrequited love, she’s looking for a Christmas miracle. Desperate to see an unattainable love story for Holly come together, will our LA starlets succeed in providing a Hollywood ending before the dawn of Christmas Day?
Packed to the brim with festive cheer, this is the only story you’ll need this Christmas…
78 pages, ebook
First published September 29, 2014
21 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 9, 2014
According to NetGalley and Goodreads, this book was published in September, but I cannot find it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, so I can only assume that something happened to push that back. That's really sad because if I was going to recommend any holiday romance this year, it would DEFINITELY be this one. I am not a fan of romance, for many reasons, but this book is what romance SHOULD be and if they were all like this one, I could see myself changing my mind about the whole genre.
First of all, look at that cover. (Yes, me again with my cover infatuation.) It's simple, well done ... and makes me wonder what is inside.
Second of all, it is a clean romance. It's not lust or sex, but truly a love - well, a love that hasn't really had a chance to come together yet. Which is where Maggie and Zoe come in. They meet Holly when they take a spur of the moment trip to London (to get away from work, away from sadness, away from empty homes) - she works at the hotel they are staying in and it is her job to make sure that they have everything they need.
Third of all, the characters are awesome!! The friendship between Maggie and Zoe is awesome - they know each other so well and not only are there for each other, but encourage each other to be better and to do what they need to do for themselves. I love how Maggie wants to help people and make sure that they have a wonderful holiday - and the things that her and Zoe do to make Holly's dream come true was so much fun to read.
A great story. Well written. Kate Forster is definitely an author I plan to keep my eye on - even if she does write romance :)
Note: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
First of all, look at that cover. (Yes, me again with my cover infatuation.) It's simple, well done ... and makes me wonder what is inside.
Second of all, it is a clean romance. It's not lust or sex, but truly a love - well, a love that hasn't really had a chance to come together yet. Which is where Maggie and Zoe come in. They meet Holly when they take a spur of the moment trip to London (to get away from work, away from sadness, away from empty homes) - she works at the hotel they are staying in and it is her job to make sure that they have everything they need.
Third of all, the characters are awesome!! The friendship between Maggie and Zoe is awesome - they know each other so well and not only are there for each other, but encourage each other to be better and to do what they need to do for themselves. I love how Maggie wants to help people and make sure that they have a wonderful holiday - and the things that her and Zoe do to make Holly's dream come true was so much fun to read.
A great story. Well written. Kate Forster is definitely an author I plan to keep my eye on - even if she does write romance :)
Note: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
November 6, 2014
When Maggie's husband suddenly announces he's spending Christmas in Mexico with her Stepson- and she is surplus to requirements, she decides it's the perfect time to plan a girls trip to London. She books the Dorchester Hotel and takes her manager/friend Zoe with her. It's like living in another world seeing how their stay is catered for- as they are assigned a personal helper who organises trips and personal shoppers for them.
They want to help her get noticed by the Manager as they are sure there is a spark of interest there.
This was such a sweet short story- would have loved this to have been a longer book with more adventures in London. Maybe we'll catch up further with these characters in another book. Lot's of romantic anticipation and magical christmas sparkle.
Another great one to curl up with on a cold evening.
Many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
They want to help her get noticed by the Manager as they are sure there is a spark of interest there.
This was such a sweet short story- would have loved this to have been a longer book with more adventures in London. Maybe we'll catch up further with these characters in another book. Lot's of romantic anticipation and magical christmas sparkle.
Another great one to curl up with on a cold evening.
Many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
January 1, 2021
I received my copy from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Perfect Christmas is the fourth book that I have read so far as part of the Aussie Readers December Challenge at Goodreads. All these Christmas themed books are really getting me in the mood for the festive season. If only the weather would start behaving now, it’s very miserable and dreary in Melbourne today. At least it isn’t as cold as London would be this time of year which is where The Perfect Christmas is set.
London is the perfect setting for such a short, sweet novella which is full of Christmas spirit, romance and finishes with a Christmas miracle. I really liked all of the characters and would love to read more about them, in fact The Perfect Christmas could have easily been longer for my liking.
I you enjoy romance or Christmas themed short stories then you will love The Perfect Christmas.
The Perfect Christmas is the fourth book that I have read so far as part of the Aussie Readers December Challenge at Goodreads. All these Christmas themed books are really getting me in the mood for the festive season. If only the weather would start behaving now, it’s very miserable and dreary in Melbourne today. At least it isn’t as cold as London would be this time of year which is where The Perfect Christmas is set.
London is the perfect setting for such a short, sweet novella which is full of Christmas spirit, romance and finishes with a Christmas miracle. I really liked all of the characters and would love to read more about them, in fact The Perfect Christmas could have easily been longer for my liking.
I you enjoy romance or Christmas themed short stories then you will love The Perfect Christmas.
December 13, 2014
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.com/...
In search of a light holiday read I found this story as a read now feature on Netgalley. Thank you for the chance to give my honest feedback.
This was a really quick read with only 78 pages. I did not know where it was heading at the beginning. Maggie's husband was such a nightmare that it was almost excessive. There seemed to be so much more behind the story that I didn't understand.
Once the story moves to London it becomes the Christmas story I expected. The story of Christmas magic, match making and falling in love. It was really cute. Add to it that one of the characters was named Jack Frost. I wont say much because the story is not very long and I must leave something to discover.
I do have to make a couple of nit-picking comments on this. The main idea is that Maggie is a rich and famous superstar who has a life of luxury. In this I found a couple of inconsistencies.
The first is talking about her "suite" in first class when she was flying to London. Having flown first class on numerous occasions this is a bit of an exaggeration. Since it was not a private jet it would be considered more of a pod than a suite. Minor I know but to keep it real it was a little too much. don't get me wrong, first class is a way better option than the rest but suite implies spacious which is a stretch. The second is that it talked about Maggie shopping at Zara as if it was an exclusive store when it is available everywhere at a price range for the average person. Again, a minor point.
It appears that this Christmas story is a prequel to another story which I think will offer the reader a little bit more. While this story was cute I found myself more interested in the story that happens next. I will have to stay tuned to find out what happens.
In search of a light holiday read I found this story as a read now feature on Netgalley. Thank you for the chance to give my honest feedback.
This was a really quick read with only 78 pages. I did not know where it was heading at the beginning. Maggie's husband was such a nightmare that it was almost excessive. There seemed to be so much more behind the story that I didn't understand.
Once the story moves to London it becomes the Christmas story I expected. The story of Christmas magic, match making and falling in love. It was really cute. Add to it that one of the characters was named Jack Frost. I wont say much because the story is not very long and I must leave something to discover.
I do have to make a couple of nit-picking comments on this. The main idea is that Maggie is a rich and famous superstar who has a life of luxury. In this I found a couple of inconsistencies.
The first is talking about her "suite" in first class when she was flying to London. Having flown first class on numerous occasions this is a bit of an exaggeration. Since it was not a private jet it would be considered more of a pod than a suite. Minor I know but to keep it real it was a little too much. don't get me wrong, first class is a way better option than the rest but suite implies spacious which is a stretch. The second is that it talked about Maggie shopping at Zara as if it was an exclusive store when it is available everywhere at a price range for the average person. Again, a minor point.
It appears that this Christmas story is a prequel to another story which I think will offer the reader a little bit more. While this story was cute I found myself more interested in the story that happens next. I will have to stay tuned to find out what happens.
November 13, 2014
Originally posted on http://beccasbooooks.blogspot.co.uk/
Firstly, thank you to the publishers Mira UK for providing me with a digital copy of The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster is a short story, meaning that I read this within an hour. The thing about short stories is that I'm always left wanting more, wanting to know more about the characters, the situations, the lives... I don't think there has ever been a time where I've finished a short story and felt satisfied.
In The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster, we meet Maggie and Zoe, both desperate to get away and leave LA behind for a few days. The fact that the girls decided on London had me excited, as London during Christmas is said to be a truly glorious sight. When the girls arrive and are met at their hotel by their very own personal concierge, I was made aware of Maggie's status. The hotel was luxurious, their room almost like that of a palace, and I was insanely jealous of the fact that they were able to order room service (something which I've always wanted to do)! Kate created a fabulous atmosphere during their time in London, it definitely felt Christmassy, with the lights and the shopping! The scene was really delivered to me, and I loved it.
The plot moved along very quickly, but not so quickly that I didn't have chance to enjoy it, which I did. The idea of having Holly, the concierge, involved in the plot was great, and it added that gorgeous spark of romance to the story, which we all adore at Christmas! There was a little bit of meddling on Maggie and Zoe's part, and of course best-friend banter, which was entertaining to say the least. The whole tone of the short story was jovial, festive and endlessly enjoyable.
Becca's Books is rating The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster with four cupcakes! I did enjoy this book and the whole idea was great, however I still don't think I'm sold on the whole short story thing! It really doesn't work for me. I need more, more, more. I reckon if this had been made into a full-length novel, I would have bloody loved it! That's not to say that I didn't though, because I most definitely did. A cute, short, festive read that will have you pining for the lights and chaos of London in the throes of Christmas! Thank you Kate, and thank you Mira UK!
Firstly, thank you to the publishers Mira UK for providing me with a digital copy of The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster is a short story, meaning that I read this within an hour. The thing about short stories is that I'm always left wanting more, wanting to know more about the characters, the situations, the lives... I don't think there has ever been a time where I've finished a short story and felt satisfied.
In The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster, we meet Maggie and Zoe, both desperate to get away and leave LA behind for a few days. The fact that the girls decided on London had me excited, as London during Christmas is said to be a truly glorious sight. When the girls arrive and are met at their hotel by their very own personal concierge, I was made aware of Maggie's status. The hotel was luxurious, their room almost like that of a palace, and I was insanely jealous of the fact that they were able to order room service (something which I've always wanted to do)! Kate created a fabulous atmosphere during their time in London, it definitely felt Christmassy, with the lights and the shopping! The scene was really delivered to me, and I loved it.
The plot moved along very quickly, but not so quickly that I didn't have chance to enjoy it, which I did. The idea of having Holly, the concierge, involved in the plot was great, and it added that gorgeous spark of romance to the story, which we all adore at Christmas! There was a little bit of meddling on Maggie and Zoe's part, and of course best-friend banter, which was entertaining to say the least. The whole tone of the short story was jovial, festive and endlessly enjoyable.
Becca's Books is rating The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster with four cupcakes! I did enjoy this book and the whole idea was great, however I still don't think I'm sold on the whole short story thing! It really doesn't work for me. I need more, more, more. I reckon if this had been made into a full-length novel, I would have bloody loved it! That's not to say that I didn't though, because I most definitely did. A cute, short, festive read that will have you pining for the lights and chaos of London in the throes of Christmas! Thank you Kate, and thank you Mira UK!
July 6, 2019
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to MIRA for approving my request to review this via Netgalley.
Maggie needs to get away for Christmas so she drags her bestie Zoe to London for a few days. While they are there they meet Holly.
Holly is hopelessly in love with a man she can't be with. Maggie being Maggie wants a Christmas miracle and decides she will find a way for these two people to be together.
This is a story full of Christmas cheer in one of the best cities in the world at Christmas time. I love the tour of the Christmas lights at Oxford Street.
If you're looking for a short and sweet Christmas read then this is for you.
Maggie needs to get away for Christmas so she drags her bestie Zoe to London for a few days. While they are there they meet Holly.
Holly is hopelessly in love with a man she can't be with. Maggie being Maggie wants a Christmas miracle and decides she will find a way for these two people to be together.
This is a story full of Christmas cheer in one of the best cities in the world at Christmas time. I love the tour of the Christmas lights at Oxford Street.
If you're looking for a short and sweet Christmas read then this is for you.
November 23, 2014
I'm not normally a fan of short stories, but I enjoyed reading The Perfect Christmas in one sitting. It was a real festive treat.
I really like it when authors include an extract from their next novel, I find it gives us readers something to look forward too. I always pre-order as it gives me something to look forward too. I'm now rather excited and eagerly waiting the arrival of Picture Perfect next year.
This is the first of Kate's work Iv read and I really enjoyed it. I've now downloaded her other books. I loved the settings of the story, you can't beat London at Christmas.
I'd thoroughly recommend Kate's book to my friends and family, absolutely brilliant and entertaining. Roll on April 2015............
I really like it when authors include an extract from their next novel, I find it gives us readers something to look forward too. I always pre-order as it gives me something to look forward too. I'm now rather excited and eagerly waiting the arrival of Picture Perfect next year.
This is the first of Kate's work Iv read and I really enjoyed it. I've now downloaded her other books. I loved the settings of the story, you can't beat London at Christmas.
I'd thoroughly recommend Kate's book to my friends and family, absolutely brilliant and entertaining. Roll on April 2015............
June 28, 2020
3.5 Stars - Sweet Christmas Novella
Maggie, a famous actress whose marriage is ending, and her best friend and manager Zoe decide to fly off to London for the holidays. The problem is they get sidetracked by Maggie’s need to play matchmaker for concierge Holly and hotel manager Jack Frost. Although there’s a HEA, the story of Maggie and Zoe continues on in other books.
This novella is a sweet clean Christmas romance but a bit on the brief side, even as a novella. It would have been great if we’d gotten to know Jack and Holly better before the end. The main story seems to be centered around Maggie trying to find a HEA for someone else since she can’t find her own, and her bestie. Zoe is a workaholic and has to be made to relax, although she finally falls in with Maggie’s matchmaking scheme. A lengthy sneak peek into the next segment of the story is included at the end and it’s just enough to peak my interest.
My copy was provided in advance from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Maggie, a famous actress whose marriage is ending, and her best friend and manager Zoe decide to fly off to London for the holidays. The problem is they get sidetracked by Maggie’s need to play matchmaker for concierge Holly and hotel manager Jack Frost. Although there’s a HEA, the story of Maggie and Zoe continues on in other books.
This novella is a sweet clean Christmas romance but a bit on the brief side, even as a novella. It would have been great if we’d gotten to know Jack and Holly better before the end. The main story seems to be centered around Maggie trying to find a HEA for someone else since she can’t find her own, and her bestie. Zoe is a workaholic and has to be made to relax, although she finally falls in with Maggie’s matchmaking scheme. A lengthy sneak peek into the next segment of the story is included at the end and it’s just enough to peak my interest.
My copy was provided in advance from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2022
This is a short story about best friends Maggie, a Hollywood superstar, and Zoe, her husband's manager. With Maggie in a failing marriage she decides to go to London for Christmas with Zoe, and when there she finds an opportunity to set up a couple clearly in love with each other. It's a very short story, with a very predictable outcome, but it's a nice, quick festive read.
July 3, 2015
4.5
Posted in full http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2015...
The Perfect Christmas is a short story packed with tons of festive goodness and oozing with addictive Christmas spirt. It’s light-hearted, it’s fun and it involves a lovely little Christmas fairytale – the perfect quick read to help you lose some of the stress the festive seasons brings with it. Movie star Maggie is used to spending Christmas with her husband Will and his son, Elliot, but things are not great in their relationship and much to Maggie’s upset, Will has chosen to spend Christmas in Mexico with Elliot and she’s not invited! Instead, Maggie turns to her best friend and manager Zoe in the hope they can escape their dreary Christmases in LA together. Maggie’s been struggling as her stepson is poorly and on the donor list for a new heart. Zoe is working herself far too hard, constantly attached to her phone or laptop. But they’re soon on their way to spending Christmas in London and Maggie is super excited to have new plans for Christmas – ones which involve lots of shopping and lots of fun.
I really loved Kate Forster’s writing style – it was fresh, witty and she sure knew how to set a scene. The description of London at Christmas time was made to sound beautiful and as Maggie and Zoe go on a shopping spree, the chaotic madness of Christmas shopping in the overflowing city of London was represented to be realistically, extremely manic. The friendship between Maggie and Zoe was really entertaining to read and I loved both characters. There was a lot of humour and the dynamics between them worked really well – with Zoe trying to persuade Maggie to not worry about losing weight this Christmas and eat the food she wants to eat – and Maggie trying to get Zoe to take a break from work because it’s Christmas and she’s on holiday, business can wait. I thought their friendship was great fun to read and two characters you feel you could have a laugh with.
In London, Maggie and Zoe meet their concierge, Holly, who is sweet and very helpful and so easy to like. Holly has got more than a little crush on one of her colleagues and Maggie picks up on that virtually straight away. Much to Zoe’s bemusement, Maggie sets out to play Cupid. Just because she can’t have the perfect Christmas doesn’t mean she shouldn’t help somebody else have the perfect Christmas, right? The humour of this book came through Maggie and Zoe’s meddling and Maggie’s pure desperation to bring Holly her fairytale Christmas. Neither Maggie or Zoe really appeared to be the stereotypical well-off women, celebrities even, they seemed more down-to-earth than that and far more generous with their time but it was refreshing to read and I wondered how things were going to play out for all three ladies.
At the end of this short story, there’s a lengthy extract of Picture Perfect, the full-length follow up novel to The Perfect Christmas. I was sold on this right away and I will read it because this short story leaves a lot left to be discovered about the characters of Maggie and Zoe and they’re own lives back in LA. I’d love to know more about Maggie’s story and about her poorly stepson Elliot, about why her relationship with Will appeared to be so damaged. The Perfect Christmas worked wonderfully as a prequel short story because it has got me completely interested in these characters and eager to read more from them. It’s a fun-filled, feel-good holiday read which is ideal just to put a big smile on your face this Christmas time.
*Review copy
November 5, 2014
The Perfect Christmas is a short story that has already got me into the festive spirit. I'm sitting her humming carols to myself as I type! At 78 pages this novella is a great way of dipping into the Christmas period when you have some spare time.
I loved the two main characters. Maggie is married to Will and has a step son who is waiting for a heart transplant. They usually spend Christmas at home together and Maggie is shocked when Will announces that they are off to Mexico for Christmas this year, without Maggie.
Zoe is Maggies friend and manager. They haven't seen eachother in a couple of months, but when Maggie hears about Wills plans she heads straight over to see Zoe. With neither having any plans they decide that they will escape all the madness and head to London. Zoe is always on the go working and it is Maggies intention for her to stop for a few days.
We follow them over to London where they check into The Dorchester hotel and the fun begins. Here we meet Holly who is assigned to look after them during their stay. Maggie spots that Holly has a, how shall I say....soft spot for Jack who is the hotel manager, and decides to take it upon herself to play Cupid. The rest of the story follows their trips out, and also their attempt to bring Holly and Jack together.
I really enjoyed this novella and read it all in one sitting. The characters are bought to life very quickly and I felt able to connect with them. The story felt like a great adventure which made me laugh and smirk almost all the way through. Maggie and Zoe are very likeable and I really wanted them to go out and have fun, so was willing them on. It was a bit like hanging out with a couple of friends. There is an air of naughtiness and mischievousness in Maggie which made me smile throughout. I enjoyed the dynamics of their friendship, and seeing Zoe being forced to lighten up and let go. It also wouldn't be Christmas without a budding romance and the novella ticked that box for me.
A fun easy read, full of festive spirit. It even got me in the mood to think about my Christmas shopping and the smell of winter in the air without dread. I love Christmas time and this novella created a feeling of happiness and joy in me, and has me reaching for the mince pies!
Thank you to Harlequin UK, Mira who provided a copy in return for an honest review.
I loved the two main characters. Maggie is married to Will and has a step son who is waiting for a heart transplant. They usually spend Christmas at home together and Maggie is shocked when Will announces that they are off to Mexico for Christmas this year, without Maggie.
Zoe is Maggies friend and manager. They haven't seen eachother in a couple of months, but when Maggie hears about Wills plans she heads straight over to see Zoe. With neither having any plans they decide that they will escape all the madness and head to London. Zoe is always on the go working and it is Maggies intention for her to stop for a few days.
We follow them over to London where they check into The Dorchester hotel and the fun begins. Here we meet Holly who is assigned to look after them during their stay. Maggie spots that Holly has a, how shall I say....soft spot for Jack who is the hotel manager, and decides to take it upon herself to play Cupid. The rest of the story follows their trips out, and also their attempt to bring Holly and Jack together.
I really enjoyed this novella and read it all in one sitting. The characters are bought to life very quickly and I felt able to connect with them. The story felt like a great adventure which made me laugh and smirk almost all the way through. Maggie and Zoe are very likeable and I really wanted them to go out and have fun, so was willing them on. It was a bit like hanging out with a couple of friends. There is an air of naughtiness and mischievousness in Maggie which made me smile throughout. I enjoyed the dynamics of their friendship, and seeing Zoe being forced to lighten up and let go. It also wouldn't be Christmas without a budding romance and the novella ticked that box for me.
A fun easy read, full of festive spirit. It even got me in the mood to think about my Christmas shopping and the smell of winter in the air without dread. I love Christmas time and this novella created a feeling of happiness and joy in me, and has me reaching for the mince pies!
Thank you to Harlequin UK, Mira who provided a copy in return for an honest review.
January 6, 2015
Originally reviewed for Bookaholic Confessions
Super star actress Maggie is unhappily married to the demanding (and extremely grumpy) Will. Things come to head between the pair when he announces that he’s taking his son (and Maggie’s step-son) Elliot over to Mexico for Christmas…and Maggie is most certainly not invited.
After despairing to her best friend and manager, Zoe, Maggie hatches the plan that the pair should leave LA behind and go and spend Christmas in London. Workaholic Zoe could definitely do with a break from her laptop and Maggie is in need of an escape of her own. Believing that London is one of the best cities in the world to spend Christmas the flights are booked and the magic begins as the pair embark on the trip of a lifetime. There’s shopping, sightseeing and calorie laden treats aplenty for Zoe and Maggie as they end up turning into matchmakers and performing one or two Christmas miracles of their own…
The Perfect Christmas is the ultimate feel-good Christmassy treat and I whizzed through this short story faster than a novice on ice skates…
It was exciting, warm, funny and REALLY, REALLY festive. Despite this only being a short story I bonded quickly with the characters (especially Holly…she does have a great name, after all…!) and became engrossed in Maggie and Zoe’s London adventure.
The way in Kate Foster describes London at Christmas really brings the city to life and I could have practically been sat in The Dorchester with Maggie and Zoe sipping afternoon tea. It was all so beautiful, extravagant and yet so real.
The whole of The Perfect Christmas was a truly magical story, especially the ending. I was really pleased with the way that things turned out, but my only problem now is that I want more from these characters…
This novella is similar to a modern day fairytale, ok so it may not be the most realistic of storylines but that’s the whole idea. As an adult it’s sometimes just nice to get swept up in a story that will carry you off to a nice, snowy, sparkly place and The Perfect Christmas does just that.
Super star actress Maggie is unhappily married to the demanding (and extremely grumpy) Will. Things come to head between the pair when he announces that he’s taking his son (and Maggie’s step-son) Elliot over to Mexico for Christmas…and Maggie is most certainly not invited.
After despairing to her best friend and manager, Zoe, Maggie hatches the plan that the pair should leave LA behind and go and spend Christmas in London. Workaholic Zoe could definitely do with a break from her laptop and Maggie is in need of an escape of her own. Believing that London is one of the best cities in the world to spend Christmas the flights are booked and the magic begins as the pair embark on the trip of a lifetime. There’s shopping, sightseeing and calorie laden treats aplenty for Zoe and Maggie as they end up turning into matchmakers and performing one or two Christmas miracles of their own…
The Perfect Christmas is the ultimate feel-good Christmassy treat and I whizzed through this short story faster than a novice on ice skates…
It was exciting, warm, funny and REALLY, REALLY festive. Despite this only being a short story I bonded quickly with the characters (especially Holly…she does have a great name, after all…!) and became engrossed in Maggie and Zoe’s London adventure.
The way in Kate Foster describes London at Christmas really brings the city to life and I could have practically been sat in The Dorchester with Maggie and Zoe sipping afternoon tea. It was all so beautiful, extravagant and yet so real.
The whole of The Perfect Christmas was a truly magical story, especially the ending. I was really pleased with the way that things turned out, but my only problem now is that I want more from these characters…
This novella is similar to a modern day fairytale, ok so it may not be the most realistic of storylines but that’s the whole idea. As an adult it’s sometimes just nice to get swept up in a story that will carry you off to a nice, snowy, sparkly place and The Perfect Christmas does just that.
January 2, 2015
*Copy provided by NetGalley*
Can small trip change the lives of two people?
Holly and Jack never thought that two guests in their hotel would change their lives forever. Maggie and the coworker and friend Zoe are travelling to London for Christmas, just the two of them. But very soon they discover that the two employees in the hotel, Holly, the concierge, and Jack, the manager, are fancying each other. So, these two women decide to speed up the things and help Holly and Jack to show their true feelings. They organize a bunch of happenings, just to get them together. In the very same time, they both take care for each other, like the best friends do. It's Christmas and love is in the air. It's time for miracles.
The Perfect Christmas is lovely, short, festive read. It has lovely plot and adorable characters. Maggie and Zoe are amazing and I love their honest friendship. The romantic characters here are Jack Frost and Holly. Their names are wise chosen. And both of them are great as characters. But, somehow I felt that this story was unfinished. Not for Holly and Jack, but for Maggie and her husband. At the beginning he behaved really bad with her, and I was expecting a turn-over at the end. Maybe it was just me, but I was expecting another Christmas miracle. Maggie is a character that truly deserves that. Overall, this short story is adorable festive reading, perfect for curling by the fire.
My opinion: 3,5 / 5.
Can small trip change the lives of two people?
Holly and Jack never thought that two guests in their hotel would change their lives forever. Maggie and the coworker and friend Zoe are travelling to London for Christmas, just the two of them. But very soon they discover that the two employees in the hotel, Holly, the concierge, and Jack, the manager, are fancying each other. So, these two women decide to speed up the things and help Holly and Jack to show their true feelings. They organize a bunch of happenings, just to get them together. In the very same time, they both take care for each other, like the best friends do. It's Christmas and love is in the air. It's time for miracles.
The Perfect Christmas is lovely, short, festive read. It has lovely plot and adorable characters. Maggie and Zoe are amazing and I love their honest friendship. The romantic characters here are Jack Frost and Holly. Their names are wise chosen. And both of them are great as characters. But, somehow I felt that this story was unfinished. Not for Holly and Jack, but for Maggie and her husband. At the beginning he behaved really bad with her, and I was expecting a turn-over at the end. Maybe it was just me, but I was expecting another Christmas miracle. Maggie is a character that truly deserves that. Overall, this short story is adorable festive reading, perfect for curling by the fire.
My opinion: 3,5 / 5.
January 2, 2015
I'd first like to thank NetGalley and Harlequin (UK) Limited for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t think I’ve read a short story since I was in middle school, and it hasn’t hit me that Christmas is three days away (probably because I’m not done with my shopping yet), so The Perfect Christmas sounded like the perfect read.
Maggie is a famous, very rich actress whose best friend, Zoe, is also her manager. After deciding that she doesn’t want to spent Christmas alone, she and Zoe jet off to London for a winter wonderland filled with shopping, tea, delicious food and of course a picturesque, snowy setting.
Maggie isn’t the stereotypical movie star – she’s kind-hearted, good-natured and very empathetic. She believes in love and romance and in the good in people. Zoe’s a workaholic who thrives on deadlines and lack of sleep. These two make a fun pair with their best friend banter while running around London. I would’ve liked to know more about Holly and Jack, though. I needed some sort of background about each of their lives in order to understand them as characters. I know it’s a short story, but it just felt like something was missing.
The story itself is very predictable, but I think it was meant to be that way. It’s a warm, short read filled with Christmas spirit that will get each of us ready for the holiday season.
I don’t think I’ve read a short story since I was in middle school, and it hasn’t hit me that Christmas is three days away (probably because I’m not done with my shopping yet), so The Perfect Christmas sounded like the perfect read.
Maggie is a famous, very rich actress whose best friend, Zoe, is also her manager. After deciding that she doesn’t want to spent Christmas alone, she and Zoe jet off to London for a winter wonderland filled with shopping, tea, delicious food and of course a picturesque, snowy setting.
Maggie isn’t the stereotypical movie star – she’s kind-hearted, good-natured and very empathetic. She believes in love and romance and in the good in people. Zoe’s a workaholic who thrives on deadlines and lack of sleep. These two make a fun pair with their best friend banter while running around London. I would’ve liked to know more about Holly and Jack, though. I needed some sort of background about each of their lives in order to understand them as characters. I know it’s a short story, but it just felt like something was missing.
The story itself is very predictable, but I think it was meant to be that way. It’s a warm, short read filled with Christmas spirit that will get each of us ready for the holiday season.
October 30, 2014
The Perfect Christmas by Kate Forster was a very sweet but very short novella. Maggie is a very famous movie star married to a very domineering husband Will and his poorly son, Elliot, who Maggie has been a great step mum for several years. After an argument, what Will wants, Will can do, either and in spite of hurting a very patient Maggie. He announces he is taking Elliot away to Mexico on their own the following day for Christmas, without Maggie. This leaves Maggie at home alone and calls on her best friend Zoe, who is also a workaholic and also works for Will, so she feels slightly torn in the middle of things.
Maggie refuses to stop in LA, dwelling on things over Christmas, so finally persuades to take Zoe on an all expenses paid trip of a life time to London, where Christmas is done the best! The girls have a wale of a time and manage to sprinkle love in the lives of others.
This is a short and sweet Christmas fairy tale.
Maggie refuses to stop in LA, dwelling on things over Christmas, so finally persuades to take Zoe on an all expenses paid trip of a life time to London, where Christmas is done the best! The girls have a wale of a time and manage to sprinkle love in the lives of others.
This is a short and sweet Christmas fairy tale.
December 2, 2014
Intensive and unique story about being human and helping people find the way of love.
Meggie decide to spend Christmas in London with her agent and best friend Zoe, after very bad hassle with her husband. Zoe is workaholic, but she made exception to be with her best friend in London. When Meggie saw their personal concierge Holly,how she looks at her boss Jack Meggie decide that they must be together and...then the party begins.Meggie is ready to do whatever it takes to bring Holly and Jack together.
Usually it's happen that main characters are fall in love and been happy ever after, here that is not the subject, but other people happiness and how main character brings happiness to others-Holly and Jack.
This is small, warm and light story about Christmas miracles.
This book was provided by publisher via NetGalley.
Meggie decide to spend Christmas in London with her agent and best friend Zoe, after very bad hassle with her husband. Zoe is workaholic, but she made exception to be with her best friend in London. When Meggie saw their personal concierge Holly,how she looks at her boss Jack Meggie decide that they must be together and...then the party begins.Meggie is ready to do whatever it takes to bring Holly and Jack together.
Usually it's happen that main characters are fall in love and been happy ever after, here that is not the subject, but other people happiness and how main character brings happiness to others-Holly and Jack.
This is small, warm and light story about Christmas miracles.
This book was provided by publisher via NetGalley.
October 31, 2014
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This was a short, sweet read that got me in a Christmassy mood. I will admit that it was very quick and some of the details were left at a loose end--in fact I didn't understand why they were needed in the first place--but once the girls got to London the story was just one of those feel-good reads that would be perfect to read curled up by a Christmas tree or fire.
This was a short, sweet read that got me in a Christmassy mood. I will admit that it was very quick and some of the details were left at a loose end--in fact I didn't understand why they were needed in the first place--but once the girls got to London the story was just one of those feel-good reads that would be perfect to read curled up by a Christmas tree or fire.
November 25, 2014
With exactly one month to go before Christmas Day, I thought I would try to get into the Christmas spirit. This was a well written, fun and festive little book. It was such a shame it was a bit short.
January 10, 2015
A lovely, sweet novella. Had just the right amount of Christmas spirit to make you feel all warm. A lovely, fun story of love finding it's way, with a little help from friends. A perfect read for a cold afternoon.
October 19, 2014
A really quick Christmasy read!
Would have loved to have read more, and I feel a few more stories hiding in the wings!
Would have loved to have read more, and I feel a few more stories hiding in the wings!
February 8, 2015
fab short xmas story
November 12, 2014
a really quick Christmas read - read it in my lunchbreak at work today. really enjoyed this and gets you in the right festive spirit.
December 14, 2014
Nice heart warming christmas story.
January 29, 2015
enjoyed book
November 29, 2015
A quick easy read, but felt that some parts could have been explained further.
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