December Wedding

by Emelle Gamble

A Christmastime novella to complete the saga of two people who have struggled for a long time to be together...

The final act...you met actress Molly Harper and her one-time love Cruz Morales in DUETS. You watched them battle the press, their families and one another in MOLLY HARPER. Now together again and expecting a child, will the love story of Molly and Cruz end with a happily ever after, or will all the old problems of family, fame and temperament once again rule the day? Join the Harper, Sullivan, and Morales families for more than one surprise in DECEMBER WEDDING.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

100 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 22, 2014

About the author

Emelle Gamble was a writer at an early age, bursting with the requisite childhood stories of introspection which evolved into bad teen poetry and attempts at 'real literature' all copies of which she has since, very sensibly, shredded. She took her first stab at romantic fiction in an adult education writing class when her kids were in bed, taught by fellow writer Carolyn Haines, in Mobile, Alabama. As M.L. Gamble, she published several romantic suspense novels with Harlequin. She is now contracted with Soul Mate Publishing for Secret Sister, summer of 2013, and Dating Cary Grant, an early 2014 release.

Always intrigued by the words ‘what if’, Emelle’s books feature an ordinary woman confronted with an extraordinary situation. She most enjoys reading stories that surprise and amaze her, and hopes her readers will enjoy the challenging and exciting journeys her characters take.

Emelle lives in suburban Washington D.C. with her husband, Phil, her hero of thirty years, and two orange cats, Lucy and Bella. Her daughter, Olivia, and son, Allen, are happily launched on their own and contributing great things to society, which has always been their mother’s fondest wish.

http://emellegamble.com/welcome/index...

Reviews

[Jo-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful conclusion to Molly and Cruz’s story.

Molly is evading paparazzi but trying to promote her new movie. It’s hard to promote her movie when the media only wants to know about her private life – not her work. Keeping her biological family out of the limelight was getting harder all the time. Especially with a sneaky journalist trying to dig up anything she can about Molly’s personal life. To top it off, she is in the late stages of pregnancy, so she is not feeling her best. Cruz keeps asking her to marry him but she constantly refuses because she knows how much he hates her movie star lifestyle with the media constantly in their faces.

I loved the way this book was written. It was a wonderful wrap-up for all the characters. And there were quite a few of them besides Molly and Cruz. I liked getting to know Molly’s birth mother and two half brothers as she became closer to them. This was an emotional book that made me cry happy tears and left me with a big smile on my face.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story, that has a perfect ending for two not-perfect people, Molly & Cruz! I enjoyed how all the storylines were tied up and yet all flowed together seamlessly. A few laughs, a few tears and lots of smiles for this little trilogy that packed a punch. Would love a follow-up story and a glimpse at how life for Molly & Cruz and the rest of their crew is a few years down the road.

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

December Wedding by Emelle Gamble is a 2014 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

As Molly's pregnancy advances, so does the pressure from Cruz to get married and from the media to give interviews and promote her movie. But, Molly knows Cruz, and she is terrified that he will not be able to handle the intense scrutiny he would have to live under being married to a movie star. As it is, Molly is having a very hard time keeping her biological family behind the scenes as one very persistent member of the press is trying every low, underhanded trick she can think of to gain access to Molly's personal life. Will Molly's career and the media prevent her and Cruz from having their happy ever after?

I have been impatiently waiting to see if Molly and Cruz would ever manage to get together for real and maintain a lasting relationship. It looks like they have some things in their favor but Molly is trying to protect Cruz from a life she is sure would smother him. In the meantime, Molly is working to forge a more solid relationship with her birth mother and her two brothers. But, once again the glare from the spotlight is threatening to ruin all Molly holds dear and she is powerless to prevent it.

First of all I would like to say what a pleasure and relief it is to read a contemporary romance by a seasoned author who made sure all the research was done, the i's were dotted and t's were crossed. This made the novel such a pleasure to read. Emelle has a real gift for writing mature, emotional stories that capture your mind and heart from start to finish and I have to say I have loved every minute of this series.

The portrayal of life in the public eye where there is nothing sacred, nothing private, nothing that can really be done to prevent it, and the powerlessness, the unfairness of being stripped of the basic human right of privacy is accurately depicted without being too in your face about it. This theme is a major pressure point for Cruz who is hot tempered and protective when it comes to Molly, leaning toward the alpha personality. (drool!) Being unable to respond to the baiting and below the belt tactics these people use, is a real test for Cruz. Molly's frustration is in the fact she wants to marry Cruz but he continuously reminds her of why that may never be possible.
But, finally, finally, finally!! Molly is able to release her fear and trust in Cruz and begin a new life with the proverbial “everything” we all wish and hope for... career, marriage, love, family, and children. What more can you ask for? Molly and Cruz deserve every ounce of their hard won happiness!!
5 stars!

[Kai · Rating 4 out of 5]

December Wedding brings the conclusion of Molly Harper and Cruz Morales. From the book Duet, Cruz was Molly's love of her life. Cruz has never been able to accept Molly's choice of career in acting. Now, Molly and Cruz are having a baby. They faced a news reporter with scruples of obtaining the most exclusive news regarding Molly and Cruz.

Molly tried to protect her biological family and Cruz from the media. The manipulation of the news reporter does set Molly and Cruz's relationship a step back. But in the ends, Molly and Cruz get the upperhands.

Cruz has finally accepted Molly for who she is but he hasn't adopted that his life will be a media circus. There are moment where Cruz become the person that the readers/listeners could really love. Cruz does faltered when dealing with the media.

Even though Molly and Cruz reached a good understanding of both their needs, they still have to communicate. Molly does keep a few secrets from Cruz of what is going down. When Cruz responded to the media, it almost ruined their and their family's privacy.

However, with a few set-backs, readers/listeners will love the ending of Molly and Cruz's story.

The narrator Caroline Price deliver a wonderful performance, never breaking from the characters' personalities. Cruz is still a hot-head but he does have some restraints in this story. He seemed to finally able to love Molly for who and what she does for a living. The narrator really made Cruz matured in this story.

I was given this audiobook by the author via Audiobook Blast in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated or influenced in any way for writing this review.

[Melanie Adkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's nearing Christmas and Molly Harper's life is as busy as ever. She's hosting her brother's wedding, doing interviews and trying to get ready for her baby. A stars life is always full. Cruz, her boyfriend, isn't thrilled with all the extra things Molly has taken on. He fears she's pushing herself to hard and it will affect the baby's health. To top it all off, an entertainment newswoman is trying to make a name for herself using Molly's history. Molly is stressed but she tells Cruz she can handle it. If they can just make it to Taos.

I enjoyed this book very much. The characters are well defined. I was impressed with the idea a couple could work so hard and so long to be together. I liked the inside look at what stars go through on a daily basis. I wanted Cruz and Molly to be happy and their family together always.

I did find issues. This is really a fluff piece. There is no wow to it. No punch to make you want to keep reading. I felt this book could not be a stand alone because unless you have the background of the couple, you really have no idea what's going on. All the secrets are laid on the table right away, so no help there to make it more interesting. The overall writing is good but could be better. This is a struggling couple. There should have been at least one more huge event before we put the happily ever after on it.

I gave this book 3 cheers out of 5 because it seemed lackluster. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~

[Just another reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Molly Harper leads a full life, literally - with no moment to spare and no time to breathe, she is busy making things run her way. Being a star comes with a lot of pressurising and stressful add-ons - a brother's wedding, career plans, newspaper features, press interviews - Molly is trying to cope up with it all. Except for a minor glitch - she isn't in this all by herself. She has a partner and a baby soon to arrive. Cruz, Molly's partner is needless to say very concerned about how hard Molly is driving herself. Frequent arguments and family stresses mar their happy lives. To top it all, a reporter is hot on the heels of Molly to unravel her past, and Molly is at her wit's end, trying to manage it all. Do Molly and Cruz manage to overcome all their challenges and get married to welcome their baby, is what the book takes us through.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable romance read. Although I had not read the first two instalments in the series, I was still able to follow the story and plot pretty well in this one and empathise with the characters. Cruz's character was my favourite of the lot and it was admirable to see his devotion to Molly and his protective demeanour whenever he senses she is in trouble. The narrative was engaging. I would have loved to have the pace a tad more brisk.

Nevertheless, this was a breezy, light and nicely easy read and I would definitely recommend this to lovers of romance.

My rating: 4 stars

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a perfect example of the sequel I always wish to read and so rarely have the opportunity. I did not read Duets or Molly Harper before reading this story, but it was not necessary to understand what was happening. We get to see Molly and her true love, Cruz, getting their Happy Ever After and all the bumps that come with a relationship, especially one with a celebrity. I thought this was a well written insight into what happens after the guy gets the girl. They are expecting a child, they are happy together, but little speed bumps keep giving them problems. Because Molly is an actress, the media keeps interfering. Cruz has a hard time controlling his temper around the media and wishes that Molly would try harder to stay out of the limelight when he feels it isn't necessary. Even though I hadn't read the first novels, I still felt connected to the characters. I also thought that many of the moments they shared were very Real, the dialog was naturally written, and the story was believable. Their doubts and fears about their relationship and parenthood were very relate-able and true-to-life. The ending felt a bit rushed and I would have liked to see more of the second wedding. I would recommend this book to any romance lover, to anyone who always wondered what happens after the HEA, and to anyone looking for an enjoyable, quick read.

I received a copy of the story in exchange for an honest review.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

--I was given a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

This is the final chapter of Molly Harper and Cruz Morales' story. While this can be a standalone, I would recommend reading the first two parts(Duets and Molly Harper) first, as the background and story is wonderful. After listening to Molly Harper(which includes it's prequel, Duets), I could not wait to start this book. I could not get enough of the story. This book begins with Molly and Cruz finally back together and happy. Molly is a strong female character, which I love. She is independent and likes to make her own decisions. That does not mean she doesn't like to consult and talk to her partner. Cruz(I love him) who has loved Molly pretty much all of his life has difficulty not being overprotective of her. Being an actress, this creates many problems. Between scheduling and paparazzi, there are many obstacles the two must overcome. Throw in a family Molly wasn't aware of she had after meeting her birth mother, and this story from start to finish was nothing but enjoyable. Emelle Gamble was a new author to me, but I will definitely be listening to more of her books.

Caroline Price, the narrator of this book did an awesome job. From start to finish, she was able to give each character their own personality with just the right amounts of emotion. Love her ability to do accents as well. Great story!

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous book by Emelle Gamble. Let me say that I am typically a mystery reader but have found some great authors that are not mystery writers like Emelle that I adore, and I just know that everything that she writes if going to be wonderful and make me glad that I read it. Reading her books, takes me to another place and another time; brings me back to my younger days, or to a location that I wish I had visited or still do long to go to that place described. Her characters are charming, intelligent, magnetic and interesting along with a great story. This books was no exception to great likeable and entertaining characters with an enchanting story. I am not one to retell a story as many others do that, but I am into relating what a book does for me, how it makes me feel, how I long to read it and more from that author, and how I can feel the story and in my mind's eye can see the scenario happening that is described in the book. That is the sign of a great book, and Ms. Gamble has done it again with December Wedding. I loved the stories before this one and this was the frosting on the cake so to speak. Thank you Emelle for making my reading so pleasant and enjoyable.

Sincerely,
Cynthia Blain

[Janice Hougland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another astounding story by this author. Her to-the-point writing style with down-to-earth emotions and realistic situations got me into the story immediately with the first paragraph. I could sense there was a back story about Molly Harper and Cruz before this Christmas story, but not having read that back story I still was not left wondering what was going on in their lives. It was plain as day that Molly, being a movie star, was in the limelight a lot but wanting to keep her family life totally private. And then along comes a conniving, unscrupulous reporter with dollar signs for eyes who attempts to trample all over Molly's wishes to keep certain things private. Despite that setback though, with love and support from family and her trustworthy agent, Molly is able to have a wonderful, surprising Christmas while dishing out a very well-deserved comeuppance to that same reporter. I was shouting Yea! at the end of this lovely story. It was, simply put...terrific. Thanks Ms. Gamble!

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story very much; a quick sweet read.

I have not read the preceding two books about Molly and Cruz; it wasn’t necessary for me to enjoy this stand-alone novella. I will say, however, that I would like to read them to find out more about how their relationship began.

This is a fast paced story that didn’t take long to read. Molly and Cruz have had many ups and downs in their relationship and that’s no different in this book. I enjoyed reading about how they overcome the negative aspects of Molly’s career as a famous actress.

While the ending is satisfying I will have to say that I would have preferred for the story to have continued just a bit more. There are a couple of events that I would like to have read a bit more about. I don’t want to give anything away here, though, so I won’t say anything else except that there is a HEA for this book, it just may have ended a tiny bit too quickly for me.

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Denise Stout · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I received a copy of this book as a gift from the author; the review is my honest opinion**

This is the final installment of Molly and Cruz's story, but it could be a stand-alone if someone hasn't read the previous three books in Molly's story. Cruz has asked Molly to marry him for the last time--she has to be comfortable with him and his reaction to her life in the public eye. Molly's used to the drama as an actress, loves Cruz with all her heart, and is pregnant with their child. Fighting the media trying to get any dirt possible on their lives, possible wedding, and secrets from the past is driving a small seed of doubt into Molly's mind--but not her heart. Secret wedding for her brother in a remote area leads to a serious medical delivery for Molly--and it opens her eyes. The love for their baby, their extended family, and Cruz are all that matters. A quick, unplanned December Wedding, complete with a great cover to sell the story to the press completes the life and love of Molly and Cruz. I recommend this story!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving an advanced copy of "December Wedding" from Emelle and I, naturally, dove right in.

All Ihave to say is: "OMG, Emelle!!! You've done it again!" She made me act like a girl!!!

J'adore!!!!

I cried. I yelled at them at one point, thinking they were gonna screw-up again, then was on my edge awaiting something bad to happening. I cheered our lovely Cruz on at one point. (Not entirely sure I can go back into that Panera ever again). There's this scene, when you get there you'll know it, and just.... *le sigh* Oh, and there's a lil *wink* suprise or three in it! To quote: "mi familia!" *tears*

Brava, my friend! Brava!

Sincerely, Girlie, extremely well done! I'm thrilled they got the whole HEA, but kinda bummed it's over.

And (very) impatiently awaiting her next book.

If you haven't read, Duets or Molly Harper, get to it! lol. You'll thank me!

[Passion 4 Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of reading an advance copy of this book and let me just say thank you to Emelle for giving us more of Cruz and Molly along with all their family and friends.

Cruz is a remarkable character and frankly I just can’t get enough of him. If you fell in love with Cruz in Molly Harper you certainly won’t be disappointed in reading more about his relationship with Molly and how it all turns out. After all the title is a bit of a giveaway no?

Drama here and there but oh the love they share will make you tingle. Molly’s a lucky gal!

I’m probably a broken record on this comment since I think I’ve left it in each of my reviews of Emelle’s books but the woman writes such credible dialog you can’t help but feel like you’re in the room with the characters.

Thank you for giving us more Emelle. I loved it!

[K-BRC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to know what happened to Molly & Ben. Did Cruz recover from the accident? The questions are answered in December Wedding, mostly. Since the death of Princess Diana, nobody has despised the Paparazzi more than you will those who stalk Molly. Probably few handle it worse than Cruz. I wondered if Molly & Cruz found their happily ever after. I found the answers & got a few strategies for handling paparazzi if I'm ever rich & famous. (Also if I ever have a hunky man like Cruz.) I appreciated the way the story unfolded, picking details from the two previous stories to bring conclusions to all the mini Peyton Place scenarios; well, almost all. I still don't know about Molly's retirement quandary. I guess I'm hoping there'll at least be a short story next year that takes me a few years further into Molly's future. I can hope, can't I?

[Rosemary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Molly Harper has her hands full. She's dodging paparazzi while trying to promote her new movie, hosting her brother's wedding and dealing with family issues. All this while being in the late stages of pregnancy. December Wedding is such a feel good read. I love all the characters. This story is filled with drama, tension and most of all love. Cruz and Molly are committed to each other. I wanted them to finally marry. They deserve to be happy after all they have been through. The story is well written and filled with some unexpected twists. I felt as if I was getting a behind the scenes look at the entertainment industry. It was fascinating. Emelle Gamble is a masterful storyteller. I was drawn into this story. It has it all - love, laughter, joy and pain.

[C.D. Hersh · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book may be the final in the Molly Hopper and Cruz Moralles saga I haven’t read the other two and didn’t feel that anything was missing. The chemistry between Molly and Cruz seemed real and their problems of dealing with Molly’s movie star fame seemed taken straight from the magazine stories.

Living a life where nothing seems to be off limits to the media, Molly is not only pregnant but is being constantly asked by Cruz to get married. Molly doesn’t want to make a circus of things until after the baby is born but with Christmas coming things get complicated, very complicated.

Emelle Gamble has written a very entertaining and engaging novella. Makes you want to read the first two stories. Good job.

I received this copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Roxana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third and final book of Molly Harper and Cruz Morales's love story. It's also a Christmas-themed short novel. Finally, the actress and the professor are together, and expecting a child. Cruz has his memory back and Molly is promoting a new film. But the battle with the press keeps going on, and the couple must face the endless gossip about her family and his anger issues, while expecting a child... and preparing someone's wedding. Emelle Gamble has, once again, delivered an excellent novella, with the happy ending Molly and Cruz deserve.
I received this copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Glenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I want to mention a book has to be really extraordinary for me to give five stars. That being said, I really enjoyed this book to the very end. I have not read the previous books about the characters but that did not stop me enjoying their story and following along easily. The story was well written and I did care about the characters and was interested in how all would end. I suspect I'd have enjoyed the book even more if I had read the prequils and given time, I will probably have to find out more by reading the previous books.

I was given this book on condition I give an honest review.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of December Wedding in exchange for an honest review.

December Wedding by Emelle Gamble is a fast, enjoyable read of the Molly and Cruz romance. I have enjoyed the Molly and Cruz saga from the beginning and December Wedding does not disappoint. I laughed and I cried (heck I always cry at weddings, even those in books) as I read through the book. I loved that Anne, Molly's birth Mom, got to become a larger part of Molly's life and that I felt there was 'closure' in their relationship. Molly and Cruz’s story is one that I can read and reread. I hope Emelle changes her mind and continues their storyline, since I know I would love to read more.

[Librarian Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet conclusion to the Molly Harper series. This short novella is just a feel-good kinda read. There are a couple of tense moments, but there are no major conflicts in this book.

This could be a read alone, but the reader will enjoy it so much more if she has read the others in the series first. It wouldn't hurt to read other of Ms. Gamble's books as well, because there are subtle nods to them in this book --it always makes me smile when she does that.

At just 100 pages, DECEMBER WEDDING can easily be read in one sitting-- so grab a cup of tea or a glass of wine, settle back, and enjoy Molly, Cruz, and the rest of the family in this really great wrap up.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. I haven't had the chance to read the first two books of the trilogy yet but it was easy to follow the story about Molly and Cruz. the problems they had were realistic and you could see how hard it would be to be in their position in regards to the press. I loved how the book brought them together and they were able to finally get married. I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

[Linda Rimer-Como · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written short story that continues the journey Molly and Cruz have embarked on. The characters have wonderful chemistry as they struggle to overcome obstacles in their path. With the help of family and friends, plus their own determination, they could find their happily ever after. I enjoyed this book very much and will look for more from this talented author.

I received this copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Shirley Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is indeed a 'stand alone' story- I have not read the two that preceded this one (yet!) but had not trouble identifying everyone & enjoying this story to where I was rooting for Molly & Cruz!! Loved the solution to the... Ah ah ah... Not telling!! Loved the story & going to get the other 2 now!! ("I received this copy in exchange for an honest review" )

[Vickie Raynor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Experience the life of movie star Molly and her experiences with the paparazzi and her family. Fall in love with Cruz, her boyfriend, and natural mom, Anne. This book takes you on a crazy ride while they all discover a star's trials. Loved the characters. I like a little more description of my surroundings, but it wasn't necessary for the book.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

December Wedding

What a wonderful beginning for Molly Harper and her family! I love happy endings and this surely was one. After finishing Molly Harper I couldn't wait to pick up December Wedding and see what would happen to this family. I hope there is another book in Molly's future, would love to read more!

[Marie Mckenney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this cute story.

This story is a cute story about an actress and the joy of the paparazzi. Love the settings in NM. Know exactly where they are since I have lived in NM most of my life. Love the ending and am glad that it turned out the way it did.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Wonderful ending for Cruz and Molly. I'm so glad they were able to find their happiness together.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

"December Wedding" is a sweet story.

Read full review in the 2015 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.

[Peggy Clayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thie was a great read by Emelle she just never disappoints. You really get to see what happens when you are at the top! This novella was a grand slam for me!