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Happily Inc #6
Once Upon a Holidate
There’s no place like Happily Inc for the holidays…
Wynn Beauchene has a thriving business, a great kid and a mildly embarrassing crush on the guy next door—local cop Garrick McCabe. She’s a strong, independent woman who can’t help dreaming what-if about a man she barely knows. Until he needs her help…
Garrick’s pregnant daughter will be home for Christmas, and his house needs a woman’s touch. Garrick and his little girl were tight once, and he’s hoping a small-town Christmas will bring her back to him. But thawing his daughter’s frosty attitude will take more than a few twinkle lights. Maybe sharing the holiday with Wynn and her son will remind her of the joy of family.
As the season works its magic on these wounded souls, Wynn realizes it’s time to stop punishing herself for a painful secret, while Garrick remains haunted by the ghosts of past mistakes. Will he allow Wynn to open the only gift she truly wants—his heart?
Wynn Beauchene has a thriving business, a great kid and a mildly embarrassing crush on the guy next door—local cop Garrick McCabe. She’s a strong, independent woman who can’t help dreaming what-if about a man she barely knows. Until he needs her help…
Garrick’s pregnant daughter will be home for Christmas, and his house needs a woman’s touch. Garrick and his little girl were tight once, and he’s hoping a small-town Christmas will bring her back to him. But thawing his daughter’s frosty attitude will take more than a few twinkle lights. Maybe sharing the holiday with Wynn and her son will remind her of the joy of family.
As the season works its magic on these wounded souls, Wynn realizes it’s time to stop punishing herself for a painful secret, while Garrick remains haunted by the ghosts of past mistakes. Will he allow Wynn to open the only gift she truly wants—his heart?
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2020
1991 people are currently reading
3933 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mallery
870 books15.5k followers#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming and humorous novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. She's best known for putting nuanced characters into emotionally complex, real-life situations with twists that surprise readers to laughter. Because Susan is passionate about animal welfare, pets play a big role in her books. Beloved by millions of readers worldwide, her books have been translated into 28 languages.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,146 reviews
June 16, 2024
This is a Christmas Romance book, and this is the 6st book in the Happy Inc series. I was so happy to be in Happy Inc again. I have read most the other books in this series, but I do think this book can be read as a standalone. Susan Mallery is one of my favorite authors. This book was a fun and cute Christmas book. It had romance, drama, and most everything I want in a Christmas love story. The only thing I want more was more of the story. I wish it did not end when it did. I loved the characters of this book like I do all of Susan's books. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
October 8, 2020
Happily This Christmas is the sixth book in the Happily Inc series. However, this is the first book in this series that I have read. I believe you can still enjoy it despite not recognizing the other characters.
Wynn Beauchene is a single mother. Her son is fourteen. Lately, she has been thinking that it might be a good time to start dating again. The last time she dated was before she conceived her son. Her sexy cop neighbor fits the bill and she might need to finally make a move to get his attention. Just as she is thinking of this, her doorbell rings and Mr. Cop is at her front door.
GarrickMcCabe is in need of help, his very pregnant estranged daughter is coming to stay with him and he wants to make his house homier. Enlisting the help of Wynn is a no-brainer. More so, once he starts getting to know her, he begins thinking that they could make a good couple. Her humor, her relationship with her son, her dedication to her work are all things he admires in her. It doesn't hurt that he also likes the way she looks.
Can Garrick patch the problems with his daughter? Do Garrick and Wynn want to take the next step to become more? Well, maybe the Christmas spirit can help this couple.
This is a perfect romance to read during the Christmas season!
Susan Mallery's novels are always charming and sweet. They are set in small towns. Every time I read one of her books, I think how lovely it would be to live in a small town where everyone knows each other and people are helpful to their neighbors. Of course, who knows if this type of town actually does exist. I hope it does.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by HQN via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
November 19, 2021
Pleasant holiday inspired small town contemporary romance with a happily ever after conclusion.
December 4, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
His words made her feel a little floaty, which was silly. She was in some serious trouble here— she hadn’t been this flaky even in high school. If she wasn’t careful, she was going to start flipping her hair and saying “like” in every sentence.
Most guys don’t like shopping, which I’ve never understood. All you have to do is pretend you’re hunting. You stalk, you pounce, you strap it to the car and take it home. A total win, but men don’t see it that way.
Wynn did her best to keep her happiness to herself. Being cheerful was one thing, but giddy tended to confuse her employees and frighten the customers.
The whole process is insane and unnatural… The cliché is true. If it were up to men to have babies, the human race would be dead in a generation.
My Review:
While I haven’t read all the books in this series, the ones I have read have been golden. I have thoroughly enjoyed every trip I’ve taken to Happily, Inc. and fervently hope Ms. Mallery never runs out of residents to feature. The main characters in this installment were highly likable, thoughtful, and admirable people I’d like to know and spend more time with. The writing was wittily amusing, smooth, expertly paced, and flowed through my gray matter like a ribbon of film through a movie projector while eliciting sighs, smirks, and contented smiles throughout a highly satisfying perusal.
His words made her feel a little floaty, which was silly. She was in some serious trouble here— she hadn’t been this flaky even in high school. If she wasn’t careful, she was going to start flipping her hair and saying “like” in every sentence.
Most guys don’t like shopping, which I’ve never understood. All you have to do is pretend you’re hunting. You stalk, you pounce, you strap it to the car and take it home. A total win, but men don’t see it that way.
Wynn did her best to keep her happiness to herself. Being cheerful was one thing, but giddy tended to confuse her employees and frighten the customers.
The whole process is insane and unnatural… The cliché is true. If it were up to men to have babies, the human race would be dead in a generation.
My Review:
While I haven’t read all the books in this series, the ones I have read have been golden. I have thoroughly enjoyed every trip I’ve taken to Happily, Inc. and fervently hope Ms. Mallery never runs out of residents to feature. The main characters in this installment were highly likable, thoughtful, and admirable people I’d like to know and spend more time with. The writing was wittily amusing, smooth, expertly paced, and flowed through my gray matter like a ribbon of film through a movie projector while eliciting sighs, smirks, and contented smiles throughout a highly satisfying perusal.
October 25, 2023
This was my first Susan Mallery book. When I read the description for “Happily This Christmas”, I thought it was a book about Christmas. It really wasn’t about Christmas as much as it was about a little town and the people. Which would be fine if I knew that going into it. It’s not really a Christmas book and definitely not PG.
Garrick’s daughter is 21 years old and acts incredibly spoiled and immature. I had a hard time connecting with her character.
Garrick’s daughter is 21 years old and acts incredibly spoiled and immature. I had a hard time connecting with her character.
December 12, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
HAPPILY THIS CHRISTMAS (Happily Inc Book #6) by Susan Mallery is the latest installment in the Happily Inc. contemporary romance series set in Happily Inc, a wedding destination themed town. I love when these books are set around the Christmas season and I get to visit all the characters again. This can be read as a standalone, but many of the characters overlap in this small town and I have enjoyed reading them in order.
Wynn Beauchene has a thriving graphic design business and a happy and responsible fourteen-year-old son. Starting out as a scared, single mother with a secret, she is now a strong independent woman who has a crush on her handsome next-door neighbor. She keeps trying to come up with a reason to say more than a passing “Hi”.
Garrick McCabe has returned to his hometown to take over the Happily Inc police department. When he gets a call that his pregnant daughter, Joylyne will be staying with him for the holidays until her Marine husband returns from deployment, he is excited because they have been estranged for many years. Garrick wants everything to perfect and asks Wynn if she can help him get his home ready.
Wynn becomes more and more attached to Garrick and his daughter, but Garrick has a long way to go to patch up misunderstandings with his daughter. Can Wynn and Garrick find time and forgiveness for themselves as they become closer?
I always enjoy going back to Happily Inc. Ms. Mallery’s characters are small town neighbors that anyone would love to meet. They care about each other are helpful when needed. I enjoyed Wynn and Garrick’s Christmas HEA and am looking forward to checking back in with them in future books. The story just flows with realistic dialogue, believable characters, family drama and reconciliation.
This is a feel good romance for the holiday season.
HAPPILY THIS CHRISTMAS (Happily Inc Book #6) by Susan Mallery is the latest installment in the Happily Inc. contemporary romance series set in Happily Inc, a wedding destination themed town. I love when these books are set around the Christmas season and I get to visit all the characters again. This can be read as a standalone, but many of the characters overlap in this small town and I have enjoyed reading them in order.
Wynn Beauchene has a thriving graphic design business and a happy and responsible fourteen-year-old son. Starting out as a scared, single mother with a secret, she is now a strong independent woman who has a crush on her handsome next-door neighbor. She keeps trying to come up with a reason to say more than a passing “Hi”.
Garrick McCabe has returned to his hometown to take over the Happily Inc police department. When he gets a call that his pregnant daughter, Joylyne will be staying with him for the holidays until her Marine husband returns from deployment, he is excited because they have been estranged for many years. Garrick wants everything to perfect and asks Wynn if she can help him get his home ready.
Wynn becomes more and more attached to Garrick and his daughter, but Garrick has a long way to go to patch up misunderstandings with his daughter. Can Wynn and Garrick find time and forgiveness for themselves as they become closer?
I always enjoy going back to Happily Inc. Ms. Mallery’s characters are small town neighbors that anyone would love to meet. They care about each other are helpful when needed. I enjoyed Wynn and Garrick’s Christmas HEA and am looking forward to checking back in with them in future books. The story just flows with realistic dialogue, believable characters, family drama and reconciliation.
This is a feel good romance for the holiday season.
December 18, 2020
Mallery never disappoints and this fun, fast read was perfect on a cool afternoon wrapped in a quilt. I loved Garrick the perfect dad and swoon worthy boyfriend. Grab this one and enjoy a fun afternoon read.
October 13, 2020
2.5 - "I’m going to spend the rest of my life having your back." Stars.
We return to Happily Inc for book six; Happily This Christmas finally giving us Wynn Beauchene’s story. I have to say that after the last book in the series; Meant to Be Yours being such a car crash read for me, I started this book with a large amount of trepidation.
My rating tells you that I didn't find Wynn and Garrick’s book a great read either, although as much as I almost DNF’d it @ around the halfway point, the second half was definitely better. My main issue is once again the author added a character I absolutely abhorred, and I really didn’t get her reasoning in making Garrick’s pregnant 21 year old daughter JoyLyn, so distasteful so much so her own mother described her as –
"A raving bitch with psychotic tendencies…"
If your own parent thinks that about you then you know you have some serious issues, issues that were dealt with, but for me just felt like drama being added for drama’s sake. As I said, the second half picked up but by that point it was hard to muster any real appreciation, also this book didn’t really fit with the rest of the series. In that all previous stories have read like Contemporary Romance, but personally Wynn and Garrick’s story fell firmly in the Women’s Fiction folder for me. If you are expecting lots of chemistry as well as love and romance steer clear, because for a couple in their mid/late thirties they spend a good 75% of the book going no further than second base. Yes the fact Wynn has a teen son; Hunter, and Garrick’s dealing with the re-emergence of his daughter; JoyLyn were a factor, but there was no spark or real connection between them for me apart from the fact they are both single parents.
Wouldn’t it be ironic if the very thing she’d been looking for had been right next door all along…
The pluses were we get to catch up with all the past characters, but in my heart I still wish that the author had kept Wynn with Jasper, I like Garrick but I just wasn’t wowed buy this book, and the story she gave him and Wynn. It’s a shame as the first five books/novellas of this series were such enjoyable reads and I would happily go back and re-read them, but the last two seem to have completely lost all of the things that made their predecessors so enjoyable, which was the low level drama, but high on heart, heat and community.
If there are more books due in this series, I’ll be honest and say I’m not sure I’ll read them, for me I think the town and locale are somewhere I’ll always love to spend time in but if the author continues to make the stories excessively high on the drama and angst then it’s time for me and Happily Inc to part ways.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
We return to Happily Inc for book six; Happily This Christmas finally giving us Wynn Beauchene’s story. I have to say that after the last book in the series; Meant to Be Yours being such a car crash read for me, I started this book with a large amount of trepidation.
My rating tells you that I didn't find Wynn and Garrick’s book a great read either, although as much as I almost DNF’d it @ around the halfway point, the second half was definitely better. My main issue is once again the author added a character I absolutely abhorred, and I really didn’t get her reasoning in making Garrick’s pregnant 21 year old daughter JoyLyn, so distasteful so much so her own mother described her as –
"A raving bitch with psychotic tendencies…"
If your own parent thinks that about you then you know you have some serious issues, issues that were dealt with, but for me just felt like drama being added for drama’s sake. As I said, the second half picked up but by that point it was hard to muster any real appreciation, also this book didn’t really fit with the rest of the series. In that all previous stories have read like Contemporary Romance, but personally Wynn and Garrick’s story fell firmly in the Women’s Fiction folder for me. If you are expecting lots of chemistry as well as love and romance steer clear, because for a couple in their mid/late thirties they spend a good 75% of the book going no further than second base. Yes the fact Wynn has a teen son; Hunter, and Garrick’s dealing with the re-emergence of his daughter; JoyLyn were a factor, but there was no spark or real connection between them for me apart from the fact they are both single parents.
Wouldn’t it be ironic if the very thing she’d been looking for had been right next door all along…
The pluses were we get to catch up with all the past characters, but in my heart I still wish that the author had kept Wynn with Jasper, I like Garrick but I just wasn’t wowed buy this book, and the story she gave him and Wynn. It’s a shame as the first five books/novellas of this series were such enjoyable reads and I would happily go back and re-read them, but the last two seem to have completely lost all of the things that made their predecessors so enjoyable, which was the low level drama, but high on heart, heat and community.
If there are more books due in this series, I’ll be honest and say I’m not sure I’ll read them, for me I think the town and locale are somewhere I’ll always love to spend time in but if the author continues to make the stories excessively high on the drama and angst then it’s time for me and Happily Inc to part ways.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
November 28, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Cute book! Very cliche and happy, which is what I like to read around the holidays. However, seemed TOO good to be true. The relationship with Wynn and Hunter just seemed so idealistic. That kid was like a present day Jesus. Her disappointment with him seemed so mature if that makes sense lol. Joylynn was nice to see her progression from bratty annoying AF kid to a nice mature adult. The ending was great, it was cute. Garrick seemed like the total hunky police officer. It was an all around feel good book but no plot it seemed like it was just a regular couple weeks in the life of a blended family being told—which isn’t bad but it was kinda lackluster.
Cute book! Very cliche and happy, which is what I like to read around the holidays. However, seemed TOO good to be true. The relationship with Wynn and Hunter just seemed so idealistic. That kid was like a present day Jesus. Her disappointment with him seemed so mature if that makes sense lol. Joylynn was nice to see her progression from bratty annoying AF kid to a nice mature adult. The ending was great, it was cute. Garrick seemed like the total hunky police officer. It was an all around feel good book but no plot it seemed like it was just a regular couple weeks in the life of a blended family being told—which isn’t bad but it was kinda lackluster.
January 3, 2021
For those that don't know me I'm not a big contemporary romance reader/listener. They just don't have a pull on me like RS, UF, or PNR do. Maybe it's how low key they are or how there is no suspense or adventure. It usually takes me a month to get through a CR and this one was no different.
Happily This Christmas is book six in the Happily Inc. series by Susan Mallery and narrated by Tanya Eby. It's cute, happy and a bit cliche.
This was my first taste of Mallery and the Happily Inc. series. I haven't read any of the other books, so I can say that it can be read as a stand-alone.
Wynn Beauchene is a single mother. Her son, Hunter, is fourteen and lately; she has been thinking that it might be a good time to start dating again.
Garrick McCabe is in need of help. His very pregnant estranged daughter, Joylyn who is 21-years-old is coming to stay with him. He wants to make his house homier.
The first half of the story focused on Joylyn coming to town and her visit. Joylyn felt like the main character at least for the first half and I didn't like her. She’s a spoiled, privileged little princess taking all of her problems out on everyone around her. I understand the pregnancy hormones, but dame she was a bitch and it was just too much. I takes a while, but we do learn why she kicked her dad out of her life. It's partly her fault and partly Garrick's ex-wife’s fault. She does eventually change her attitude, but man it took a while.
The story takes place during Christmas time and we deal with a lot of Holiday themed stuff; like a wedding and get-togethers with friends and family.
Af for the romance between Garrick and Wynn. It's sweet and wholesome, but I do feel that Joylyn and her issues overshadow the budding romance. For me there just wasn't any spark or real connection between these two apart from being single parents.
Audio: This is my first taste of Tanya Eby. I felt her narration was very monotone. I had trouble figuring out when we switched from describing something to the actual characters voice. It all sounded so similar.
Happily This Christmas was not for me. If the blurb intrigues you, I urge you to give it a shot. Just because I don't feel strongly about this book does't mean you won't like it. As I said above I'm not big on CR.
Rated: 2.5 Stars
Happily This Christmas is book six in the Happily Inc. series by Susan Mallery and narrated by Tanya Eby. It's cute, happy and a bit cliche.
This was my first taste of Mallery and the Happily Inc. series. I haven't read any of the other books, so I can say that it can be read as a stand-alone.
Wynn Beauchene is a single mother. Her son, Hunter, is fourteen and lately; she has been thinking that it might be a good time to start dating again.
Garrick McCabe is in need of help. His very pregnant estranged daughter, Joylyn who is 21-years-old is coming to stay with him. He wants to make his house homier.
The first half of the story focused on Joylyn coming to town and her visit. Joylyn felt like the main character at least for the first half and I didn't like her. She’s a spoiled, privileged little princess taking all of her problems out on everyone around her. I understand the pregnancy hormones, but dame she was a bitch and it was just too much. I takes a while, but we do learn why she kicked her dad out of her life. It's partly her fault and partly Garrick's ex-wife’s fault. She does eventually change her attitude, but man it took a while.
The story takes place during Christmas time and we deal with a lot of Holiday themed stuff; like a wedding and get-togethers with friends and family.
Af for the romance between Garrick and Wynn. It's sweet and wholesome, but I do feel that Joylyn and her issues overshadow the budding romance. For me there just wasn't any spark or real connection between these two apart from being single parents.
Audio: This is my first taste of Tanya Eby. I felt her narration was very monotone. I had trouble figuring out when we switched from describing something to the actual characters voice. It all sounded so similar.
Happily This Christmas was not for me. If the blurb intrigues you, I urge you to give it a shot. Just because I don't feel strongly about this book does't mean you won't like it. As I said above I'm not big on CR.
Rated: 2.5 Stars
October 9, 2020
Enjoyable, feel good novel! I love visiting Happily Inc and the crew of people who live here! Wynn has appeared in past stories with little information about her and her son, Hunter. This book is about them and her happily-ever-after! With a cop next door, no wonder the book opens with her fantasizing about him! I liked how we didn't have to wait until the end to get to them being together. It was more like halfway through and then how they worked at it until the end. Joylyn was a brat and didn't act like a 21 year old. I am happy she got better by the end, but I still hated scenes with her in the beginning. The ending could've had a little more closure for me, but I still loved it! I can't wait for the next book by this author!!
October 4, 2020
Garrick's 21-year-old pregnant daughter is coming to stay with him while her husband is deployed. He asks his next-door neighbor Wynn to help make his house comfortable for Joylyn's stay. Garrick and Wynn become friends and then move into an easy, slow romance. At the same time, Wynn befriends Joylyn and helps her through the later parts of her pregnancy since she does not have any friends in town and her husband is away.
I always marvel at how well Ms. Mallery writes the interactions between her characters and this story is another good example of this. These two neighboring households grow closer over the course of the holiday season. As with pretty much every book I've read by Susan Mallery, I felt invested in these characters' lives. Happily This Christmas is set over the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, and I enjoyed the meals and decorations that were written into the story.
I read this book in its entirety in one sitting while the rest of my family was out of the house. This is actually the sixth in the Happily, Inc. series, but worked really well as a starting point for me since I haven't read any of the previous books. I liked the supporting characters in this story, so I'm eager to go back and start this series from the beginning.
I always marvel at how well Ms. Mallery writes the interactions between her characters and this story is another good example of this. These two neighboring households grow closer over the course of the holiday season. As with pretty much every book I've read by Susan Mallery, I felt invested in these characters' lives. Happily This Christmas is set over the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, and I enjoyed the meals and decorations that were written into the story.
I read this book in its entirety in one sitting while the rest of my family was out of the house. This is actually the sixth in the Happily, Inc. series, but worked really well as a starting point for me since I haven't read any of the previous books. I liked the supporting characters in this story, so I'm eager to go back and start this series from the beginning.
December 1, 2022
ugh, so much with the "men watch football, women cook the feast" and "me man, don't know how to decorate, all I have is this giant tv." So many ridiculous stereotypes and the premise for the conflict between the dad and his daughter was contrived and blergh. I can generally look past the holes in plot to just enjoy a cheesy book but this was not one I could do that with. It was my Christmas wish that it would be over soon.
(yes, I could have DNF, but it was so easy to read that also felt silly to do.)
(yes, I could have DNF, but it was so easy to read that also felt silly to do.)
September 26, 2020
This was a super sweet 'next-door-neighbors with older kids', romance. I have never seen two such perfect parents, one perfect or nearly so 14-year-old and one unlikeable to the point of hating 21-year old that eventually grows and becomes likable.
This was a fun and steamy read, but the many issues I had with it took away a lot of my enjoyment.
*ARC supplied by the publisher.
This was a fun and steamy read, but the many issues I had with it took away a lot of my enjoyment.
*ARC supplied by the publisher.
January 1, 2021
The sixth book in the Happily Inc. series was a fun Christmas romance. I enjoyed visiting old friends as Wynn and Garrick travel together experiencing family drama, friendships, romance and Christmas in a lovely small town.
October 11, 2020
I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest
It was a great book!
It was such a heartwarming Christmas book.
Garrett asked for Wynn's help in decorating his house for Christmas.
His daughter was coming to town.
Wynn jumped at the chance, since she always had a crush on him.
Will Wynn + Garrett realize that they are perfect Christmas gift for each other?
The characters + storytelling were very captivating
It has all the ingredients that you need for an awesome book!
It is a totally must read.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
It was a great book!
It was such a heartwarming Christmas book.
Garrett asked for Wynn's help in decorating his house for Christmas.
His daughter was coming to town.
Wynn jumped at the chance, since she always had a crush on him.
Will Wynn + Garrett realize that they are perfect Christmas gift for each other?
The characters + storytelling were very captivating
It has all the ingredients that you need for an awesome book!
It is a totally must read.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
December 21, 2021
Wenn eine Nachbarschaft sich zu Liebe entwickelt!
Wynn findet ihren Nachbarn Garrick nicht schlecht, besonders wenn er mit freiem Oberkörper den Rasen mäht. Leider beschränken sich ihre Gespräche auf den üblichen Small Talk, doch dann steht er plötzlich vor ihrer Tür und bittet um Hilfe, denn seine schwangere Tochter wird vorübergehend bei ihm einziehen. Und wie soll Wynn ihm jetzt helfen? Indem sie mit ihm Einkaufen geht und hilft seine Wohnung gemütlich zu machen.
Wynn ist in ihren 30ern und hat einen 14jährigen Sohn auf den sie sehr stolz ist. Sie ist eine gute Nachbarin und hat sich im Ort gut eingelebt.
Garrick ist Polizist. Er hat schreckliche Dinge erlebt und die Beziehung zu seiner Tochter ist miserabel. Seit Jahren will sie keine Zeit mit ihm verbringen und das sie nun bei ihm schwanger einzieht, liegt auch nur daran, dass ihre Mutter sie rausgeworfen hat.
In diesem Buch werden alle Register gezogen - Ein Kind wird geboren, Babyparty, Thanksgiving, Hochzeit und natürlich Weihnachten. Allerdings steht Weihnachten hier nicht im Mittelpunkt.
Es geht besonders um die Beziehung zu den eigenen Kindern. Garrick, der die Beziehung zu seiner Tochter verstehen und verbessern will und auch Wynn bekommt noch ein Problem mit ihrem Sohn. Letztlich ist es meistens schlechte Kommunikation, die zu Problemen führt und genau darum geht es in dieser Geschichte.
Auch wenn man die Reihe nicht kennt, kann man dieses Buch auch als Einzelband lesen. Es tauchen nur die Pärchen aus den anderen Bänden kurz auf, aber im Zentrum stehen Garrick und Wynn samt Familien.
Wie hat es mir gefallen? Diese Geschichte ist eher von der langsameren Sorte, aber sie hat mir gut gefallen. Es hat sich warm und gemütlich angefühlt Zeit mit Garricks und Wynns Familien zu verbringen. Außerdem ließen sich die Seiten erstaunlich schnell weglesen, obwohl kaum Spannung in dem Buch vorhanden ist.
Anmerkung: Das Buch wurde mir vom Verlag als Rezensionsexemplar zur Verfügung gestellt.
Wynn findet ihren Nachbarn Garrick nicht schlecht, besonders wenn er mit freiem Oberkörper den Rasen mäht. Leider beschränken sich ihre Gespräche auf den üblichen Small Talk, doch dann steht er plötzlich vor ihrer Tür und bittet um Hilfe, denn seine schwangere Tochter wird vorübergehend bei ihm einziehen. Und wie soll Wynn ihm jetzt helfen? Indem sie mit ihm Einkaufen geht und hilft seine Wohnung gemütlich zu machen.
Wynn ist in ihren 30ern und hat einen 14jährigen Sohn auf den sie sehr stolz ist. Sie ist eine gute Nachbarin und hat sich im Ort gut eingelebt.
Garrick ist Polizist. Er hat schreckliche Dinge erlebt und die Beziehung zu seiner Tochter ist miserabel. Seit Jahren will sie keine Zeit mit ihm verbringen und das sie nun bei ihm schwanger einzieht, liegt auch nur daran, dass ihre Mutter sie rausgeworfen hat.
In diesem Buch werden alle Register gezogen - Ein Kind wird geboren, Babyparty, Thanksgiving, Hochzeit und natürlich Weihnachten. Allerdings steht Weihnachten hier nicht im Mittelpunkt.
Es geht besonders um die Beziehung zu den eigenen Kindern. Garrick, der die Beziehung zu seiner Tochter verstehen und verbessern will und auch Wynn bekommt noch ein Problem mit ihrem Sohn. Letztlich ist es meistens schlechte Kommunikation, die zu Problemen führt und genau darum geht es in dieser Geschichte.
Auch wenn man die Reihe nicht kennt, kann man dieses Buch auch als Einzelband lesen. Es tauchen nur die Pärchen aus den anderen Bänden kurz auf, aber im Zentrum stehen Garrick und Wynn samt Familien.
Wie hat es mir gefallen? Diese Geschichte ist eher von der langsameren Sorte, aber sie hat mir gut gefallen. Es hat sich warm und gemütlich angefühlt Zeit mit Garricks und Wynns Familien zu verbringen. Außerdem ließen sich die Seiten erstaunlich schnell weglesen, obwohl kaum Spannung in dem Buch vorhanden ist.
Anmerkung: Das Buch wurde mir vom Verlag als Rezensionsexemplar zur Verfügung gestellt.
November 19, 2020
Happily This Christmas tells the story of Wynn Beauchene, a 34 year old graphic designer and single mother to her 14 year old son Hunter. She has noticed her next door neighbour, Garrick a police officer who lives alone, particularly when he’s shirtless while cutting his lawn. When Garrick approaches her for help to get his home ready for his pregnant daughter Jo Lynn, Wynn seizes the opportunity to get to know this good-looking and thoughtful man.
Jo Lynn, however, is not the friendliest of houseguests. Now married to a deployed serviceman and a baby due in a few weeks, Jo Lynn was asked to leave her mother’s home and spend some time with her father. Once very close, the two have been estranged for several years.
It’s approaching Christmas in Happily Inc. Will the spirit of the season heal old wounds, and foster a romance between Wynn and Garrick?
This book is charming and oozing in community holiday spirit. While some might consider this book a romance, this only played a part of the story. This book is more a discussion on relationships and the importance of communication in maintaining them. It’s also about honesty and forgiveness . There are some very sweet side stories which I really enjoyed. The characters were well developed and the book flowed easily. This book is the sixth instalment in the Susan Mallery’s Happily Inc series but can certainly be read as a standalone. For those that have read earlier books in the series, you will appreciate the return of some of your favourite characters. This book is highly recommended for those who enjoy a cozy, holiday read.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book which was performed by Tanya Eby who is one of my favourite narrators. She has a special ability to give characters, male or female, an authentic voice. I also appreciate her crisp, articulate speech and her ability to provide the quick wit banter between characters - one of the reasons I appreciate Susan Mallery’s books. I listened to this book at my usual 1.25x speed and found this to be the perfect speed for easy listening. For those that appreciate audiobooks, I’d choose this version over a printed format.
Jo Lynn, however, is not the friendliest of houseguests. Now married to a deployed serviceman and a baby due in a few weeks, Jo Lynn was asked to leave her mother’s home and spend some time with her father. Once very close, the two have been estranged for several years.
It’s approaching Christmas in Happily Inc. Will the spirit of the season heal old wounds, and foster a romance between Wynn and Garrick?
This book is charming and oozing in community holiday spirit. While some might consider this book a romance, this only played a part of the story. This book is more a discussion on relationships and the importance of communication in maintaining them. It’s also about honesty and forgiveness . There are some very sweet side stories which I really enjoyed. The characters were well developed and the book flowed easily. This book is the sixth instalment in the Susan Mallery’s Happily Inc series but can certainly be read as a standalone. For those that have read earlier books in the series, you will appreciate the return of some of your favourite characters. This book is highly recommended for those who enjoy a cozy, holiday read.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book which was performed by Tanya Eby who is one of my favourite narrators. She has a special ability to give characters, male or female, an authentic voice. I also appreciate her crisp, articulate speech and her ability to provide the quick wit banter between characters - one of the reasons I appreciate Susan Mallery’s books. I listened to this book at my usual 1.25x speed and found this to be the perfect speed for easy listening. For those that appreciate audiobooks, I’d choose this version over a printed format.
October 14, 2020
Welcome back to Happily California. Wynn Beauchene is a strong, independent woman with a thriving business, and a great kid. She has a relatively new neighbour that she has a bit of a crush on, but he is a bit aloof and they don't do much more that wave and smile. When Garrick finds out his pregnant daughter is coming to live with him, he turns to Wynn for help. His daughter and he have a cold relationship and Garrick is not sure what happened to change their tight relationship they used to have. He wants Wynn's help and advice to make his home welcoming and to get some advice about relationships. Wynn is more than happy to help. As they get to know each other, Wynn realizes what she has been missing all these years and wonders if she and Garrick can have a relationship together.
Happily This Christmas was a sweet Christmas read. Family love is very prevalent in this book and was more important than the romance as far as I am concerned. Both Wynn and Garrick were wonderful parents, but it doesn't mean that everything is going to go right and that there won't be misunderstandings. They worked hard to mend relationships and to keep them honest and strong. This one didn't have a lot of the townspeople in it like in previous books in this series, but there was enough to let me know that I was in Happily, California. A great story where Christmas magic and love bring about Happily Ever Afters. This book, as with the others in this series, was narrated by Tanya Eby. I enjoy her voice, her expression and the tone she uses for the various characters. She adds to my enjoyment of this series. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
Happily This Christmas was a sweet Christmas read. Family love is very prevalent in this book and was more important than the romance as far as I am concerned. Both Wynn and Garrick were wonderful parents, but it doesn't mean that everything is going to go right and that there won't be misunderstandings. They worked hard to mend relationships and to keep them honest and strong. This one didn't have a lot of the townspeople in it like in previous books in this series, but there was enough to let me know that I was in Happily, California. A great story where Christmas magic and love bring about Happily Ever Afters. This book, as with the others in this series, was narrated by Tanya Eby. I enjoy her voice, her expression and the tone she uses for the various characters. She adds to my enjoyment of this series. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
October 11, 2020
Much awaited story did not disappoint!
I’ve been waiting for Wynn’s story FOREVER! And the best news is, it didn’t disappoint! Wynn and Garrick are neighbors. Wynn is a single mom of Hunter and Garrick is expecting his pregnant daughter to visit. The story just rolls from there. And I mean rolls, Mallery keeps you laughing with this one! In fact, I felt like the ending came a little too quickly for me!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I’ve been waiting for Wynn’s story FOREVER! And the best news is, it didn’t disappoint! Wynn and Garrick are neighbors. Wynn is a single mom of Hunter and Garrick is expecting his pregnant daughter to visit. The story just rolls from there. And I mean rolls, Mallery keeps you laughing with this one! In fact, I felt like the ending came a little too quickly for me!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
October 20, 2020
Great warm story about the trials of starting over and having a family and friends in a new town.
Wynn has been a single mom for 14 years. She has gotten through the tough times and her son is now 14. Her business is going well and she has a great circle of friends. But she is ready for a new relationship in her life.
She meets Garrick the man next door who needs her help.
Garrrick's daughter will be visiting for Christmas and the man cave decor isn't going to work for his daughter he knows!
So he asks for Wynn's help to cozy it up a bit.
Meanwhile, Garrick's daughter arrives and is very difficult to get along with.
( I had a bit of problem with this character who is 21 years old-but acts like she is 5. I had a hard time understanding allowing the attitude to go on for so much of the time.-It was a bit jarring )
Each character has some real world problems and has to work their way through them.
But all in all a warm Christmas story.
However, they have help from their friends and neighbors to get through everything.
Wynn has been a single mom for 14 years. She has gotten through the tough times and her son is now 14. Her business is going well and she has a great circle of friends. But she is ready for a new relationship in her life.
She meets Garrick the man next door who needs her help.
Garrrick's daughter will be visiting for Christmas and the man cave decor isn't going to work for his daughter he knows!
So he asks for Wynn's help to cozy it up a bit.
Meanwhile, Garrick's daughter arrives and is very difficult to get along with.
( I had a bit of problem with this character who is 21 years old-but acts like she is 5. I had a hard time understanding allowing the attitude to go on for so much of the time.-It was a bit jarring )
Each character has some real world problems and has to work their way through them.
But all in all a warm Christmas story.
However, they have help from their friends and neighbors to get through everything.
December 17, 2021
Susan Mallery - Und dann steht die Liebe vor der Tür (Happily Inc 6)
Cozy Story die mir fast zu „normal“ war
Klappentext:
Wynn Beauchene steht morgens mit einem Lächeln auf. Ihr Geschäft floriert, und sie hat einen Sohn, den sie über alles liebt. Obwohl sie glücklich ist, kommt es ihr in letzter Zeit aber immer öfter so vor, als würde etwas fehlen. Noch mehr zu schaffen macht ihr, dass sie ihren Nachbarn, den Polizisten Garrick, plötzlich so interessant findet. Als er sie bittet, sein Haus für den angekündigten Besuch seiner Tochter weihnachtlich zu dekorieren, kann Wynn nicht widerstehen. Eine kleine Liebe schadet nicht, es muss doch nicht die ganz große sein. An die glaubt Wynn nämlich schon lange nicht mehr.
Ich hatte Lust auf eine Weihnachtsgeschichte und auf Cozy Time. Danke an Harper Collins für das Rezensionsexemplar.
Wynn und Garrick sind Nachbarn und Garrick braucht die Hilfe von Wynn als seine Tochter Joylyn unerwartet zu Besuch kommt. Diese erwartet ein Kind und ihr Mann kann sie in der Schwangerschaft nicht unterstützen, weil er sich beim Militär befindet. Yay… USA Flair go!
Zwischen den beiden, Wynn und Garrick herrscht eine gewisse sexuelle Spannung, die aber leider immer wieder von der schwangeren Tochter unterbrochen wird. Joylyn war mir leider sehr unsympathisch und wirkte auf mich sehr unreif. Ich fand sie ziemlich unerzogen, verwöhnt und teilweise zickig. Sie hat, oh Gott, ich muss es wirklich sagen, für mich das ganze Buch zerstört, sry die ganze Geschichte. Ich hab eine wunderschöne Liebesgeschichte mit Weihnachtsflair erwartet, und nicht eine schwangere Göre, die nicht zufrieden mit sich selbst ist und deswegen das Leben der anderen verkompliziert.
Ich fand die Szenen wo es nur um Wynn und Garrick ging einfach wunderbar und sehr stimmig, leider gab es von diesen aber einfach zu wenig.
Es gab hier zu viele Probleme, die ich in einem Weihnachtsbuch eigentlich nicht erwartet hätte.
Von mir gibt es eine Leseempfehlung wenn man etwas leichtes mit einer zickigen Tochter sucht.
Ich habe die Sterne tatsächlich noch umgeändert, weil ich anfangs 3 Sterne geben wollte. Aber nein, leider… das war nicht mein Buch!
2 Sterne / 5 Sterne
Cover und Gesamteindruck:
Das Cover finde ich süß und kitschig zugleich. Es passt zu der Geschichte wobei die schwangere Tochter vielleicht noch abgebildet werden sollte mit Teufelshörner. Das Format des Taschenbuches ist okay aber mir fast ein wenig zu klein.
3 Sterne / 5 Sterne
Cozy Story die mir fast zu „normal“ war
Klappentext:
Wynn Beauchene steht morgens mit einem Lächeln auf. Ihr Geschäft floriert, und sie hat einen Sohn, den sie über alles liebt. Obwohl sie glücklich ist, kommt es ihr in letzter Zeit aber immer öfter so vor, als würde etwas fehlen. Noch mehr zu schaffen macht ihr, dass sie ihren Nachbarn, den Polizisten Garrick, plötzlich so interessant findet. Als er sie bittet, sein Haus für den angekündigten Besuch seiner Tochter weihnachtlich zu dekorieren, kann Wynn nicht widerstehen. Eine kleine Liebe schadet nicht, es muss doch nicht die ganz große sein. An die glaubt Wynn nämlich schon lange nicht mehr.
Ich hatte Lust auf eine Weihnachtsgeschichte und auf Cozy Time. Danke an Harper Collins für das Rezensionsexemplar.
Wynn und Garrick sind Nachbarn und Garrick braucht die Hilfe von Wynn als seine Tochter Joylyn unerwartet zu Besuch kommt. Diese erwartet ein Kind und ihr Mann kann sie in der Schwangerschaft nicht unterstützen, weil er sich beim Militär befindet. Yay… USA Flair go!
Zwischen den beiden, Wynn und Garrick herrscht eine gewisse sexuelle Spannung, die aber leider immer wieder von der schwangeren Tochter unterbrochen wird. Joylyn war mir leider sehr unsympathisch und wirkte auf mich sehr unreif. Ich fand sie ziemlich unerzogen, verwöhnt und teilweise zickig. Sie hat, oh Gott, ich muss es wirklich sagen, für mich das ganze Buch zerstört, sry die ganze Geschichte. Ich hab eine wunderschöne Liebesgeschichte mit Weihnachtsflair erwartet, und nicht eine schwangere Göre, die nicht zufrieden mit sich selbst ist und deswegen das Leben der anderen verkompliziert.
Ich fand die Szenen wo es nur um Wynn und Garrick ging einfach wunderbar und sehr stimmig, leider gab es von diesen aber einfach zu wenig.
Es gab hier zu viele Probleme, die ich in einem Weihnachtsbuch eigentlich nicht erwartet hätte.
Von mir gibt es eine Leseempfehlung wenn man etwas leichtes mit einer zickigen Tochter sucht.
Ich habe die Sterne tatsächlich noch umgeändert, weil ich anfangs 3 Sterne geben wollte. Aber nein, leider… das war nicht mein Buch!
2 Sterne / 5 Sterne
Cover und Gesamteindruck:
Das Cover finde ich süß und kitschig zugleich. Es passt zu der Geschichte wobei die schwangere Tochter vielleicht noch abgebildet werden sollte mit Teufelshörner. Das Format des Taschenbuches ist okay aber mir fast ein wenig zu klein.
3 Sterne / 5 Sterne
October 27, 2020
I know that it is almost Halloween, but who doesn't love a Christmas book anytime of the year? Happily This Christmas is the 6h book in the series but works well as a stand alone. Out of the six books, this one is probably my favorite. I have been looking forward to Wynn's story from the beginning. She is a single mom who has never seemed to want a permanent relationship and has been very protective of her son. Garrick is the cop who lives next door and recruits Wynn to help him get his home ready for his pregnant daughter's visit.
I loved this friends to lovers story. Wynn and Garrick made wonderful friends. They had great banter and it just came so easy for them. I just really enjoyed watching these two fall in love with each other. Both had baggage from previous relationships and were wary to get serious. I was ready to shake Garrick and his clueless self toward to end. There HEA was very sweet.
The rest of the characters added a lot of flavor to the story,. It was nice to catch up with the couples from the previous books. Garrick's daughter was very annoying for a large part of the book, but I ended up loving her growth in the end. I was rooting for she and her father to make amends and heal their relationship. My favorite was the relationship between Wynn and her son. I loved the the way they interacted. It's been fun watching him grow up over the series. I highly recommend this one. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I loved this friends to lovers story. Wynn and Garrick made wonderful friends. They had great banter and it just came so easy for them. I just really enjoyed watching these two fall in love with each other. Both had baggage from previous relationships and were wary to get serious. I was ready to shake Garrick and his clueless self toward to end. There HEA was very sweet.
The rest of the characters added a lot of flavor to the story,. It was nice to catch up with the couples from the previous books. Garrick's daughter was very annoying for a large part of the book, but I ended up loving her growth in the end. I was rooting for she and her father to make amends and heal their relationship. My favorite was the relationship between Wynn and her son. I loved the the way they interacted. It's been fun watching him grow up over the series. I highly recommend this one. I look forward to the next book in the series.
September 30, 2020
Happily this Christmas is the sixth book in Susan Mallery’s Happily Inc series set in Happily Inc, California. Everyone who has been waiting for single mom Wynn to get her own book this is it. Wynn has had a crush on her neighbor Garrick since he moved next door. Garrick’s pregnant, married 21 year old daughter is going to be staying with him until her husband a marine comes home in 5 weeks. Garrick asks Wynn to help him get his house ready for his daughter.
This is a great story, I don’t normally start reading holiday books in September but I made an exception this year with everything that is going right now. This book was just what I needed, I love just about everything about this book. The characters are real and community is so important in Susan Mallery’s books. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that there was not an epilogue, but I’m sure that Garrick and Wynn will make a brief appearance in a future Happily Inc book. If you have not read any of the previous books n this series don’t worry this book can be enjoyed as a stand alone and if you enjoy it I highly recommend you read the other books I this series.
This is a great story, I don’t normally start reading holiday books in September but I made an exception this year with everything that is going right now. This book was just what I needed, I love just about everything about this book. The characters are real and community is so important in Susan Mallery’s books. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that there was not an epilogue, but I’m sure that Garrick and Wynn will make a brief appearance in a future Happily Inc book. If you have not read any of the previous books n this series don’t worry this book can be enjoyed as a stand alone and if you enjoy it I highly recommend you read the other books I this series.
September 18, 2020
I love Susan Mallery’s writing and her Happily Inc series is a book I look forward to reading each time a new one comes out.
Happily This Christmas made for a beautiful Christmas read. Certainly made me think of the holiday season coming up. I needed this story in my life right now.
Family love is the most heartwarming and prevalent aspect in Susan Mallery’s series.
Definitely pick this book up if you are in the mood for a sweet, holiday romance. Though I would recommend reading the other books in the series. Many of the past characters play a part in each book.
Publish date: September 29, 2020
Happily This Christmas made for a beautiful Christmas read. Certainly made me think of the holiday season coming up. I needed this story in my life right now.
Family love is the most heartwarming and prevalent aspect in Susan Mallery’s series.
Definitely pick this book up if you are in the mood for a sweet, holiday romance. Though I would recommend reading the other books in the series. Many of the past characters play a part in each book.
Publish date: September 29, 2020
September 29, 2020
My first Christmas story of 2020, so happy it was a Susan Mallery story!! Love returning to Happily Inc for the heartwarming story of Wynn and Garrick. I have been waiting for Wynn's story and did not disappoint. She is neighbors with Garrick, who is a police officer and she has had a secret crush on him. He has asked for her help in getting his bachelor pad ready for his married pregnant daughter's arrival. They have been estranged and he wants everything perfect for her arrival. Both struggling with mistakes from the past but with this holiday season will the magic heal all.
September 22, 2020
I loved this one! It was festive, feel good, and so charming! This was everything you are looking for in a Christmas romance. The characters are so likable and I found myself smiling throughout. It’s heartwarming and absolutely lovely. It’s brimming with Christmas cheer and will absolutely put you in the holiday spirit. My thanks to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review!
August 30, 2020
A story of friendship and love and learning to communicate. Garrick and Wynn have been neighbors for a while but it takes his pregnant daughter coming to stay for them to get to know each other. Will the friendship turn to something else?
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an arc for my honest review
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an arc for my honest review
September 12, 2020
A wonderful, heartwarming Christmas book about love and family. The main characters, Garrick and Wynn, were each struggling with the mistakes of their past, and it was fun getting to know them and watch their friendship bloom, and see how they navigated through the rough waters of parenthood and a new relationship.
December 5, 2022
To come back to my original statement: this is American to the degree that it took away loads of my enjoyment of the story that could have been really cute, but turned out to be riddled with stereotypes about gender, which way of life is superior, about how certain groups of people behave ... and I'd always argue for less unnecessary military storylines
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