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Sassy Belles #3
Sleigh Belles
www.TheSassyBelles.com
Join the Sassy Belles for Christmas, Southern style!
With her hair perfectly coiffed and a heavy trail of perfume wafting behind her, local news reporter Dallas Dubois is sure she's about to kick her career -- and maybe her love life -- into high gear. The director of the Tuscaloosa children's Christmas play has fallen ill, and Dallas is ordered by her station manager to take the reins. Everyone is shocked -- especially the musical director, Cal Hollingsworth, who still remembers her as the Ice Queen from high school.
Dallas has never met a challenge that a little lip gloss and a Chanel knockoff couldn't fix, but she has no idea how to relate to these kids. Things are made even more complicated by the butterflies she gets whenever Cal is near….
But when long-lost family members reenter her life, Dallas's icy veneer begins to melt. And with Cal by her side, she soon realizes that it's what's under all the hair spray that counts.
Sexy Southern fun…with a hint of magnolia!
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
14 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
Beth Albright
19 books181 followersBeth Albright is a Tuscaloosa native, former Days of Our Lives actress, and former radio and TV talk show host. She is a graduate of the University of Alabama School of Journalism. She is also a screenwriter, voice-over artist and mother. She is married to her college sweetheart, Ted and mother to brilliant college student, Brooks. A perpetually homesick Southern Belle and a major Alabama Crimson Tide fan, she splits her time between San Francisco and, of course, Tuscaloosa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 22, 2013
Dallas Dubois was the arch nemesis of Vivi and Blake in Sassy Belles and Wedding Belles. In Sleigh Belles we get a closer look at the hard nosed reporter who has been the bain of Blake and Vivi's existence.
When the director for the Christmas play takes ill, Dallas is railroaded into the job, and she immediately runs headlong into Cal, the guy she's had a crush on since high school. But Cal is in Blake and Vivi's clique and as far as he's concerned she's the same ice queen he knew in high school. With no hope that he'll ever see her as anything more, she does what she's always done...she builds up the walls around her heart and get's the job done.
As they get to know each other, Dallas starts to give Cal a glimpse of what lies behind her walls and he finds a vulnerable woman who has been betrayed by the most important people in her life.
Sleigh Belles vas entertaining enough. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Allison McLemore, and honestly she could narrate the 2014 MIMS and I'd probably say it was a good book. Setting aside my fan-boydom...I think this book was a little longer than it needed to be and there was a subplot which didn't need to be there. Honestly it got in the way of the story a bit.
But I enjoyed the book...and not just for the narration either.
When the director for the Christmas play takes ill, Dallas is railroaded into the job, and she immediately runs headlong into Cal, the guy she's had a crush on since high school. But Cal is in Blake and Vivi's clique and as far as he's concerned she's the same ice queen he knew in high school. With no hope that he'll ever see her as anything more, she does what she's always done...she builds up the walls around her heart and get's the job done.
As they get to know each other, Dallas starts to give Cal a glimpse of what lies behind her walls and he finds a vulnerable woman who has been betrayed by the most important people in her life.
Sleigh Belles vas entertaining enough. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Allison McLemore, and honestly she could narrate the 2014 MIMS and I'd probably say it was a good book. Setting aside my fan-boydom...I think this book was a little longer than it needed to be and there was a subplot which didn't need to be there. Honestly it got in the way of the story a bit.
But I enjoyed the book...and not just for the narration either.
April 13, 2014
The Sassy Belles are back! I just love Vivi, Blake, and Dallas. I want them for my friends as they always have each other's backs and that is just what women need! Girlfriends!! SLEIGH BELLES is mostly about Dallas Dubois and Cal Hollingsworth. Finally, these two get together. But it isn't all sweet tea and roses. They have always liked each other and the attraction was there, but Cal thought Dallas was selfish and only did things to get ahead in her television career no matter whos toes she had to step on. One day, he sees her in a different light as she comforts one of the kids in a Christmas play that Dallas is directing. He decides to give her another chance and this is where the fun and laughs begin.
I really love this series and I hope Beth continues to write about my Southern girlfriends for the next ten years at least!
I will be leaving a full review on www.freshfiction.com
I really love this series and I hope Beth continues to write about my Southern girlfriends for the next ten years at least!
I will be leaving a full review on www.freshfiction.com
August 4, 2013
Christmas is here and it's not the Sleigh Bells that you have to be worried or excited about but the "Sleigh Belles" of Tuscaloosa. We have Vivi McFadden who has just had a cute baby girl Tallulah to her longtime on/off lover and now husband Lewis - the announcer for the Football team - The Crimson Tides. Blake , after witnessing her husband Henry cheat on her she thought she may never find love again but true love for Blake came in the form of her old high-school boyfriend now Chief of Police - Sonny. Though for Sleigh Belles, we focus on a third Belle who will discover the true meaning of love and family and in Sleigh Belles we read as the wall she had put up years ago will come tumbling down - that Belle is Dallas Dubois. Dallas has always been the type of girl who has had to look out for herself and has been Blake's arch-enemy since they were youngsters and Dallas was the last straw that caused Blake to leave her husband. When Dallas learns that the "anchor chair" is opening up at the news station she has worked for , she knows she is the perfect candidate. But what happens when it seems that the way to the chair, is through a series of charity and minor news stories. Will this task see Dallas turn a new leaf as she starts to actually enjoy herself and start to feel ? Enter in Cal - When they were in High School Dallas had a huge crush on Cal, but Cal saw her as the "Ice Queen" . Has Dallas changed or can Cal be the one to melt the ice around her heart and help her to move on from her past -the past that has been causing so much pain and agony?
Find out in Book #3 of the Sassy Belles Collection - A series that is downright Southern ChickLit and fans of the TV Show Hart of Dixie will enjoy.
Find out in Book #3 of the Sassy Belles Collection - A series that is downright Southern ChickLit and fans of the TV Show Hart of Dixie will enjoy.
October 17, 2013
I have not read the previous books in the Sassy Belles series because I have actually not heard of them before. So when I read the synopsis of Sleigh Belles something about sparked an interest and I just had to read it.
Now I will admit I found the beginning a bit slow going. But after a couple of chapters I found myself hooked and not ready to put this book down. The pacing did tend to be slow at times but the plot is what kept me interested and wanting to see how things turn out. I just love the small town feel to the whole story and how
Dallas was annoying at the beginning and during several times after. Even after I finally understood her she still wasn’t the character I had hope she would be. She did turn out to be a lot better than who she started out being, and I did feel sorry for her several times.
This was such an entertaining novel that I will definitely be checking out the previous two books and any that come after. Sleigh Belles works perfectly well as a standalone and while it was not a completely happy novel it was still a very touching one.
Now I will admit I found the beginning a bit slow going. But after a couple of chapters I found myself hooked and not ready to put this book down. The pacing did tend to be slow at times but the plot is what kept me interested and wanting to see how things turn out. I just love the small town feel to the whole story and how
Dallas was annoying at the beginning and during several times after. Even after I finally understood her she still wasn’t the character I had hope she would be. She did turn out to be a lot better than who she started out being, and I did feel sorry for her several times.
This was such an entertaining novel that I will definitely be checking out the previous two books and any that come after. Sleigh Belles works perfectly well as a standalone and while it was not a completely happy novel it was still a very touching one.
November 20, 2018
somehow i read book 3 (or listened to book i mean from Audible ) before i read book 2, i have book to hear next. i am just doing it out of order??! oopsies. so funny!! am i the only one who is loving this series ...such a keeper. these accents are so fun too!! I think we have traveled through Tuscaloosa several times. We love Buffalo Rock ginger ale "Southern Spice"...does that count??! if you have never had it be sure to check it out, made in Alabama and local state there, we have drive to AL to get some from VA. it awesome and I love it!! so awesome. back to the review. Dallas Dubois (make sure u say it right now!!) she is always stealing the show. she just rocks and i mean, she means well ...just has been living a different kind of life ...she was raised differently. There are teams throughout the USA that just have such a huge following ... ROLL TIDE! for me since i love Christmas best-est ...this is my favorite so far. but that doesn't mean that they other are any else awesome-ness!! these characters ...these stories ..are awesome. these history (past) of each character is just so heartfelt and you feel for Dallas. bless her heart ... u know!! southern folks are the best. so kind. so funny at times too ... like kind but they will rip u a new one too. i mean that with all respect ... come on folks u what i mean ... we are Virginian after all ... and below that Mason Dixon line ... u keep it real ... i know some folks in a certain huge-ass-state u refuse to believe we are southern ... u know what state i speak of u think about it??! just think ...were they here when this US all started nope ..just saying ... Virginia has the history and awesome-ness ever!! these animals, these kids ...it is just too great. how Beth (the author, not me) came up with the amazing read ...she is just a genius!! love her writing style. well done!! love her so so much ... glad i found her writing ... must read series ...
February 25, 2020
The story takes place in Tuscaloosa, Alabama around Christmas time. Cal and Dallas both had a crush on each other in high school, but back then neither had the confidence to do anything about their feelings. In fact they didn't even like each other. Now they are all grown up and by chance Cal and Dallas end up working together on a children's school play called "Sleigh Bells". They get a second chance to do something about the deep down true feelings of love they had for each other in high school.
Dallas is not happy. She’s weeks away from finding out if she will be the new anchor or will be looking for a new job. She instead became the director of children’s Christmas play
by her boss at the tv station. The director is sick and Dallas’s boss insists that she take the reigns. The children aren’t listening and Cal Hollingsworth- a friend of Lewis, Blake and Vivi- being around is causing Dallas frustration. Cal is the boy that Dallas had a secret crush on in high school- and Dallas is trying to keep her cool around him because they are different as night and day.
Cal is not exactly pleased to see Dallas, either. Oh his eyes enjoy the curvy goodness of Dallas- but he remembers her as the Ice Queen and it seems that she has not changed as he watches her interactions with the children. One day, though, Dallas encounters a girl that pulls at her heart strings- and reminds her of life from long ago. Seeing Dallas soften makes Cal wonder if he misjudged Dallas- and the two decide to get better acquainted.
Will Dallas and Cal have the second chance relationship or will things fall apart?
The book was winded at times. This is the first time I read this author and I might go read the first two books to see what I missed.
Dallas is not happy. She’s weeks away from finding out if she will be the new anchor or will be looking for a new job. She instead became the director of children’s Christmas play
by her boss at the tv station. The director is sick and Dallas’s boss insists that she take the reigns. The children aren’t listening and Cal Hollingsworth- a friend of Lewis, Blake and Vivi- being around is causing Dallas frustration. Cal is the boy that Dallas had a secret crush on in high school- and Dallas is trying to keep her cool around him because they are different as night and day.
Cal is not exactly pleased to see Dallas, either. Oh his eyes enjoy the curvy goodness of Dallas- but he remembers her as the Ice Queen and it seems that she has not changed as he watches her interactions with the children. One day, though, Dallas encounters a girl that pulls at her heart strings- and reminds her of life from long ago. Seeing Dallas soften makes Cal wonder if he misjudged Dallas- and the two decide to get better acquainted.
Will Dallas and Cal have the second chance relationship or will things fall apart?
The book was winded at times. This is the first time I read this author and I might go read the first two books to see what I missed.
October 3, 2018
Best one in this series. More substance to this one than the otter two. The author did a fantastic job redeeming the heroine. Dallas was a piece of work in the other two 📚. Loved the kids. A great, heartwarming Christmas story. Happy reading/listening!
December 27, 2024
I have absolutely no one to talk to about this monstrosity of a read :/
December 24, 2014
"Sleigh Bells" is a story about second chances. The story takes place in Tuscaloosa, Alabama around Christmas time. Cal and Dallas both had a crush on each other in high school, but back then neither had the confidence to do anything about their feelings. In fact they didn't even like each other. Now they are all grown up and by chance Cal and Dallas end up working together on a children's school play called "Sleigh Bells". They get a second chance to do something about the deep down true feelings of love they had for each other in high school.
At first, I actually was slow to connecting with Dallas, but as the story unfolded I started to understand.
I was hoping the main story line would be about the romance between Cal and Dallas, but that just popped up in between scenes about her mother, her brother and a nine year old girl named Sara Grace. Also i found the story is a bit slow moving at various points
Eventually I saw how the romance connected with the other types of love in her life. It was a true Christmas story and a true second chance romance.
At first, I actually was slow to connecting with Dallas, but as the story unfolded I started to understand.
I was hoping the main story line would be about the romance between Cal and Dallas, but that just popped up in between scenes about her mother, her brother and a nine year old girl named Sara Grace. Also i found the story is a bit slow moving at various points
Eventually I saw how the romance connected with the other types of love in her life. It was a true Christmas story and a true second chance romance.
September 22, 2013
"But Cal wasn't the type to be hurt and not face it head-on. He was an Alabama football player, and Crimson Tide men didn't walk away from a battle. He wasn't trained that way. Head-on was his nature. He had to make a plan."
Amen!
Awesome job, Beth Albright! I loved Dallas's story! I always knew there was so much more to her, and I am so glad that she got her own novel! I LOVE Cal, too!
I read the entire book almost in one sitting, and I did read it in one day. If you have been following this series of "Sassy Belles" books, then you can't miss this one. It is a great holiday novel, but it is also just a great romance. Loved it!
Amen!
Awesome job, Beth Albright! I loved Dallas's story! I always knew there was so much more to her, and I am so glad that she got her own novel! I LOVE Cal, too!
I read the entire book almost in one sitting, and I did read it in one day. If you have been following this series of "Sassy Belles" books, then you can't miss this one. It is a great holiday novel, but it is also just a great romance. Loved it!
September 8, 2013
I love going back to visit Tuscaloosa and catching up with old friends. Reporter at the local tv station, Dallas helps direct the children's Christmas pageant with the help of Cal, a new friend. This is a wonderful Christmas Belle story.
September 30, 2020
Wow, what a ridiculous story. So many liars and despicable people. Dallas definitely redeemed herself, but to go from the town meanie to becoming the nicest person in town in a moment..really? Then forgiving her absolutely heinous mother and brother after literally dumping and leaving her? How didn’t that awful excuse of a mother wind up in jail for dumping her kid is beyond me. Not a single human being would ever be so forgiving and even if they were, I can’t imagine anyone letting them back into their lives. Forgiveness to let go of the anger I completely get, but letting them back into her life? No one is that forgiving. They were truly horrible. A total crock of nonsense. If you listen to the audio version know that the narration is fine, but the actual production is terrible. You can hear the many times when they spliced in new dialogue.
December 11, 2019
This is my first book by author Beth Albright, but it won't be my last. This is "technically" book 3 in the series, but I did not read the other 2 and I was able to jump right in and start here with no problems.
There were some annoying parts, some long winded parts, and some parts that were just super drawn out. I felt like Dallas did a complete 180 in a matter of a few chapters and it didn't really fit the book. There was some drama that left the reader baffled and underwhelmed, but overall it was a good read.
It's a Christmas story with a happy ending, what more can a reader want?!?
There were some annoying parts, some long winded parts, and some parts that were just super drawn out. I felt like Dallas did a complete 180 in a matter of a few chapters and it didn't really fit the book. There was some drama that left the reader baffled and underwhelmed, but overall it was a good read.
It's a Christmas story with a happy ending, what more can a reader want?!?
July 31, 2019
This book follows Blake Hart's ex-step-sister Dallas whose had a hard life and fighting tooth and nail to get an anchor job at the local t.v. station. When her boss gives her the job of directing a local Christmas play, Dallas knows she's not the best in this option but if Mike her boss wants her to do it she will find a way to do it.
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This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
What I enjoyed about this book the most was all of the Tuscaloosa references! Being a Tuscaloosa native myself, it was really enjoyable to read about all of the places I know so well. The story was sweet and I loved all of the redemption arcs. It’s not the best execution or writing, but if you live or have lived in TTown, it’s a fun one! I might back track and read the others in the series!
What I enjoyed about this book the most was all of the Tuscaloosa references! Being a Tuscaloosa native myself, it was really enjoyable to read about all of the places I know so well. The story was sweet and I loved all of the redemption arcs. It’s not the best execution or writing, but if you live or have lived in TTown, it’s a fun one! I might back track and read the others in the series!
November 12, 2024
I've listened to all three books in this series and enjoyed every single one. I love Beth Albrights writing style - I'm sure she too is one sassy belle. The female characters are wonderful and full of spit and vinegar the supporting male roles are super too. The narrator did an excellent job of bringing these stories to life. Thanks you Ms Albright you have a forever fan ;)
January 1, 2025
This was actually a cute story, but I didn’t care for the main character. She started off with an attitude that made others keep their distance until she learned it was better to be nice once in a while. However, she still wasn’t very personable and was never able to completely rid herself of the selfishness she portrayed.
December 23, 2020
Heartwarming
This story is full of conflicts and emotions. It shows people are not always what they seem and that sometimes they can change. Christmas Magic is in the air. The narrator does a good job telling the story.
This story is full of conflicts and emotions. It shows people are not always what they seem and that sometimes they can change. Christmas Magic is in the air. The narrator does a good job telling the story.
May 19, 2021
This was, by far, my favorite story of the series. Dallas is a beautiful but hard to like woman. We learn why she is the way she is yet once the walls start to fracture, her heeling truly begins.
She stumbles a bit but keeps moving forward!
She stumbles a bit but keeps moving forward!
July 26, 2021
I’ve read the entire Sassy Belles series and this may have been my favorite.
May 11, 2023
I loved this book! Dallas and Cal are great together. This series will definitely be read again. Such wonderful characters and storylines. A lot of humor, some sadness. Well written!!
October 22, 2023
This delightful Christmas story is set in the south with comedy, romance, and all the feels. I loved it!
December 16, 2024
Cute cover. 1.5 stars for the story.
December 5, 2014
Originally published on my blog My Novel Opinion.
This third installment of The Sassy Belles series continues just a few months after Vivi and Lewis's wedding. It's the run up to Christmas and we're about to see a whole different side to Tuscaloosa reporter Dallas Dubois.
Dallas was first introduced in The Sassy Belles as Blake's ex-step sister (Blake's mom married Dallas's dad when the girls were teenagers). Their relationship was competitive to say the least and although not enemies, they kept each other at arm's length and did not go out of their way to be nice and friendly in their adult years.
From the previous tidbits divulged about Dallas, I didn't know what to expect when I found out that Sleigh Belles would be Dallas-centric. The Sassy Belles and Wedding Belles were both so much fun and all about friendship, so how could Sleigh Belles follow that same trend if it was to be Dallas's story?!?
In Sleigh Belles we find out that Dallas has been estranged from her mom and older brother (who she idolized as a child) for 20 years. Now 34, the hurt and abandonment of her past has driven Dallas to become an incredibly successful TV reporter. Learning about Dallas's past definitely helped me to understand her character a lot more and forgive some of her actions in The Sassy Belles and Wedding Belles. I enjoyed the love story aspect of Sleigh Belles, for Dallas to finally come out from behind her shield and to open up in a way that allowed her to reconnect with Cal was a delight to read.
And Cal seems such a catch! I don't think she could've fallen for a better man. Although early on in the book I was suspicious of Cal's intentions...I just couldn't shake the feeling that he was up to no good. I was so pleased to be wrong!
The change in Dallas from the beginning to the end of Sleigh Belles was a complete 180!
I am trying to not give too much away so will end by saying that this is probably my favorite of all three books for so many reasons!
The next installment is already on my list of highly anticipated 2014 releases, and it doesn't even have a release date yet. Hurry up Beth!! I need to read more!
My Rating: 5 out of 5I adore this series, it was such an enjoyable read! I was ecstatic to hear that Beth is writing another 3 books and that I'll be able to continue following these characters that I have grown to love! If you haven't read The Sassy Belles or Wedding Belles yet, not to worry - Sleigh Belles can easily be read out of sequence. Background on the relationships of the characters is in just enough detail that you will be able to follow the story and without giving too much away from the previous books.
December 11, 2013
Review originally posted: Traveling With T
In the previous two books, Sassy Belles and Wedding Belles, the lovely Dallas Dubois has shown the readers just how far she will go to get the story (or a man!) Dallas, while beautiful, has not shown the readers (or the people of Tuscaloosa) that she is the kind of woman to be friends with or to trust. But, if you know women like Dallas, most often- there is a reason for their behavior. Sleigh Belles tells Dallas’s story- and makes readers who may have wanted to strangle Dallas in previous books- love and understand Dallas. Similar to how Emily Giffin showed the other side of Darcy in Something Blue- Beth Albright shows that there is more to Dallas than the self-centered, beautiful package that Dallas appears.
Dallas is not happy. She’s weeks away from finding out if she will be the new anchor or will be looking for a new job- and would rather have her beautiful hair cut by Edward Scissorhands than become the director of children’s Christmas play. But, the director is sick and Dallas’s boss insists that she take the reigns. So, she does- and hopes it’ll not be as bad as she thinks. Turns out, it’s worse. The children aren’t listening and Cal Hollingsworth- a friend of Lewis, Blake and Vivi- being around is causing Dallas frustration. Cal is the boy that Dallas had a secret crush on in high school- and Dallas is trying to keep her cool around him because they are different as night and day.
Cal is not exactly pleased to see Dallas, either. Oh his eyes enjoy the curvy goodness of Dallas- but he remembers her as the Ice Queen and it seems that she has not changed as he watches her interactions with the children. One day, though, Dallas encounters a girl that pulls at her heart strings- and reminds her of life from long ago. Seeing Dallas soften makes Cal wonder if he misjudged Dallas- and the two decide to get better acquainted.
As Cal and Dallas begin to spend more time together, they find themselves falling in love. Until Dallas gets some blasts from the past that cause her to begin putting the walls back up that she had just let down. Will Cal and Dallas find happy ever after? Or will Dallas always be unlucky in love?
Dallas’s personal life is a mess- and her professional life is almost as messy. She’s worried about the anchor job and wonders what will happen if she does not get the job. When someone steals Baby Jesus from the Nativity scene of a Tuscaloosa resident- Dallas is on the case, even though she’d much rather have the harder news stories. Could the missing Baby Jesus help lead Dallas to happiness?
Traveling With T’s Thoughts
Sleigh Belles, by far, is the most heartwarming of the Sassy Belles series. While the other 2 books have more humor, fun and sass- Sleigh Belles tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. The reader learns more about Dallas’s past and why Dallas is the way she is. Beth Albright had to dig deep and work hard to show that there is way more to Dallas than the hair and the body that won’t quit- but, by golly, she did.
And not to worry- there is plenty of mention of those 2 Sassy Belles- Blake and Vivi- but this book is mostly Dallas’s time to shine and to learn that love and friendship have been closer than she ever imagined.
Recommended for readers who want something sweet and heartwarming to read during the holidays- with a heavy dash of romance. Grab a copy of Sleigh Belles and a cup of hot chocolate- and enjoy a story that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
In the previous two books, Sassy Belles and Wedding Belles, the lovely Dallas Dubois has shown the readers just how far she will go to get the story (or a man!) Dallas, while beautiful, has not shown the readers (or the people of Tuscaloosa) that she is the kind of woman to be friends with or to trust. But, if you know women like Dallas, most often- there is a reason for their behavior. Sleigh Belles tells Dallas’s story- and makes readers who may have wanted to strangle Dallas in previous books- love and understand Dallas. Similar to how Emily Giffin showed the other side of Darcy in Something Blue- Beth Albright shows that there is more to Dallas than the self-centered, beautiful package that Dallas appears.
Dallas is not happy. She’s weeks away from finding out if she will be the new anchor or will be looking for a new job- and would rather have her beautiful hair cut by Edward Scissorhands than become the director of children’s Christmas play. But, the director is sick and Dallas’s boss insists that she take the reigns. So, she does- and hopes it’ll not be as bad as she thinks. Turns out, it’s worse. The children aren’t listening and Cal Hollingsworth- a friend of Lewis, Blake and Vivi- being around is causing Dallas frustration. Cal is the boy that Dallas had a secret crush on in high school- and Dallas is trying to keep her cool around him because they are different as night and day.
Cal is not exactly pleased to see Dallas, either. Oh his eyes enjoy the curvy goodness of Dallas- but he remembers her as the Ice Queen and it seems that she has not changed as he watches her interactions with the children. One day, though, Dallas encounters a girl that pulls at her heart strings- and reminds her of life from long ago. Seeing Dallas soften makes Cal wonder if he misjudged Dallas- and the two decide to get better acquainted.
As Cal and Dallas begin to spend more time together, they find themselves falling in love. Until Dallas gets some blasts from the past that cause her to begin putting the walls back up that she had just let down. Will Cal and Dallas find happy ever after? Or will Dallas always be unlucky in love?
Dallas’s personal life is a mess- and her professional life is almost as messy. She’s worried about the anchor job and wonders what will happen if she does not get the job. When someone steals Baby Jesus from the Nativity scene of a Tuscaloosa resident- Dallas is on the case, even though she’d much rather have the harder news stories. Could the missing Baby Jesus help lead Dallas to happiness?
Traveling With T’s Thoughts
Sleigh Belles, by far, is the most heartwarming of the Sassy Belles series. While the other 2 books have more humor, fun and sass- Sleigh Belles tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. The reader learns more about Dallas’s past and why Dallas is the way she is. Beth Albright had to dig deep and work hard to show that there is way more to Dallas than the hair and the body that won’t quit- but, by golly, she did.
And not to worry- there is plenty of mention of those 2 Sassy Belles- Blake and Vivi- but this book is mostly Dallas’s time to shine and to learn that love and friendship have been closer than she ever imagined.
Recommended for readers who want something sweet and heartwarming to read during the holidays- with a heavy dash of romance. Grab a copy of Sleigh Belles and a cup of hot chocolate- and enjoy a story that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
November 9, 2013
I really wanted to like this book. Loved the cover, some of my dearest friends and family are sassy Southern belles, one specifically hails from Alabama. But I HATED reporter Dallas Dubois, and the longer I read, the more cartoonishly obnoxious and unlikable she became...
The book opens with Dallas lamenting another flare-up. Anybody else's brain shooting straight to herpes with this? Then it clarifies it's describing Dallas's attraction to Cal Hollingsworth.
We're in Dallas's point of view: "Whatever emotions and secrets brewed behind her crystal-blue eyes, she was determined no one would find out. With long legs up to here and her busty cleavage usually visible down to there, Dallas looked like a centerfold." What character who is not a total narcissistic freak describes HERSELF like this?
In a romance, it should be the hero telling us how hot and delectable the heroine is - and vice versa. Mind you, Cal, the hero, does describe Dallas later on as "gorgeous hair, bright blue eyes and curves that should be illegal in most states, Dallas was basically a fantasy on legs. Not he was all that bad himself..." and then goes on to describe himself as being called gorgeous "but it never really seemed to sink in." Oh, REALLY? *roll eyes*
Later, after having a hissy fit over a volunteer job she's taken on, Dallas demands of a woman who is basically her peer "Fine, please tell that production assistant person I need some Diet Dr. Pepper. I'm already exhausted after that scene out there." She continues to rant, then it says, "Her stomach was in knots, but she was careful not to let anyone see that." Dallas, sweetheart, firstly, after throwing these tantrums, you have revealed all. Secondly, the LAST thing you need to worry about is someone worrying your stomach is in knots.
We get jealous and envious sniping about her stepsister, who always beat her at beauty pageants, and the mean ol' clique that never included her. We don't get that Dallas has a heart, just ambition, envy, and prolly a set of extremely powerful bras.
Then she's crying silently in a bathroom stall - it SAYS she's crying silently, but she's ALSO flushing the toilet over and over to "cover the sounds of her anguish in case anyone walking by could hear her." Now, if she was crying as quietly as she could, but was afraid someone could hear her, I could buy that. DON'T tell me she's crying silently then.
Possibly, in the next pages, Dallas experiences a come-to-Jesus moment and a personality transplant, but I couldn't hang out with this toxic person and her "not a braggard" "flare-up" long enough to find out. I think if this all speaks your language, you may love it, but for me, I got about 10% in and realized MY stomach was in knots about reading any further.
The book opens with Dallas lamenting another flare-up. Anybody else's brain shooting straight to herpes with this? Then it clarifies it's describing Dallas's attraction to Cal Hollingsworth.
We're in Dallas's point of view: "Whatever emotions and secrets brewed behind her crystal-blue eyes, she was determined no one would find out. With long legs up to here and her busty cleavage usually visible down to there, Dallas looked like a centerfold." What character who is not a total narcissistic freak describes HERSELF like this?
In a romance, it should be the hero telling us how hot and delectable the heroine is - and vice versa. Mind you, Cal, the hero, does describe Dallas later on as "gorgeous hair, bright blue eyes and curves that should be illegal in most states, Dallas was basically a fantasy on legs. Not he was all that bad himself..." and then goes on to describe himself as being called gorgeous "but it never really seemed to sink in." Oh, REALLY? *roll eyes*
Later, after having a hissy fit over a volunteer job she's taken on, Dallas demands of a woman who is basically her peer "Fine, please tell that production assistant person I need some Diet Dr. Pepper. I'm already exhausted after that scene out there." She continues to rant, then it says, "Her stomach was in knots, but she was careful not to let anyone see that." Dallas, sweetheart, firstly, after throwing these tantrums, you have revealed all. Secondly, the LAST thing you need to worry about is someone worrying your stomach is in knots.
We get jealous and envious sniping about her stepsister, who always beat her at beauty pageants, and the mean ol' clique that never included her. We don't get that Dallas has a heart, just ambition, envy, and prolly a set of extremely powerful bras.
Then she's crying silently in a bathroom stall - it SAYS she's crying silently, but she's ALSO flushing the toilet over and over to "cover the sounds of her anguish in case anyone walking by could hear her." Now, if she was crying as quietly as she could, but was afraid someone could hear her, I could buy that. DON'T tell me she's crying silently then.
Possibly, in the next pages, Dallas experiences a come-to-Jesus moment and a personality transplant, but I couldn't hang out with this toxic person and her "not a braggard" "flare-up" long enough to find out. I think if this all speaks your language, you may love it, but for me, I got about 10% in and realized MY stomach was in knots about reading any further.
October 9, 2013
*3.5 Rating
Review Posted on Reading Lark 10/8/13: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2013/...
I've really enjoyed reading this series and I'm sad to see it end. My favorite part of this series has been the friendship between Blake and Vivi. I've also loved watching their relationships evolve. I was expecting to get to spend a lot more time with them in the final book, but sadly that didn't happen. This novel is really Dallas' story. It's certainly not a bad read, but it is my least favorite in the series.
For starters, I haven't liked Dallas at all in the other books. It was hard for me to start seeing her as a sympathetic character. I did appreciate that we got to learn about who Dallas really is behind her television persona. I did feel sorry for her and I did end up liking her, but it took me a long time. I really struggled with the beginning of this one as a result. I was stubborn and much like Blake didn't give Dallas a fair chance. I still have trouble liking Dallas after some of her past actions - particularly where Harry was concerned.
Secondly, this novel was a lot more serious than its predecessors. It didn't feel as light hearted and humorous. I missed the banter between Blake and Vivi; it appears every now and then, but only in fleeting moments. I also was bummed that I didn't get to spend more time with Blake and Sonny.
There is a new leading man in this one, Cal. I did enjoy him and watching his feelings for Dallas change throughout the course of the story.
Lastly, I still love the setting and the football connection that runs throughout this series. I've never been to Tuscaloosa, but this series makes me want to grab my car keys and sweet tea.
All in all, this was a good read, but I just wanted less Dallas and more Blake and Vivi. I do think this was a perfect holiday read with some good food for thought.
One Last Gripe: The ending fell flat for me. I felt like there is so much more to the Sassy Belles' stories. I hope to see them again in future Albright novels.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: I love the sense of place in this series.
First Sentence: Dallas couldn't believe she was having another flare-up.
Favorite Character: Cal
Least Favorite Character: Dallas - although by the end I had warmed up to her
Review Posted on Reading Lark 10/8/13: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2013/...
I've really enjoyed reading this series and I'm sad to see it end. My favorite part of this series has been the friendship between Blake and Vivi. I've also loved watching their relationships evolve. I was expecting to get to spend a lot more time with them in the final book, but sadly that didn't happen. This novel is really Dallas' story. It's certainly not a bad read, but it is my least favorite in the series.
For starters, I haven't liked Dallas at all in the other books. It was hard for me to start seeing her as a sympathetic character. I did appreciate that we got to learn about who Dallas really is behind her television persona. I did feel sorry for her and I did end up liking her, but it took me a long time. I really struggled with the beginning of this one as a result. I was stubborn and much like Blake didn't give Dallas a fair chance. I still have trouble liking Dallas after some of her past actions - particularly where Harry was concerned.
Secondly, this novel was a lot more serious than its predecessors. It didn't feel as light hearted and humorous. I missed the banter between Blake and Vivi; it appears every now and then, but only in fleeting moments. I also was bummed that I didn't get to spend more time with Blake and Sonny.
There is a new leading man in this one, Cal. I did enjoy him and watching his feelings for Dallas change throughout the course of the story.
Lastly, I still love the setting and the football connection that runs throughout this series. I've never been to Tuscaloosa, but this series makes me want to grab my car keys and sweet tea.
All in all, this was a good read, but I just wanted less Dallas and more Blake and Vivi. I do think this was a perfect holiday read with some good food for thought.
One Last Gripe: The ending fell flat for me. I felt like there is so much more to the Sassy Belles' stories. I hope to see them again in future Albright novels.
My Favorite Thing About This Book: I love the sense of place in this series.
First Sentence: Dallas couldn't believe she was having another flare-up.
Favorite Character: Cal
Least Favorite Character: Dallas - although by the end I had warmed up to her
October 10, 2013
I have enjoyed following this series so far, and I hope there will be more books in the near future! The Southern sassiness is just too much to resist, especially if you are a Southern belle like me! The cover, of course, caught my eye, as I am ready for all things Christmas starting in the beginning of November! I loved the other two books in this series, and I was anxious to finally read Dallas’s story. In this book the relationships between Blake, Vivi, and Dallas develop a little more, and I must say that things are not as light-hearted and easy going in this book as they have been in the others.
Throughout the other books in this series, I didn’t develop a very strong opinion of Blake. I actually couldn’t stand her at certain parts, but I began to warm up to her towards the end. In this book, which shares her complete story, I felt a different type of emotion towards her. I began to sympathize with her, and some of her previous actions became suddenly clear. She has been abandoned and neglected her entire life, and this really puts her character in perspective and shines a new light on things. I must admit that Beth Albright made me change my view on this character, and I am so sorry for ever doubting Dallas.
However, I loved Cal the best! Cal was just what Dallas needed. Characters like Cal are always my favorite because they are written to balance even the snarkiest and crudest out. Cal was sweet and charming and I would definitely add that he was the sugar to Dallas’s spice. Their relationship and story is rooted in the past, and it was wonderful being able to know the connection that they once had and now watching that grow and change for the better. This book is just written about relationships in general, and the mending of some that have been broken for far too long. I think the message behind the book is far more powerful than any of the previous ones!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Harlequin Mira in exchange for my honest review***
Throughout the other books in this series, I didn’t develop a very strong opinion of Blake. I actually couldn’t stand her at certain parts, but I began to warm up to her towards the end. In this book, which shares her complete story, I felt a different type of emotion towards her. I began to sympathize with her, and some of her previous actions became suddenly clear. She has been abandoned and neglected her entire life, and this really puts her character in perspective and shines a new light on things. I must admit that Beth Albright made me change my view on this character, and I am so sorry for ever doubting Dallas.
However, I loved Cal the best! Cal was just what Dallas needed. Characters like Cal are always my favorite because they are written to balance even the snarkiest and crudest out. Cal was sweet and charming and I would definitely add that he was the sugar to Dallas’s spice. Their relationship and story is rooted in the past, and it was wonderful being able to know the connection that they once had and now watching that grow and change for the better. This book is just written about relationships in general, and the mending of some that have been broken for far too long. I think the message behind the book is far more powerful than any of the previous ones!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Harlequin Mira in exchange for my honest review***
October 1, 2013
This and other reviews can be found on my blog, My Written Romance.
Now I wasn't quite sure how I would be able to take Dallas as a heroine. In the first two books, there are moments where you just want to pull her aside and say "Love, pull your head in - you're not really doing yourself any favours!". Blake's teenage rival in everything, Dallas hasn't really come across that well before.
Oh, how I do love a good redemption story! We learn that life hasn't always been so kind to Dallas. Estrangement from her mother and brother since her teens has led Dallas to become the highly driven and sometimes snarky person that she has. Finding out her back story definitely helped me to understand why she did some of the stuff she did.
I think out of the three books, there is a stronger focus on the actual couple. Cal is the best friend of Sonny, Blake's man, and Dallas sure had the hots for him back in the day. When they are thrown together again with the Christmas pageant, old feelings rise to the surface and past impressions are blown away. Cal's a bit of a sweetheart too! His belief in Dallas was just gorgeous!
Once again, a big strength in this story are the friendships. I loved seeing Dallas being able to finally have real friendships and the closeness with Blake and Vivi that she would never have thought to before.
I really hope this is not the end of my trips to Tuscaloosa. I have so enjoyed my time with these books. However, if this must be the end, Sleigh Belles sure was a good way to go out!
Now I wasn't quite sure how I would be able to take Dallas as a heroine. In the first two books, there are moments where you just want to pull her aside and say "Love, pull your head in - you're not really doing yourself any favours!". Blake's teenage rival in everything, Dallas hasn't really come across that well before.
Oh, how I do love a good redemption story! We learn that life hasn't always been so kind to Dallas. Estrangement from her mother and brother since her teens has led Dallas to become the highly driven and sometimes snarky person that she has. Finding out her back story definitely helped me to understand why she did some of the stuff she did.
I think out of the three books, there is a stronger focus on the actual couple. Cal is the best friend of Sonny, Blake's man, and Dallas sure had the hots for him back in the day. When they are thrown together again with the Christmas pageant, old feelings rise to the surface and past impressions are blown away. Cal's a bit of a sweetheart too! His belief in Dallas was just gorgeous!
Once again, a big strength in this story are the friendships. I loved seeing Dallas being able to finally have real friendships and the closeness with Blake and Vivi that she would never have thought to before.
I really hope this is not the end of my trips to Tuscaloosa. I have so enjoyed my time with these books. However, if this must be the end, Sleigh Belles sure was a good way to go out!
December 27, 2013
Okay, my dear friend who buddy-read this with me didn't care for it. She said the plot was so thin as to be transparent. I agree with her, but I'm giving it 5 stars anyway.
To me, fluff pieces like this are a genre unto themselves. Especially when it's a standard feel-good Christmas story. When I picked up this book, I was in the mood for something predictable and uplifting for the season, without a whole lot of roller-coastering in the story, and that's exactly what I got.
Dallas Dubois is a former beauty queen and now local TV reporter whose life is a complete mess. Estranged from her family. Still at war with the mean girls clique from high school. No friends. Unable to lower her walls enough to get close to anyone. Add to which, her TV station has an opening for an anchor job that she desperately wants, and feels she's not going to get. For some ridiculous reason, the TV station has also announced that they need to fire 2 reporters on the same day they announce the new anchor. That's the only part that rang totally false and contrived to me.
We don't wallow in her misery for very long before things start getting better. This is the fun part! Through a combination of her efforts, and the efforts of people close to her, Dallas' life is changed completely by the end of the book. The way these things all came about was very realistically done, and felt believable, so it pulled me in rather then making me roll my eyes.
I added the other two books in the series to my TBR list!
To me, fluff pieces like this are a genre unto themselves. Especially when it's a standard feel-good Christmas story. When I picked up this book, I was in the mood for something predictable and uplifting for the season, without a whole lot of roller-coastering in the story, and that's exactly what I got.
Dallas Dubois is a former beauty queen and now local TV reporter whose life is a complete mess. Estranged from her family. Still at war with the mean girls clique from high school. No friends. Unable to lower her walls enough to get close to anyone. Add to which, her TV station has an opening for an anchor job that she desperately wants, and feels she's not going to get. For some ridiculous reason, the TV station has also announced that they need to fire 2 reporters on the same day they announce the new anchor. That's the only part that rang totally false and contrived to me.
We don't wallow in her misery for very long before things start getting better. This is the fun part! Through a combination of her efforts, and the efforts of people close to her, Dallas' life is changed completely by the end of the book. The way these things all came about was very realistically done, and felt believable, so it pulled me in rather then making me roll my eyes.
I added the other two books in the series to my TBR list!
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