Lovelight Gleams

by Cathe Swanson, Chautona Havig, Jaycee Weaver

Being selected to enter into The Christmas Lights Showcase is an honor—and a commitment! Entrants pay a hefty fee and spend months designing and executing a Christmas display to knock all others out of the running. With only four competitors selected out of thousands of entrants, competition is stiff! Cozy up and join us as one judge, four locales, a few million lights, and more than a little Christmas romance bring it all together.

A Christmas Glow-Up by Cathe Swanson

One small town, two big dreams… and a spark that could change everything.

When determined conference center manager Gwen Smith enters a national Christmas decorating contest, she’s betting her career on turning Golden Valley into a holiday showstopper—complete with a ghost town glow-up and a Wild West reenactment. But her carefully laid plans are upended by Seth Morgan, a sharp but skeptical marketing consultant who’s just inherited a stake in the center—and isn’t afraid to challenge Gwen every step of the way.

Faith, Food, and Festive Lights by Laina Turner

Mariah Butters is determined to put her beloved Cottontail Junction on the culinary map—even if it’s just a tiny Montana town. When a Christmas lights contest offers a shot at a national ad campaign, Pearl rallies the local restaurant owners for a festive showdown that could change everything. Enter Tom Roarke—a steady, kind-hearted rancher who offers his time, his tools, and maybe even his heart. As they string lights and spark ideas, Pearl and Tom find their friendship heating up. Can they light up the town, win the contest, and discover that the best kind of love is the one that shines brightest at Christmas?

Just One More Christmas by Jaycee Weaver

Who says insta-love never lasts?

When Cole and Amy met and married in the same month forty-one years ago, who could have imagined the beautiful life that would follow? This Christmas-obsessed couple has made it their life's mission to spread the love of Christ and all Christmas represents to others who need it most.

This year, the lighting contest that brought them together has the potential to transform their town into a Christmas destination, bringing the townspeople together while taking their passion and vision to the next level. Mere days before their work is to be judged, a tragic accident puts life as they know it on hold. Now it’s up to the town of Ojo del Oso to finish what the Sinclairs started while their loved ones wait for news. Will this be the end of the Sinclair legacy, or is there hope for just one more Christmas together?



The Sparkle of New Cheltenham by Chautona Havig

Her dream job just became her worst nightmare.

Kindra Hatheway walked off her graduation platform and into the perfect position with the perfect advertising company. That’s where her perfect life ended. Now one of her supervisors has put her in for a fluff job (a Christmas decorating contest? Really?) to get her out of the way. Add to that all the travel, the pressure from one of her colleagues to pick New Cheltenham as the winner, and the fact that she keeps flirting with her supervisor, and this Christmas is looking… complicated.

This tenth-annual Christmas Lights Collection is our most exciting yet! From insta-love to cowboy romance, Not-quite-enemies (but almost) to office romance, you'll find faith (Jesus IS the Reason for the season), hope (for the win!), and, of course, love in this year's anthology.

Genres: Christmas, Christian Fiction, Anthologies

671 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 7, 2025

About the author

After 40 years of wandering (but always in lovely places and not in a desert), Cathe Swanson has recently returned to her childhood home and family in Minnesota.

In the summer, she and her husband enjoy spending time with their grandchildren and being outdoors, gardening, hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. The long winters are perfect for writing books, playing games, reading, and indoor hobbies. Cathe's been a quilter and teacher of quiltmaking for 35 years and enjoys just about any kind of creative work, especially those involving fiber or paper.

Everything inspires new books! A lifelong love of quilting, Cathe’s Swedish heritage and an interest in genealogy led to The Glory Quilts series, and the Hope Again series is inspired by her life in the Midwest and experiences with the elderly, the military, and inner-city ministry. As a child of the 60’s, she’s currently having fun writing about hippies and the Jesus People movement.

Cathe writes books with creative plots and engaging characters of all ages, to glorify God and entertain and bless readers. Her heartwarming stories will make you laugh and make you cry—and then make you laugh again.

Reviews

[Chautona Havig]

Okay, as one of the authors in this collection, I'm not going to rate the book, and I'm disclosing my connection with it now. Sharing my take on the first three novellas and leaving out my opinion of my own book (because that's just weird).

A Christmas Glow-Up by Cathe Swanson
As usual, Cathe does a brilliant job bringing a multi-generational cast of characters together in a Christmas story that'll have you laughing, shaking your head, and cheering on the residents of Golden Valley as they try to put on a killer Christmas display to win a much-needed advertising package. I loved the romance, the faith, and the community, but I think what I loved most was the character growth in Gwen. So encouraging.

Faith, Food, and Festive Lights by Laina Turner
Cottontail Junction has an awful lot of good food. I'm just sayin'. I want to eat at The Ranch Hand and the French Restaurant. Definitely. But even more, I want the pistachio biscotti. *whimpers. I loved that Laina's characters, while having a "swift romance" also didn't. And furthermore, it wasn't smooth sailing. The difficulties between different characters were real and reasonable, which isn't always true in a Christmas novella.

Just One More Christmas by Jaycee Weaver
The Sinclairs are back at it again, but this time we see Amy and Cole's whirlwind romance forty-plus years ago and how it started their love of Christmas. From the first Christmas Lights contest, to this year's, we get the back and forth and see how the Sinclairs use Christmas to share the love of Jesus--with a missions trip back then and a desire to share the love of Christmas all year long now.

As you can see, I loved reading all of the books and being a part of this collection. There's one thing in Laina's book I wasn't aware of until it was too late, but hey. With a little imagination, it's easy to swap out facts and voila!

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun collection of novellas centered around an advertising contest. Three of the stories center on the people working on making the presentation amazing to win the prize of an advertising package. The last story also includes the experiences and emotions of the woman from the advertising firm designated to judge the entries. It was interesting to see the events from the two different perspectives.

Woven throughout are stories of relationships and romance. There are some couples who have been happily married for decades. There are some family relationships that are disrupted when the project is started. There is a surprise birth that changes plans. There are some who are just getting to know each other, hoping for romance. And there are wonderful people working together in each location to make Christmas special.

Entertaining stories with a good faith messages make this collection a good one to read to get inspired for Christmas. While each author has a particular writing style, all of them combine to produce an entertaining collection.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s always fun to read Christmas-themed stories to get into the seasonal mood before my favorite holiday (or any time of year, for that matter). I have enjoyed these Christmas collections in the past so I ordered this year’s when the preorder came out. I like the interconnectedness of the 2025 anthology connecting the various tales with a Christmas lights contest and a judge who travels to each community. Youi can’t help but root for each place as you read their tale. The fourth novella fills in the judge’s background and shares her perspective, whereas the previous ones portray her only as the outsider whom they try to impress. In each setting, the realistic characters struggle with others and with the elements of the contest too, revealing universal situations readers can identify with. I think the book could have used better editing because I noticed several inconsistencies that added some confusion as reading. All opinions are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

One Christmas lights contest. Four small towns. Four talented authors. Four entertaining stories filled with hope, romance, and the true meaning of Christmas. Lovelight Gleams delivers all the feels this season, for fans of the previous collections and newcomers alike.

The collection opens with the story I’ve been waiting for since last year’s collection: “A Christmas Glow-Up” by Cathe Swanson. I’ve so enjoyed my visits the last two years to this unconventional convention center in Golden Valley, Montana, and I was delighted to see that this novella is, in fact, focused on its manager Gwen as I’d hoped. The center’s last minute acceptance into the national Christmas lights contest (with a much-needed marketing package prize) triggers a mad scramble that’s going to require the residents of Golden Valley to work together to make it happen – and one that provided several chuckles (and sympathetic mental hugs for Gwen) along the way for me too. Enter Seth, who’s just found out he’s a shareholder in the conference center… and cue the chemistry between him and Gwen! They made such a good team, and I loved getting to know both of them, especially the deeper layers to Gwen’s story that the author provides. Their romance is sweet and swoony, and this story sparkles with humor, warmth, and grace.

New-to-me author Laina Turner takes us next to Cottontail Junction in “Faith, Food, and Festive Lights”. Like Golden Valley, they’re also hoping to keep their town alive, and local waitress (and future restaurant owner) Mariah Butters is determined to do what she can to help them win. Including mustering up the courage to ask handsome rancher Tom Roarke to go against his father and decorate the family ranch. I enjoyed spending time in the community, especially meeting Mariah’s aunt Pearl, and watching Tom and Mariah fall sweetly in love over the course of the story… and, can I just say, how much I love sudden snowstorms? You’ll know why when you read this novella. More than all of that though, I appreciated the depth depicted in the relationship between Tom and his parents, even when his choices put him in conflict with his dad. He didn’t handle things perfectly, and neither did his dad, but there was still love reflected between them. (Side note: have plenty of snacks on hand while you’re reading this novella because there are lots of good cooks in Cottontail Junction!)

Fans of Jaycee Weaver’s books are no strangers to the Sinclair family as we’ve watched all three sisters fall in love and start families of their own. But in “Just One More Christmas” we get to see their parents’ Amy & Cole’s whirlwind love story at last! Weaver takes us between 41 years ago and the present day, and my romance-loving heart particularly gobbled up the details of their meeting and marrying in the same month. Sometimes, when you know you just know and it’s clear in the present day timeline that Amy & Cole’s ‘insta-love’ has stood the test of time. And not only are they still very much in love, they’re super flirty too (and had me fanning a couple of times… including the last line of the story, which also had me laughing). I just adored watching their relationship from its early stages to the depth of the present day, though Weaver did take my heart through the wringer a little bit too. And I really thought it was fun how the Christmas lights contest connected the two timelines. If you’ve enjoyed the Sinclair Sisters books, you’ll definitely not be able to put this story down.

Chautona Havig returns us to one of her own fan-favorite communities in “The Sparkle of New Cheltenham”, but she also gives us the perspective (and love story) of Kindra Hatheway, the judge for the Christmas lights contest. We’ve seen her pop up in all three of the other novellas in this collection, and I was most curious to read the events of “A Christmas Glow-Up” from her point of view. As we travel with Kindra to Golden Valley, Cottontail Junction, and Ojo del Oso, we also get to watch her fall in love with her boss. I actually didn’t think I was going to like Todd at first but I’m so glad I ended up being wrong about that. He’s such a sweetheart and a romantic, besides! But Havig doesn’t stop there – she gives us a bonus romance, a little bit of intrigue, and an unexpected delivery (or three), and I loved all of the above. Lauren and Walker totally had my heart, and I delighted in their relationship too.

Bottom Line: Lovelight Gleams positively sparkles with the storytelling & character building talents of authors Cathe Swanson, Laina Turner, Jaycee Weaver, and Chautona Havig. Each novella takes readers to a different small town determined to win a festive contest, and at least one couple who’s going to receive a ‘happily-ever-after’ prize no matter where their town ultimately falls in the rankings. The faith threads, sweet romances, community dynamics, and layered characters offer readers a hope-filled respite from the busyness of the holidays, one that entertains as well as uplifts. Which town wins the contest? Which town is disqualified – and why?? How do the other two towns do overall? To find out, you’re gonna have to read Lovelight Gleams for yourself – and trust me, I don’t think you’ll mind!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay. I’ll just say it. I love Chautona Havig. All of her books are amazing, and I can’t stop reading them. Anytime I get a notification that she has a new book out, I immediately go purchase and read it or read it on Kindle Unlimited.

While Chautona is not the only author in this collection of novellas, I knew that the entire thing would be amazing. All of the collections she is in are. So, of course, I volunteered to read it! Such a hardship. Such a sacrifice.

All of the novellas are tied together due to a Christmas lights contest. It’s for advertising and will bring fame and people to the tiny towns that are competing. But which one should win? And why? And who are they? Well, you get to know them all through this set.

Another thing I love about these books is that they are full of Christian faith and values, plus also Bible verses and truth. Not only this, but this one also gives us a look at Christmas and the meaning of the season all wrapped up in a fun, humorous, and romantic collection.

With all that said, of course, my favourite novella was the one by Chautona.
Hers, Kindra being the main character, has the unique perspective of being about the judge, the woman of the advertising company. She has a unique perspective and is also looking for some romance, but also looking to be treated as a creative equal in her job.

I loved going back to New Cheltenham (and honestly, I was rooting for them to win because I love this little space even if it’s all fiction) and seeing some old friends. I highly recommend reading the other books that take place in New Cheltenham before reading this novella. This is where I have an advantage by being a dedicated stalker, err, I mean fan, of Chautona’s books.

Not only do we get the advertising perspective in this novella, but we also get Lauren, who is from New Cheltenham and in charge of their entry. So it’s a dual POV in both of the women. I can’t say which I loved more. Though if I had to choose it would be Lauren because hello, new Cheltenham!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Jennifer Sienes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love romance and Christmas, especially going into the holiday season? Lovelight Gleams, by authors Chautona Havig, Kathe Swanson, Laina Turner, and Jaycee Weaver is the 10th annual Christmas Lights Collection. This is the first I’ve read—and honestly, I wasn’t aware there had been nine before.

Four novellas and five romances make up this book, which is almost as long as Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind. Unless you’re a binge reader with a lot of time on your hands, you won’t get through this Christmas collection quickly.

I love the concept. Each story is written as a stand-alone, with a town Christmas décor contest as the theme. However, they connect at the end with the last story, as Jaycee Weaver writes hers around both the characters judging the contest (as an advertising campaign) and the fourth town eligible to place.
It’s difficult to review a collection with varied authors and writing styles, and giving it a star rating is even more challenging.

All of the novellas are well-written, but two of them stood out to me. Laina Turner’s Just One More Christmas is a dual timeline starting in the present with Amy and Cole Sinclair. The reader learns how the two met more than forty years ago, so we are able to follow their love story from start to (almost) finish. The characters are lovable, and the way the author flipped from present to past kept me turning the pages.

The other standout is Jaycee Weaver’s The Sparkle of New Cheltenham. Although I had a hard time following the characters in the beginning, with a little patience on my part, things cleared up rather quickly. This story has two romances—the first between Delta Advertising employee Kindra Hatheway and her superior, ad executive Todd Graham, and the other between New Cheltenham townsfolk Lauren Kinsey and Walker Hayes. The characters were well-rounded and easy to connect with.

If you love all things Christmas mingled with enough sweet romance to give you a cavity, this is the Christmas collection for you.

I was given a copy of this book to review, but the opinions are my own.

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun Christmas anthology with a Christmas Lights Showcase contest and faith woven into each of the story.
A Christmas Glow-up by Cathe Swanson focuses on Gwen and Seth as they and Golden Valley prepare for the Christmas Lights Showcase competition, including a reenactment. Gwen faces some setbacks and obstacles as she wants the conference center to be successful. I enjoyed the chemistry between Gwen and Seth, and one scene was funny.
Faith, Food, and Festive Lights by Laina Turner set in Cottontail Junction, Montana, was a cozy read with romance amidst planning for the contest. Mariah and Tom were great characters and a couple. However, they encounter some snags and resistance. Such a fun read.
Just One More Christmas by Jaycee Weaver is of Cole and Amy Sinclair, an older couple. We finally get their story, and I enjoyed the flashbacks to the past when Cole and Amy first met and their developing relationship. Weaver adds the POVs of the Sinclair sisters and their husbands. What a great story, great characters, and a wonderful story.
The Sparkle of New Cheltenham by Chautona Havig was an interesting read as it has 2 couples and their POVs. We get Kinda's POV as she prepares for the contes and travels (she has some unexpected mishaps) to the cities she's judging. Kinda and her boss Todd were a wonderful couple, and I enjoyed the chemistry between them as well as Walker and Lauren's. Lauren has to deal with loss and change in life. Awesome read.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

sooo good!

“Lovelight Gleams” the 2025 Christmas Lights Collection is a delightful set of Christmas stories that will thrill the heart of any Christmas story lover! First, this year the stories are all connected! They can be read all on their own, but they are just lovely when read altogether. Each of the stories is about a small town that has entered a Christmas decorating contest put on by an advertising company. The final book in the collection tells the stories from the point of view of the judge for said decorating competition. The stakes are high for these four places, because the prizes are professional marketing help worth various amounts of money. Marketing help could help save these small towns from extinction and bring revitalized life and business for the faithful citizens. Townspeople band together and labor to bring their plans and dreams to fruition in each book.
I absolutely loved this collection, and I expected to love it as this collection is my favorite Christmas collection every year. But, this year’s collection feels extra special with them all blending together to tell one larger story. So many great character growth moments happen throughout the books. We read of such wonderful Christmas spirit and the true meaning of Christmas in each story. I wholeheartedly recommend this collection. Buy it. Grab a cozy beverage and a cozy blanket and snuggle up for a wonderful literary escape.

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've enjoyed other books in The Christmas Lights Collection, but this one wasn't a favorite.

A Christmas Glow Up - Cathe Swanson
I started this and was so confused as to what time of year it was. I was expecting Christmas time, then I realized that it wasn’t even Thanksgiving. I set it aside because I wasn’t that interested in a book that wasn’t Christmas. I did come back to it several days later and enjoyed the rest of it.

Faith, Food, and Festive Lights - Laina Turner
DNF
There wasn’t anything really wrong with this story, it just wasn’t catching my attention and the writing style felt rather amateurish. It could just be my own preference.

Just One More Christmas - Jaycee Weaver
DNF
I didn’t care for the more intimate affection and kisses and longing and hints and comments being shared in this story. It was too suggestive for my tastes.

The Sparkle of New Cheltenham - Chautona Havig
This story. I really liked the characters, but my brain was having a hard time switching between the two stories. It felt like reading two different books, one chapter at a time. It also didn’t help that Chautona’s writing style has a lot of time jumps and adding that to the two different story lines each with parts of the perspective of two different people, it was just hard to keep focused.
I did love Lauren and Walker but I wondered how old they were.

[Marylin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun way to get into the holiday spirit of things is to read this delightful collection of stories that will bring out the sparkle in your day!
Another Christmas collection of books written by four wonderful authors - Cathe Swanson, Chautona Havig, Jaycee Weaver, and Laina Turner. I’ve read many books by several of these authors, and they are all fantastic storytellers whose stories will capture your heart and give you warm fuzzies.
Every story will warm your heart and get you into the holiday spirit. One of the fun parts of this collection is that all the books are tied together by a contest, which gives us a different viewpoint. It really is delightful!
Another aspect I loved about this collection is that throughout each story, the authors brought out tender truths of God’s love. These were sweetly written and not at all pushy.
Christmas really is a wonderful time. A time full of wonder and beauty, woven with bits of holiday magic. This is what the collection brought to me.
It was such a delight to read, and as I started reading this collection, I got into the mood for all things Christmas. It was just what I needed to get into the holiday spirit, and now I want to decorate my house!
I highly recommend you pick up this collection; it will bring a smile to your face and warm fuzzies to your heart!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun collection of Christmas stories! I always enjoy a Christmas novella collection, and couldn't resist wanting to read this collection when I first saw it was coming out. It also helps that I've read Chautona Havig and Jaycee Weaver's books before, so I knew there would be at least two authors in the collection whose books I'd be guaranteed to enjoy.
I think my favorite of the collection was Just One More Christmas by Jaycee Weaver. Getting to see the past and present day romance of an older couple kept me turning the pages. I love the whole family in this story, and the fact that they've been featured before in her other series was just icing on the cake.
I don't really think there was a terrible story in this collection. There was one story that didn't really resonate with me much, but I also didn't regret reading it either. I find in novella collections there's usually always one that isn't to your taste, but that's just the way these things tend to be.
If you're looking for a fun collection of Christmas romances that will get you in the holiday spirit, give this collection a try!
*I read an early ARC from the publisher/authors. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 4 out of 5]

As usual, I thoroughly enjoyed this Christmas Lights collection of stories. This time, they were even more fun, because all the stories are interconnected. Chautona Havig’s book, at the end, tied all of them together.
I did not read the second book in this collection, because when I reached the second page I realized I was going to be quite annoyed with it. I enjoyed all the others, however. All of them continued stories that were in previous Christmas Lights collections. It was fun to see what was happening in Golden Valley in A Christmas Glow-Up. I loved visiting New Cheltenham again and catching up with Brenna and Lauren (Kindra’s story isn’t the only one in this lovely book!). I think my favorite, though, much to my surprise, was Jayce Weaver’s One More Christmas. I don’t normally like her books so well, but this one drew me in and I didn’t want to quit reading!
I highly recommend this collection for anyone who enjoys Christmas stories. With four full-length novels in one, it is good value, too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovelight Gleams: The Christmas Lights Collection 2025 is a Christmas Collection of stories by Laina Turner, Cathe Swanson, Jaycee Weaver, and Chautona Havig. This delightful collection will get you into the holiday spirit and keep you reading. As an avid reader and someone who enjoys Christmas, I always enjoy reading the books in this collection. This book lived up to my expectations.

Unlike collections from previous years, this book connects all four books together, meaning characters from one story may appear in another story. I loved how the books feature sweet themes centered around Christmas while incorporating God and faith without being overbearing. I loved getting to know the characters while also enjoying the pace of the stories.

So if you want an amazing Christmas collection of stories by incredible authors, check out Lovelight Gleams: The Christmas Lights Collection 2025, a Christmas Collection of stories by Laina Turner, Cathe Swanson, Jaycee Weaver, and Chautona Havig. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of contemporary Christian romance stories are sweet, clean, and wonderful reading for the Christmas season. Each story is connected to the theme of the “Christmas Lights Showcase” competition. These four stories are tied together by contest judge Kindra Hathaway. Kindra’s judging turns into a personal journey, and during the course of the competition, she comes to believe that she may have her own “happily-ever-after” moment just in time for Christmas. I found myself cheering on each of the four communities as they made their case as to why they should be selected as the winner. I have to admit that as I came to the end of this collection, I had a favorite community (and couple) and I was not disappointed as to how the competition came to a conclusion. I enjoyed each author’s story and admired the way they made these stories seamlessly flow together. This collection is full of faith, hope, love, and a focus on family. I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection includes stories about four different entities vying for recognition in Christmas lighting/decorating contest. The stories are written by four different authors. If you have read any of the previous collections you may run into some familiar characters. The stories are all set in different places and with wildly different ideas about what makes Christmas special. They are all fun and interesting, written by great writers. The only downside that I found was the last story that was the capstone of the collection. That story took some major left turns from parts of the overall story that were showcased in the first three. It also left somewhat of a cliff hanger about why one town was disqualified from the contest. Will we get that in next year's collection or will we ever find out?
If you have read and enjoyed any of the other Christmas Lights Collections I'm sure you will like this on also.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun collection of stories that shares Christmas traditions, unexpected relationships and the meaning of this special day. I like how each author centers their story around decorating and giving readers that holiday spirit. The characters are easy to relate to and fill the pages with faith. Within each story there are conflicts, hope and challenges.

I like how we are treated to each author’s creativity as the characters each find themselves working together in the true spirit of Christmas. The sparkling lights, ornaments, and assortment of people hoping to find the joy will delight readers. It is easy to get into the holiday spirit as each story shares a bit of romance, hope and above all bringing people together.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Andrea Stoeckel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been blessed to have read many of these Christmas Lights Collections over the years but without a doubt this is one of the best of them.

Having worked with reading many of both authors Chautona Havig and Cathe Swanson I of course read their contributions first. All four stories have the bare bones of a marketing concept contest and some characters overlap but the stories are independent. All have foundations of faith and love without being as overtly "Christian" as some fiction of this genre can be. And that's why I love these authors and have supported them when I could. Highly Recommended 5/5

[I am pleased to report that this is my 180th read this year and that I reached my Goodreads goal with it. ]

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each year I look forward to the new Christmas Lights Collection. 2025s version didn’t disappoint. Lovelight Gleams is a collection of books based on advertising. While that may not sound Christmas-y it really is. Think Christmas decorating and dive in!

These stories have so many different tropes. Enemies to friends, instant love, even a cowboy romance. Something for everyone, all are clean and sweet romances.

Such a fun way to get into your Christmas reading with great, well developed characters, these warm hearted books will start your season off right.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet collection of holiday stories. I loved how each story is unique but connected by a Christmas light contest. I liked seeing the characters grow and get into the holiday spirit. I also thought the stories were well written and that you could hear each authors unique voice come through in their story. I also liked that the stories were uplifting and light hearted. I think this is a great collection of stories to read to get ready for the holiday season.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Lovelight Gleams: The Christmas Lights Collection 2025 " is a collection of 4 novellas centered around winning an advertising contest and is also of relationships and romance. These stories have faith messages. This is a good collection to get readers into the Spirit of Christmas. If you like Christmas stories and like stories centered around one theme and by different authors, you need to do yourself a favor and get a copy and read this book.

I received a complementally copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Teresa Kirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Stories Are Good ALL Year Long

I love it when several authors manage to tie their stories all together. A few discrepancies between a story and the final tie-up story were easy to overlook.

Only one author was unknown to me in this book and also the only one I was disappointed in. She appeared to fail in the Christian fiction aspect of the book...they never prayed about things and cleaning house instead of church on Sunday, her day off, felt wrong.

Definitely worth the read.

[Laurie Larsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for Jaycee Weaver’s contribution to this heartwarming anthology. I’ve always loved Jaycee’s light hearted, easy to read writing style. This story swept me up right away. I loved Cole and Amy’s love story, and how the author went back and forth in time from their beginning to their current, 40 years later. Their marriage is truly based on love and passion for each other with Jesus at the center. Really something to strive for. I loved the heart sweeping perfect happy ending.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only read Jaycee Weaver's contribution to the anthology, though I've read other works by the other authors and I trust they did an amazing job as well.

I enjoyed Ms. Weaver's story.

I liked seeing an older couple still attracted to each other.
I liked that they reminded each other of scripture, and that their goal was to share their faith and blessings with others.

[Becky Dempsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always enjoyed reading the annual Christmas Lights Collections. This year was no exception to that. I like the varied stories with a common theme of a decorating contest. The stories are standalones, which may tie in to previous books by the author. I found the book to be well written and it was fun to start getting in the holiday spirit.

[R.j. · Rating 4 out of 5]

excellent

I’ve been reading this collection since the very first one! I am a huge fan of the collection. Every author in here is great!

In this collection, I think my favorite is Jaycee Weavers. I love how this ties back to other books this author wrote and it was SO good.

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished the story Christmas glow up. It was a great story and I know the others in this anthology are just as good. This list of authors put out a Christmas anthology each year and they’ve always been great. I would recommend it to my friends as cozy reading.

[Jeannette Harbottle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marathon Christmas read

And like a marathon, you can't stop until you reach the end. Four authors blending their stories pefectly for a romantic, cost Christmas read.

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four novellas wrap around the joys and lights of Christmas through a decoration challenge. Who will walk away with the prize?