Four cozy tales of love, hope and holiday magic unfold on the snow-kissed shores of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Keeper (1919) – Returning to Battle Harbour, Labrador, after The Great War to find her fiancé engaged to another woman is not the homecoming Mary Butler expected. But as she realizes it’s her pride, not her heart, that’s bruised, she finds herself drawn to serious, war-worn lighthouse keeper Allan Bennett—her fiancé’s brother.
Kitty Hawk Flies Home (1948) – Jack Williams is supposed to be dead. That’s Kate Goudie’s first thought when she sees him serving drinks in a Gander bar, years after he broke his promise to meet her in Marseilles. With the war behind them and secrets to be revealed, can they learn to trust and love again?
The Christmas Tree Wish (1978) – Maureen O’Connor doesn’t have time to fall in love with Nick she’s grieving, has a niece to raise, and a career to figure out. Besides, he dated her twin sister for a hot minute back in university. But when old feelings bubble up and the pair discover they share a bond neither of them ever imagined, Christmas takes a romantic turn.
The Next Big Thing (2010)– Julia Wells is done with Newfoundland Christmas traditions. Simon Taylor can’t wait to soak them up on his short visit to St. John’s. Covering one holiday event after another, the two journalists find themselves sparking in more ways than one. Will romance bloom in the glow of the season’s lights or will distance snuff out the burgeoning flame of love?
I really enjoyed all four of the short romances in Denise Flint’s new release, Home for Christmas: A Collection of Newfoundland & Labrador Romances. A group of stories that even if you're just vaguely familiar with Newfoundland & Labrador, you would know where they are set, even without the place name mentioned. The cover also reminds the reader of the “Jellybean Row” houses in St. John’s, Newfoundland, that are well photographed by the many tourists to the area.
Even though I took great pleasure in reading each of these stories, in my opinion, the female protagonist in the second story should have given the antagonist at least one solid punch before their happily ever after.
Of the four stories set between 1919 and 2010, my favourite was the most recent. I loved both travel writers and all the mentions of the unique holiday traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador. Both writers attended an "ugly stick" workshop and a "hobby horse" workshop. The descriptions of their creations were fun and amusing. The description of the costume that Simon wore in the Mummers’ Parade was priceless. I would love to see Julia and Simon appear in another story by Denise Flint.
Exactly what I needed right now. 4 short Christmas romance stories. The best part of romances is that they always end on a positive note!
All 4 stories were set in Newfoundland & Labrador, each around the Christmas season, spanning events from 1919 to 2010, illustrating how much the world has changed.
The perfect book to read while snuggled up on the couch during the holidays. I so very much enjoyed this! Loved the different settings around the province and the variety of time periods. All the characters were unique and memorable. Great dialogue and just enough heat to put a smile on your face.
Really enjoyed these stories. All were really well written and engaging. And, as a bonus, each gave some insight in Newfoundland and Labrador people and culture. I would highly recommend this book to all, it would make a great stocking stuffer.