Libby Joseph is famous for her romantic Christmas stories. Every December, readers devour her books of falling in love against the magical backdrop of the Christmas season. If only Libby believed in the magic herself…
Struggling to finish her current novel, Libby turns to her best friend and neighbour George Donaldson to cheer her up. But George also needs a bit of support himself. Nervous about getting back into the dating saddle after splitting from his wife, he and Libby strike a deal. She will teach George how to win over the ladies, and Libby will in turn be inspired to inject her novel with a good dose of romance.
As Libby and George explore the beautiful White Cliff Bay on a series of romantic Christmas-themed dates, Libby finds herself having more fun than she’s had in ages and…discovers feelings that she never knew she had for George.
But is it too late? Will George win someone else’s heart or can Libby act like the heroine in one of her stories and reach for her own love under the mistletoe this Christmas?
Snuggle up with a piece of Christmas cake and mulled wine, and spend the festive season at White Cliff Bay. You won’t want to leave! Christmas at Lilac Cottage also out now.
Holly lives in a little white cottage by the sea. She studied media at university which led to a very glitzy career as a hotel receptionist followed by a even more glamorous two years working in a bank. The moment that one of her colleagues received the much coveted carriage clock for fifteen years’ service was the moment when she knew she had to escape. She quit her job and returned to university to train to be a teacher. Three years later, she emerged wide eyed and terrified that she now had responsibility for the development of thirty young minds. She taught for four years and then escaped the classroom to teach history workshops, dressing up as a Viking one day and an Egyptian High Priestess the next. But the long journeys around the UK and many hours sat on the M25 gave her a lot of time to plan out her stories and she now writes full time, doing what she loves.
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
SNOWFLAKE ON SILVER COVE is a magical romantic story that you will finish in one sitting like I did. It's a wonderful story that is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit no matter what time of year you read it. If you love a sweet and funny story of friends becoming lovers than do not skip SNOWFLAKES ON SILVER COVE. The first book in this series, Christmas In Lilac Cottage has some of the same characters and gives you a different perspective on many of the parts of this story. Both books in this series completely invested me in all of the characters lives, so much so that now I feel as if we are all friends and I truly want to pack up the car and head to White Cliff Bay. I just love when an author can do that to me and Holly Martin does not disappoint.
This was another cute book. I really enjoyed the Christmasy feel to it (even if its only October!) and it seems like spending it in White Cliff Bay would be the perfect place to spend it at. I love the feel of the holidays spent in a small village where everybody knows one another and they do all these magical small-town activities. The romance between George and Libby was sweet. Best friends that becomes something more. You know right from the start that these two are going to fall in love but you don't pick up a book like this for its un-predictableness. There were a lot of funny moments that I loved. I definitely wouldn't mind going on a few of their dates. I did get a little tired of George's insecurities and Libby constantly having to tell him how wonderful he is but overall I liked them as a couple. I also enjoyed the side story of Amy and Seb. I would definitely read another Holly Martin book; I really loved the humor she brought to the story.
**Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a good fun filled festive read stuffed with romance. Set in Silver Cove, a picturesque seaside village just outside White Cliff Bay, romance author Libby Joseph decides to help best friend George Donaldson in his quest for romance. Divorced George needs help to get back in the dating saddle and so they devise a plan whereby they go on a series of romantic dates so that he can get back in the swing of things. It really is a story of misunderstandings though as the reader knows that George is madly in love with Libby and, on her side, as the dates go on, Libby is beginning to fall in love with George. Will one of them pluck up the courage to admit their feelings for the other or will Libby stick to her self imposed date for leaving town?
There is also a side story involving Amy, a mutual friend of the couple and Seb, landlord of the local pub and we watch the two of them hoping that they too will finally become an official couple. I really liked Amy, who brought so much fun to the read and really made me chuckle at times. Whilst I also liked Libby and George I have to say that I did get exasperated with them. I wanted to knock their heads together and couldn’t quite believe that they were both so reluctant to step up to the plate and admit their feelings for the other.
On the whole though, this is a read that I really enjoyed. Set in the days leading up to Christmas it is extremely festive and really puts you in the Christmas mood. Many thanks to the publisher via Netgalley for the review copy.
*Book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Holly Martin is spoiling us with two Christmas books this year, both set in White Cliff Bay, such a beautiful place. Having loved Christmas at Lilac Cottage, I was very excited to dive into this festive atmosphere again.
We have two different main characters now. Libby Joseph is an author, who hasn’t found much inspiration lately and that’s also why she is planning to leave White Cliff Bay soon. She writes about romance, now she just has to find it for herself, she doesn’t really believe in it though.
George Donaldson is her best friend and neighbour. They have spent a lot of time together in the past six months, since Libby arrived. They’re friendship is very special, that was tangible through the pages from the start. Well, George needs a little support when it comes to dating women. He has been in love with a woman for a while, but she doesn’t seem to have the same feelings, so he tries to move on. When Giselle moves in he sees his chance, but he needs help first.
Libby and George to go on dates together, for him to practise and for her to find inspiration again. They go on several romantic and sweet dates together, exploring White Cliff Bay and it makes Libby see he true feelings. Of course, it’s not that easy! A lot of misunderstandings and bad decisions make this a very gripping read.
A loved the scenes with George and Libby together, some hilarious and funny situations, combined with passion and love. They shared some unique and special moments and that’s what made their bond even stronger.
Another thing I really loved about this book were the other characters, who we’ve met in Christmas at Lilac Cottage already. So in addition to George and Libby, we also got to read about Seb and Amy. Their story is touching and sweet and I really enjoyed their part as well.
This story is a real beauty, written in a magical and unique way. It’s a festive, beautiful and gripping feel-good read, perfect to snuggle up to on the sofa, with a lot of LOL moments and other memorable scenes.
Well Holly has done it again I just love her books and each one improves so much and this is the case with this one. It was lovely to go to silver cove in the second book in the series. Full of friendship and romance and being happy with who you are and set in the beautiful bay and full of Christmas. The characters are great and so true to life simply brilliant and worth more than five stars. Libby is a writer of romance books and everyone loves her books she's always travelled about as doesn't want to stay in one place due to her past and worrying about someone getting her but this year she's in silver cove and she can't get her head into writing at all. Her neighbour is George and they form a great friendship but he doesn't know how to do romance but thinks he likes someone so Libby offers to help him and take him on non dates. While going on these will something happen between them or will someone be wanting to spilt them up. Can they both find romance and be happy and will Libby need to run away again or not. Perfect to curl up and enjoy reading.
* Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *
'Snowflakes on Silver Cove' is the second book in the festive White Cliff Bay series and one I read immediately after finishing the first part, 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage'. I'm so happy I read them one after another, as I really fell in love with picturesque White Cliff Bay and was thrilled to spend some more time in the wonderful place.
In this book we meet Libby and George, who are amazing friends however there's a lovely chemistry between them. The main problem for getting this relationship to develop any further is the rather nomad life style Libby leads. She's an author who's constantly seeking an inspiration for her romances, which she finds by moving from one place to another. She's simply not the person to settle in one place, especially not little White Cliff Bay which might be beautiful and tranquil but is certainly not the place she pictures herself settling in. Both George and Libby have been unfortunate when it comes to their love relationships, so they are rather careful when it comes to meeting new people. Wanting to help out George grow more confident when it comes to ladies, and seeking for a bit of inspiration for her next novel, Libby agrees on going out on a few friendly dates. However, these friendly dates just might develop into something else, especially as it's that special magical time of year.
While we mostly follow Libby and George's story, we also get a bit of Amy and Seb. They do love each other, but five years ago Seb lost his wife and despite being able to move on after all that time, it seems his mother in law doesn't feel like he should. These two relationships we follow in the story, Seb and Amy's and Libby and George's one are rather different, but for some unknown reason for me I think the story of Libby and George overshadowed Amy and Seb's one. It could be just me but it also could be because I really think Libby and George were more developed as characters and I managed to get to know them better.
'Snowflakes on Silver Cove' in my opinion has a bigger dose of humour from the first part of the series.I loved the banter between George and Libby and they seemed like such a cute couple and one I was rooting for from the beginning. I also liked the connection to the first part in the series, 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage' and the fact that both of these novels have the same time frame, so we get to see some situations happen in both of the books but seen from different aspects. I loved I got to see Henry and Penny once again, and see just how appreciated Penny is in the community.
If I compare the 2 books in the series, they are rather different. Unlike 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage' where there's a bit of insta-love, in 'Snowflakes on Silver Cove' the romance is build gradually, something which appeals to me more. So, maybe that's the reason why I liked this part just a tiny bit more.
But nevertheless, it's still same Holly Martin, well known for her knack to create magical, romantic stories you'll devour in one sitting. The best bit was that the book totally got me into the festive spirit, despite reading it good two months ahead of Christmas. If you're a sucker for sweet romance with some Christmas sparkle, this is the book for you. And make sure you read the first one 'Christmas in Lilac Cottage'. Though being part of a series, by all means you can read them as standalones, but for full enjoyment I advise reading them in the order.
After really enjoying the first book in this series set in White Cliff Bay ‘Christmas at Lilac Cottage’ I was really excited to pick up this next book. What I like about this series is that the two books can be read in any order as they’re told at the same time and other than a few cameos the stories aren’t really connected.
Snowflakes on Silver Cove follows Libby who’s been living in White Cliff Bay whilst she researches and writes her next novel. There’s only one problem: she’s struggling with writing the romance that she’s famous for.
Meanwhile Libby’s best friend George is struggling to pluck up the courage to ask his dream girl out on a date after a knock to his confidence after his last relationship.
Determined to help each other out, the two friends decide to go on a series of romantic practice dates over Christmas. But with George harbouring secret feelings for Libby can these fake dates turn into a romance straight out of Libby’s books in time for Christmas?
Libby and George have the kind of relationship that I love to read. Libby writes about your typical romantic heroes but George is the boy next door type that never gets to play the love interest in these sorts of romances. He’s not your stereotypical dream boat but he has a big heart and his love for Libby shines off the pages. I loved George and was rooting for him with the hope that Libby would see what a lovely guy she has in front of her.
I was surprised to find that as well as Libby and George the book also follows another couple in White Cliff Bay, Amy and Seb. Although I enjoyed their story I felt like Libby and George really outshined them. Their story didn’t connect with Libby and George’s at all and so I don’t really know why it was included in this book. I think it would have been far better if Amy and Seb’s story was released as their own separate book.
Despite being set at the same time as ‘Christmas at Lilac Cottage’ this book didn’t leave me feeling quite as cosy and Christmassy as the first book but there’s just enough festivity here to satisfy people going into this for a Christmas read. Overall I have loved spending Christmas in White Cliff Bay and would love to read more books from Holly Martin set in this gorgeous seaside town.
I liked this second White Cliff Bay book a lot more than the first.
Some parts of this story are pretty dark, but then there are parts that will have you laughing out loud. I was laughing from the first page. Amy is absolutely hilarious, laugh out loud and snort in public hilarious, and I was just about crying with laughter at some of the things she does.
Libby and George really frustrated me at times. I just wanted to bang their heads together, make them open their eyes. For me, it had almost gotten to the point where it detracted from the story when everything was finally made right.
Although both books can be read separately, I'd say definitely read them in order - you'll get a lot more out of this book if you do.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
Truly captivating and truly funny. Laugh out load moments coupled with some dark areas
Have you ever liked or fallen for someone but they don't know it? Have you ever thought that person might not like you back?
Could that person be thinking the same things about you?
Time is lost.
That's what you see between George and Libby. Its got angst, misunderstandings and lots of pleasurable laughing moments. The pages hummed with sexual tension.
This is a book that needs to be savored in one read. So I tucked myself to enjoy this and boy, was it good.
Its not overly Christmassy, so I need to say, this can be read at any time of the year and enjoyed. We still have a few characters from book 1, but I would say this could be read as a stand alone as its not soley tied to book 1.
I REALLY enjoyed the fun parts between George and Libby, both trying to help each other on dates.
I found a new author! I haven't read anything from this author before, except book 1 of course, so I will be following her closely. I love her way or writing.
*My thanks to Bookouture via Net Galley for my copy and Kim Marsh for pointing them out for me*
I was kindly given a copy through Netgalley, with many thanks to the publisher. And thanks to Holly for including me in the blog tour.
I tend to waffle a lot whenever I read a brilliant book and fail to do it justice in a review. And this is one of those occasions! She's done it again. Holly is slowly but steadily becoming my favourite women's fiction author. Her stories are always filled with a little bit of magic and lots and lots strong relationships that make you all warm and fuzzy inside.
We're back in White Cliff Bay and this time we aren't treated to one love story but two! (I know!) We first meet George and Libby, best friends from the moment they met 6 months ago. George has been in love with the quirky Libby ever since, if only she thought of him that way! But as Libby struggles with writing her current novel and her departure date out of WCB is slowly approaching, she finds herself reluctant to leave and she has the feeling that George is a big part of it.
Full review up on November 12 as part of the Blog Tour: silkereadsandwrites.blogspot.com
Ms. Martin weaves a beautiful tale of friends to lovers in this holiday themed story. I love those laugh out loud moments which makes this book shine. George and Libby are memorable characters who give you that sense of home and comfort. Perfect book for those looking for gentle romances with heart. This is one for the keeper shelves.
Je commence l'année avec une mini déception! Un 3 non pas pour le couple principal mais pour le couple secondaire (et parce que je n'arrive pas à mal noter un livre qui m'a été offert pour Noël). Voilà un roman qui scelle une fois pour toute le fait que je n'aime par les amitiés qui deviennent amoureuses. Dommage, j'avais aimé le côté farfelu du précédent tome.
This is the partner book to Martin's "Christmas at Lilac Cottage". Both can easily be read standalone. I did like the characters in this book much better than the other book. Overall a better read for me. The think I really can't get past is that the attempts at humor come across as really juvenile to me. I don't mind a light read, but still need a bit more substance than these books offer.
”Love comes in many different shapes and sizes, and more often than not it comes in the shape we least expected”
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Snowflakes on Silver Cove Series: White Cliff Bay #2 (Can be read as stand-alone) Author: Holly Martin Release Date: October 30 2015 Rating: 2.5 Stars Cliffhanger: No Writing Style: Third Person, Multiple POVs HEA:
MY REVIEW
Honestly, this is really disappointing. I’ve never given a rating this low to Holly Martin’s books because she’s one of my favorite British authors.
From the blurb you can see that this book was about Libby and George story. But actually, there were 2 different stories in this book that each of them has no correlation whatsoever.
Seriously I don’t understand why Ms. Holly Martin put another story inside a story.
The main story is Libby and George’s, but then there was another “side story” about Seb and Amy (and its own drama) in this book. Honestly, that “side story” really was unnecessary. That just made this book longer and super boring.
And not to mention the number of annoying characters and dramas were also increased because of it.
I couldn’t be more relief that I finally finish this book.
If the previous book, Christmas at Lilac Cottage was told only from the hero and heroine’s POV (written in third person POV), this book was also written in third person POV but told from multiple POVs which made me a little bit confused. Because it wasn’t only from the main characters’ POVs but also from the minor characters’.
At first I thought it would be similar with One Hundred Proposal, because from what I saw from the blurb, this was a friends-to-lover kind of story. But no, this wasn’t as cute as One Hundred Proposal
Both Libby and George were so pissed me off sometimes. I didn’t really feel the romantic connection between them.
It said that this was a romantic comedy, but to be honest I didn’t find this funny at all.
And even until the last few pages toward the ending, you’ll still find some drama!
Conclusion: I didn’t enjoy this. I’m so disappointed because I was expecting this book is even better than the first book.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley for an honest review written above* ["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>
There are few writers that I can almost guarantee will have me laughing out loud and sharing excerpts from their stories with my family, and Holly Martin is one of those highly talented select few. She's also one of the few authors that can have my husband chuckling at the shared excerpts - so much so that he checked to make sure my review shared how entertaining her books are! Her characters, their interactions, mishaps, misunderstandings and antics are so believable I always feel part of the story, laughing, crying, celebrating and commiserating with them as the story progresses. As the cover states - this is a genuinely brilliant 'festive, feel good Christmas romance', one I don't hesitate to repeatedly highly recommend.
This is the second story set in the town of White Cliff Bay - the first was 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage' which I also thoroughly enjoyed. Many characters appear in both stories and they also have events in common. This story has two couples finding love and their HEAs but only after much angst, turmoil, interfering friends and family and plenty of twists and turns along the way. The community plays a prominent role in the story - the volunteer RNLI crew, the local pub and its regulars, the town hall, book club and gossips all are active participants.
I really enjoy how the reader is drawn into the community spirit and really hope there will be future novels based in this location - I would love to read how things work out for so many of the secondary characters and how things progress for the 'stars' of these two highly readable, very entertaining and enthralling novels, both of which I cannot recommend highly enough - they're simply superb.
Thanks to the Author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Libby Joseph and George Donaldson are neighbors and good friends in White Cliff Bay. Libby writes Christmasy romance novels and is having a hard time writing her current one. After this book is finished, she plans to have the next book set in New York and she always moves to the city she's writing about. This helps give her books a realistic feel and also never, ever allows her to get very close to anyone.
Her neighbor, George, was married and his wife left him after she had an affair, which left his self-confidence in shreds. The fact that he's been crushing on Libby and she's never even noticed hasn't helped, either.
But this holiday season, they decide to help each other out. Libby will allow George to practice his dating skills on her and she will finally be able to finish her book, drawing on all these wonderfully romantic ideas from their dates. And then she'll be able to move on.
There are lots of mix ups and crossed signals and quite a good bit of fun. Another couple, Seb, the widowed, tattooed biker guy who runs the local pub and Amy, the girl who knows he's interested but still feeling too disloyal to his deceased wife to ask her out, provide a wonderfully funny secondary story.
This was a really special christmassy book. The Silver Cove series is really magical. You feel as though you know the area and there are links to the first book in the series.
Libby and George are best friends who live in adjacent flats. They share everything and neither is willing to share that they think the other is their perfect partner. George wants to date again- but his ex wife has left him very insecure. Libby says that she can help him plan the perfect dates to lead to that once in a lifetime relationship. She will help him regain his confidence in the dating world and at the same time get him ready to ask their upstairs neighbour out on a date.
The dates are so lovely- wouldn't we all love someone to spend time planning a romantic day for us! They have a christmassy feel to them and you look forward to experiencing the next date.
Seb and Amy's relationship provided a great secondary story and introduction to other characters. Amy's exploits in the name of charity had me chuckling away.
Grab yourself a hot chocolate with a candy cane stirrer and lose yourself in the yuletide atmosphere.
With many thanks to Bookoutre for the chance to read this gorgeous book.
I really enjoyed this book so much .. it is a real feel good romance set in Christmas .. I LOVED Libby and George they are perfect for each other and their chemistry is amazing .. I didn't care much for Amy and Seb so I was glad that the main focus remained on Libby and George :D .. If you want something fluffy and cute you might like this book but be warned it contains swearing and some inexplicit sex scenes, but overall it is a really light read
My oh my. I'm sure I've said this exact same thing in my previous reviews of Holly Martin's novels, but she just keeps getting better and better with each book. I've recently read and reviewed Christmas at Lilac Cottage, so I couldn't wait to disappear into the second White Cliff Bay story which, just in case you weren't aware, takes place during the exact same week as the first. Although these two books are linked, I'm sure you could read each as a standalone without worrying about missing something previously. That's the magic of Holly Martin, you can be sure that you'll never miss a thing!
In a nutshell, Snowflakes on Silver Cove follows the story of Libby Joseph and George Donaldson. Best-friends, closer than close, the bond between Holly's heroine and hero was just beautiful. Throughout the telling of this story, we're witness to Libby attempting to find that all-important inspiration to finish her novel, and to George figuring out how to get back into the dating saddle after his marriage sadly fell apart. Along with gorgeous companionship, friendship and a togetherness that cannot be matched, I think Holly Martin told this story beautifully, and her characters, as they so often are, were people I could know and love pretty spectacularly in real life.
One of the aspects that I thoroughly enjoyed about Snowflakes on Silver Cove was that, despite the main thread of this novel following Libby and George's story, we're also introduced to a handful of secondary characters too. Even though some of these characters don't spend so much of their time in the narrative limelight, I felt that what Holly provided me with in regards to them, small details of their pasts and from their dialogue, was enough for me to appreciate their presence in the plot. Alongside those characters, a second thread followed Seb and Amy's story which had it all. The romance, the emotion, the difficulties in finding a safe-place for their relationship to happen. All of these characters were sensational, their separate stories intriguing and deliciously satisfying!
The main thread running between Libby and George was the one that won my heart over completely though. I'm beginning to wonder if perhaps Holly Martin is swiftly becoming a romance queen? I mean, she just gets it spot-on every single time. The swooning, the adorable hero, the moments of tenderness, the moments of passion... She does it all, and in such an effective way too. I don't think I've ever finished one of Martin's novels without feeling like I could burst from the feeling her stories provide me with! Warmth, snuggly satisfaction, and sheer happiness and joy! I also absolutely adored that Libby wrote novels for a living, romance novels that is. I myself love to read and write so I was able to liken myself to Libby immediately. Having been on the move for so long, Libby has never thought about settling down somewhere permanently, but her friendship with George becomes stronger than ever when it becomes decided that, to help her find inspiration for her novels, and to help George out when it comes to dating, Libby will assist him. They head out on practice dates together, laugh and joke and smile, and Holly created moments that I would have loved to have been in myself. I was also drawn to George quickly. his vulnerability and beautiful nature winning me over from the get-go and I wanted nothing more than for his confidence to be given a boost, which Libby did so perfectly!
In terms of setting, White Cliff Bay is the place to be this Christmas, there is no doubt about it. You see snow-globes with New York and Paris within, but what I'd really love to see is a snow-globe hiding the beauty of White Cliff Bay. It really wouldn't look out of place with glitter and snow falling down. With the pub and the ocean and the people of the town, I was completely enveloped within the goings-on taking place, and was thrilled when I saw mentions of Penny and Henry from Holly's first book in the series Christmas at Lilac Cottage.
Overall, I utterly adored Snowflakes on Silver Cove by Holly Martin. It captivated me, drew me in, held me under its magical spell and left me feeling as if I'd just stepped out of a winter wonderland, the fairy-tale sort. With sleigh-rides and ice-carving, this is one novel you do not want to miss out on this festive season!
Becca's Books is awarding Snowflakes on Silver Cove by Holly Martin with FIVE GORGEOUS CUPCAKES! This author, and the gorgeous characters and settings she creates, are an ultimate favourite of mine, and by the way things are looking, she will continue to be exactly that for a very long time yet.
I adored Christmas at Lilac Cottage and couldn’t wait to read the next instalment. I’m thrilled to say I loved this one even more!
This whole book is just the most perfectly adorable, squishy, wonderful, fluffy, festive, romantic and wonderful story! It’s just perfect. I loved the whole idea as soon as I first read the blurb – a girl who helps her best friend learn how to date and falls for him in the process.
Libby and George are both just amazing and I want to be besties with them both. I think George may be my perfect book boyfriend. *Hi, my name’s Paris Baker and I’m in love with a fictional character.* He’s just so lovely, and sweet and funny and everything you could ever want from a man. Some one you could be 100% yourself around and have so much fun with, and who would do absolutely anything for you. Libby is also wonderful, and I always love reading about a writer. She’s sweet and vulnerable, having built walls around herself she rarely lets down for anyone, making her friendship with George all the more special.
George and Libby are great together, they have amazing chemistry from the start and (despite my major jealousy issues!) I was rooting for them to get together throughout the story. While it was obvious they were perfect for each other, Holly keeps you on your toes with various obstacles coming into play to stop our dream couple getting together.
This book was perfect anyway, but its dreamy Christmas setting put the icing on the cake. One of my favourite things was how Christmas at Lilac Cottage was incorporated, little bits of background story intertwined with the plot and some familiar characters gave an extra connection to the whole setting and characters.
I can’t gush about this enough, so I simply must insist you treat yourself to both White Cliff Bay books this Christmas and fall in love with them like I did. But hands off George – he’s mine! ;)
Now I know people may think I am just gushing about every book that Holly martin has released recently…but there’s a reason or that. Her books are REALLY good. This is the third book of hers that I have read and the second that featuring people living in the White Cliff Bay area. I read a LOT of Crime and Thrillers, so when I choose a ‘romance’ type book I don’t want moments of suspense….I want magical romance, and with these books that’s what you get in spades. I love the funny books, I love the middle of the road romance/drama books but my guilty pleasure is the romance and flowers and fairy tale kind of books….enter Holly Martin.
Libby Joseph lives in Silver Cover not far from White Cliff Bay. Her neighbour George is the campest guy she knows, and she adores him. They are fast friends that are there for each other no matter what. I instantly liked both Libby and George, and the descriptions that are painted of George and his camp ways just made me like him even more. Libby is an author that has almost closed herself off from the real world and she never spends too long in one place.
The best thing about this book is that although it features people that we briefly met in the last White Cliff book, it’s also set at the same time. So now I have read the first book, you are building as picture of the town in those few days. In addition to Libby and George we get to see a lot more of Amy and Seb (Amy is a friend of Libby’s and Seb runs the local pub). Amy was hilarious and brought some really funny moments to the book which had me laughing out loud.
I finished tis little beauty in under a day and am literally falling on love with this fictional place and the people that live there. With the miserable weather and dark night approaching, a Holly Martin book will certainly make you feel better than a Lemsip! A highly enjoyable book and one that I would recommend to everyone for a real ‘feel good’ type of book.
Review: Snowflakes on Silver Cove (White Cliff Bay #2) by Holly Martin Published by: Bookouture (30th October 2015)
ISBN: 9781910751466
Source: NetGalley
Rating: 5*
Synopsis: Libby Joseph is famous for her romantic Christmas stories. Every December, readers devour her books of falling in love against the magical backdrop of the Christmas season. If only Libby believed in the magic herself...
Struggling to finish her current novel, Libby turns to her best friend and neighbour George to cheer her up. But George also needs a bit of support himself. Nervous about getting back into the dating saddle after splitting from his wife, he and Libby strike a deal. She will teach George how to win over the ladies, and Libby will in turn be inspired to inject her novel with a good dose of romance.
As Libby and George explore the beautiful White Cliff Bay on a series of romantic Christmas-themed dates, Libby finds herself having more fun than she's had in ages and...discovers feelings she never knew she had for George.
But is it too late? Will George win someone else's heart or can Libby act like the heroine in one of her stories and reach for her own love under the mistletoe this Christmas?
Review: This is such a feel good, fun read; it's just perfect for Christmas. It ties in nicely with Christmas in Lilac Cottage, touching on parts of that story as seen from another perspective. This book is well written and so touching in the way it explores all the thoughts and feelings of each character. The supporting characters are well developed, with enough detail to make them interesting.
I'm really enjoying this series although I'm not a regular reader of chick-lit. I can see the White Cliff Bay series being enjoyed by so many readers.
3.5* This is the second in the White Cliff Bay series, you can read my thoughts on book one Christmas at Lilac Cottage here. I enjoyed going back to White Cliff Bay; mingling with old and new characters and touching on events that happened in Snowflakes on Silver Cove but from an alternative character's point of view.
This is a rom-com with some real laugh out loud snorting moments, I liked the characters in the book and have book friend envy in George and Libby's initial friendship.
It definitely made a nice change to have an insecure male lead character with a dominant female lead. I can't think of another book in this genre that I've read with this dynamic.
Maybe as I'm a bit older than this book's intended audience I would like to hear more about Verity's story, I bet she has some tales to tell, and once Judith gets on her cruise I have a feeling there'll be no stopping her.
With Holly's easy flowing writing style I was able to read the book in a day when I was ill in bed and was the perfect pick me up.
Many thanks to Bookouture for approving me for an ARC via Netgalley.
Frohe Weihnachten! 🎄🎁 Um ein wenig dem weihnachtlichen Stress zu entfliehen, habe ich mich dazu entschlossen, zu einem Weihnachtsbuch zu greifen und entschied mich recht schnell für „Winterträume in White Cliff Bay“ von Holly Martin.
Die Autorin schaffte es, mich innerhalb ein paar Seiten von meinem heimischen Sofa nach White Cliff Bay zu entführen und mir ein Wohlfühlgefühl zu geben.
In dieser Geschichte lernen wir die guten Freunde Libby und George kennen. George hat eine Scheidung hinter sich und fühlt sich recht unbeholfen, was das daten anderer Frauen betrifft und so beschließt Libby, mit ihm das daten zu „üben“. Gemeinsam verfolgen wir die schönen Schauplätze der Stadt, lernen nebenbei noch ein paar ihrer gemeinsamen Freunde kennen und bekommen humorvolle Szenen vorgesetzt. Teilweise liefen mir Tränen aus den Augen, da der Humor bei mir genau ins Schwarze traf. Die kuschelige Winterstimmung kam nicht zu kurz und das wohlig warme Liebeskribbeln der Protagonisten lies sich auch öfters mal bei mir blicken. Es klingt nahezu perfekt oder? Wäre da nicht die neue, hübsche, blonde Nachbarin..
There's just something positively captivating about a Holly Martin book! This is the third I've read from this author and, just like the other two, I absolutely adored it from start to finish.
The characters of White Cliff Bay will sweep you away into their pretty little world and you won't want to put this book down for one moment. This sweet yet realistic romance is injected with plenty of humour and just the perfect amount of whimsy to make it magical (and it's not over-the-top Christmassy either, I promise).
The misunderstandings between George and Libby and the unwillingness to put themselves on the line makes for one angst ridden ride. Laugh out loud moments are a plenty and the blurred lines of friendship will have you screaming at them to get it together! The sexual tension and the ongoing heartache make for one hell of a read.
I also loved that there were other, just as important, storylines for other White Cliff Bay residents intertwined here and also reminders of the first book of the series. Highly recommend you read this!
"Snowflakes on Silver Cove" is Holly Martin's second Christmassy book this year, and second in the White Cliff Bay series, but it can be read as a stand - alone novel, or the books don't have to be read in a particular order. I have totally enjoyed to read about some of the same situations that I remembered from "Christmas at Lilac Cottage" or it was a real joy to spot here and there some hidden hints to the previous book or characters - a fantastic idea, to set two books in the same week, but focus on totally different characters and totally different story.
If I were to choose my favourite book, I'd say that it's "Snowflakes on Silver Cove", although "Christmas at Lilac Cottage" was also a brilliant, warm story. It's just that this book was in my opinion fast - paced, full of errors and hilarious situations, and it made me laugh much more than the first book. It was just so charming, sweet and lovely, just what I needed right now, and I fell in love with all the characters immediately (I didn't have to fall in love with the setting, as I was already loving it!)
The writing in this book is so Holly - typical: the story rolls about, the narration flows, and suddenly Holly throws a scene that makes us snorting with laughter, giggling, laughing out loud, and I love those moments! There are so many hilarious scenes, and they made me laugh even harder because they all could really happen in real life, and just imagining them had me in stitches.
I can't find words to say how well Holly Martin captured this wonderful, wonderful relationship between Libby and George. I think I've never read something like this before. It was crystal clear those two felt so comfortable in each other's company, and I totally adored their banter and this wonderful feeling of friendship. Everything between them, the friendship and the budding romance, were so sweet, and it also felt so genuine and honest - their awkwardness, and them being so free and open in each other's company, their banter. And sure, you know already from the blurb that those are two friends falling in love, and the more the story developed it was clear they are destined to be together, but you know what, having this in mind, feeling with your whole self how it's going to end was a great feeling. There were moments that I thought that Libby is the one wearing the trousers in this relationship, as George's insecurities and his never ending dates - and personality related questions made me a little tired, and Libby having to tell him over and over again that he's great and women should love him as he is, but George has also proved that he can be firm - eventually. And did it in a great way. Maybe altogether there were too many attempts at kissing practice, I really thought that when I read again they're going to kiss each other I'm going to be sick to the back teeth. And yes, there were many moments that I got desperate with them and wanted to bang their heads on the wall, wondering what's taking them so long to admit their feelings. But let's be honest, they are in any case so adorable, those two.
But let's be honest, George was an outstanding character. You know, he was absolutely not your typical hero with six - pack, burping after drinking a beer, oh no. He was sweet, kind, loving and - above all - he was listening what Libby was telling him, which resulted in some of the best dates ever. I truly adored that he was true to himself and didn't want to change only to curry favor to those much demanding women.
Parallelly to Libby and George's story, we have a new, fresh romance between Amy and Seb, so we have not once, but two love stories! Two! I mean, how great it is? And they are so different - while in one story the characters just don't see the feeling banging them on their heads, in the second the characters know they love each other, but there are thousands of obstacles and problems, a mother - in - law being one of them. I can't remember when I adored a character as much as Amy - the scenes with her were more than hilarious, and it was usually Amy that made me laugh so hard! The story of her and Seb is beautiful and yes, it broke my heart a little.
As always, Holly brilliantly captures the atmosphere of the small town, especially town preparing itself for Christmas, and I couldn't have enough of snow falling and all the decorations. Also this time Holly gives us a broader and closer view at the people living there, at Libby and George's friends, and I fell in love with all of them - they were so incredibly friendly, so warm and please, let me play a poker with them once! (Even if I can't play poker. They can show me.)
And the dates. Oh my god, the dates! I thought that Holly can't surprise me with an original date after reading "One Hundred Proposals" anymore, but guys - she DID surprise me. I can't tell you enough how much I loved all the idea for the dates!
Holly Martin did it again - went and wrote a prefect romantic comedy, that is full of laugh out loud moments, romance and some more gentle situations, and I love it! She has this talent to write a story that sweeps me off my feet, and put there all elements that I'm looking for in a book, as if she was reading my mind. I am sure "Snowflakes on Silver cove" is going to convince some of the harder souls out there that love between friends is possible, and that there IS love. This is a story full of misunderstandings and errors and a message that you don't have to look somewhere far away, your true love can be your best friend or can live just next to you. Brilliant, feel - good read that had so cheered me up, I will be for sure re - reading this story as it made me feel so warm and happy inside. "Snowflakes on Silver Cove" is a compelling, plot - driven, heart - warming, emotional and hilarious read from the very talented and authentic voice in commercial fiction - highly recommended.
Copy provided by publisher in exchange for a review.
Libby is famous for her romantic books but her own life is decidedly lacking. Unable to complete her latest work, Libby turns to her best friend for help. He needs dating advice and she needs help finishing her book. Together they plan perfect dates to achieve their goals but along the way Libby begins to have feelings for George but could he feel the same?
I love Holly Martin's books so knew this would be a hit. Its such a funny and romantic story. The plot is fun and the ending predictable but very cute. I also liked the other couple we meet along the way who add a little more depth to the story. Libby is likeable but I loved George more, he was so funny and sweet. The story is well written and descriptive. The location is so well created, you can picture each scene. A fun read for the festive season.
Similar to the way the readers of Snowflakes on Silver Cove’s main character Libby Joseph’s books feel about her, a Christmas without a Holly Martin book is something that doesn’t bear thinking about and this year we were treat to not one but two festive romances by Holly, set in the picturesque seaside town of White Cliff Bay. What can I say that I haven’t said before? Holly writes the kind of novels all true romantics love to read – those sweet, cosy and incredibly lovely tales about characters who feel genuine and honest and fall head over heels in love with each other. The author has really crafted her own style of writing and even if Snowflakes on Silver Cove had been delivered without a cover, synopsis or author name on the front, I’d instantly recognise it was a Holly Martin book and I’m a huge fan of her writing, so even though I have a good idea where the books are going to go before I’ve read through the first page, that’s completely fine with me because I know she will make me smile and laugh all the way through.
Libby and George are best friends and also characters we met briefly in Holly’s earlier festive book this year, Christmas at Lilac Cottage. The story here is set at the same time as the first book and one thing I loved was how we get to relive certain moments from Christmas at Lilac Cottage but this time through the perspective of Libby and/or George. It felt just like reminiscing with an old friend about those happy moments gone by – and I adored the chance to hear just a little bit more about the characters I fell in love with back at Lilac Cottage.
George is a bit down in the dumps about his dating prospects after his wife broke his heart and stomped all over it. Libby’s lack of a love life means her romantic books are suffering and she’s failing to deliver the romance all her readers are looking for (it struck me that a certain Holly Martin never seems to have that issue). So, they together come up with the idea of pretend dates. George and Libby will fake date and help each other out – George will grow more confident and feel able to sweep another woman off her feet and Libby will find some content for her upcoming Christmas novel. Everything would work out that simply. Yeah, right. It is clear to everyone, from characters in the book to readers of the book, that George and Libby have feelings for each other and deep down, all they really want is each other. You don’t need to be the most perceptive person in the world to spot it. Somehow I still always find myself caring for the characters and eagerly rooting for them to just get together – even when the happy ever after feels like it’s glaring me in the face anyway.
If I’m honest, I was a teensy bit sad to be reading my first Holly Martin book where I didn’t swoon over the hero. George was lovely, for sure, but he wasn’t the dreamy takes-your-breath-away kind of character, for me anyway. And I mean personality wise, not appearance wise because I actually found it refreshing to read about a hero who wasn’t necessarily toned, brooding and the most handsome thing alive. But I think it was his low self-esteem that stopped me from falling in love – I missed the confident hero. Despite that, though, I kind of liked how Holly reversed the traditional male and female role as here it was actually the guy who seemed more vulnerable and lost in love than the girl. Again, individually Libby wasn’t my favourite character either but when Libby and George combined, their humour and the mad situations they ended up in had me giggling away to myself all through the night. The very first page of this book had me laughing out loud and it was a sign of good things to come because the humour was never lost.
There was a side story to this book involving the characters of Amy, Seb and Judith which I found really interesting to read although the link between their story and George and Libby’s felt a tiny bit tenuous. I did find that I really connected with their story though and I enjoyed reading the chemistry between Seb and Amy and the reasoning behind Judith’s disgust of them. Actually, as much as I enjoyed reading the friendship-turned romance between Libby and George, I found myself even more drawn to the supporting story which felt more emotional and sincere. I would have liked to have read more of it.
Holly Martin had her romance and friendship spot on in Snowflakes on Silver Cove and she never fails to leave me with my spirits lifted and my heart warmed. Her writing is truly magical – from the way she writes her settings to the characters, their feelings and the beautiful endings. It was lovely to revisit White Cliff Bay and all those Christmassy touches were adorable and instilled some early festive spirit in me. Libby and George’s story was very romantic, especially with all those insanely sweet dates although the banter between them also ensured that not every date had the most fairytale of endings. Holly writes the kind of romance readers want to experience for themselves and also characters so easy to care for – ones that are typically blunt and say the kind of things we’re all thinking but choose not to say – the kind of honest dialogue you won’t see in books from any other author . Snowflakes on Silver Cove is a truly lovely read – one to make you feel all warm and snug and ready to embrace the festive season with a big smile on your face.