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Bespoke: a Tiny Christmas Tale
A Secret. A Bicycle. A Promise…
While the elusive Secret Symphony of Giovanni St. John captivated the world’s fascination, it left his daughter closed away in the Silent House – she, the one who holds the fullness of truth about the ninth symphony. Now Aria St. John is determined to not only break free of the loss that has defined her, but to honor her father through one final gift in his last days.
On the tiny Isle of Espoir, only one man can help in her quest: James Shaw, the village blacksmith… and the lost friend of her childhood. Will they be able to overcome the tragedy that separated them before it’s too late?
The little tale that was born in hopes of sending a single real-life bicycle to a missionary in Asia, Bespoke was hidden away in the Espoir Archives after sharing the joy of funding nearly fifteen bicycles.
While the elusive Secret Symphony of Giovanni St. John captivated the world’s fascination, it left his daughter closed away in the Silent House – she, the one who holds the fullness of truth about the ninth symphony. Now Aria St. John is determined to not only break free of the loss that has defined her, but to honor her father through one final gift in his last days.
On the tiny Isle of Espoir, only one man can help in her quest: James Shaw, the village blacksmith… and the lost friend of her childhood. Will they be able to overcome the tragedy that separated them before it’s too late?
The little tale that was born in hopes of sending a single real-life bicycle to a missionary in Asia, Bespoke was hidden away in the Espoir Archives after sharing the joy of funding nearly fifteen bicycles.
120 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2014
227 people are currently reading
965 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Dykes
16 books1,385 followersAmanda Dykes is a drinker of tea, dweller of redemption, and spinner of hope-filled tales who spends most days chasing wonder and words with her family. She's the winner of the 2020 Christy Award Book of the Year, a Booklist 2019 Top Ten title, and the winner of an INSPY award for her debut novel, Whose Waves These Are. She’s also the author of Set the Stars Alight (a Christy Award finalist), Yours is the Night (recipient of the Kipp Award), All the Lost Places (starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Foreword), and three novellas. Find her online at amandadykes.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
December 6, 2021
4.5 stars & 5/10 hearts. This was such a beautiful story. It was beautifully written—much more so than I expected. It has a touch of mystery, and many layers and complexity. There was a kiss, some hand-holding, touching, & a hug or two, but that was it. I loved Aria and John and their storyline. It was such a delightful read and I’m eager to read more by this author!
A Favourite Quote: “‘...scars are places made strong again. They don’t function like they did before, but they’re strong for something. Something that matters.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “With the sun barely cresting the thatched rooftops of the village the next morning, Aria slipped through spears of white morning dawn. Light touched the frosted world, setting everything aglow. Sleeping grass, crisp beneath her feet, carried her swiftly to her Blacksmith.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “She hummed her way through Greensleeves, whistled her way through Claire de Lune while fairly dancing with the broom, and on her third round of sweeping she started in on Christmas carols. Christmas carols made James unreasonably angry when sung before December. …and something in the way she kept glancing at him from beneath those long lashes told him that she remembered that little fact all too well.
“‘Alright.’
“She kept singing. Wintry snowy words of yule that made him cringe.
“‘Alright,’ he repeated.
“She stilled, resting the soft curve of her chin atop the broomstick. ‘What was that, Mr. Shaw?’”
A Favourite Quote: “‘...scars are places made strong again. They don’t function like they did before, but they’re strong for something. Something that matters.’”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “With the sun barely cresting the thatched rooftops of the village the next morning, Aria slipped through spears of white morning dawn. Light touched the frosted world, setting everything aglow. Sleeping grass, crisp beneath her feet, carried her swiftly to her Blacksmith.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “She hummed her way through Greensleeves, whistled her way through Claire de Lune while fairly dancing with the broom, and on her third round of sweeping she started in on Christmas carols. Christmas carols made James unreasonably angry when sung before December. …and something in the way she kept glancing at him from beneath those long lashes told him that she remembered that little fact all too well.
“‘Alright.’
“She kept singing. Wintry snowy words of yule that made him cringe.
“‘Alright,’ he repeated.
“She stilled, resting the soft curve of her chin atop the broomstick. ‘What was that, Mr. Shaw?’”
November 30, 2022
This was such a sweet and pure Christmas tale. As a musician and music lover, I adored all the musical aspects to this story. And I’m so happy I guessed correctly how everything would end.
James and Aria were also great, and I enjoyed seeing how their narratives unfurled! What a wholesome tale💛
James and Aria were also great, and I enjoyed seeing how their narratives unfurled! What a wholesome tale💛
November 28, 2016
Beautiful writing! This is definitely a whimsical tale where bits and pieces of the past are slowly revealed as the current story plays out. Bespoke is also a fairly short tale, just right for a quick evening read during the cold winter months. I enjoyed this charming story and look forward to reading other works by this author.
December 25, 2020
The perfect Christmas day read, full of charm and coziness and forgiveness. I love it every time I read it 💕
December 14, 2019
Bespoke is a tiny little tale that is packed with a lot of feeling.
Amanda Dykes masterful writing pulls us into the story of a renowned composer, Giovanni St. John and his daughter Aria retuning to an island after many years away. The story wraps us in its melody as old hurts come to the surface once again. You could tell that she uses this story to pour out her heart; to convey hope through Aria, her father and James, the blacksmith. There is a bit of history, a bit of mystery, hope for the future and redemption of what was thought lost.
The authors’s eloquent story has another purpose: the proceeds go to a ministry. A noble cause indeed.
I like what Ms. Dykes says in the afterward: “When a story spills forth, my dearest desire is to find God’s heartbeat in it.” The story mirrors God: “The Composer of our life songs, the Author of our stories, the Creator of light and warmth, the gentle Remover of our dross, Refiner of our Hearts, Healer and Redeemer of our brokenness.”
With her unique voice, this author calls to us to empathize and reach deep for spiritual truths.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
Amanda Dykes masterful writing pulls us into the story of a renowned composer, Giovanni St. John and his daughter Aria retuning to an island after many years away. The story wraps us in its melody as old hurts come to the surface once again. You could tell that she uses this story to pour out her heart; to convey hope through Aria, her father and James, the blacksmith. There is a bit of history, a bit of mystery, hope for the future and redemption of what was thought lost.
The authors’s eloquent story has another purpose: the proceeds go to a ministry. A noble cause indeed.
I like what Ms. Dykes says in the afterward: “When a story spills forth, my dearest desire is to find God’s heartbeat in it.” The story mirrors God: “The Composer of our life songs, the Author of our stories, the Creator of light and warmth, the gentle Remover of our dross, Refiner of our Hearts, Healer and Redeemer of our brokenness.”
With her unique voice, this author calls to us to empathize and reach deep for spiritual truths.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
December 31, 2021
He pounded nails into mold frames, she strung bows over cellos, and their songs met in the street when they could not.
Misty-eyed with happy tears: that’s how this lovely novella about the power of music and kindness left me. The lyrical writing of Amanda Dykes speaks to my soul like few other modern authors.
Recommended for fans of Anne of Green Gables, for readers who enjoy Victorian historical fiction and a sweet love story, and for folks who are passionate about music.
The ebook is free in the Kindle store.
Misty-eyed with happy tears: that’s how this lovely novella about the power of music and kindness left me. The lyrical writing of Amanda Dykes speaks to my soul like few other modern authors.
Recommended for fans of Anne of Green Gables, for readers who enjoy Victorian historical fiction and a sweet love story, and for folks who are passionate about music.
The ebook is free in the Kindle store.
December 14, 2023
I adore Amanda Dykes' writing. There's an otherworldly quality about it, but I think this story is just too short for me. I'm really coming to realize I'm not a short story person. I need more substance, more on-page realistic character development, just *more.*
December 2, 2025
This is such a sweet little novella- set around Christmas time.
A tragedy falls upon Aria and James holds himself responsible. Years later, Aria approaches James with an idea and their friendship is rekindled.
I love Aria and James. 🥹 they are written perfectly for each other. Gentle, kind, playful, and full of hope (mostly Aria but she rubs off on James!)
I loved it and definitely recommend.
“Yes, they say the scars are too extensive, but scars are places made strong again. They don’t function like they did before, but they’re strong for something. Something that matters. And I am choosing to be strong for this, James.”
“You promised.”
A tragedy falls upon Aria and James holds himself responsible. Years later, Aria approaches James with an idea and their friendship is rekindled.
I love Aria and James. 🥹 they are written perfectly for each other. Gentle, kind, playful, and full of hope (mostly Aria but she rubs off on James!)
I loved it and definitely recommend.
“Yes, they say the scars are too extensive, but scars are places made strong again. They don’t function like they did before, but they’re strong for something. Something that matters. And I am choosing to be strong for this, James.”
“You promised.”
December 1, 2024
The perfect Christmas book.
December 4, 2016
This novelette worked its way into my heart almost as soon as I began reading it. Brief enough to read in a few stolen moments during the busy Christmas season, the story has a depth and richness to it that left me surprisingly fulfilled and satisfied by "the end." The author writes with lyrical pen and heartfelt care for her characters and their tale. I found Bespoke to be a musical story rich with redemption. Amanda Dykes is an author to watch.
December 30, 2024
The tale was sweet once we got the full story! It just felt like it took 60 pages before I was personally invested in the ending of the story, or the heart of the characters.
Once we got there I did enjoy the story and its sweet message more. And that’s what bumped the rating up a bit.
As always though, Amanda has one of the prettiest writing styles and I did enjoy the beautiful melody she gave us with her words.
3.5/5 stars
Once we got there I did enjoy the story and its sweet message more. And that’s what bumped the rating up a bit.
As always though, Amanda has one of the prettiest writing styles and I did enjoy the beautiful melody she gave us with her words.
3.5/5 stars
February 4, 2016
Famed composer Giovanni St. John’s Secret Symphony captivated the world. His daughter Aria St. John knows the truth about the secret ninth symphony, as well as the loss that accompanies it. Determined to break free from the tragic loss she suffered years ago, Aria concocts a gift that will bring her healing and honor her father in the final days of his life. On the small Isle of Espior, only one person can help her – the village blacksmith and her once-treasure childhood friend. Can they come together to create this one last gift for her father, or will the loss of years ago come between them?
Imagine my intrigue when a short story that I presumed to be all about bicycles was also about music – symphonies, in fact, and the daughter of a famous composer, who has come home with her father toward the end of his life. The mystery of the ninth Secret Symphony in the prologue was soon eclipsed by the sheer sweetness and charm of Bespoke.
Shorter fiction is often tricky for me. Because of its brevity, sometimes I’m left feeling bereft of some key element that longer fiction provides. As a shorter piece, Bespoke hit the mark– enough is revealed about the characters to spark my interest and the resolution feels complete. I wanted to know more because of the beautiful writing, not because it lacked in any way.
Impressed by the ease and intelligent manner in which the story flowed, I couldn’t help but be drawn into the lives of Aria and James, her friend from years ago. While there is a romantic note to the story, first and foremost, this little tale is full of hope about overcoming pain from the past and forgiveness that brings grace and healing when they are needed most.
Though this is set during Christmas, I think it can be enjoyed at any time. I will definitely be looking out for future work by Amanda, and I would be one happy reader if she ever publishes a full-length novel.
Imagine my intrigue when a short story that I presumed to be all about bicycles was also about music – symphonies, in fact, and the daughter of a famous composer, who has come home with her father toward the end of his life. The mystery of the ninth Secret Symphony in the prologue was soon eclipsed by the sheer sweetness and charm of Bespoke.
Shorter fiction is often tricky for me. Because of its brevity, sometimes I’m left feeling bereft of some key element that longer fiction provides. As a shorter piece, Bespoke hit the mark– enough is revealed about the characters to spark my interest and the resolution feels complete. I wanted to know more because of the beautiful writing, not because it lacked in any way.
Impressed by the ease and intelligent manner in which the story flowed, I couldn’t help but be drawn into the lives of Aria and James, her friend from years ago. While there is a romantic note to the story, first and foremost, this little tale is full of hope about overcoming pain from the past and forgiveness that brings grace and healing when they are needed most.
Though this is set during Christmas, I think it can be enjoyed at any time. I will definitely be looking out for future work by Amanda, and I would be one happy reader if she ever publishes a full-length novel.
May 27, 2017
This is such a sweet novella perfect for holiday reading. I quickly fell in love with the characters and was immersed in the story. Highly recommend!
December 9, 2022
This was a beautifully written story and I enjoyed it. There were some things I wish had been made a little more clear, but still, it was a wonderful read.
December 24, 2020
This is a very lyrical and sweet tale that will warm your hearts in the cold of winter. The way the author wove the instances of the past into the pain of the present was very clever.
There is one kiss, but otherwise I wouldn’t hesitate to hand it to an older teen.
The characters were Christian and quoted Scripture. The lesson of not giving up because of life’s challenges, but “reusing” a talent in a different way was really neat.
There is one kiss, but otherwise I wouldn’t hesitate to hand it to an older teen.
The characters were Christian and quoted Scripture. The lesson of not giving up because of life’s challenges, but “reusing” a talent in a different way was really neat.
December 29, 2025
I’m speechless. How can that much beauty fit into only 100 pages? That was literally breathtaking.
I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book where I literally felt like my breath was being taken away, just by the profound beauty of it all. Every word, every sentence, every moment was just perfect. 😭
I tried to annotate it, but didn’t give up because I would’ve been tabbing every single line. 😅
Y’all, this is why Amanda Dykes is my current favorite author. 🥹 I couldn’t love this more!
Content: FMC’s hand was burned by molten glass and she has resulting injury. Brief flashback of the injury but not very descriptive. A kiss.
✨ 6 Stars ✨
I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book where I literally felt like my breath was being taken away, just by the profound beauty of it all. Every word, every sentence, every moment was just perfect. 😭
I tried to annotate it, but didn’t give up because I would’ve been tabbing every single line. 😅
Y’all, this is why Amanda Dykes is my current favorite author. 🥹 I couldn’t love this more!
Content: FMC’s hand was burned by molten glass and she has resulting injury. Brief flashback of the injury but not very descriptive. A kiss.
✨ 6 Stars ✨
January 17, 2022
A lovely story of music and hope!
I enjoyed this tiny historical tale from Author Amanda Dykes. An engaging story of tragedy and triumph, of faith and hope and love.
I enjoyed this tiny historical tale from Author Amanda Dykes. An engaging story of tragedy and triumph, of faith and hope and love.
February 4, 2015
As soon as I read this, I knew that it would become a Christmas tradition! Marrying the eerie beauty of classical composition with a quaint little town --just pitch-perfect ---and filled with snow, holly and hope, Dykes proves her craft with every poetical line.
Part love story, with fable-like essence and all faith and charity, "Bespoke" is that rare, cherished glimmery find that tastes like embers popping in a hearth and like the winnowed music of a crisp winter's night.
Radiant.
Love this author and her work and cannot wait for more.
Part love story, with fable-like essence and all faith and charity, "Bespoke" is that rare, cherished glimmery find that tastes like embers popping in a hearth and like the winnowed music of a crisp winter's night.
Radiant.
Love this author and her work and cannot wait for more.
December 13, 2022
Lyrical, heartfelt, and full of Christmas cheer and hope! Amanda’s writing never fails to amaze me, and this sweet Christmas tale was no exception! It’s a story I return to again and again. 💛
November 24, 2023
This is a great little Christmas story! Beautifully written and I loved the characters. A little mystery, a little romance and just a great story!
February 1, 2021
A Delightful Read
This story was filled with the perfect balance of light, love, and whimsy. The perfect short story to curl up and read on a cold night! I loved it.
This story was filled with the perfect balance of light, love, and whimsy. The perfect short story to curl up and read on a cold night! I loved it.
December 25, 2020
Sweet Christmas tale of restoration, forgiveness and healing.
December 18, 2025
2025 Reread: just as lovely as the first time. Beautifully woven, redemption and forgiveness, musically-focused.
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Another tale by Amanda Dykes, so lyrically & artfully scripted it feels as if you are reading a beautiful painting. A perfect little book to read in the quiet days before Christmas - should take you only a couple days! And the themes of forgiveness and redemption point to the True meaning of this season; they point to the One who offered the deepest forgiveness and redemption that makes all other occasions of it possible.
A favorite quote: “With that, the first brick in a wall a decade thick between them crumbled. And day by day, bits of that wall fell, light slipping in through each new chink.”
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Another tale by Amanda Dykes, so lyrically & artfully scripted it feels as if you are reading a beautiful painting. A perfect little book to read in the quiet days before Christmas - should take you only a couple days! And the themes of forgiveness and redemption point to the True meaning of this season; they point to the One who offered the deepest forgiveness and redemption that makes all other occasions of it possible.
A favorite quote: “With that, the first brick in a wall a decade thick between them crumbled. And day by day, bits of that wall fell, light slipping in through each new chink.”
February 2, 2015
A little story with a big heart, Bespoke captured me with its polished, intelligent prose and characters both winsome and layered, and held me in its spell with a poignant yearning—to uncover the painful secrets of the characters’ past and see the unfolding of a future shining with the promise of joy. Amanda Dykes is a fresh voice in fiction and Bespoke, A Tiny Christmas Tale sings with a timeless song of rebirth.
November 26, 2016
What does a world renowned composer, a small village blacksmith and a well- kept- secret have in common? A tragic accident; a ninth symphony. This very small, but very powerful story will resonant deep within the recesses of your heart, leading you to discover that there are many ways to make beautiful music!
"Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright" . . . . all is well.
"Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright" . . . . all is well.
December 26, 2019
This story was touching. It was simple yet complex. It kept my interest and left me at the end with a smile. While not long, I felt like I had come to know the characters fairly well during the short time. I really liked the message of moving on and not living in the past and the what if’s.
January 3, 2021
I loved this sweet story! There is something so endearing about the writing style and setting... I don't know`\_(^-^)_/`
I loved Aria and James! And now I really want to melt brass and pour it into a mold!=)
I loved Aria and James! And now I really want to melt brass and pour it into a mold!=)
December 17, 2015
This tiny story about music is quite possibly the quietest books I've ever read. I leaned in to hear every single word. Beautifully written.
December 19, 2022
I can understand why people would enjoy this, but it was just not quite my cup of tea. Just a bit too much…draaaama for me. Too much avoiding each other’s eyes, hinting in hushed tones of dark secrets of yesteryear, that sort of thing. I think James and Aria would be much better off with some clear communication and a little less of the dramatics, lol! But I guess then it wouldn’t be much of a story. I agree the author is a very talented writer, I just think her style is a bit too flowery/romantic for me! Glad I gave it a try though! 🎄🎼🚲
November 26, 2017
Sweet and unique Christmas novella.
I eagerly await a full length novel by this author. :-)
I eagerly await a full length novel by this author. :-)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews