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Sweet Christmas #1
Christmas Candy
Life isn’t always sweet, even for girls called Candy.
Candice Parker’s life has never been easy. Plagued by losses and setbacks, each day is a struggle for the petite brunette and her young son. When fireman Gary enters her world, he is one mistake she refuses to make; but after tragedy strikes, she may not have a choice.
Gerald Ford has never been what anyone would call settled. Always keeping things simple, he lived a fast and furious lifestyle, with no intentions of slowing down. However, when he inherits his family’s ancestral mansion on his thirtieth birthday, he considers the possibility that it’s time for a change.
Could this complicated young woman be his Christmas Candy?
Candice Parker’s life has never been easy. Plagued by losses and setbacks, each day is a struggle for the petite brunette and her young son. When fireman Gary enters her world, he is one mistake she refuses to make; but after tragedy strikes, she may not have a choice.
Gerald Ford has never been what anyone would call settled. Always keeping things simple, he lived a fast and furious lifestyle, with no intentions of slowing down. However, when he inherits his family’s ancestral mansion on his thirtieth birthday, he considers the possibility that it’s time for a change.
Could this complicated young woman be his Christmas Candy?
141 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2015
24 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Jacobey
92 books1,305 followersSamantha Jacobey is a middle aged woman who earned a BS in Business Management and has worked in half a dozen fields. With a relentless zest for life, she enjoys action and adventure, as well as all the love and romance it has to offer. Creating stories in her mind for many years, she has put some of them into print for the world to share, and hopes you will enjoy reading them as much as she did creating them. What drives her most is the love of a good story and is confident you will enjoy her latest creation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 15, 2016
Candy has gotten the short end of the stick ever since her father was killed in the line of duty. Her mother became an alcoholic and she got pregnant at 15 and her son has special needs. Because of these events she's sworn off men. We have Gary who just turned the big 30 and wants to settle down. You guessed it with Candy. Candy and Gary got off to a very rocky start and I didn't like her at all. She was very rude, bitchy and nasty to Gary. She even accused him of setting her apartment on fire since he was a fireman and this would be a way for them to date. Um, you need to get over yourself sweetie. After that part I wanted to check out but I kept on truckin'! I really liked Gary but it was hard for me to connect to the story when you can't stand the heroine. I wanted to love this story since it was a Christmas themed story but it didn't put me in the holiday spirit and there wasn't a lot of romance either. The narrator in this book was also a huge turnoff for me as well. I wanted this book to work for me and sadly it just didn't.
*audio copy was given for honest review*
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
*audio copy was given for honest review*
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
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December 21, 2020🎁 Books 1 & 2 in the Series are FREE on Amazon today (12/21/2020)! 🎁
November 7, 2016
What made the experience of listening to Christmas Candy the most enjoyable?
I don't know if the author planned it but I fell in love with Candy's son Dax. He doesn't have much of an appearance but he is the one that helps to bring Candace and Gary together. The story had me wishing that Dax was sitting next to me the next time I listened to this story.
What did you like best about this story?
There were times that I got frustrated with Candace because she kept finding ways to put up barriers that made it hard for Gary. But I loved the fact that Gary didn't give up.
What about Vanessa Hensley-Mayes’s performance did you like?
She brought Candy's character to life.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
I loved this author's story and definitely wanted to listen to this in one sitting. And once it was over I wanted to listen to it again.
Any additional comments?
The only issue I had with Ms. Hensley-Mayes's performance was when she did the character of Gary. She doesn't have the type of voice that lends well to a male character. Candace is a good example of someone who needs to stop making assumptions about people. If not for the author, I could see Gary giving up on Candy and finding someone who has no issue excepting him for who he is. This is one of those books where it would be great to have a copy of the book and the audio version.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Audiobook/Reader Copy of this book.
I don't know if the author planned it but I fell in love with Candy's son Dax. He doesn't have much of an appearance but he is the one that helps to bring Candace and Gary together. The story had me wishing that Dax was sitting next to me the next time I listened to this story.
What did you like best about this story?
There were times that I got frustrated with Candace because she kept finding ways to put up barriers that made it hard for Gary. But I loved the fact that Gary didn't give up.
What about Vanessa Hensley-Mayes’s performance did you like?
She brought Candy's character to life.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
I loved this author's story and definitely wanted to listen to this in one sitting. And once it was over I wanted to listen to it again.
Any additional comments?
The only issue I had with Ms. Hensley-Mayes's performance was when she did the character of Gary. She doesn't have the type of voice that lends well to a male character. Candace is a good example of someone who needs to stop making assumptions about people. If not for the author, I could see Gary giving up on Candy and finding someone who has no issue excepting him for who he is. This is one of those books where it would be great to have a copy of the book and the audio version.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Audiobook/Reader Copy of this book.
November 1, 2016
What a beautiful story. I absolutely loved this book. These characters were written so well that you instantly felt like you knew them. The storyline could be anyone's story, but it was Candy's story to tell. It made you think about how much one person could really handle when life throws those hard balls right at you. It made you wonder if she would ever be able to let go and find her happily ever after.
Gary is such a wonderfully patient and caring character and you just hope and pray that Candy will open herself up to allowing him into her life and into her heart.
To the author; this is a wonderful story and of course you know that I will say, I wanted more! Very sweet story, and one that will open your eyes and make you realize that no matter what you lose, home is where the love is.
Gary is such a wonderfully patient and caring character and you just hope and pray that Candy will open herself up to allowing him into her life and into her heart.
To the author; this is a wonderful story and of course you know that I will say, I wanted more! Very sweet story, and one that will open your eyes and make you realize that no matter what you lose, home is where the love is.
December 23, 2019
Unfortunately, I'm not certain whether or not I would like to continue with this series. The book wasn't downright bad, but there were many things that irked me. In general, I didn't much like the character of Candice. Some of it might be able to be attributed to the fact that she's only 20, but I don't think her age explains away all of it. First off, she was exceedingly and unfoundedly suspicious. So Gerry had been coming into her gas station pretty much daily for quite some time - he thought she was cute, enjoyed talking to her (for some reason), and worked just down the street at the fire department. He'd always been good natured and nice to her. He asked her out several times and she declined every time, which was completely her prerogative, but he was never creepy toward her, simply nice - even though it sounds like she wasn't always so nice when saying no.
Let's move to Gerry, who for some reason was very interested in Candice and wanted to get to know her better. They started with a nice friendship and then he decided to ask her out. She rebuffed him and then became a bit weird around him. Regardless, he periodically asked again because he still wanted to get to know this woman. Each time she declined. I can understand persistence, but I don't understand why, after so many rebuffs (a lot of which weren't exactly nice) and her being strange toward him since he asked, he still wanted to get to know her that bad. For some reason there's "just something about her" that kept him coming back I guess, if only to still chat and try to carry on the friendship.
So Gerry wanted to do something nice for Candice and her family by purchasing a few gifts for them. Why on earth did she react SO negatively to it? She was downright rude to the man. He told her there's a firetruck for her son because that's what he asked for for Christmas and she freaked out that he know that (only because he happened to be the Santa that went to his school and he remembered, which he explained to her). Obviously, he so badly wanted to get close to her that he finagled his way into playing Santa for her child's school... NOT. This was something that he and his fellow firefighters did yearly for all of the area schools (play Santa). He had no idea what kids he might be visiting, much less who their parents were. Heck, it wasn't until he arrived that she even had a child at all. Despite this perfectly reasonable explanation, she still found Gerry suspicious?
And it just gets better....
Candice's paranoia (and possibly sense of self importance) hits a new high when Gerry rescues her son and mother from a fire in their apartment complex and then, knowing how much Candice loves her son, goes straight to her to inform her they were being taken to the hospital and offering to give her a ride there. Clearly, that means he must've found where she lived, intentionally set the fire, all so he could save her son in order to get closer to her. That makes perfect sense... (I say that with the utmost sarcasm.) Candice thinks the man is so obsessed with her because she is so freaking awesome that he learned where she lived and then turned to arson and potential mass homicide by starting a fire that endangered the lives of not only dozens of civilians (not to mention destroying their homes and the bulk of their earthly possessions), but himself and fellow firefighters sent to fight the blaze and rescue those still inside? Once again, woman, your logic is infallible... (Insert eye roll here.) When the two got to the hospital and Gerry came inside to make sure she and her family are alright, Candice completely turned on him. She surpassed rude and went to mean.
After all of this, Gerry started to wonder if wanting to get to know her better was really the best idea. Based on her behavior and treatment of him, I think that's a very good thing to wonder. But, despite so much of your knowledge of her now being negative, he still wants to be with her. Perhaps that part wasn't so smart, but to each their own, I suppose.
Overall, Candice was overly suspicious and sometimes downright whiny. She didn't want to date Gerry because her father was also a public servant doing a dangerous job (a cop) and died on the job. Not wanting to lose someone you love again makes sense. Unfortunately, Candice's view of what her father's death meant was definitely off base. She believes that in dying he left them. Even though she realized that his death wasn't him intentionally leaving her and her mother, she believed that if her father truly loved her and her mother, he would've never become a cop. This is where I feel like immaturity might be the cause, but still, it's sad she thought that all this time. Thankfully her mom was able to set her straight on the matter upon waking up.
The book does feature a HFN ending (as their story isn't over yet) with Candice, Gerry and Candice's son having Christmas together and Candice and Gerry seemingly in a relationship. I'm not sure what will happen next, but I'm sure there will be road bumps, but it will all end well.
So, I started this review by saying I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue with the series. Part of that is due to the reasons I listed above, but it was also in part due to the narration. Vanessa Hensley-Mayes voiced Candice in a way that it sounded like she was constantly whining and/or complaining. That whiny tone got irritating real quick. The only reason I might consider continuing to listed to the Audible version of this series is that the next two books are narrated by a completely different person (Christine Kelly). In the past I have continued series though I wasn't certain about them or didn't absolutely love the books, but they had enough to keep me intrigued and coming back, wanting to know what happens next. In this case, I might be perfectly content to just let it end with this book - there was nothing attention grabbing enough to make me want to know more.
Let's move to Gerry, who for some reason was very interested in Candice and wanted to get to know her better. They started with a nice friendship and then he decided to ask her out. She rebuffed him and then became a bit weird around him. Regardless, he periodically asked again because he still wanted to get to know this woman. Each time she declined. I can understand persistence, but I don't understand why, after so many rebuffs (a lot of which weren't exactly nice) and her being strange toward him since he asked, he still wanted to get to know her that bad. For some reason there's "just something about her" that kept him coming back I guess, if only to still chat and try to carry on the friendship.
So Gerry wanted to do something nice for Candice and her family by purchasing a few gifts for them. Why on earth did she react SO negatively to it? She was downright rude to the man. He told her there's a firetruck for her son because that's what he asked for for Christmas and she freaked out that he know that (only because he happened to be the Santa that went to his school and he remembered, which he explained to her). Obviously, he so badly wanted to get close to her that he finagled his way into playing Santa for her child's school... NOT. This was something that he and his fellow firefighters did yearly for all of the area schools (play Santa). He had no idea what kids he might be visiting, much less who their parents were. Heck, it wasn't until he arrived that she even had a child at all. Despite this perfectly reasonable explanation, she still found Gerry suspicious?
And it just gets better....
Candice's paranoia (and possibly sense of self importance) hits a new high when Gerry rescues her son and mother from a fire in their apartment complex and then, knowing how much Candice loves her son, goes straight to her to inform her they were being taken to the hospital and offering to give her a ride there. Clearly, that means he must've found where she lived, intentionally set the fire, all so he could save her son in order to get closer to her. That makes perfect sense... (I say that with the utmost sarcasm.) Candice thinks the man is so obsessed with her because she is so freaking awesome that he learned where she lived and then turned to arson and potential mass homicide by starting a fire that endangered the lives of not only dozens of civilians (not to mention destroying their homes and the bulk of their earthly possessions), but himself and fellow firefighters sent to fight the blaze and rescue those still inside? Once again, woman, your logic is infallible... (Insert eye roll here.) When the two got to the hospital and Gerry came inside to make sure she and her family are alright, Candice completely turned on him. She surpassed rude and went to mean.
After all of this, Gerry started to wonder if wanting to get to know her better was really the best idea. Based on her behavior and treatment of him, I think that's a very good thing to wonder. But, despite so much of your knowledge of her now being negative, he still wants to be with her. Perhaps that part wasn't so smart, but to each their own, I suppose.
Overall, Candice was overly suspicious and sometimes downright whiny. She didn't want to date Gerry because her father was also a public servant doing a dangerous job (a cop) and died on the job. Not wanting to lose someone you love again makes sense. Unfortunately, Candice's view of what her father's death meant was definitely off base. She believes that in dying he left them. Even though she realized that his death wasn't him intentionally leaving her and her mother, she believed that if her father truly loved her and her mother, he would've never become a cop. This is where I feel like immaturity might be the cause, but still, it's sad she thought that all this time. Thankfully her mom was able to set her straight on the matter upon waking up.
The book does feature a HFN ending (as their story isn't over yet) with Candice, Gerry and Candice's son having Christmas together and Candice and Gerry seemingly in a relationship. I'm not sure what will happen next, but I'm sure there will be road bumps, but it will all end well.
So, I started this review by saying I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue with the series. Part of that is due to the reasons I listed above, but it was also in part due to the narration. Vanessa Hensley-Mayes voiced Candice in a way that it sounded like she was constantly whining and/or complaining. That whiny tone got irritating real quick. The only reason I might consider continuing to listed to the Audible version of this series is that the next two books are narrated by a completely different person (Christine Kelly). In the past I have continued series though I wasn't certain about them or didn't absolutely love the books, but they had enough to keep me intrigued and coming back, wanting to know what happens next. In this case, I might be perfectly content to just let it end with this book - there was nothing attention grabbing enough to make me want to know more.
October 19, 2018
I listened to the 2nd story, Christmas Eve, in this series first. That one was okay but I wanted to know if by listening to this story it might clear up some of the issues in the 2nd. What it did was solidify for me the issues started with this story and carried over to the next. I couldn't even finish listening to this one.
I was very disappointed that Candy was depicted as a spoiled brat acting more like she was 13 than 24. How Gary could even think about dating someone that self centered and childish I can't understand. There is a lot of unnecessary narration which doesn't move the story forward and little enough actual interaction. The story is unrealistic from a fireman leaving the scene of a fire and not even informing anyone where he was going to saying to depicting the fire happened a few minutes ago. Fires of that nature with multiple people needing rescue and with injuries don't finish in minutes.
I felt the story to be stilted and choppy written by someone just starting out. The narrator did a good job with what there was but there was only so much she could do.
I was very disappointed that Candy was depicted as a spoiled brat acting more like she was 13 than 24. How Gary could even think about dating someone that self centered and childish I can't understand. There is a lot of unnecessary narration which doesn't move the story forward and little enough actual interaction. The story is unrealistic from a fireman leaving the scene of a fire and not even informing anyone where he was going to saying to depicting the fire happened a few minutes ago. Fires of that nature with multiple people needing rescue and with injuries don't finish in minutes.
I felt the story to be stilted and choppy written by someone just starting out. The narrator did a good job with what there was but there was only so much she could do.
October 20, 2018
Christmas is coming, so what better way to start getting into holiday spirit than with a book? This short by Samantha Jacobey has such a wonderful message. Candice is a young mother of a special needs son. She has had a difficult childhood and now wants no help from anyone. Gary, a fireman, has taken an interest in Candice and won't let her aloofness discourage him. This push pull romance is sweet and full of happy, warm feelings. Candice is a difficult one, full of anguish and distrust. Her unconditional love of her son is beautiful and her relationship with her mom is one I really admire after all they have been through. Gary is a great character, and I think there is more depth to him than we get to see in this installment of the series. He is passionate with helping others and his persistence is welcomed as we get to know this couple. Narrated by Vanessa Hensley-Mayes, the story is well told and I have to see where the go next!
December 2, 2019
This was a pretty cute book. Candy is more than a hard head and Gary is a sucker for a damsel in distress. Some of it was pretty convenient but also a bit tragic. Candys sons actual condition was never fully explained. Not a lot of men would take on a woman and her mother and a disabled child in tow. Such a story is definitely a fairytale of sorts.
Still it was cute and short and sweet.
Narration was really good, Vanessa did a great job.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
Still it was cute and short and sweet.
Narration was really good, Vanessa did a great job.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
December 16, 2019
This was a sweet Christmas story. I would say this has a friends to lovers vibe (which I love) even though Candace and Gerald are not friends to start. I love that despite how horrible Candace treats Gerald at first, he continues to show love and support (just like the Gospels.) At three hours this was a perfect length,I did not feel the story was rushed or dragged.
Vanessa Hensley-Mayes does a great job with the narration, with very distinct voices.
I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review.
Vanessa Hensley-Mayes does a great job with the narration, with very distinct voices.
I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review.
February 8, 2018
Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey is an entertaining Christmas story. Ms. Jacobey has delivered a book that is full of realistic characters. Some you love right away, some you don't like but they kind of grow on you. Gary and Candy's story is packed with drama, bits of humor and spice. I enjoyed reading Christmas Candy. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
Want to read
December 12, 2017Enjoyable holiday read! The story line has some mystery as well as plenty of family love. The characters are determined and have great interactions from start to finish. Found this to be a delightful book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book; all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book; all opinions expressed are my own.
December 3, 2019
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This was such a cute Christmas romance. I was annoyed at Candy at first but as I found out her story I understood her better. Gary is so sweet. I cannot wait for more.
November 25, 2024
A woman with trust issues meets a man who wants to get to know her better. Circumstances bring them together and she learns to trust him. This is the first book in a series and provides a background for Candy.
December 6, 2017
I loved this book. You can see my review at https://lynnlawler.blogspot.com/2016/...
December 17, 2017
Sweet
These characters are awesome. After going through what Candy has gone through and survived and Gary being on so patient I can wait to read more about them.
These characters are awesome. After going through what Candy has gone through and survived and Gary being on so patient I can wait to read more about them.
November 30, 2018
Left me hanging!
I really don’t like that the story left you hanging! I was enjoying the story and with a limited budget prefer books with endings.
I really don’t like that the story left you hanging! I was enjoying the story and with a limited budget prefer books with endings.
December 29, 2018
Beautiful story. Inspiring book. Could not put the book down. Very good book.
November 25, 2022
Masterful
What a brilliant way to bring special needs people into a story that shows the care of the parents and teachers a lesson as you read. Beautiful story. Thank you.
What a brilliant way to bring special needs people into a story that shows the care of the parents and teachers a lesson as you read. Beautiful story. Thank you.
January 1, 2017
This is a great read. It keeps you wanting more. It is well written.
December 1, 2019
I had a hard time falling into this one because the heroine was a total shrew for the majority of the book when the hero was only tying to be nice to her. I mean I get she had it hard but it didn’t give her license to be so mean.
The she changed on a dime and it was supposed to be all ok. No, she didn’t redeem herself in my eyes at all. And that really ruined something in the book for me.
The she changed on a dime and it was supposed to be all ok. No, she didn’t redeem herself in my eyes at all. And that really ruined something in the book for me.
October 30, 2016
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Cover looks more cut and paste than professional. Models do not match characters. Title is would have been more easily seen and read if in a different font and color. Synopsis is what piqued my interest on this one.
> > Looking Deeper < <
Third-person POV with a powerful intro.
Candy is a young, single mom to a child with disabilities. Her anger; resentment and animosity, over her lot in life is portrayed by lashing out at her mother - who's helped her raise her son, even after having a stroke - and Gary. She even went as far as calling her son a burden. She is not a likable character, at all.
Gary's firehouse is right around the corner from the convenience store that Candy works at. For some reason, he's attracted to the girl despite the way she treats him.
When a fire breaks out, leaving Candy homeless and her mom and son in the hospital, Gary is there to help, offering her shelter under the large roof he'd inherited from his aunt.
He enjoys the challenge she presents. She has the charm of a pit viper. The author continually reminds the readers that Candy has a padded mid-section, thick thighs and chubby fingers, all while being only chest-high to Gary. They mesh as well as oil and water. This was darn-near a DNF by 47 percent, but figured I'd already come this far... might as well finish it and hope there was something redeeming in it by the end. Luckily things did get an infinitesimal bit better after the halfway point, just too bad it took so long and even then, for a few nanoseconds, she reverts back to her nightmarish ways.
The plot itself moved quickly but given the length of the novella, it really had to. Their relationship is never defined nor advanced. A HEA is never even implied. No solid resolve for Lanelle or their future. The ending was very abrupt. On the bright side, there was very little predictability and the writing style was good. Gary was likable, as was Dakota. It would be difficult for me to honestly recommend this one, unless it's expanded on and Candy becomes more redeemable.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 3.3 ~ Stars: 3
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Words Turn Me On and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I will leave my Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
Cover looks more cut and paste than professional. Models do not match characters. Title is would have been more easily seen and read if in a different font and color. Synopsis is what piqued my interest on this one.
> > Looking Deeper < <
Third-person POV with a powerful intro.
Candy is a young, single mom to a child with disabilities. Her anger; resentment and animosity, over her lot in life is portrayed by lashing out at her mother - who's helped her raise her son, even after having a stroke - and Gary. She even went as far as calling her son a burden. She is not a likable character, at all.
Gary's firehouse is right around the corner from the convenience store that Candy works at. For some reason, he's attracted to the girl despite the way she treats him.
When a fire breaks out, leaving Candy homeless and her mom and son in the hospital, Gary is there to help, offering her shelter under the large roof he'd inherited from his aunt.
He enjoys the challenge she presents. She has the charm of a pit viper. The author continually reminds the readers that Candy has a padded mid-section, thick thighs and chubby fingers, all while being only chest-high to Gary. They mesh as well as oil and water. This was darn-near a DNF by 47 percent, but figured I'd already come this far... might as well finish it and hope there was something redeeming in it by the end. Luckily things did get an infinitesimal bit better after the halfway point, just too bad it took so long and even then, for a few nanoseconds, she reverts back to her nightmarish ways.
The plot itself moved quickly but given the length of the novella, it really had to. Their relationship is never defined nor advanced. A HEA is never even implied. No solid resolve for Lanelle or their future. The ending was very abrupt. On the bright side, there was very little predictability and the writing style was good. Gary was likable, as was Dakota. It would be difficult for me to honestly recommend this one, unless it's expanded on and Candy becomes more redeemable.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 3.3 ~ Stars: 3
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Words Turn Me On and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I will leave my Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
February 20, 2018
This is the first book I have read by Samantha and I find that hard to believe. I really liked this book and the characters in it. Candice Parker has had an interesting life and it wasn’t an easy one. She has had to deal with a lot from a young age. She, her mother, and her young son live together. This Christmas promises to be an interesting one, with both good and bad experiences. Candy works a mini mart overnights and the last few months one man in particular has taken an interest in her but she doesn’t date and especially not men in his type of profession. Gerald is a firefighter who has recently switched departments after inheriting a house from his great aunt. Lately he has been thinking of settling down instead of random hook ups and short relationships. Candy has managed to get under his skin without even trying. He wants to get to know her but after asking her out and being turned down he has realized he needs to take it slow with her. She is different and worth the effort. Then after working one fire his whole life could change. This could be his chance to help Candy and get to know her. Will she allow him to help her? Will Gary get the best Christmas gift yet? I really like the characters in this book. Candy is determined to care for her son herself and not take help from anyone but her mother. Gary is sweet, caring, and kind. He wants to help Candy and maybe persuade her to give him a shot. Candy doesn’t like that Gary is a firefighter. That he is always in danger. It stems from her childhood and doesn’t want to put herself in that situation again. Gary is determined to figure out why she keeps turning him down. Dakota, Candy’s son is special and her whole life. He is a great little boy. I hope there will be more to this story because it just kind of ends. I feel like he was just starting to get her to give him a chance when it ends. I can’t wait to read other books by Samantha in the future and can’t believe I haven’t already. Lol.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
November 2, 2016
It feels like Christmas and instead of leaving cookies for Santa we leave Candy after you read this story. Oh my, the sweetness, the heartache and the struggle that occurs in this book. How much can one person take before they crack?
We meet Candy a single mother who struggles to make ends meet for her special needs child, Dakota and her mom as well due to her health issues. While her mom is a big help, what Candy doesn't need is a relationship or so she thinks. Gerald a fireman knows that if Candy would open up and even just be his friend to start with that they could have something great. Candy is very hard headed and sometime very closed minded; whereas, Gerald is the opposite and sweet and open to helping Candy if she would just allow even his friendship.
Oh brother, I cannot be Candy really thought Gerald set her up to destruct like that. What you say? Totally not what you would imagine. Her ex-boss is another story and a jerk after her major setback and it being a holiday. He (Gerald) truly is a man we would all dream of even if only for a friend.
This story truly makes you think, if you were put into this situation how strong could you be before you crack? What I especially love about this story is that not only does it deal with a single parent, but it deals with a special needs child and how open and easy a man can accept you both regardless of your situation that you have been put into. Not many men would have stayed for many turn of events that Candy was dealt with. You will leave this book feeling blessed and thankful for all you have daily. If you enjoy holiday reads, I highly recommend reading this over cookies and something warm to drink and snuggle up for this short read to enjoy and be thankful for once you are done reading.
We meet Candy a single mother who struggles to make ends meet for her special needs child, Dakota and her mom as well due to her health issues. While her mom is a big help, what Candy doesn't need is a relationship or so she thinks. Gerald a fireman knows that if Candy would open up and even just be his friend to start with that they could have something great. Candy is very hard headed and sometime very closed minded; whereas, Gerald is the opposite and sweet and open to helping Candy if she would just allow even his friendship.
Oh brother, I cannot be Candy really thought Gerald set her up to destruct like that. What you say? Totally not what you would imagine. Her ex-boss is another story and a jerk after her major setback and it being a holiday. He (Gerald) truly is a man we would all dream of even if only for a friend.
This story truly makes you think, if you were put into this situation how strong could you be before you crack? What I especially love about this story is that not only does it deal with a single parent, but it deals with a special needs child and how open and easy a man can accept you both regardless of your situation that you have been put into. Not many men would have stayed for many turn of events that Candy was dealt with. You will leave this book feeling blessed and thankful for all you have daily. If you enjoy holiday reads, I highly recommend reading this over cookies and something warm to drink and snuggle up for this short read to enjoy and be thankful for once you are done reading.
August 6, 2016
Reviewed on behalf of 2 girls who love books blog.
What a lovely book!! I feel all festive now! This is such a heartwarming story, I was hooked from the very beginning right until the end - in fact I couldn't put it down. It's been a long time since I've wanted two characters to end up together so much!
It was really well written and a proper contemporary romance story - I could easily imagine this being made into a festive film. The language that the author used made it so easy for me to imagine what the characters were doing, where they were etc.
The story is about Candice (Candy), a young Mom, who's father was killed whilst on duty as a police officer, therefore putting her off dating any man with a public service job and Gary, a fireman, who for 6 months has been trying to get a date with Candy but is failing miserably. It's the run up to Christmas and when tragedy strikes things go from bad to worse for Candy - can Gary convince her to take a chance on him even though his job represents everything she's afraid of?
Gary is such a lovely character! He is a true gentleman (Oh and fireman! What more could anyone ask for?!?) and he really does care for Candy and wants to be with her.
Candy is a fiery character and although she can be quite rude at times to Gary I guess because of her background she is only trying to protect her son and ultimately her heart.
If you are looking for a heartwarming, Christmas romance story then I highly recommend you read Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey.
I give this book 4 stars.
What a lovely book!! I feel all festive now! This is such a heartwarming story, I was hooked from the very beginning right until the end - in fact I couldn't put it down. It's been a long time since I've wanted two characters to end up together so much!
It was really well written and a proper contemporary romance story - I could easily imagine this being made into a festive film. The language that the author used made it so easy for me to imagine what the characters were doing, where they were etc.
The story is about Candice (Candy), a young Mom, who's father was killed whilst on duty as a police officer, therefore putting her off dating any man with a public service job and Gary, a fireman, who for 6 months has been trying to get a date with Candy but is failing miserably. It's the run up to Christmas and when tragedy strikes things go from bad to worse for Candy - can Gary convince her to take a chance on him even though his job represents everything she's afraid of?
Gary is such a lovely character! He is a true gentleman (Oh and fireman! What more could anyone ask for?!?) and he really does care for Candy and wants to be with her.
Candy is a fiery character and although she can be quite rude at times to Gary I guess because of her background she is only trying to protect her son and ultimately her heart.
If you are looking for a heartwarming, Christmas romance story then I highly recommend you read Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey.
I give this book 4 stars.
October 23, 2016
4 star review of Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey
My favourite holiday of the year is Christmas, a time for family and friends to get together and celebrate; a story about Christmas and a fire fighter, a no brainer for me.
Christmas Candy is not a particularly long book so was a rather quick read. Candy is a single mum, trying to raise her son Dakota with the help of her mother whom she lives with. She works hard and is doing her best to provide for her son. Candy catches the eye of firefighter Gerald Ford but the last things she wants or needs is a man in her life so she puts up her walls and refuses to consider dating Gerald.
When tragedy strikes, Candy is backed into a corner and really has no one else to turn to except Gerald. Can Gerald get through to Candy or is she destined to keep her heart locked away? Will Candy let Gerald help them or will she bury her head in the sand? Will Gerald give up in the face of Candy’s determination not to become involved or will his patience finally crack?
I really liked the character of Gerald, however Candy was harder to connect with to be honest, perhaps because I felt at times that she was obnoxious and rude to Gerald who just wanted to get to know and help her and her family; I just didn’t feel a connection to her that much. Perhaps if the story had been a little longer, I may have gotten the connection I was hoping for.
Samantha Jacobey is a new author to me and I was impressed with her writing style. I will certainly be looking into her other books.
My favourite holiday of the year is Christmas, a time for family and friends to get together and celebrate; a story about Christmas and a fire fighter, a no brainer for me.
Christmas Candy is not a particularly long book so was a rather quick read. Candy is a single mum, trying to raise her son Dakota with the help of her mother whom she lives with. She works hard and is doing her best to provide for her son. Candy catches the eye of firefighter Gerald Ford but the last things she wants or needs is a man in her life so she puts up her walls and refuses to consider dating Gerald.
When tragedy strikes, Candy is backed into a corner and really has no one else to turn to except Gerald. Can Gerald get through to Candy or is she destined to keep her heart locked away? Will Candy let Gerald help them or will she bury her head in the sand? Will Gerald give up in the face of Candy’s determination not to become involved or will his patience finally crack?
I really liked the character of Gerald, however Candy was harder to connect with to be honest, perhaps because I felt at times that she was obnoxious and rude to Gerald who just wanted to get to know and help her and her family; I just didn’t feel a connection to her that much. Perhaps if the story had been a little longer, I may have gotten the connection I was hoping for.
Samantha Jacobey is a new author to me and I was impressed with her writing style. I will certainly be looking into her other books.
December 14, 2015
Candice Parker aka Candy, is a single mother to a boy named Dakota, who has disabilities. Candy lives with her mother in an apartment and works the night shift at a convenience store to support her family. While working, she meets firefighter Gary Ford, despite his handsome looks, Candy is afraid to get involved due to his dangerous job and memories of her policeman father, who was killed when she was a child. When Candy’s home catches fire and she loses everything, Gary comes to her rescue by offering a helping hand. Will Candy accept his help? Will she realize Gary is the right man for her?
I’m a fan of Christmas stories and this is one of the best holiday stories I’ve read. I loved Gary; he’s everything a woman looks for in a hero. Not only is he good looking, but he has a kind heart, which shows with how he helps Candy and how he becomes a father figure to her son. What won me over with Gary is how nice he was to Candy, even though sometimes she could be rude.
Candy, at times she did come across rude to Gary, but after what she’s been through in her life and the losses she’s suffers, you understand why she behaves the way she does. Even though she’s hesitant in getting involved with Gary, you want her to take a chance and find the happiness she deserves.
If you’re like me and love to read heartwarming, holiday romances, I suggest you check out Christmas Candy.
I’m a fan of Christmas stories and this is one of the best holiday stories I’ve read. I loved Gary; he’s everything a woman looks for in a hero. Not only is he good looking, but he has a kind heart, which shows with how he helps Candy and how he becomes a father figure to her son. What won me over with Gary is how nice he was to Candy, even though sometimes she could be rude.
Candy, at times she did come across rude to Gary, but after what she’s been through in her life and the losses she’s suffers, you understand why she behaves the way she does. Even though she’s hesitant in getting involved with Gary, you want her to take a chance and find the happiness she deserves.
If you’re like me and love to read heartwarming, holiday romances, I suggest you check out Christmas Candy.
February 10, 2017
Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey is a sweet story about second chances and starting over. And I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this story. This story is about single mom Candice Parker who has a son Dakota ,who has special needs and she lives with her mother who helps her out but is also a financial burden for Candice. Their are really having a rough time making ends meet . Candice works at a gas station one day meets Gary Ford who happens to be a firefighter ,and he just happens to come in every day to the station. Gary has been begging Candice to give with a chance even if it just being friends first. But Candice doesn't have time for relationships or anything . But things go from bad to worse for Candice and her family fast ,and he comes to her rescue you got it Gary does. Will Candice learn to trust and give him a chance ,and will she learn not to be so distrustful towards people . Samantha Jacobey has give us a story with many ups and downs along with the emotions that go with them .Candice's life is who rough for someone her age ,and well I was reading this story I was wondering how much more this poor woman would be able to came. This story was well written and the story flowed quite well . I could tell you more about this story ,but that would spoil it for you. I highly recommend that you read this story you won't be disappointed.
November 20, 2015
I was give an ARC of Samantha Jacobey's Christmas Candy to read. This book is well written, keeps your attention from the first page to the last page.
I enjoyed this book very much, a very quick read. Melissa is asked to provide mistletoe decorations for the town Christmas Ball. Needing help with the decorations she employs people from the Autistic daycare. Then she finds out the man that hired her doesn't plan on paying her. To find out what happens next you will need to read the book.
The main character is named Candy, a single mother with a special needs son, who also lives with her widowed mother. Candy works the night shift in a convenience store. Gary is a fireman, stationed near the convenience store and becomes friends with Candy. The friendship is strained after Gary asks Candy for a date. She refuses his advances because he works in a professional she considers dangerous. Her father was a policeman who was killed in the line of duty and she feels this could happen to anyone who works in a dangerous job.
Candy's apartment is destroyed by fire, her son Dakota and her mother are hospitalized. Gary recognized her son when he saved him from the apartment. Find out how Gary & Candy' s friendship develops after the fire.
I enjoyed this book very much, a very quick read. Melissa is asked to provide mistletoe decorations for the town Christmas Ball. Needing help with the decorations she employs people from the Autistic daycare. Then she finds out the man that hired her doesn't plan on paying her. To find out what happens next you will need to read the book.
The main character is named Candy, a single mother with a special needs son, who also lives with her widowed mother. Candy works the night shift in a convenience store. Gary is a fireman, stationed near the convenience store and becomes friends with Candy. The friendship is strained after Gary asks Candy for a date. She refuses his advances because he works in a professional she considers dangerous. Her father was a policeman who was killed in the line of duty and she feels this could happen to anyone who works in a dangerous job.
Candy's apartment is destroyed by fire, her son Dakota and her mother are hospitalized. Gary recognized her son when he saved him from the apartment. Find out how Gary & Candy' s friendship develops after the fire.
November 17, 2016
Audio Review:
3.5 Stars
Candy is a young single mother with a great deal of responsibilities. Her mother has health issues and her son Dakota has special needs.
Candy doesn't have the time or inclination for a relationship and pushes Gary away at every time he attempts to get her to give him a chance.
Gary is a firefighter, and a gentleman and is nothing if not persistent in trying to get Candy to go on a date with him. He's quite an endearing and like-able character.
Although I felt for Candy and her difficult situation, I found her character a tad abrasive at times and had difficulty connecting with her character. This possibly could have been because I wasn't a fan of the narrator for this book. I found Vanessa Hensley to be quite monotone and it took away from my enjoyment of this book.
3.5 Stars
Candy is a young single mother with a great deal of responsibilities. Her mother has health issues and her son Dakota has special needs.
Candy doesn't have the time or inclination for a relationship and pushes Gary away at every time he attempts to get her to give him a chance.
Gary is a firefighter, and a gentleman and is nothing if not persistent in trying to get Candy to go on a date with him. He's quite an endearing and like-able character.
Although I felt for Candy and her difficult situation, I found her character a tad abrasive at times and had difficulty connecting with her character. This possibly could have been because I wasn't a fan of the narrator for this book. I found Vanessa Hensley to be quite monotone and it took away from my enjoyment of this book.
November 13, 2016
Christmas Candy is a sweet story about second chances and starting over. Candy is a single mom to a special needs son, Dakota. She is living with her mom who is a huge help but also a financial burden for Candy. They have a hard time making ends meet. Candy works at a gas station and that's where she met Gerald. He's a firefighter who comes in almost every night. He has begged Candy to give him a chance, even just as a friend for a while but Candy has no time for a relationship of any kind. Then things go from bad to worse for Candy and her family. And of course who is there to help her out, no questions asked? You guessed it... Gerald. Gerald was really a great guy. He was handsome, sweet, caring, and genuinely cared about Candy and her family. Would Candy learn to not be so cynical about life and give Gerald a chance?
This was a sweet story with many ups and downs and all the feelings that go with them. I felt so sorry for Candy and wondered how much one person could take. Her life was far from easy and that made her personality very tough. This was a very well written story and I loved the narration. The narrator really brought this story to life. It was a great quick listen. I look forward to listening to more novels by Ms. Jacobey.
This was a sweet story with many ups and downs and all the feelings that go with them. I felt so sorry for Candy and wondered how much one person could take. Her life was far from easy and that made her personality very tough. This was a very well written story and I loved the narration. The narrator really brought this story to life. It was a great quick listen. I look forward to listening to more novels by Ms. Jacobey.
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