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Wrapped With A Bow
The Crazy Lady Authors Present A Blizzard of Books — Nine Holiday Short Stories as Unique as Snowflakes.
Come warm your toes by our fire, relax, and indulge yourself with this box set of amazing tales. In the spirit of the season, the Crazy Ladies present this gift of heartfelt stories that will make you laugh, cry, and give thanks for the many blessings in your life. From our heart to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas.
WRAPPED WITH A BOW contains the following stories:
THE KISSING BALL — Aubree Lane
SUGAR & SPICE — RE Hargrave
FROZEN HEART — Ella Medler
A WHITE CAT FOR CHRISTMAS — Cherime MacFarlane
CHRISTMAS CANDY — Samantha Jacobey
SOPHIE'S WISH — Michele E. Gwynn
CHRISTMAS FOR FAITH — Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough
TRUE LOVE NEVER DIES — Teri Riggs
A CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKE — Holly Barbo
Come warm your toes by our fire, relax, and indulge yourself with this box set of amazing tales. In the spirit of the season, the Crazy Ladies present this gift of heartfelt stories that will make you laugh, cry, and give thanks for the many blessings in your life. From our heart to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas.
WRAPPED WITH A BOW contains the following stories:
THE KISSING BALL — Aubree Lane
SUGAR & SPICE — RE Hargrave
FROZEN HEART — Ella Medler
A WHITE CAT FOR CHRISTMAS — Cherime MacFarlane
CHRISTMAS CANDY — Samantha Jacobey
SOPHIE'S WISH — Michele E. Gwynn
CHRISTMAS FOR FAITH — Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough
TRUE LOVE NEVER DIES — Teri Riggs
A CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKE — Holly Barbo
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2015
20 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Aubree Lane
19 books397 followersAubree Lane lives in the beautiful foothills of Northern California with her husband, two wonderful sons, and her super special peek-a-poo.
Her motto: Write Until Your Butt Hurts, And Your Eyes Are Crossed.
Her motto: Write Until Your Butt Hurts, And Your Eyes Are Crossed.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 6, 2015
This was a great collection of stories by great authors. I loved reading all the stories and recommend this book to everyone.
The Kissing Bell was an amazing story of perseverance and determination.
Sugar & Spice was a great story about finding love for two great people.
Frozen Heart was a great story about love and trust.
A White Cat for Christmas was a great story about love and determination to save an animal. It also shows how things can happen for two great people.
Christmas Candy was a great story abut what can happen if you open your heart for love.
Sophie's Wish was a story of love and compassion.
Christmas for Faith was a story that proves that proves although we may have bad things happen in life, we can have great things happen to us.
True Love Never Dies is a story of love and just what love can do for us.
A Crystal Snowflake was a great story about what the characters would do to help people especially their friends.
The Kissing Bell was an amazing story of perseverance and determination.
Sugar & Spice was a great story about finding love for two great people.
Frozen Heart was a great story about love and trust.
A White Cat for Christmas was a great story about love and determination to save an animal. It also shows how things can happen for two great people.
Christmas Candy was a great story abut what can happen if you open your heart for love.
Sophie's Wish was a story of love and compassion.
Christmas for Faith was a story that proves that proves although we may have bad things happen in life, we can have great things happen to us.
True Love Never Dies is a story of love and just what love can do for us.
A Crystal Snowflake was a great story about what the characters would do to help people especially their friends.
December 10, 2015
The Kissing Ball by Aubree Lane - Melissa Ellison is a tree trimmer. She takes mistletoe and turns it into balls of hanging kissable magic. Her family owns a tree trimming service, and Melissa conscripts the men that work for her father's company to help her create mistletoe ornament balls. No one seems to like Cooper, a long time friend and customer of the tree trimming company. Apparently no one seems to like Cooper, but what happens when he brings Melissa the chance of a lifetime with regards to her business? After her talk and more with Cooper about him wanting her to do the decorations and food for the dance, she is heading to lunch to meet a friend. She sees an Ash tree that has mistletoe growing on it and stops to climb the tree to get at the mistletoe, only to have someone come out as she is climbing up. She recognizes the voice of the gentleman and ends up with him offering to talk to the company that owns the property to see about paying her to take the mistletoe that she was happy to just take. What luck this woman has! Read on to find out what else happens in this story.
Sugar & Spice by RE Hargrave - Lacey owns a bakery in town called Sugar & Spice. She is a single mother of an 8 almost 9 year old daughter. She got pregnant while in HS. When she and her father went to confront the young man, a football player...he denied it and wanted nothing to do with Lacey or the baby. Her father, Shane, had him sign away his parental rights as a father to the baby. Candy is now working to play matchmaker between her mother and the new Coach at school. Fortunately they have already met and are intrigued by one another. They certainly take their time getting to know one another, and entering into a relationship. Once they do get the ball rolling, they really get it rolling. Through a hurricane, a heart attack, and other various things, watch as Shane and Lacey's relationship triumphs and builds on the family that we all with we had.
Frozen Heart by Ella Medler - Khira is at her grandmother's home at Christmas time. The cat, Dodo, takes a flying leap into the middle of the Christmas tree. He ends up banished to the swing on the back porch for his antics while Khira tries to fix the Christmas tree so that Jill does not see that it has been damaged by the cat. She finds an odd ornament that has come off it's ribbon, a glass heart which appears to have sparkling snowflakes inside. What happens when Khira realizes there is someone trapped inside this heat ornament? What does she do to try to help the person get out? What happens? This was an odd story to read and I had a hard time getting into it, but it was well written. Once I got into the story, realizing where it was going and why, it ended with a cliffhanger.
A White Cat for Christmas by Cherime MacFarlane - Angie is a woman trying to rescue a kitten. Mike is the man who owns the place where she is found, skulking around, trying to find the kitten. What happens after their encounter? When it is time for Angie's children to visit her, her daughter Lisa shows up early, calling her to figure out where she is at, where Bo is at and freaking out. What does Angie tell her? Where does Angie have her go to? What does Mike do? Angie is adamant about catching the kitten. What happens when some ravens in the area decide that when she brings out the kitten food, trying to catch the cat that they're the ones that will have at it and not let the kitten get to it? What does Mike do if anything to help her? How do they actually end up getting together and what does Lisa have to say about the story? Read this and enjoy the HEA of this story. It is fun.
Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey - We start out the story with the police chasing a suspect. Jason Parker is shot in the line of duty. Candy is a cashier at a convenience store near the fire department. Gary is the boss at the station and goes after some allergy relief. When Gary asks her out, she backs off from getting to know him, having lost Jason years before. I was never sure who Jason was, but I am assuming it was her father. Candy is very prickly when it comes to Gary, and his job. When he comes to get her from work one day after responding to an apartment house fire, Candy tries to blame Gary for the fire starting. Having already met her son, he recognized the boy and went to get her after he and his grandmother were in route to the hospital. Will Candy ever give Gary the benefit of the doubt? Can he show her that he is a really good guy and get her to take a chance on him? You'll have to read this story to find out!
Sophie's Wish by Michele E. Gwynn - Sophie was orphaned on the front step of her parent's home. One day, she meets Cecelia, another orphan and wants to help her. Sophie has been tasked by her Kindergarten teacher to do three things over the next two weeks. What are they? Does she complete them? Who are Uncle Cam and Uncle Gabe? What happens when Gabe and Cam track down Cecliia's grandfather Rafe? Who is he? What does he know about Cecilia's father, Erik? What happens to her paternal grandmother? Who is Sophie? Who is Cecilia? Read and you will be amazed at this Christmas tale dealing with God, Angels, and Demons.
Christmas for Faith by Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough - Faith Ann Jefferies was only 4 years old the Christmas her father came home drunk and killed her mother then himself. A wonderful police officer gave her the one and only gift she had ever been given, and 21 years later, it was still her only gift. Until her boss at work gave her 6 weeks off, forced, and it caused her to live a little, make friends, and find the love of her life. For her first Christmas ever, she's spending it with others. She meets the man of her dreams through a waitress at work that has been serving her for years, once a week, until the 'vacation' she is forced to take. She makes friends with Prudence. One night Prudence's nephew comes in, dressed in a tux after attending his best friend's wedding. That was the tipping point for Faith, just read this and find out all the good things that come, and who she meeds again.
True Love Never Dies by Teri Riggs - Sami and Nate were heading to Heaven Beach for Christmas. The day before they were to leave, something happened. When Nate was driving to meet Sami and his mom, he had a car accident. What happened? How did Sami lose 3 years of her life and become a zombie? What happened that Nate had to lose his life? Why does Sami think his death is her fault? What would she do differently if she could? Will she ever have a second chance at True Love? For Nate was the True Love of her life. Read the book and see what happens and how she works to move on with her life. It was liberating for Sami after 3 years to do something that she did. What was it? Enjoy the book.
A Crystal Snowflake by Holly Barbo - This story is one heck of a thriller. Orion is a twin to Asha. Orion is a coder and programmer, Asha is an artist and designer of ice hotels in Sweden. Orion has been approached by some very unsavory people for some code he has written that he refuses to give to them. They somehow got their hands on the coding and killed him afterwards, once he knew they had accessed his safe deposit box at the bank. Matt and Chayse go to Sweden to meet with Asha and retrieve the code that stops the malicious code. What happens when they are there? Does something happen to them or to Asha? Can they get the code to stop the virus or do they fail? Read and see what happens and read about the beauty that an ice hotel can be.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
Sugar & Spice by RE Hargrave - Lacey owns a bakery in town called Sugar & Spice. She is a single mother of an 8 almost 9 year old daughter. She got pregnant while in HS. When she and her father went to confront the young man, a football player...he denied it and wanted nothing to do with Lacey or the baby. Her father, Shane, had him sign away his parental rights as a father to the baby. Candy is now working to play matchmaker between her mother and the new Coach at school. Fortunately they have already met and are intrigued by one another. They certainly take their time getting to know one another, and entering into a relationship. Once they do get the ball rolling, they really get it rolling. Through a hurricane, a heart attack, and other various things, watch as Shane and Lacey's relationship triumphs and builds on the family that we all with we had.
Frozen Heart by Ella Medler - Khira is at her grandmother's home at Christmas time. The cat, Dodo, takes a flying leap into the middle of the Christmas tree. He ends up banished to the swing on the back porch for his antics while Khira tries to fix the Christmas tree so that Jill does not see that it has been damaged by the cat. She finds an odd ornament that has come off it's ribbon, a glass heart which appears to have sparkling snowflakes inside. What happens when Khira realizes there is someone trapped inside this heat ornament? What does she do to try to help the person get out? What happens? This was an odd story to read and I had a hard time getting into it, but it was well written. Once I got into the story, realizing where it was going and why, it ended with a cliffhanger.
A White Cat for Christmas by Cherime MacFarlane - Angie is a woman trying to rescue a kitten. Mike is the man who owns the place where she is found, skulking around, trying to find the kitten. What happens after their encounter? When it is time for Angie's children to visit her, her daughter Lisa shows up early, calling her to figure out where she is at, where Bo is at and freaking out. What does Angie tell her? Where does Angie have her go to? What does Mike do? Angie is adamant about catching the kitten. What happens when some ravens in the area decide that when she brings out the kitten food, trying to catch the cat that they're the ones that will have at it and not let the kitten get to it? What does Mike do if anything to help her? How do they actually end up getting together and what does Lisa have to say about the story? Read this and enjoy the HEA of this story. It is fun.
Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey - We start out the story with the police chasing a suspect. Jason Parker is shot in the line of duty. Candy is a cashier at a convenience store near the fire department. Gary is the boss at the station and goes after some allergy relief. When Gary asks her out, she backs off from getting to know him, having lost Jason years before. I was never sure who Jason was, but I am assuming it was her father. Candy is very prickly when it comes to Gary, and his job. When he comes to get her from work one day after responding to an apartment house fire, Candy tries to blame Gary for the fire starting. Having already met her son, he recognized the boy and went to get her after he and his grandmother were in route to the hospital. Will Candy ever give Gary the benefit of the doubt? Can he show her that he is a really good guy and get her to take a chance on him? You'll have to read this story to find out!
Sophie's Wish by Michele E. Gwynn - Sophie was orphaned on the front step of her parent's home. One day, she meets Cecelia, another orphan and wants to help her. Sophie has been tasked by her Kindergarten teacher to do three things over the next two weeks. What are they? Does she complete them? Who are Uncle Cam and Uncle Gabe? What happens when Gabe and Cam track down Cecliia's grandfather Rafe? Who is he? What does he know about Cecilia's father, Erik? What happens to her paternal grandmother? Who is Sophie? Who is Cecilia? Read and you will be amazed at this Christmas tale dealing with God, Angels, and Demons.
Christmas for Faith by Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough - Faith Ann Jefferies was only 4 years old the Christmas her father came home drunk and killed her mother then himself. A wonderful police officer gave her the one and only gift she had ever been given, and 21 years later, it was still her only gift. Until her boss at work gave her 6 weeks off, forced, and it caused her to live a little, make friends, and find the love of her life. For her first Christmas ever, she's spending it with others. She meets the man of her dreams through a waitress at work that has been serving her for years, once a week, until the 'vacation' she is forced to take. She makes friends with Prudence. One night Prudence's nephew comes in, dressed in a tux after attending his best friend's wedding. That was the tipping point for Faith, just read this and find out all the good things that come, and who she meeds again.
True Love Never Dies by Teri Riggs - Sami and Nate were heading to Heaven Beach for Christmas. The day before they were to leave, something happened. When Nate was driving to meet Sami and his mom, he had a car accident. What happened? How did Sami lose 3 years of her life and become a zombie? What happened that Nate had to lose his life? Why does Sami think his death is her fault? What would she do differently if she could? Will she ever have a second chance at True Love? For Nate was the True Love of her life. Read the book and see what happens and how she works to move on with her life. It was liberating for Sami after 3 years to do something that she did. What was it? Enjoy the book.
A Crystal Snowflake by Holly Barbo - This story is one heck of a thriller. Orion is a twin to Asha. Orion is a coder and programmer, Asha is an artist and designer of ice hotels in Sweden. Orion has been approached by some very unsavory people for some code he has written that he refuses to give to them. They somehow got their hands on the coding and killed him afterwards, once he knew they had accessed his safe deposit box at the bank. Matt and Chayse go to Sweden to meet with Asha and retrieve the code that stops the malicious code. What happens when they are there? Does something happen to them or to Asha? Can they get the code to stop the virus or do they fail? Read and see what happens and read about the beauty that an ice hotel can be.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
December 6, 2015
The Kissing Ball by Aubree Lane
Wow - what an incredible book!!
Melissa Ellison is 23 years old and a tree trimmer for her father's company Fallen Leaf Tree Trimming Service who handcrafts mistletoe decorations during the holiday season.
Melissa is offered the job opportunity she has always wanted from Cooper Dailey who runs Backyard Basics to make decorations for the Kiss and Tell dance with a huge budget. Melissa and her friend Sara work together to employ autistic adults to help make the decorations. But it's not as easy as she has hoped and she enlists Ryder Moore, whom used to work for her dad's business and had a huge crush on to help her achieve what she has been striving toward.
Unfortunately, Melissa soon finds herself up against more than she has planned for and will she succeed or will all of her goals fall flat?
I loved this book and found I took so much away from it. I learned so much about autism and what the families go through. I loved the interactions between Sara, Melissa and the families and just felt so good after reading the book. I loved discovering more about Ryder and really loved the ending!! What a great book!!
Sugar and Spice by R.E. Hargrave
Lacey Harrison is the proud owner of Sugar & Spice Bakery and is a single mother to Candace, almost 10 years old. Lacey herself was raised by a single father, Shane, and the people out at Royal Hills Nursing Home where her father works.
Trent Childress has just moved to town to take care of his mother after the death of his father. His mother resides up at Royal Hills Nursing Home and has always mentioned Lacey and her wonderful baking. When Trent ends up teaching Candace gym at school, everyone's lives are about to become intertwined.
Can Lacey and Trent put aside their pasts and learn to rely on each other? Will Candace get her special Christmas wish?
I really enjoyed this book and love all of the characters in it. There were such special relationships in the book that I truly loved and how everyone supported each other, and the school. It was definitely a community that I would love to live in myself! The book spans almost a year yet it doesn't feel rushed or that you missed a lot.
Frozen Heart by Ella Medler
Khira is at her Grandma Jill's looking at the Christmas Tree when the tree is attacked by her cat Dodo. Khira spots a special glass ornament and inside she sees a man. Is this the man of her dreams and will Khira give into whatever the man asks of her?
I thought this was a unique story although I must admit I was confused a couple of times with some of the time travelling. I liked the innocence of Khira although her trusting nature seemed to get her into some trouble. I liked the cat Dodo how appeared to follow her wherever she went. There was lots of mystery and I'm not sure if this is really the end of her journey at the end of the book.
A White Cat for Christmas by Cherime MacFarlane
Angelina Brown's daughter Lisa has come for a surprise visit but Lisa gets more than she bargained for when she discovers her mom has moved in with someone named Mike!
This was a really cute story of how two people found love due to a little white cat that Angie attempted to rescue!
I really enjoyed the story and how Angie was desperately trying to save the kitten while initially Mike thought maybe she was after him. I really liked how the kitten brought them together when they needed each other in a sweet way!
Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey
Candice Parker's life hasn't been too easy lately. She lives with her mom and her son, Dakota, who has learning difficulties. She has absolutely no interest in dating, especially with someone in what she deems a dangerous profession.
Gary Ford works for the fire department close to where Candice works nights at the Quickie-Mart. He constantly goes in to see her and asks for dates, to which he is constantly turned down.
Yet Gary doesn't give up on Candice, no matter what she throws at him. Will he finally give up or will she see Gary for all that he can give her?
I enjoyed this story and the importance of loving someone for who they are, and not what their job is. Candace was scared to let anyone get close to her which was going to lead her to have a break down without any help. I think women want to do everything as much as we can so we don't look needy but sometimes we need to rely on others, whether it be friends or a spouse.
Sophie's Wish by Michele E. Gwynn
Sophie Fairchild was adopted by Nanette and Charles but it was almost like she was sent from heaven right to them.
Sophie has a habit of helping those less fortunate and when she sees a little boy stealing from church she will do what she can for him. But it turns out it is actually a little girl, Celilia Robillard, and they have more in common than Sophie knew.
This is the first book I have read in this series and I definitely want to go back and read the previous two. This book definitely did not make me feel like I was missing anything and can be read as a stand-alone but I am really curious to see how everything came to be.
I loved the character of Sophie and her honest and good nature towards others. There was lots of mystery in the book and I loved Sophie's "uncles" and want to learn more about them for sure. I really enjoyed Celilia and hope she is able to get the happiness that she truly deserves.
Christmas for Faith by Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough
Faith Ann Jeffries is only four years old when a policeman, Max Millsen, comes to take her away and Faith knows it is because her dad has hurt her mom so bad that she won't be coming back to her. That night Faith receives a bear from Max and that is the only Christmas present she receives. Faith is then put in with her Grandma and doesn't celebrate Christmas.
Faith becomes a workaholic and is forced to take 6 weeks vacation and quickly meets a friend in her waitress Prudence and her nephew Alek. Will Faith allow herself to open up and trust them or will she close herself off so no one can hurt her again?
I really enjoyed this book and all the issues that it covers. I can't imagine living in a house without Christmas and it is no wonder Faith is so closed off from the world. I liked that Prudence and Alek didn't give up on her and Faith was truly able to see what she has been missing.
True Love Never Dies by Teri Riggs
Samantha Beckman is having a hard time moving on after the death of her husband Nathan three years earlier. Zachariah Simmons, Nate's best friend, and local sheriff is also having a hard time but maybe not for the same reasons.
When it appears that Samantha's life is in danger Zach is there for her and it also appears that a guardian angel has also arrived to help as well. But how well will Samantha deal with the secrets that have been kept from her?
I enjoyed the story and there is a ton of mystery over why people are after Samantha. There was lots of suspense and I was surprised with certain parts for sure!
A Crystal Snowflake by Holly Barbo
Chayse's friend Orion is on his way to her house with some important information when it looks like he is killed along the way. Chayse and her husband Matt must discover where the secret stop code is hidden for a major computer worm that Orion developed that was stolen from his safety deposit box. Only, they aren't the only ones after the code.
I found the book quite entertaining with all the gadgets that Orion created that helped Chayse and Matt with their quest to find the crystal snowflake. They had to be one step ahead of the bad guy with never knowing who the bad guy even was until the end, when they went after Orion's twin, Asha.
Wow - what an incredible book!!
Melissa Ellison is 23 years old and a tree trimmer for her father's company Fallen Leaf Tree Trimming Service who handcrafts mistletoe decorations during the holiday season.
Melissa is offered the job opportunity she has always wanted from Cooper Dailey who runs Backyard Basics to make decorations for the Kiss and Tell dance with a huge budget. Melissa and her friend Sara work together to employ autistic adults to help make the decorations. But it's not as easy as she has hoped and she enlists Ryder Moore, whom used to work for her dad's business and had a huge crush on to help her achieve what she has been striving toward.
Unfortunately, Melissa soon finds herself up against more than she has planned for and will she succeed or will all of her goals fall flat?
I loved this book and found I took so much away from it. I learned so much about autism and what the families go through. I loved the interactions between Sara, Melissa and the families and just felt so good after reading the book. I loved discovering more about Ryder and really loved the ending!! What a great book!!
Sugar and Spice by R.E. Hargrave
Lacey Harrison is the proud owner of Sugar & Spice Bakery and is a single mother to Candace, almost 10 years old. Lacey herself was raised by a single father, Shane, and the people out at Royal Hills Nursing Home where her father works.
Trent Childress has just moved to town to take care of his mother after the death of his father. His mother resides up at Royal Hills Nursing Home and has always mentioned Lacey and her wonderful baking. When Trent ends up teaching Candace gym at school, everyone's lives are about to become intertwined.
Can Lacey and Trent put aside their pasts and learn to rely on each other? Will Candace get her special Christmas wish?
I really enjoyed this book and love all of the characters in it. There were such special relationships in the book that I truly loved and how everyone supported each other, and the school. It was definitely a community that I would love to live in myself! The book spans almost a year yet it doesn't feel rushed or that you missed a lot.
Frozen Heart by Ella Medler
Khira is at her Grandma Jill's looking at the Christmas Tree when the tree is attacked by her cat Dodo. Khira spots a special glass ornament and inside she sees a man. Is this the man of her dreams and will Khira give into whatever the man asks of her?
I thought this was a unique story although I must admit I was confused a couple of times with some of the time travelling. I liked the innocence of Khira although her trusting nature seemed to get her into some trouble. I liked the cat Dodo how appeared to follow her wherever she went. There was lots of mystery and I'm not sure if this is really the end of her journey at the end of the book.
A White Cat for Christmas by Cherime MacFarlane
Angelina Brown's daughter Lisa has come for a surprise visit but Lisa gets more than she bargained for when she discovers her mom has moved in with someone named Mike!
This was a really cute story of how two people found love due to a little white cat that Angie attempted to rescue!
I really enjoyed the story and how Angie was desperately trying to save the kitten while initially Mike thought maybe she was after him. I really liked how the kitten brought them together when they needed each other in a sweet way!
Christmas Candy by Samantha Jacobey
Candice Parker's life hasn't been too easy lately. She lives with her mom and her son, Dakota, who has learning difficulties. She has absolutely no interest in dating, especially with someone in what she deems a dangerous profession.
Gary Ford works for the fire department close to where Candice works nights at the Quickie-Mart. He constantly goes in to see her and asks for dates, to which he is constantly turned down.
Yet Gary doesn't give up on Candice, no matter what she throws at him. Will he finally give up or will she see Gary for all that he can give her?
I enjoyed this story and the importance of loving someone for who they are, and not what their job is. Candace was scared to let anyone get close to her which was going to lead her to have a break down without any help. I think women want to do everything as much as we can so we don't look needy but sometimes we need to rely on others, whether it be friends or a spouse.
Sophie's Wish by Michele E. Gwynn
Sophie Fairchild was adopted by Nanette and Charles but it was almost like she was sent from heaven right to them.
Sophie has a habit of helping those less fortunate and when she sees a little boy stealing from church she will do what she can for him. But it turns out it is actually a little girl, Celilia Robillard, and they have more in common than Sophie knew.
This is the first book I have read in this series and I definitely want to go back and read the previous two. This book definitely did not make me feel like I was missing anything and can be read as a stand-alone but I am really curious to see how everything came to be.
I loved the character of Sophie and her honest and good nature towards others. There was lots of mystery in the book and I loved Sophie's "uncles" and want to learn more about them for sure. I really enjoyed Celilia and hope she is able to get the happiness that she truly deserves.
Christmas for Faith by Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough
Faith Ann Jeffries is only four years old when a policeman, Max Millsen, comes to take her away and Faith knows it is because her dad has hurt her mom so bad that she won't be coming back to her. That night Faith receives a bear from Max and that is the only Christmas present she receives. Faith is then put in with her Grandma and doesn't celebrate Christmas.
Faith becomes a workaholic and is forced to take 6 weeks vacation and quickly meets a friend in her waitress Prudence and her nephew Alek. Will Faith allow herself to open up and trust them or will she close herself off so no one can hurt her again?
I really enjoyed this book and all the issues that it covers. I can't imagine living in a house without Christmas and it is no wonder Faith is so closed off from the world. I liked that Prudence and Alek didn't give up on her and Faith was truly able to see what she has been missing.
True Love Never Dies by Teri Riggs
Samantha Beckman is having a hard time moving on after the death of her husband Nathan three years earlier. Zachariah Simmons, Nate's best friend, and local sheriff is also having a hard time but maybe not for the same reasons.
When it appears that Samantha's life is in danger Zach is there for her and it also appears that a guardian angel has also arrived to help as well. But how well will Samantha deal with the secrets that have been kept from her?
I enjoyed the story and there is a ton of mystery over why people are after Samantha. There was lots of suspense and I was surprised with certain parts for sure!
A Crystal Snowflake by Holly Barbo
Chayse's friend Orion is on his way to her house with some important information when it looks like he is killed along the way. Chayse and her husband Matt must discover where the secret stop code is hidden for a major computer worm that Orion developed that was stolen from his safety deposit box. Only, they aren't the only ones after the code.
I found the book quite entertaining with all the gadgets that Orion created that helped Chayse and Matt with their quest to find the crystal snowflake. They had to be one step ahead of the bad guy with never knowing who the bad guy even was until the end, when they went after Orion's twin, Asha.
December 5, 2015
The Kissing Ball 5*
A town Christmas event should be the perfect opportunity for Melissa to show her mistletoe products, with the promise of a big financial reward that will put her business on the map. With her usual workers unavailable, her friend suggests some of the adults she cares for who have autism. Her teenage crush, Ryder, comes to her rescue with the rest of what she needs, hoping that she will finally notice him. With Cooper, the event organiser up to something, and with potential for him to ruin Christmas, they need to figure out what quickly. This was a poignant read for Christmas bringing hope, understanding and compassion to the forefront. The fabulous writing drew me in and hooked me into the story. I will definitely be checking out more by Aubree Lane in the near future.
Sugar & Spice 4*
A sweet, quick read. Lacey has found herself a young single mum after being used by the star football player. With an incredible maturity, she thrives in this role and also manages to set up her successful bakery with a little help from her dad and the residents of the local nursing home. When Trent literally runs into her, is he the one who can bring down the wall around her heart? It was a quirky read with help from Lacey's very forward daughter, Candy and pushes from Lacey's dad and Trent's mum along the way. I loved the gentle pace of this atory as Lacey finds her feet in the dating game again.
Frozen Heart 3.5*
This was an unusual story at Christmas, with a spirit trapped inside a Christmas decoration. The spirit, Mal, tries to convince Khira to help set him free and with her good, kind nature she jumps at the chance. Whether he is worthy of being saved remains to be seen but Khira doesn't hesitate and the adventure through time begins, along with Dodo the cat. It was difficult to know what to make of this short read as by the time you get into this story, it is over.
A White Cat for Christmas 4.5*
This was a sweet and adorable read with plenty of awww moments. When Angie spots a white kitten and decides to rescue it, little does she know it will lead to Mike and a potential HEA. Set in Alaska, with the cold and the snow it definitely felt like Christmas.
Christmas Candy 4*
Candy doesn't live up to her sweet name but is rather prickly, distrustful and, at times, straight up rude. Why Gary wants to pursue her after the way she treats him is a mystery. But he does, and when tragedy strikes he steps up to the plate to help. A different Christmas story that will reinforce your faith in people.
Sophie's Wish 4*
If you are looking for a different Christmas story, then this is for you. It's unique blend of angels, the second coming of the Messiah, and a runaway who can bring peace to earth will captivate you. A genuinely heart felt story showing the good in people in a time of need.
Christmas for Faith 5*
A poignant Christmas story with Faith never experiencing a proper Christmas since she was four. She is all alone in the world until her boss forces her to take a vacation, which leads her to Prudence and her nephew Alek. Alek is determined to make Christmas special for her despite the hang-ups she has. Your heart will break for Faith but will warm again with Alek giving the hope she needs to live again.
True Love Never Dies 4*
When your one true love is taken away from you on Christmas Eve, it is hard to find any enthusiasm for this happy holiday. Three years later Sami starts to see her deceased husband Nate in random places. All is not as it seems in this suspenseful and exciting Christmas read.
A Crystal Snowflake 4*
A suspenseful, fast paced read, with action, subterfuge and plot to bring down financial institutions at Christmas. It is a race against time to stop them and find out who is behind the plot.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
A town Christmas event should be the perfect opportunity for Melissa to show her mistletoe products, with the promise of a big financial reward that will put her business on the map. With her usual workers unavailable, her friend suggests some of the adults she cares for who have autism. Her teenage crush, Ryder, comes to her rescue with the rest of what she needs, hoping that she will finally notice him. With Cooper, the event organiser up to something, and with potential for him to ruin Christmas, they need to figure out what quickly. This was a poignant read for Christmas bringing hope, understanding and compassion to the forefront. The fabulous writing drew me in and hooked me into the story. I will definitely be checking out more by Aubree Lane in the near future.
Sugar & Spice 4*
A sweet, quick read. Lacey has found herself a young single mum after being used by the star football player. With an incredible maturity, she thrives in this role and also manages to set up her successful bakery with a little help from her dad and the residents of the local nursing home. When Trent literally runs into her, is he the one who can bring down the wall around her heart? It was a quirky read with help from Lacey's very forward daughter, Candy and pushes from Lacey's dad and Trent's mum along the way. I loved the gentle pace of this atory as Lacey finds her feet in the dating game again.
Frozen Heart 3.5*
This was an unusual story at Christmas, with a spirit trapped inside a Christmas decoration. The spirit, Mal, tries to convince Khira to help set him free and with her good, kind nature she jumps at the chance. Whether he is worthy of being saved remains to be seen but Khira doesn't hesitate and the adventure through time begins, along with Dodo the cat. It was difficult to know what to make of this short read as by the time you get into this story, it is over.
A White Cat for Christmas 4.5*
This was a sweet and adorable read with plenty of awww moments. When Angie spots a white kitten and decides to rescue it, little does she know it will lead to Mike and a potential HEA. Set in Alaska, with the cold and the snow it definitely felt like Christmas.
Christmas Candy 4*
Candy doesn't live up to her sweet name but is rather prickly, distrustful and, at times, straight up rude. Why Gary wants to pursue her after the way she treats him is a mystery. But he does, and when tragedy strikes he steps up to the plate to help. A different Christmas story that will reinforce your faith in people.
Sophie's Wish 4*
If you are looking for a different Christmas story, then this is for you. It's unique blend of angels, the second coming of the Messiah, and a runaway who can bring peace to earth will captivate you. A genuinely heart felt story showing the good in people in a time of need.
Christmas for Faith 5*
A poignant Christmas story with Faith never experiencing a proper Christmas since she was four. She is all alone in the world until her boss forces her to take a vacation, which leads her to Prudence and her nephew Alek. Alek is determined to make Christmas special for her despite the hang-ups she has. Your heart will break for Faith but will warm again with Alek giving the hope she needs to live again.
True Love Never Dies 4*
When your one true love is taken away from you on Christmas Eve, it is hard to find any enthusiasm for this happy holiday. Three years later Sami starts to see her deceased husband Nate in random places. All is not as it seems in this suspenseful and exciting Christmas read.
A Crystal Snowflake 4*
A suspenseful, fast paced read, with action, subterfuge and plot to bring down financial institutions at Christmas. It is a race against time to stop them and find out who is behind the plot.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
December 6, 2015
There are nine delightful holiday stories to get you into the Christmas spirit. I've only read four of the stories. I will add to my review as I read on.
The Kissing Ball ~ At first I was kind of thrown by Ryder's attitude. It just didn't add up for me, but of course we find out more about him that leads to the way is was acting. All I have to say about Cooper what a jerk! I really liked the message in this one. It's a very heartwarming story.
Sugar & Spice ~ Really enjoyed this one. Lacey does great t give her and her daughter a happy life. There is just something missing in her life full of sugar and Trent may be just the spice she needs. I really liked Trent. He's going through a tough time with his mom. The magic of the season is here will it weave it around Lacey and Trent.
A White Cat for Christmas ~ I'm a cat lover so of course the title of this book grabbed my attention right away. What's not to like for me for this story Christmas and a cat two of my favorite things. Angie will anything she can to rescue the little white kitten under mike's garage. Mike is a very gruff guy that likes his privacy, but Angie and that little kitten worm their way into his heart. A little kitten brings two unlikely people together over the holiday season.
Christmas Candy ~ This one really shows you the magic of the holiday season. Candy has had many letdowns and setbacks in her life. Though it's a struggle sometimes she does the best she can for her and her little boy. The day Gary comes into her life it will be forever changed. I felt so bad for Gary he's such a great guy and just wants to help, but Candy keeps pushing him away. She has her reasons and trust is something hard for Candy to give. It's Christmas time when anything is possible.
The Kissing Ball ~ At first I was kind of thrown by Ryder's attitude. It just didn't add up for me, but of course we find out more about him that leads to the way is was acting. All I have to say about Cooper what a jerk! I really liked the message in this one. It's a very heartwarming story.
Sugar & Spice ~ Really enjoyed this one. Lacey does great t give her and her daughter a happy life. There is just something missing in her life full of sugar and Trent may be just the spice she needs. I really liked Trent. He's going through a tough time with his mom. The magic of the season is here will it weave it around Lacey and Trent.
A White Cat for Christmas ~ I'm a cat lover so of course the title of this book grabbed my attention right away. What's not to like for me for this story Christmas and a cat two of my favorite things. Angie will anything she can to rescue the little white kitten under mike's garage. Mike is a very gruff guy that likes his privacy, but Angie and that little kitten worm their way into his heart. A little kitten brings two unlikely people together over the holiday season.
Christmas Candy ~ This one really shows you the magic of the holiday season. Candy has had many letdowns and setbacks in her life. Though it's a struggle sometimes she does the best she can for her and her little boy. The day Gary comes into her life it will be forever changed. I felt so bad for Gary he's such a great guy and just wants to help, but Candy keeps pushing him away. She has her reasons and trust is something hard for Candy to give. It's Christmas time when anything is possible.
November 20, 2015
The Kissing Ball by Aubree Lane
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.
******
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
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.
******
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
November 20, 2015
I have read The Kissing Ball by Aubree Lane
Melissa is trying to foster her mistletoe business. She creates hand made mistletoe balls for the Holidays. Each year her business grows a bit more. She wants to branch off her father's tree trimming business to include Landscaping and design with her being the designer.
This year, Cooper, who she has known for many years makes her an offer too good to be true. He wants her to decorate the town Christmas dance .....full on mistletoe and giving her a huge budget. Melissa can't do it on her own, and her Father and his employees are heading north for a big job. She partners with her friend Sara who works with Autistic adults at One In One-Fifty to have some of the members help her fill her order. The, things start to unravel. Another blast from her past, Ryder, appears and offers his help.
I tell you.....I was not sure what his intentions were. Both Cooper and Ryder make her heart race but.....One of the two guys is an engaged, scamming, snake in the grass and the other is her Happily Ever After.
Melissa is trying to foster her mistletoe business. She creates hand made mistletoe balls for the Holidays. Each year her business grows a bit more. She wants to branch off her father's tree trimming business to include Landscaping and design with her being the designer.
This year, Cooper, who she has known for many years makes her an offer too good to be true. He wants her to decorate the town Christmas dance .....full on mistletoe and giving her a huge budget. Melissa can't do it on her own, and her Father and his employees are heading north for a big job. She partners with her friend Sara who works with Autistic adults at One In One-Fifty to have some of the members help her fill her order. The, things start to unravel. Another blast from her past, Ryder, appears and offers his help.
I tell you.....I was not sure what his intentions were. Both Cooper and Ryder make her heart race but.....One of the two guys is an engaged, scamming, snake in the grass and the other is her Happily Ever After.
December 7, 2015
Reviewed for 2 Girls who love Books
Let me start by saying I love Christmas short stories! I look forward to getting a bunch of them and reading them this time of year!
Wrapped with a Bow is an amazing set of 9 holiday tales!
Christmas for Faith by Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough was my very favorite! It was sweet and showed how miracles and a small town work out!! Alek was a wonderful man to read about and his points on human nature are dead on.
Aubree Lane also had an amazing story in The Kissing Ball. A lovely tale that sheds light on adults with Autism. It was a beautifully written.
The Frozen Heart by Ella Medler was a bit diffrent than the others. It had a bit of a syfy supernatural magic thing going on. Still enjoyable just not really my thing in A Christmas book.
Over all I give the collection 5 stars!
Let me start by saying I love Christmas short stories! I look forward to getting a bunch of them and reading them this time of year!
Wrapped with a Bow is an amazing set of 9 holiday tales!
Christmas for Faith by Jennifer Bryan Yarbrough was my very favorite! It was sweet and showed how miracles and a small town work out!! Alek was a wonderful man to read about and his points on human nature are dead on.
Aubree Lane also had an amazing story in The Kissing Ball. A lovely tale that sheds light on adults with Autism. It was a beautifully written.
The Frozen Heart by Ella Medler was a bit diffrent than the others. It had a bit of a syfy supernatural magic thing going on. Still enjoyable just not really my thing in A Christmas book.
Over all I give the collection 5 stars!
May 8, 2023
This is a collection of seasonal stories that are predominately contemporary, with just a couple of supernatural/paranormal in there. They are all 'sweet' and there are no details - the most you get is hot kissing. The rest is either inferred or it fades to black.
In this anthology, there are some great stories, and some not-so-great stories, but on the whole, it is a sentimental and wholesome collection of seasonal stories to give you a warm glow over the festive period.
I would have no hesitation in recommending this anthology to all fans of contemporary sweet romance,
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 6, 2015
In this anthology, there are some great stories, and some not-so-great stories, but on the whole, it is a sentimental and wholesome collection of seasonal stories to give you a warm glow over the festive period.
I would have no hesitation in recommending this anthology to all fans of contemporary sweet romance,
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 6, 2015
December 8, 2015
Wrapped With A Bow is a delightful mix of 9 Christmas stories that will offer your whole family a new holiday tradition. Young and old will enjoy meeting new characters and a new story line in each of the books. Some will warm your heart, some will leave you wanting more, but all will make you mindful of the meaning of Christmas. Share this collection with your family this year and for many to come.
December 8, 2015
Fantastic set of nine holiday stories. I enjoyed all nine of them, there is something for everyone. There's fantasy, contemporary and mystery mixed with love, guardian angels, determination, stubbornness, and strong, determined women. A few include hunky men! Just like the title suggests, uniqueness abounds! A must read!
November 26, 2015
Christmas Candy - Such a great story. I really enjoyed it.I loved it and recommend it for all who want a wonderful holiday read. Samantha Jacobey is on a roll with wonderful books.
The characters were amazing. I would love to see more with these characters.
The characters were amazing. I would love to see more with these characters.
August 7, 2024
Christmas short stories
Stories were ok, but bad language make me uncomfortable, so I didn't read a lot a lot of the stories.
Stories were ok, but bad language make me uncomfortable, so I didn't read a lot a lot of the stories.
Read
November 16, 2016For an anthology, this one's remarkably consistent and high quality. Not all the stories are love stories. In fact, there's even an international espionage story, mostly set in an ice hotel in Scandinavia. It was one of 2015's Christmas must haves but the characters and story lines remain fresh and engaging ... and don't think that because I didn't finish them all last Christmas that they weren't absolutely wonderful. I'm just an anthology junkie and there are only so many hours in a holiday season.
If you're looking for something to put you in the holiday mood and you can still find Wrapped with a Bow, get ready for 9 short stories that will quickly put you in the holiday mood.
If you're looking for something to put you in the holiday mood and you can still find Wrapped with a Bow, get ready for 9 short stories that will quickly put you in the holiday mood.
December 28, 2015
I loved this box set right from the beginning. Kissing ball was such a cute and enjoyable story with a lot of little twists and turns and you just keep flipping the pages to find out if everything is going to turn out all right in time for the big event. This is a total must read. Its a good book to sit down with some hot chocolate and a nice electric blanket on a cold night and just curl up and read all night long!
May 23, 2022
THE KISSING BALL — Very adorable
SUGAR & SPICE — I thought it was okay.
FROZEN HEART — Very didn't bother
A WHITE CAT FOR CHRISTMAS — I hated the writing style.
CHRISTMAS CANDY — Ehhhhh, really did not like this character.
SOPHIE'S WISH — Very worth the read
CHRISTMAS FOR FAITH — Worth the read
TRUE LOVE NEVER DIES — Excuse me, what?
A CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKE — Didn't even bother
SUGAR & SPICE — I thought it was okay.
FROZEN HEART — Very didn't bother
A WHITE CAT FOR CHRISTMAS — I hated the writing style.
CHRISTMAS CANDY — Ehhhhh, really did not like this character.
SOPHIE'S WISH — Very worth the read
CHRISTMAS FOR FAITH — Worth the read
TRUE LOVE NEVER DIES — Excuse me, what?
A CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKE — Didn't even bother
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