Kissing Father Christmas

Father Christmas #3

by Robin Jones Gunn

Bestselling and award-winning author Robin Jones Gunn returns to the cozy English village of Carlton Heath, with a winter romance to melt your heart. A year-and-a-half ago, Anna flew from Minnesota to Carlton Heath to attend the wedding of her cousin, Ian, to an American woman named Miranda. The beautiful event ended with Anna receiving an unexpected, unforgettable kiss from groomsman Peter. Now Anna is delighted to be invited back for Christmas with her family, dreams of romance dancing in her head. But when she finally sees him again, Peter insists his only interest in Anna is as a friend. Anna is hurt, and becomes even more confused when Peter takes her on a romantic tour of London. Is Anna's heart misleading her, or is there a reason Peter is denying what he feels?

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Contemporary, Holiday

169 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2016

About the author

ROBIN JONES GUNN has written more than 100 books with over 6.5 million copies sold worldwide. Her Father Christmas books have been made into three Hallmark Christmas movies. The timeless Christy Miller series now continues in Christy & Todd: The College Years, Married Years, Baby Years, and the Haven Maker series. Robin's novels and non-fiction works include Before Your Tween Daughter Becomes a Woman, Victim of Grace, Praying for Your Future Husband, and Before You Meet Your Future Husband co-authored with Tricia Goyer. Her books have received multiple awards and are a favorite with book clubs and study groups. Many of Robin's books are in eBook, audiobook, large print, and foreign editions. Robin does a weekly Podcast called "Women Worth Knowing" with Cheryl Brodersen. Robin and her husband have a grown son and daughter and live in California.

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

About this book:

“Anna's first visit to Carlton Heath in England was last May for the wedding of her cousin Ian to Miranda. The beautiful event ended with a dance under the stars and Anna receiving an unexpected kiss from Peter, the groomsman who caught her eye and now holds her heart.Now, at the invitation of family and friends, Anna is returning to Carlton Heath for Christmas. She has Peter's recent email to fill her with assurance that he's looking forward to seeing her again as well. More than his brief words, though, the vivid memory of their unforgettable kiss provides a promise of more to come. Anna, ever the imaginative artist, has been busy painting a romantic conclusion to her holiday visit. Certainly she's not the only one who has been dreaming of another dance and another kiss.
But when she sees Peter again, his intentions seem to shift as speedily as the blustery winter weather. Is Anna's heart misleading her, or will Father Christmas bestow on her the gift of love for which she has long dreamed?”


Series: Book #2 in the “Father Christmas” series. Review of Book #1 Here! and Book #2 Here!


Spiritual Content- Set during Christmas; Scriptures are quoted; Church going & Singing hymns; Talks about God & Christmas; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of churches/cathedrals, church going, & services; Mentions of Christmas plays & carols; Mentions of nativity scenes; A few mentions of prayers & blessings over food; A couple mentions of Bible reading.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘sissy’; Mentions of drugs, being stoned or drunk, drug rehab, & someone committing suicide by overdosing; A couple mentions of bullies; A mention of a war;
*Note: Mentions of movies, plays, & characters; A couple mentions of car brands; A mention of a brand name.


Sexual Content- Greeting/departing kisses, a not-detailed kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches & Dancing (barely-above-not-detailed); *Spoiler* Peter has a daughter after a summer fling (out of wedlock) *End of Spoiler*; Mentions of kisses, kissing, & greeting/departing kisses; Mentions of jealousy & crushes; A few mentions of an unfaithful husband (Book #1); A few mentions of Anna being told by her mother at a young age that men will stare at her because of her looks; A couple mentions of married couples kissing; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.

-Anna, age 26/27
1st person P.O.V. of Anna
175 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
While overall clean, I did find this book to be a slower pace than I was expecting for some reason. It was a sweet little Christmas read, but I did like the first book in this series much better.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book wraps around your heart like a hug just make sure you have a hot cup of tea at the ready to enjoy while reading it! What a satisfying conclusion to this Christmas series by Robin Jones Gunn.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHAT a novella! This third and final book has definitely been my favorite in this delightful series! Have to admit-I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy this one when I started it! The two main characters are not characters we’d met in the previous books (that I can remember), and it felt like an intrusion inserting them into the already well established rhythm of the series. I found myself a bit caught off guard when I realized how these two characters were written into the story as if they’d always been there, just in the background, and were just another delightful addition to Whitcombe Manor.

While delightful, full of festive tidbits and traditions of a beautiful Christmas in London, the storyline runs deep and had me in tears more than once. I’m utterly blown away by this author’s ability to develop such depth within the characters as well as weave such a deep storyline into a novella. I just loved it! There are some light faith based threads, with a heavy message of grace. Really loved this series!

Also, note to the author!!!! If you ever wanted to revisit Whitcombe Manor and do a spin off from this series, Julie, Markie and (returning) Margaret would make excellent main characters for an additional three books set at Whitcombe!

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfectly uplifting Christmas read! I enjoyed going back to Carlton Heath for the holidays with Anna, Ian's cousin. Told from her viewpoint, the story begins where the last one left off, with a bit of a recap to fill in the months between. It was easy to follow along, but best to read the first two books to get the full story.

Anna is a sweet-natured character, creative, sensitive and caring. She is so full of hope at the beginning, but as things don't turn out as she planned, it was inspiring to witness her shift to trusting God for her future instead. Hope and grace still are present at Whitcombe Manor as the extended family and friends embrace her, and love her through her bumpy relationship with Peter. Anna learns to extend grace to others, showing the healing power of love in action. It was fun reading more about the returning cast of characters, and revisiting the annual Christmas Carol play too. The author skillfully uses it to illustrate a spiritual truth, along with the lyrics of O Holy Night, creating a special moment for Anna that resonated in my heart as well.

Recommend to anyone who enjoys an inspiring Christmas read with a tender little romance.

(Book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)

[Kai Charles(Fiction State Of Mind) · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author and despite being the third book in the series I didn'thave trouble following along. This is the story of Anna who visited the English Village of Carlton Heath for her cousin Ian's wedding( covered in previous volumes). At that wedding Anna shared a kiss with Peter the groomsman. When she finds her self back at the village to celebrate Christmas she is hopeful of a reconnection but Peter is suddenly frosty to her. As the Christmas Holidays rev up Anna wonders at her chances of love with Peter.


I loved the descriptions of the village celebrations but the romance fell flat to me. Anna talks a lot in her head about her feelings but I didnt feel it in the characters connections.

The book however does give some nice Christmas feels.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I give this Five stars for the message, Four stars for the overall story.

A nice Christmas read as I flew out of state. I love books set in England and this book makes you feel as if you are right there with the characters, in England, at Christmastime. In a good way, I wasn't sure where the story would go and was happily surprised that this story isn't cliche. I recommend for those who like Christmas versions of 'beach reads'. I read this out of sequence, and will definitely be buying the first in the series soon.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been one of my favorite Christmas series, and the final book did not disappoint. It is full of grace, good humor, wit, love, and the true spirit of Christmas. Anna is returning to Carlton Heath for Christmas, and her Christmas dream is to reconnect with Peter. But will his secret keep him from opening his heart to Anna and what might lie ahead?

Great Christmas series that I highly recommend.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet read! I was a little worried about instalove at first, but the book quickly took care of that as Anna and her love interest have many interactions to get to know each other.

I liked seeing all the characters from books one and two again, especially little Julia - she was so cute!

Also, I love how the title fits into the story. It’s perfect!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd forgotten how delightful the town (and people) of Carlton Heath were. I loved the way Anna was able to figure out who God wanted her to be, and how to encourage others (as well as herself) to live in grace. I loved the phrase welcoming everyone to Whitcombe Manor: 'Grace and Peace Reside Here'. I think I want to create a sign with that phrase on it for my own home.

[writer... · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delight to read. Several thoughts have impacted me continuing to resonate. Appreciate this addition to my Christmas reading!

[ABookAddictHere]

Bought december 17,2022

[Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kissing Father Christmas is the third and final novella in the Father Christmas series by Robin Jones Gunn. I loved the first book, Finding Father Christmas, and I thoroughly enjoyed the second book, Engaging Father Christmas. I also enjoyed this novella.

The first and second books focused primarily on Miranda and then Miranda and Ian. This book shifts to Ian's American cousin Anna and Ian's friend and colleague Peter. The two met during Ian and Miranda's wedding which took place between the books. Now Anna has returned to Carlton Heath for a visit with the hopes that the friendship that began may develop into more.

While I was excited to return to Carlton Heath and catch up with what the characters had been doing, I just didn't click with Anna and Peter's story until almost the very end. I wish we knew earlier what is revealed later and then we could spend some time seeing the two's relationship deepen.

Even though I say that I am still a big fan of this book and series. Robin Jones Gunn has a way of developing characters that make them seem to dance off of the page and into the realm of reality. This particular series has a top story that is about a wonderful holiday romance. It's charming and inviting. But what separates her stories from the many others is the underlying story. If you look past the sweet romance you see a spiritual journey that convicts and entices you to look to your own walk with God.

These books will most definitely go on my shelf to be revisited in years to come. I recommend them to anyone that is a fan of Christmas novellas. I would say that the books could probably read as stand-alone titles but they go so nicely together that you should scoop them all up.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn is the final book in the Father Christmas trilogy and is absolutely delightful. As with the previous books, I felt totally cocooned within the story.
Kissing Father Christmas is a magical, fairytale that also reveals the heart of God. God is love, grace and peace and the novel explores these themes. Grace is there for us all. We do not deserve it and we cannot earn it. God's grace is a gift to be received not just at Christmas but every day.
The novel continues the themes of belonging and family, as seen in the earlier stories. Family is more than just bloodlines. Family is those who welcome you and love you unconditionally. God loves us for who we are and welcomes each and every one of us.
The truth is of vital importance. Secrets can easily become burdens when the truth is suppressed. Grace and love extend to us all, and peace is felt when the truth is revealed and the burden lifted.
The novel explores the difference between religion and relationship. Religion presents rules. Relationship extends grace, peace and love. God desires a relationship with each and every one of us and longs to welcome us 'home' to Him.
This Father Christmas series has been delightful. I have loved each and every one of the stories. The warmth exuded has wrapped itself around me. These stories are more than 'nice' fairytale reads, they reveal the heart and love of God for His children.
Absolutely wonderful trilogy and highly recommended.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn we return to Carlton Heath. Anna (related to Andrew) was in England a year and a half ago for the wedding of Miranda and Ian. Anna fell in love with Carlton Heath, and she particularly enjoyed a kiss from groomsman, Peter Elliott. Anna has been invited back to Carlton Heath for Christmas, and Anna is hoping to spend more time with Peter. Unfortunately, Peter is not of a similar mind. He only wants to be friends. Peter is pushing Anna away because he has a secret (which many people in the village know about). But fate keeps pushing these two together. Is there a chance for a happily ever after?

Kissing Father Christmas is well-written and easy to read. The book has good characters and a beautiful setting (I want to live in Carlton Heath). I liked Anna’s creativity (she is an artist who wants to create children’s books). I recommend reading Finding Father Christmas and Engaging Father Christmas before reading Kissing Father Christmas (otherwise you will be confused). I give Kissing Father Christmas 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). It is a sweet and romantic novel (though it does have an expected ending). We get updates on Miranda, Ian, Andrew, and Katherine. Kissing Father Christmas is great way to spend a cold Saturday afternoon. You can snuggle up in a chair with a blanket, your favorite beverage and some chocolate. Happy Reading!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissing Father Christmas is a completely charming novella! When American Anna returns to Carlton Heath for Christmas, she dreams of continuing her burgeoning relationship with Peter, a man she met at her cousin Ian's wedding. But when Peter immediately tells her he just wants to be friends, Anna is confused ... especially because Peter's actions don't match up with his words. What follows is an incredibly enjoyable journey, as Anna both finds her place in Carlton Heath and navigates a "friendlationship" with Peter.

Anna is such a delightful character, and I enjoyed watching her experience Christmas in England for the first time. And though I found her relationship with Peter to be just as confusing and frustrating as she did, and I even said I wanted to knock some sense into him, when his full story was revealed, his actions ended up making sense. (I still don't like how Peter treated Anna, but I do understand it.)

Overall, I loved reading Kissing Father Christmas. Here's hoping the Hallmark Channel decides to make it into a movie! 4-1/2 stars.

Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miranda and Ian are married (Father Christmas books 1 & 2), so this third installment picks up with Ian's cousin, Anna, and Ian's friend, Peter. Like the first two books this story is rich in Christmas faith, family, and fellowship. Anna and Peter's relationship has some ups and downs, but the Heavenly Father Christmas has a way of mending broken lives and turning hearts to the true meaning of Christmas. Very sweet, romance. One of the things I like about this author is the beautiful descriptions of the people, places, and events. I can see them so clearly in my mind and feel like I'm right there in the story with the characters.

[Heidi Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a great finale to an amazing series by a talented author!
For those who have not read this, you'll want to start by watching the Hallmark movies. Then, read the first two books, Finding Father Christmas and Engaging Father Christmas.
For those who have read this series, don't you think we need another spin off series that would expound on Peter and Molly's story, and include Anna's expanding presence as an author/illustrator. Not to mention the paintings of Whitcomb Mansion!
Definitely inspirational Christian Christmas fiction; appropriate for almost every age, with mild kissing. I read the first two books aloud to my children, and they loved them! :)

[MacKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again, Robin brought edge with this book along with intense sweetness and the most beautiful of heartfelt messages throughout. I have learned so much about faith and forgiveness through Robin's work over the years and this book did not disappoint. The only disappointing thing is that there isn't a fourth book in the series! Over the last few weeks I have fallen in love with these characters and hate to say goodbye!

(Also note, I read it in two days! I only finished on the 5th because I stayed up until 12:30, being unable to put it down!)

[Mayda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The concluding book of the Father Christmas trilogy finds Anna again visiting England. She had met Peter at Miranda’s wedding, and was looking forward to their budding relationship growing into something deeper. But when she returns, Peter is off-putting and distant. This novel explores the consequences of keeping secrets, its detrimental effects, and the cleansing relief that forgiving one’s self can bring. It’s a lovely tale and a fitting way to end the series.

[Debra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Father Christmas series. This one is a bit different in that it has a different main character than the first two. On it's own, it's ok, but I enjoyed continuing on with the story. It has a good message, and again, I love the imagery that the author uses in her stories.

[Ann Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love all things English, cuddle up with a pot of tea and this sweet story. Love the HEA. Great holiday read!

[Gail Welborn · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Learn along with Anna the inspirational lessons of Christmas***

"Kissing Father Christmas" completes Robin Jones Gunn (www.robingunn.com/) heartwarming "Father Christmas" novella series that began with "Finding Father Christmas," an inspirational romance Hallmark made into a movie for Christmas in 2016.

Anna, a minor character in previous books, takes center stage when she returns to the enchanting village of Carlton Heath at the invitation of family and friends. During her last stay at Whitcombe Manor in May she celebrated her Cousin Ian's marriage to Miranda. They had all had such a good time friends and family invited her to return for Christmas.

The wedding reception still remained in sharp focus as Anna made plans to return to England over the summer. She couldn't forget Peter Elliott, an outgoing and complex man she'd met at the wedding reception. They had danced the night away that night and it remained a magical night in Anna's memory because their final dance ended with an unforgettable kiss full of promise. What would happen upon her return?

Thus begins an inspirational Christmas romance that transports readers to London, England with a story rich in family traditions, faith in God and the real meaning of Christmas. Although Anna will soon flirt with mixed signals, misleading statements and discouragement she will still secretly believe in fairy tales and magical possibilities. Set the mood for a joyous season and join Anna this Christmas and learn along with her the lessons of love because "as soon as your soul feels its worth, all you can do is receive grace and love as a gift."

Although part of a series, "Kissing Father Christmas" can be read as a stand-alone title.

"Kissing Father Christmas: A Novel, by Robin Jones Gunn, Hardcover, FaithWords, 2016, 192 Pages, 978-1455565603, $19.00

Midwest Book Reviews Gail’s Bookshelf: "October 2016"
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[Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like your Christmas romances slow, sweet, and filled with emotional repression and charming English towns, Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn will absolutely deliver. But here’s the thing Hallmark didn’t tell you — this is not Miranda and Ian’s story (even though that’s what the Hallmark movie made it). Nope. This is Anna’s story — a new woman in town, with her own dreams, heartbreak, and hopes — and Peter, the British guy who can’t quite get out of his own way.

Anna, visiting Carlton Heath for Christmas, is hoping for more than just a holiday getaway — she’s hoping Peter will finally admit he has feelings for her. But instead of cozy confessions and mistletoe kisses, she gets mixed signals, family secrets, and a whole lot of wondering whether she’s made a huge mistake. Because of course nothing in life (or love) is that easy — even at Christmas.

What makes Kissing Father Christmas work is how real Anna’s journey feels. She’s not just looking for love — she’s looking for a place to belong, for someone to choose her back, for faith that things can actually work out. And Peter? Sweet, yes. Emotionally locked up, also yes. He wants Anna — but he’s got baggage, and he’s not great at saying what he feels, which makes this book one long "JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER" moment in the best, most frustrating way.

And yes, for anyone wondering — Hallmark made a movie called Kissing Father Christmas, but it’s not Anna’s story — it’s Miranda and Ian’s. So if you’re coming to this book expecting more Miranda/Ian romance, surprise! You’re getting new characters and a fresh story — but with the same Carlton Heath charm.

Kissing Father Christmas is a soft, emotional 4 out of 5 stars, perfect if you want a Christmas romance about figuring out where you belong, learning to trust love, and watching two people awkwardly circle each other before they finally get it together. If you’ve ever wanted to scream “KISS HER ALREADY!” at a book, this is that book. But when it finally happens? Totally worth it.

[SK · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Kissing F.C. the flow of the story starts slow just as it did in Finding F.C. Anna came back to Carlton Heath with the assumption that her relationship with Peter would blossom into engagement & a wedding with a happy ever, but things didn’t happen as she dreamed. When Peter apologizes for kissing her, the very kiss that leads her to assume something beyond mere friendship, Anna is flummoxed at first and really, so was I. Gunn cleverly had me identifying with Anna and her expectations. Just like Anna, I can make plans at times without seeking God’s guidance or direction, just assuming God will approve my ideas and agendas.

As the reader, I learned and grew along with Anna as she accepts Peter’s wishing to be just friends, she doesn’t rail at God, but believes that Christmas & her time in England will still be good, although different than she had hoped. Anna is given growth opportunities, job opportunities, and the chance to use her artistic skills for God’s Glory. As I read, I began to relax and understand that God had a plan and that Anna was willing to quietly follow the light God gave to His will and way for her life. The theme of Grace is seen in Anna’s life.

Peter continues to give out mixed messages that could be confusing, but God was also working in his life. It turns out that he was a person who had issues that needed to be faced. Anna prays for Peter and once again the theme of Grace and Peace are seen as Peter accepts the Grace that God gives and willingly rests in that peace. Peter comes clean with his secrets and the gifts that are shared at the end of the story bring the book to a wonderful conclusion. In many ways, though different than book two, this book helps the reader to see that God’s ways are not our ways and we need to rest in God who brings hope.

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third in the series, and I have already read the first two (combined in one volume), to which I gave 5 stars. All take place in the small British town of Carlton Heath at Christmas time. Each book tells the story of the same family during consecutive Christmases and each focuses on a different main character. It's fun to read about the family and how they and their situations change over the three years.

This story is about young American cousin Anna, who has returned to Carlton Heath at the invitation of family after her first trip last May, when she attended a beautiful family wedding (at the conclusion of book #2). And most importantly, she is hoping to rekindle a relationship with Peter, a groomsman who caught her eye.

The bulk of this novella is Peter blowing hot and cold about whether he can have a serious relationship with Anna. Of course there is a "secret" Peter shares at the end that explains his hesitancy. The story is told from Anna's point of view, so we learn her thoughts and witness her spiritual growth. This angle helps to provide more depth to the story, although it isn't overly religious and I think all readers would feel comfortable with Anna's insights.

If you enjoy Christmas stories you'll want to read this feel-good tale with plenty of snow, lots of Christmas treats, delightful presents, trees and ornaments, warm crackling fires, and Dickens' A Christmas Carol performed annually in the local small-town theater.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna flew to her cousins wedding and is back for Christmas. She is also back with Fairy Tales in her mind and in her heart. She is there to find out more about her family and more about Peter. While Peter has other plans she knows friendship is important and is ready to leave after Christmas with knowing her family a little more and making some friends who she will hold near and dear to her heart. Will she be able to leave with her heart still intact or will her fairy tale wishes get in the way?
I truly loved this book. I flew right through it and I was so sad to see it end, only because I have love these fun stories and characters. I loved how the focus in the book was about grace and forgiveness. I really enjoyed that even though in some cases Anna may have felt knocked down she still showed faith and grace to those around her. I can't say anything bad about this book if you are looking for a book that ties whats most important in life and at Christmas then this is the book for you. This book will not disappoint at all and I am so glad to have found it. This book is in a first person format which I do not usually like, however Robin had a way of allowing the reader not to miss or feel like your missing anything.

[Danielle Turko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna has been in a romantic dream world ever since her cousin Ian married Miranda in May, and she received a kiss from the best man. Now it's Christmas and she's returning to England to spend the holidays with her new friends, and hopefully see where that kiss with Peter will lead. On her first day though, she is crushed when he tells her the kiss was an accident and he solely wants to be friends. She convinces herself that if friendship is all he's offering, then she'll take it. After all, she has lots of guy friends, how hard could it be to add another? Plus, she doesn't have to see him again after she flies home again next week. He keeps finding excuses to spend time with her though, and she's finding it harder and harder to keep her heart out of the equation. Can she work up the courage to let him know how she actually feels?
I really enjoyed both this book and the preceding ones. Robin Jones Gunn is one of my favourite authors, but I only stumbled upon this series a few years ago when she announced the movies were in production. The giant reveal that is made with only a few chapters left was definitely not a surprise to me like I think it was intended to be, I figured it out pretty much immediately. Other than that though, definitely worth the read

[Gisela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book read for Dec #BookSpinBingo (#DoubleSpun)) created by @TheAromaOfBooks and #ReadYourWay Readathon hosted by @TheSpineView both from Litsy.

Cute story about family, trust, second chances and finding the true love. Also about the meaning of Christmas in a religious content. Anna met Peter in her first visit to Carlton Heath in England while she attended her cousin's wedding. It seems that they have chemistry since they say farewell with a kiss. Anna visits again this place but Peter has a secret that he thinks he cannot commit to any woman.

It is a slow pace reading. I really enjoyed the places described here and the history mentioned about some monuments in England. It was interesting for me some traditions mentioned and their cultural differences in how they express their emotions. However, for my reading taste, it has too religious content which I'm not fan. But I didn't know that this is a common theme in this author. I just saw the cover and fell in love with it and the title. So maybe I'm biased with the rating 3⭐️For me it goes from ok to so-so. But the book has higher rating in GR and it is Cute.

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yet another insanely cheesy and fairytale-esque Christmas romance. I read the first of this series a couple of years ago and thought it was cute...either I changed the way I feel about these books or Gunn did better the first time around.

I will admit there are sweet moments and the big reveal is, indeed, surprising, but the writing. Oh man. I cringed so many times while reading this. There are ways to describe how a person is feeling or what they're struggling with without spelling it out as though the author is a 4th grader. So while the story is cute and the relationships between friends is really relatable and the setting is perfect, it still feels like you're reading a Hallmark Christmas movie script--motions and all.

Which, I suppose, explains why this trilogy was made into a Hallmark movie trilogy. Which, despite my complaints, I'm tempted to watch. *smh*

Honestly, it's not a terrible book, it's just a better story than it is a storytelling.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved all the Father Christmas books so far since reading them for the first time this year. This one got to me the most.

Things I loved:
1. how one of the main characters Anna, fell in love and carried that with her for a year.
2. How this main character went back to see what was there and found herself in a place where she immediately belonged.

3. This book touched on disability, which is something I deal with personally with cerebral palsy. I loved the way Robin touched on how hard it can be to let someone into that journey when you are caring for someone with a disability, but how it’s worth it to receive love. For both the carer and person with the disability.

Something I wish for:
A book number 4.

I would definitely recommend this if you are looking for a cute love story.