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Christmas Joy
A heartwarming Christmas story about family, friendship and finding love in unexpected places.Joy Holbrook might be all work and no play, but that changes when her Aunt Ruby takes a fall that lands her in a rehabilitation center before the holidays. Joy takes a leave of absence from her job as a market researcher to run the family farm, even though the timing may hinder her chance at garnering the promotion of her dreams.
Ben Andrews isn’t your average accountant. He also happens to be the handiest man in Crystal Falls. He’s helped his elderly neighbor, Ruby Johnson, decorate for the annual Christmas Home Tour—and win—the last several years. He’s not about to let some drop-in niece break their winning streak.
Ruby seems overly concerned about Joy being able to handle Molly. Under the impression she’s referring Molly the bunny that is one of the menagerie of animals, Joy’s not worried at all until the next morning when a little girl named Molly shows up. For the sake of her aunt, Joy is forced to partner with Ben while Ruby is on the mend to help with preparation for the Christmas tour and, in the process finds her career-focused heart dreaming of a family.
Will the magic of Christmas help her to open her heart and find her everlasting joy?
Ben Andrews isn’t your average accountant. He also happens to be the handiest man in Crystal Falls. He’s helped his elderly neighbor, Ruby Johnson, decorate for the annual Christmas Home Tour—and win—the last several years. He’s not about to let some drop-in niece break their winning streak.
Ruby seems overly concerned about Joy being able to handle Molly. Under the impression she’s referring Molly the bunny that is one of the menagerie of animals, Joy’s not worried at all until the next morning when a little girl named Molly shows up. For the sake of her aunt, Joy is forced to partner with Ben while Ruby is on the mend to help with preparation for the Christmas tour and, in the process finds her career-focused heart dreaming of a family.
Will the magic of Christmas help her to open her heart and find her everlasting joy?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2016
213 people are currently reading
3287 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Naigle
61 books2,198 followersNEW RELEASE: A South Hill Christmas Keepsake—out now!
USA TODAY bestselling author Nancy Naigle writes heartwarming small-town stories of love, faith, and second chances. With more than forty novels to her name, eight have been adapted for television on Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and FOX Nation. Her award-winning ECPA Bestseller The Shell Collector was also the first FOX Original Movie and is now streaming on FOX Nation.
Nancy’s newest Christmas novel, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, is a heartfelt story inspired by her real-life hometown in Virginia—a tale of lost love, small-town wonder, and rediscovering the magic of community during the holidays.
Up next, she’ll return to the beloved Whelk’s Island universe in Home No Matter Where (coming May 2026), the third installment in The Shell Collector series—continuing her signature blend of coastal charm, healing, and hope.
After a successful career in the banking industry, Nancy followed her heart and took early retirement to write full-time. Now living in the small town of Franklin, Virginia, she crafts stories that celebrate the simple joys of life, the beauty of belonging, and the power of love to restore even the most fragile hearts.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her browsing antique shops, painting, or weaving pine needle baskets—always on the lookout for the next small spark of inspiration to turn into a story you’ll never forget.
USA TODAY bestselling author Nancy Naigle writes heartwarming small-town stories of love, faith, and second chances. With more than forty novels to her name, eight have been adapted for television on Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and FOX Nation. Her award-winning ECPA Bestseller The Shell Collector was also the first FOX Original Movie and is now streaming on FOX Nation.
Nancy’s newest Christmas novel, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, is a heartfelt story inspired by her real-life hometown in Virginia—a tale of lost love, small-town wonder, and rediscovering the magic of community during the holidays.
Up next, she’ll return to the beloved Whelk’s Island universe in Home No Matter Where (coming May 2026), the third installment in The Shell Collector series—continuing her signature blend of coastal charm, healing, and hope.
After a successful career in the banking industry, Nancy followed her heart and took early retirement to write full-time. Now living in the small town of Franklin, Virginia, she crafts stories that celebrate the simple joys of life, the beauty of belonging, and the power of love to restore even the most fragile hearts.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her browsing antique shops, painting, or weaving pine needle baskets—always on the lookout for the next small spark of inspiration to turn into a story you’ll never forget.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
September 30, 2016
Christmas Joy by Nancy Naigle is a 2016 St. Martin’s Griffin publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This adorable contemporary holiday story by Nancy Naigle is warm, witty, and charming.
Joy works in marketing in Washington, D.C., but when she gets a call explaining that her Aunt Ruby has taken a nasty fall and is headed to the emergency room, she drops everything, even endangering a coveted promotion, to take care of Ruby.
Unfortunately, Aunt Ruby has a long rehabilitation period ahead of her, so Joy settles into her aunt’s house located in Crystal Falls, where she discovers she is now responsible for an adorable little girl, named Molly, that her aunt was helping take care of, as well all the farm animals. If that weren’t enough to keep her busy, she is informed that her Aunt Ruby is depending on her to decorate the house for the annual Christmas Home Tour, an event she’s won, with the help of a local accountant named Ben, for the last several years.
Joy can put up a few Christmas decorations, right? Bake some cookies, serve some punch? How hard could it be? Well, Ben seems to think Joy needs a little help because this contest is much more than hanging up a few Christmas lights. This is a BIG deal for her aunt and Ben is very serious about making sure things are done right, but Ruby’s sake.
However, Joy and Ben don’t exactly get off on the right foot and Ben doesn’t seem too impressed with Joy, and her big city attitude.
But, the more time Joy spends with Molly and Ben, experiencing the love and the sense of community she has found in Crystal Falls, the more unsure she feels about the priorities she has set for herself.
Joy is a nice person, but her career has become her life, which leave little room for family, friends, or for taking the time to enjoy the holidays. It takes a little time for her to come around, and really throw herself into the decorating for the Home Tour, since she initially views it as a challenge more than anything else. But, soon she’s thinking about the relaxing pace of small town living, and having all sorts of thoughts about Ben!
Ben, loved and lost, and is a little wary of Joy, knowing that the minute Ruby is well enough, she will hightail it back to her important job and that big promotion she so desires. Ben is an all -around good guy, I couldn’t help but love. But, can he make Joy wish for a different kind of life than the one she has mapped out for herself?
I found this holiday story was just the right blend of small town charm, sweet romance, holiday cheer, and even a little humor. The author did a nice job of keeping the story balanced, without overdosing us on too much sugary holiday sap.
The message is gentle, the story light, but you may find yourself craving Christmas cookies and checking out the Christmas decorations on Pinterest!! Happy Holidays!!
4 stars
This adorable contemporary holiday story by Nancy Naigle is warm, witty, and charming.
Joy works in marketing in Washington, D.C., but when she gets a call explaining that her Aunt Ruby has taken a nasty fall and is headed to the emergency room, she drops everything, even endangering a coveted promotion, to take care of Ruby.
Unfortunately, Aunt Ruby has a long rehabilitation period ahead of her, so Joy settles into her aunt’s house located in Crystal Falls, where she discovers she is now responsible for an adorable little girl, named Molly, that her aunt was helping take care of, as well all the farm animals. If that weren’t enough to keep her busy, she is informed that her Aunt Ruby is depending on her to decorate the house for the annual Christmas Home Tour, an event she’s won, with the help of a local accountant named Ben, for the last several years.
Joy can put up a few Christmas decorations, right? Bake some cookies, serve some punch? How hard could it be? Well, Ben seems to think Joy needs a little help because this contest is much more than hanging up a few Christmas lights. This is a BIG deal for her aunt and Ben is very serious about making sure things are done right, but Ruby’s sake.
However, Joy and Ben don’t exactly get off on the right foot and Ben doesn’t seem too impressed with Joy, and her big city attitude.
But, the more time Joy spends with Molly and Ben, experiencing the love and the sense of community she has found in Crystal Falls, the more unsure she feels about the priorities she has set for herself.
Joy is a nice person, but her career has become her life, which leave little room for family, friends, or for taking the time to enjoy the holidays. It takes a little time for her to come around, and really throw herself into the decorating for the Home Tour, since she initially views it as a challenge more than anything else. But, soon she’s thinking about the relaxing pace of small town living, and having all sorts of thoughts about Ben!
Ben, loved and lost, and is a little wary of Joy, knowing that the minute Ruby is well enough, she will hightail it back to her important job and that big promotion she so desires. Ben is an all -around good guy, I couldn’t help but love. But, can he make Joy wish for a different kind of life than the one she has mapped out for herself?
I found this holiday story was just the right blend of small town charm, sweet romance, holiday cheer, and even a little humor. The author did a nice job of keeping the story balanced, without overdosing us on too much sugary holiday sap.
The message is gentle, the story light, but you may find yourself craving Christmas cookies and checking out the Christmas decorations on Pinterest!! Happy Holidays!!
4 stars
January 11, 2017
Heartwarming romance involving a big-city career girl who took pride in her consuming focus on her career, independence, and single status, but what she is really doing is shielding herself from any possible risk of hurt. She meets a country boy and finds she starts to question everything she thought she wanted or believed about herself. Good Christmas story with a happy ending.
I received this book in a giveaway.
I received this book in a giveaway.
October 23, 2016
2.5 stars
mheh
not really my cuppa :-(
"A copy of this book has been provided by the publisher St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review "
October 18, 2016
I'm a sucker for small town romances and Nancy Naigle writes some of the best around. Christmas Joy is no exception! Hilarious quirky characters make this a fun and memorable read. You would think someone named Joy would be full of holiday cheer. That's not the case for Joy Holbrook. She's all work, all the time. This year though she finds herself back in Crystal Falls helping out her aunt Ruby after Ruby takes a fall and ends up in a rehab center. She's worried about her job and the promotion she wanted but she can't say no to the aunt who was there for her when she needed her. Ben Andrews may be an accountant by day but he is the towns golden boy and definitely a favorite of aunt Ruby's. Ben has been helping decorate for the holiday contest for years and he's not about to let her down this year. That means spending a lot of time around Joy. Could be fun if he could get her to relax a little! Joy and Ben are quite a pair add in the adorable little girl Molly and the feeling of family has Joy rethinking some of her life choices.
This was a great read and one that will get you into the holiday mood. I highly recommend it.
This was a great read and one that will get you into the holiday mood. I highly recommend it.
November 8, 2020
Meh. I've enjoyed Nancy Naigle's books in the past and perhaps I'm just feeling a bit bah-humbug this season, but I'm growing really (!) tired of the successful, powerful woman realizing she is so wrong to live in the city vs some unrealistic small town trope. Of course, she also has to fall in love with the small town man who loves her in spite of her "citified" ways. Give me a break!
October 4, 2016
Thank you Nancy Naigle for writing such a wonderful Christmas novel that put so much "joy" into my heart and smiles into my day. I know I can always count on you for the perfect book at the perfect time! I love books that have children, animals and my favorite holiday, all at the same time. There is so much happiness in this book, along with happy tears. I can't wait to read more of your books!
December 15, 2022
A cute, clean & cheesy Christmas novel.
October 12, 2016
Joy works in marketing in Washington, D.C.. She is on her way up the corporate ladder, but does not have much of a life outside of work. When she gets a call telling her that her Aunt Ruby has fallen and broken her leg, she drops everything, and heads off to Crystal Falls. She assumes that she will take the weekend, get Aunt Ruby settled and be back to work by Tuesday. Unfortunately, nothing goes according to plan. Aunt Ruby's broken leg required pins to put it back together again and she needs a long rehabilitation period in a rehab centre. Joy settles into her aunt’s farmhouse, where she discovers she is now responsible for Molly, a sweet neighbour girl who Aunt Ruby helps take care of, feeding a menagerie as well as having to bake and decorate the house for the Christmas Cookie Tour. Ruby tells her not be concerned, "Handy Andy" will be able to help her with the decorations.
Joy decides to get in the spirit. She can put up a few Christmas decorations, bake some cookies, serve some beverages and entertain the townsfolk, how hard could it be? Well, Ben (Handy Andy) seems to think Joy needs a little help because this contest is much more than hanging up a few Christmas lights. This is a BIG deal to her Aunt Ruby and Ben is very serious about making sure things are done right, for Ruby’s sake. It is also his grandmother's (Ruby's best friend's) event so he has to keep her happy as well.
Unfortunately, Joy and Ben don’t get off on the right foot and Ben doesn’t seem too impressed with Joy, and her big city attitude. Joy thinks Ben is a small town accountant who does not know anything, especially her. As we learn more about Joy and why her Christmas attitude has not been the best, you can't help but love her. As she spends more time with Molly and Ben, experiencing the love and the sense of community she has found in Crystal Falls, the more unsure she feels about the priorities she has set for herself.
I loved the way the characters were portrayed. Both Joy and Ben have been hurt in the past and we come to know their stories. They both grow emotionally in this story and it is wonderful to see. Ruby is a great character. She is strong, opinionated, has a great sense of humour, is loving and loyal and holds the story together. Molly is an adorable six year old who has already had a rough life and needs lots of TLC.
This is a Christmas romance so of course, there will be a happy ending, but how they get there is well crafted and interesting. There is just the right amount of small town charm, romance, holiday cheer, and humour. The message is simple, but one many of us need to hear. Balance in our lives is always important, but we tend to think more about it at holidays. After reading this story, you may start your Christmas baking and shopping earlier than you thought and your Christmas decorations may be put up with carols playing in the background, but remember to do it with someone you love. Merry Christmas Everyone!! The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Joy decides to get in the spirit. She can put up a few Christmas decorations, bake some cookies, serve some beverages and entertain the townsfolk, how hard could it be? Well, Ben (Handy Andy) seems to think Joy needs a little help because this contest is much more than hanging up a few Christmas lights. This is a BIG deal to her Aunt Ruby and Ben is very serious about making sure things are done right, for Ruby’s sake. It is also his grandmother's (Ruby's best friend's) event so he has to keep her happy as well.
Unfortunately, Joy and Ben don’t get off on the right foot and Ben doesn’t seem too impressed with Joy, and her big city attitude. Joy thinks Ben is a small town accountant who does not know anything, especially her. As we learn more about Joy and why her Christmas attitude has not been the best, you can't help but love her. As she spends more time with Molly and Ben, experiencing the love and the sense of community she has found in Crystal Falls, the more unsure she feels about the priorities she has set for herself.
I loved the way the characters were portrayed. Both Joy and Ben have been hurt in the past and we come to know their stories. They both grow emotionally in this story and it is wonderful to see. Ruby is a great character. She is strong, opinionated, has a great sense of humour, is loving and loyal and holds the story together. Molly is an adorable six year old who has already had a rough life and needs lots of TLC.
This is a Christmas romance so of course, there will be a happy ending, but how they get there is well crafted and interesting. There is just the right amount of small town charm, romance, holiday cheer, and humour. The message is simple, but one many of us need to hear. Balance in our lives is always important, but we tend to think more about it at holidays. After reading this story, you may start your Christmas baking and shopping earlier than you thought and your Christmas decorations may be put up with carols playing in the background, but remember to do it with someone you love. Merry Christmas Everyone!! The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
October 19, 2016
After reading this book, I have only one question: Why has it taken me this long to read this author?! OMG! This will be one of those stories that I'll have to reread every Christmas season. It was not just fun but so cute and warm and made me feel all sorts of fuzzy. Seriously!
I adored the hero and the heroine was someone many of us could really relate to. And the plot was great as well. I'm a sucker for romances with kids in it and this one has this cute kid, Molly and my heart was just filled with love for this tyke.
As for the hero, let me say this: this man rocked this story! He will make you wish on a falling star, that's how dreamy and good he was. I loved the complexity of his character as well. He was so real! His emotions were real!
This story had everything a good Christmas story should have, charm, wit and heartwarming characters everywhere. Must read this season!
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
I adored the hero and the heroine was someone many of us could really relate to. And the plot was great as well. I'm a sucker for romances with kids in it and this one has this cute kid, Molly and my heart was just filled with love for this tyke.
As for the hero, let me say this: this man rocked this story! He will make you wish on a falling star, that's how dreamy and good he was. I loved the complexity of his character as well. He was so real! His emotions were real!
This story had everything a good Christmas story should have, charm, wit and heartwarming characters everywhere. Must read this season!
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
October 19, 2016
The must read for the Christmas season. Small town romance at it's best. Joy has everything in her life, at least she thinks she does, in the up and coming corporate world until her aunt falls and needs her help back home. Joy returns home to Crystal Falls and helps with the Christmas preparation , when she meets Ben. Ben is very contented in the small town of Crystal Falls with it's quirkiness. Is it fate or destiny that brought Joy and Ben together. Add in the little girl, Molly and this makes the perfect read.
I loved this book , you would think the name Joy would be all about Christmas, not so until she returns to Crystal Falls. Decorating, making cookies and spending time with Ben changes her views. This would be the perfect Hallmark movie. I received a copy of this book from netgally for an honest review.
I loved this book , you would think the name Joy would be all about Christmas, not so until she returns to Crystal Falls. Decorating, making cookies and spending time with Ben changes her views. This would be the perfect Hallmark movie. I received a copy of this book from netgally for an honest review.
October 7, 2016
Nancy Naigle is not an author I read on a regular basis. So when I get the chance to do so, I consider it a treat. With lives moving at a fast pace, it's always nice to find that moment to unwind. For me reading is my relaxation. Reminiscent of a simpler time, the citizens of Crystal Falls welcomed me with open arms and shared abundantly the fruits of their knowledge. Small town stories are a weakness for me because I feel like a part of the family. Love is the driving force behind every smile and outsiders may be wary at first but tend to stay a while. Christmas Joy is about appreciating the people you love and experiencing the surprises life throws your way. Ms. Naigle proves that less is more. A novel can still enrich the mind and stir the senses with less sex and more TLC.
October 30, 2018
Nancy Naigle is an expert when it comes to making me feel right at home in one of her novels. Add in some Christmas spirit, and I was in heaven. For me, Christmas Joy was like the extra warm fuzzy blankets that I bring out and curl up under when it gets cold outside. It was comforting and cozy. I loved getting lost in Ben and Joy's story and the beautiful town of Crystal Falls. I laughed with them, cried with them, and was moved by all the heart-melting moments. I can't even begin to tell you how sweet and perfect Ben was. I don't think I've ever had anything make me crave Christmas more than this book did, and that includes Hallmark movies. I will probably have my tree up by the end of the week, and maybe I'll just leave it up all year long. I received a complimentary copy of this book.
December 26, 2016
I'm happy to say that this is a perfect right-before-Christmas book to read! I'm only just now to writing a review because I ended up wanting a perfect Christmas!
"Christmas Joy" is a beautiful story. Each piece perfectly fits together. Joy is an interesting character, initially very self involved in her lifestyle. Enter Aunt Ruby who raised Joy. Aunt Ruby is injured and Joy comes home to take care of her. Of course, all this happens at Christmas and right before the Christmas festival. How Joy handles all this and how it changes her is what Christmas is all about!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this amazing book which I received in exchange for an honest review.
"Christmas Joy" is a beautiful story. Each piece perfectly fits together. Joy is an interesting character, initially very self involved in her lifestyle. Enter Aunt Ruby who raised Joy. Aunt Ruby is injured and Joy comes home to take care of her. Of course, all this happens at Christmas and right before the Christmas festival. How Joy handles all this and how it changes her is what Christmas is all about!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this amazing book which I received in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2016
Christmas Joy by Nancy Naigle is filled with small town charm, family and will get you in the holiday spirit.
Joy drops everything to go home to Crystal Falls when her Aunt Ruby falls and breaks her leg. What Joy is not expecting is being responsible for a young girl, having to get the house decorated for the Christmas Cookie Tour and feeding all of Ruby's farm animals.
While in Crystal Falls she meets Ben and they don't exactly get off on a good start.
I loved the story, romance, humor and holiday cheer.
I loved Aunt Ruby, an elderly lady with spunk!
I was provided a copy by St. Martin's Press publication through NetGalley. Thank you for giving me the opportunity.
Joy drops everything to go home to Crystal Falls when her Aunt Ruby falls and breaks her leg. What Joy is not expecting is being responsible for a young girl, having to get the house decorated for the Christmas Cookie Tour and feeding all of Ruby's farm animals.
While in Crystal Falls she meets Ben and they don't exactly get off on a good start.
I loved the story, romance, humor and holiday cheer.
I loved Aunt Ruby, an elderly lady with spunk!
I was provided a copy by St. Martin's Press publication through NetGalley. Thank you for giving me the opportunity.
December 29, 2021
Classic Hallmark movie vibes. Pretty good and not THAT cheesy for a Christmas book.
December 1, 2018
Christmas Joy: A Novel - PG
Violence: none
Language: fewer than 10
Sex: no sex, a couple of kisses
The last six percent is an ad for a new book. This book is well-written and well-edited. I found the book to be slow and building (which I like) and I felt like I got a good grip on the the characters, including the secondary characters. I liked that there wasn't a lot of "recap" about feelings, which I really appreciated. I loved the Christmas angle and the details about that. This is the perfect book to take your time and enjoy.
Violence: none
Language: fewer than 10
Sex: no sex, a couple of kisses
The last six percent is an ad for a new book. This book is well-written and well-edited. I found the book to be slow and building (which I like) and I felt like I got a good grip on the the characters, including the secondary characters. I liked that there wasn't a lot of "recap" about feelings, which I really appreciated. I loved the Christmas angle and the details about that. This is the perfect book to take your time and enjoy.
December 29, 2023
Vor ein paar Jahren hab ich die Bücher von dieser Autorin entdeckt und seit dem begleitet mich jedes Jahr zu Weihnachten ein Buch in der Weihnachtszeit. Auch wenn Weihnachten vorbei ist, kann man dennoch in weitere Bücher eintauchen. Dieses Buch fand ich wieder süß und es ließ sich wirklich schnell lesen. Aber so 100% konnte es mich trotzdem nicht überzeugen. Irgendwie war noch kein Weihnachtsbuch dabei, wo ich sagen kann, dass ist mein neues Lieblingsweihnachtsbuch. 4 Bücher haben noch die Chance. Kann dieses Buch empfehlen, wenn man sich die Weihnachtszeit versüßen möchte.
4 Sterne
4 Sterne
October 24, 2016
Christmas Joy is a sweet and hopeful story about a young woman coming to terms with some hard truths and finding happiness that she's long denied herself. This is the first book by Nancy Naigle that I've read and it's done something quite remarkable by putting me into the Christmas spirit in the middle of October. Maybe it's all the talk about cookies? Naw, it's so much more than that. It's a great story about fellowship and shows that charity comes in all forms.
Joy is a young woman focused on her career in marketing in Washington D.C. When she's notified that her aunt Ruby has taken a fall and ends up in the hospital, she doesn't hesitate to make the trek "home". Through this one act, Naigle shows us what kind of person Joy is and makes her immediately likable. What we come to learn is that she's attached a lot of grief and sadness to the holidays and the small town of Crystal Falls. What follows is Joy getting to know her aunt Ruby and just how much Ruby gives and gets from the community. While Joy won't back down from a challenge and she may feel overwhelmed at times, everyone comes to her aid. Joy just has to learn a thing or two about accepting help. This is just such a foreign concept to her and it's definitely a lesson she needs to learn.
On the lighter side, there's a budding romance with all around local good guy Ben. Ben is a bit of an anomaly to me. He's romantic and charming but sometimes he felt more aloof to me then Joy. I suppose it's more that he's guarded his heart and although he's clearly attracted to Joy and could want a future with her he skeptical about taking any risks with her.
Christmas Joy tugged on every heart string and I couldn't help but really love the way that Joy steps up in this situation. Molly, a seven year old girl that is in Ruby's life and now Joys, well she completely melted me. I think her relationship with Joy is what pulled me in in deep and tipped this from 4 stars to a 5 star read. I just loved the friendship they formed and what it taught joy about what she may really want in life.
Ultimately Christmas Joy is great story about a community of people that take care of each other. It's about Joys about finding something she knew was lost, but she spent years denying and let grief hold her back. I love that she discovers the missing pieces and takes chances she would have normally ignored. It's not just a small the first book of Nancy Naigles' that I've read but won't be the last as her story telling and writing style is exquisite. 5 #LetTheButterflysTakeFlight Stars
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Joy is a young woman focused on her career in marketing in Washington D.C. When she's notified that her aunt Ruby has taken a fall and ends up in the hospital, she doesn't hesitate to make the trek "home". Through this one act, Naigle shows us what kind of person Joy is and makes her immediately likable. What we come to learn is that she's attached a lot of grief and sadness to the holidays and the small town of Crystal Falls. What follows is Joy getting to know her aunt Ruby and just how much Ruby gives and gets from the community. While Joy won't back down from a challenge and she may feel overwhelmed at times, everyone comes to her aid. Joy just has to learn a thing or two about accepting help. This is just such a foreign concept to her and it's definitely a lesson she needs to learn.
On the lighter side, there's a budding romance with all around local good guy Ben. Ben is a bit of an anomaly to me. He's romantic and charming but sometimes he felt more aloof to me then Joy. I suppose it's more that he's guarded his heart and although he's clearly attracted to Joy and could want a future with her he skeptical about taking any risks with her.
Christmas Joy tugged on every heart string and I couldn't help but really love the way that Joy steps up in this situation. Molly, a seven year old girl that is in Ruby's life and now Joys, well she completely melted me. I think her relationship with Joy is what pulled me in in deep and tipped this from 4 stars to a 5 star read. I just loved the friendship they formed and what it taught joy about what she may really want in life.
Ultimately Christmas Joy is great story about a community of people that take care of each other. It's about Joys about finding something she knew was lost, but she spent years denying and let grief hold her back. I love that she discovers the missing pieces and takes chances she would have normally ignored. It's not just a small the first book of Nancy Naigles' that I've read but won't be the last as her story telling and writing style is exquisite. 5 #LetTheButterflysTakeFlight Stars
* I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
October 19, 2016
Liza's Review:
When I pick up a book by Nancy Naigle, I know I'm going to get a story filled with emotions. Christmas Joy totally delivered the emotion filled story I was in the mood for when I picked it up.
Joy Holbrook is a super strong and independent woman. She rarely depends on others and is a total workaholic. She has very few real friends, with the exception of her co-worker Renee, and only her Aunt Ruby as family. However, when push comes to shove and her Aunt Ruby needs her help, Joy takes the time off from work to help. Of course, she has way more on her plate with taking care of the animals on the farm and decorating the house for the annual Christmas Home Tour. When Molly, a little girl Ruby makes lunch and helps get on the bus each morning shows up, Joy was so out of her element. Luckily Ben Andrews is there to save the day, as he has helped Ruby decorate the house for years.
I loved watching Joy change so much during Christmas Joy. She hadn't celebrated Christmas since she left her Aunt Ruby's house and as she worked with Ben and Molly decorating and making cookies for the tour, she started to remember how much she loved the season. I loved how she and Ben helped each other with Christmas projects using their strengths. I loved the slowly developing relationship between Joy and Ben. They were so sweet together, and after a rocky start, they really worked as a couple for me. However, my favorite part of the story was seeing Joy change her opinion about children. She had never been around many, but once she started spending time with Molly, I saw the sweet side of Joy come out and could totally see her as an awesome mom.
Christmas Joy was a really sweet story with so much emotional growth in the characters. I loved the humor from Aunt Ruby. I also loved watching Joy and Ben slowly more their relationship from just friends to more. Nancy Naigle gives readers a beautiful story to get them ready for the Christmas season.
Rating: 4 Stars (B+)
Review copy provided by publisher
When I pick up a book by Nancy Naigle, I know I'm going to get a story filled with emotions. Christmas Joy totally delivered the emotion filled story I was in the mood for when I picked it up.
Joy Holbrook is a super strong and independent woman. She rarely depends on others and is a total workaholic. She has very few real friends, with the exception of her co-worker Renee, and only her Aunt Ruby as family. However, when push comes to shove and her Aunt Ruby needs her help, Joy takes the time off from work to help. Of course, she has way more on her plate with taking care of the animals on the farm and decorating the house for the annual Christmas Home Tour. When Molly, a little girl Ruby makes lunch and helps get on the bus each morning shows up, Joy was so out of her element. Luckily Ben Andrews is there to save the day, as he has helped Ruby decorate the house for years.
I loved watching Joy change so much during Christmas Joy. She hadn't celebrated Christmas since she left her Aunt Ruby's house and as she worked with Ben and Molly decorating and making cookies for the tour, she started to remember how much she loved the season. I loved how she and Ben helped each other with Christmas projects using their strengths. I loved the slowly developing relationship between Joy and Ben. They were so sweet together, and after a rocky start, they really worked as a couple for me. However, my favorite part of the story was seeing Joy change her opinion about children. She had never been around many, but once she started spending time with Molly, I saw the sweet side of Joy come out and could totally see her as an awesome mom.
Christmas Joy was a really sweet story with so much emotional growth in the characters. I loved the humor from Aunt Ruby. I also loved watching Joy and Ben slowly more their relationship from just friends to more. Nancy Naigle gives readers a beautiful story to get them ready for the Christmas season.
Rating: 4 Stars (B+)
Review copy provided by publisher
October 26, 2016
Joy Holbrook's entire life is centred around her career as a Market Research Executive, and with a promotion up for grabs, she is determined to get that corner office. But when her Aunt Ruby injures herself, Joy returns to the small town of Crystal Falls to check on her. After all, Aunt Ruby was there for her when her mother died and is the only family she has left. It doesn't take long for Joy to realise that this is not a straightforward injury, and when Ruby asks Joy to help with her farm and to get the place ship-shape for The Christmas Cookie Crawl, Joy wants to take care of everything all by herself. But Crystal Falls is very serious about the holidays and nothing prepares Joy for the huge workload in front of her. Add in a little girl called Molly to look after, a close-knit community who know all of your business, and a sexy accountant who infuriates her at every turn, and Joy is reaching the end of her tether. But fate has a way of leading you to what you need, and maybe Joy needs to step off the career ladder and let people into her solitary life.
With plenty of Holiday spirit and a charming community, CHRISTMAS JOY by Nancy Naigle is a charming, festive read. A little slow to start, it did take me a while to get invested in the story, but I got there, and this story will definitely warm your heart on a cold afternoon. Joy is used to being alone and dealing with everything by herself, and she struggles with accepting help and kindness, so it was lovely to see her let down her barriers and let go of her fears. CHRISTMAS JOY by Nancy Naigle is a sweet, Christmas tale about love, and taking chances.
*Book received from Netgalley.com
With plenty of Holiday spirit and a charming community, CHRISTMAS JOY by Nancy Naigle is a charming, festive read. A little slow to start, it did take me a while to get invested in the story, but I got there, and this story will definitely warm your heart on a cold afternoon. Joy is used to being alone and dealing with everything by herself, and she struggles with accepting help and kindness, so it was lovely to see her let down her barriers and let go of her fears. CHRISTMAS JOY by Nancy Naigle is a sweet, Christmas tale about love, and taking chances.
*Book received from Netgalley.com
December 12, 2016
I was a goodreads giveaway winner of the book "Christmas Joy" by Nancy Naigle. So nice to get to read this sweet romance story just in time for the holidays. Joy Holbrook is working hard at her job, she is trying to get that promotion. She gets a call from her aunt Ruby she has fallen and broke her ankle. Joy had spent the last few years of her childhood living with her aunt Ruby on her farm. She goes back to the small town of Crystal Falls to help her Aunt Ruby tend to the farm. When she gets there her aunt tells her to "take care of Molly" Joy thinks she is talking about Molly the bunny, but Molly is a little girl who Ruby had been babysitting. In addition to tending to the farm. Joy now has a little girl to take care of and it is the Christmas holiday she promised her aunt she would take over the cookie baking and helping with a contest the town has every Christmas. She has a lot on her platter. In addition she meets Ben a man who is an accountant by day but a "mr.Fix it" on the side.he has come to help Aunt Ruby for some household matter as well. All this comes together in the book. Joy who has been a workaholic is now tending to the farm. babysitting a sweet little girl named Molly. getting ready with baking cookies and decorating at the farm. and in the meantime slowly getting to know more about Ben a nice man who showed up to help out Aunt Ruby. I will not give any spoilers of how this ends or what direction Joy's life may take after coming back to the farm for a couple weeks. A sweet story to read.Those who like contemporary Romance may enjoy this nice book.
October 27, 2016
“Christmas Joy” by Nancy Naigle is a fresh take on Christmas romance. When Joy Holbrook lost her mother twelve years ago, she also lost interest in the traditional Christmas preparations. Like many, she identifies herself with her work and not much else. When Joy’s Aunt Ruby falls and has to go to a rehabilitation center, Joy takes a leave of absence from her job to run the family farm knowing this may cost her a well-deserved promotion. But true to her nature, Joy is determined to be there for Aunt Ruby. In addition to the house, Joy is expected to care for Molly, a neighbor girl and bake and decorate for the season. Slowly, as she accomplishes these tasks, the feeling of Christmas comes alive. Neighbor Ben Andrews is an accountant, but also the town handyman. He has been helping his elderly neighbor, Ruby, decorate for the annual "Crystal Christmas Cookie Crawl" and home tour. Due to Ben’s efforts, Ruby’s house has won the contest several years in a row. With Joy there, Ben wrestles with the tradition, but is determined to win again. Watch as the magic of Christmas helps Joy to open her heart and find her own joy. Winning this book on Goodreads brought the holiday spirit to my house in October! The darling wooden Christmas ornament with “Christmas Joy” burned on it was a special addition to my win and it matches the one in the story! When I place it on my tree, it will remind me of this introduction to author Naigle and her wonderful story of Christmas Joy.
December 9, 2016
Look, I have read a LOT of really stupid garbage books, and this was no exception. Mindless, seasonal garbage. But also super enjoyable! Who doesn't want to read a mindless book about decorating for the big Christmas decoration contest in a small town? While also decorating your own house? Monsters, that's who. So anyway: pretty mindless and enjoyable, thinkpieces about wreaths, until the very end, when apparently Nancy Naigle's kitchen timer went off and she had to take the cookies out of the oven, because the ending was so abrupt and stupid that I said aloud, to the empty living room, "That was the stupidest...."
OTHER NOTE: target recently changed their cartwheel discount/coupon app, such that now you scan it every time you check out, and you accumulate cartwheel points based on your overall purchases, and then you earn rewards based on how many points you have. So just as something to think about, you may find yourself wandering the book aisle of target, not really wanting to buy anything, but kind of seduced by a bright red paperback with a big wreath on it. What you should do next is open up cartwheel and see what your reward points situation is because MAYBE YOU CAN GET THAT BOOK FOR FREE.
(The romantic dude in this is supposed to be dashingly handsome, of course, but for some reason, maybe because his name is Ben, I just pictured him as Ben Garant.)
OTHER NOTE: target recently changed their cartwheel discount/coupon app, such that now you scan it every time you check out, and you accumulate cartwheel points based on your overall purchases, and then you earn rewards based on how many points you have. So just as something to think about, you may find yourself wandering the book aisle of target, not really wanting to buy anything, but kind of seduced by a bright red paperback with a big wreath on it. What you should do next is open up cartwheel and see what your reward points situation is because MAYBE YOU CAN GET THAT BOOK FOR FREE.
(The romantic dude in this is supposed to be dashingly handsome, of course, but for some reason, maybe because his name is Ben, I just pictured him as Ben Garant.)
October 17, 2016
I love Nancy Naigle's romances so I was very excited to read her stand alone Christmas story, Christmas Joy. And what a joy it is! Nancy Naigle has outdone herself with Christmas Joy. It is like stepping into a Hallmark movie.
Big city girl Joy has not been home for years to rural North Carolina but her aunt is injured and Joy rushes home to help. She thought it would be just a quick trip but her aunt needs to go to a rehabilitation hospital and Joy needs to take care of her aunt's menagerie of animals. And decorate for Christmas. But not just any Christmas decorating, it is a huge project that Joy soon takes control of along with Ben, her aunt's best friend's grandson. They have a mutual attraction but Ben is not looking for a big city girl. He wants a girl who would be happy in a small town.
The magic of Christmas is sometimes all the one needs to realize what is really important in life. Will Joy go back to her empty work filled life in Washington, DC or could she find contentment in her home town?
Highly recommend! All romance novel lovers and fans of Hallmark Christmas movies need to read this one. If you are going to read one Christmas book this year, Christmas Joy is the one.
Big city girl Joy has not been home for years to rural North Carolina but her aunt is injured and Joy rushes home to help. She thought it would be just a quick trip but her aunt needs to go to a rehabilitation hospital and Joy needs to take care of her aunt's menagerie of animals. And decorate for Christmas. But not just any Christmas decorating, it is a huge project that Joy soon takes control of along with Ben, her aunt's best friend's grandson. They have a mutual attraction but Ben is not looking for a big city girl. He wants a girl who would be happy in a small town.
The magic of Christmas is sometimes all the one needs to realize what is really important in life. Will Joy go back to her empty work filled life in Washington, DC or could she find contentment in her home town?
Highly recommend! All romance novel lovers and fans of Hallmark Christmas movies need to read this one. If you are going to read one Christmas book this year, Christmas Joy is the one.
December 4, 2016
Christmas Joy was a heartening small town holiday romance that truly expressed the ‘reason for the Season’. Author Nancy Naigle created a group of characters who were charming, down-to-earth, and just quirky enough to lend a bit of fun to an already solid story.
I really had a good time reading this novel. Not only was there an abundance of holiday cheer but there was also a wonderful sense of community and family throughout the story as we learned more about Joy, Ben, Ruby, Molly and the rest of the Crystal Falls residents. Naigle used a lighthearted touch when it came to the emotions and deeper issues our characters faced but the meaning came through loud and clear. And it helped turn this into a quick, enjoyable read.
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Original Notes:
Christmas Joy was a heartwarming small town holiday romance that truly expressed the 'reason for the Season'. I thoroughly enjoyed the quirky characters and the sense of family and community that was present at all times. If this doesn't give you the warm & fuzzies then I don't think anything will! Full review to come.
I really had a good time reading this novel. Not only was there an abundance of holiday cheer but there was also a wonderful sense of community and family throughout the story as we learned more about Joy, Ben, Ruby, Molly and the rest of the Crystal Falls residents. Naigle used a lighthearted touch when it came to the emotions and deeper issues our characters faced but the meaning came through loud and clear. And it helped turn this into a quick, enjoyable read.
Read More
__________________________
Original Notes:
Christmas Joy was a heartwarming small town holiday romance that truly expressed the 'reason for the Season'. I thoroughly enjoyed the quirky characters and the sense of family and community that was present at all times. If this doesn't give you the warm & fuzzies then I don't think anything will! Full review to come.
October 13, 2016
If you are looking for a sweet Christmas romance that has a happy ending then this book might be one you will enjoy.
Joy Holbrook has put her job and success ahead of everything so when a phone call comes through saying her aunt has broken her ankle it is a bit surprising she puts everything on hold to go take care of her Aunt Ruby’s farm. She finds herself being swept into the holiday spirit of the town and in charge of more than she thought she expected but meets interesting people and spends time reassessing her wants and needs as the pages fly by. Ben Andrews is the small town accountant who loves his life in Crystal Falls and small town living. He also is into Christmas and helping others.
This is a fun quick rather predictable story but relaxing and enjoyable, too.
Thank you to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Joy Holbrook has put her job and success ahead of everything so when a phone call comes through saying her aunt has broken her ankle it is a bit surprising she puts everything on hold to go take care of her Aunt Ruby’s farm. She finds herself being swept into the holiday spirit of the town and in charge of more than she thought she expected but meets interesting people and spends time reassessing her wants and needs as the pages fly by. Ben Andrews is the small town accountant who loves his life in Crystal Falls and small town living. He also is into Christmas and helping others.
This is a fun quick rather predictable story but relaxing and enjoyable, too.
Thank you to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC. This is my honest review.
December 4, 2016
After a slow start (the h & H don't meet until page 43 for goodness sake), this book started to grow on me. Small town, cute neighbor child, farm animals. What's not to like? The Joy of the title is a woman who is hiding her emotions behind a wall of work. When she's forced to take a leave from her demanding job to be there for her elderly aunt, she begins to thaw. Soon she's baking cookies and decorating for the town's big Christmas event with the help of an accountant who is almost too considerate to be believable. Actually, almost all the characters are too good to be believable, but I guess that's how we want Christmas to be.
January 4, 2017
Christmas Joy is a sweet book to read at the holidays. Of course, it's a bit predictable, after all, we can't have a sad Christmas book. So you know it will have a happily ever after ending. Which for me, felt like the last few pages were kind of a quick ending.
I did like the Christmas spirit throughout the book. Enjoyed imagining what the decorations in the house and throughout the town looked like! There were a few times when I felt as if we had rerun the cookie baking too much and I lost interest. But then the author would perk up things and my interest returned.
Overall, it's an enjoyable romance set at Christmas.
* I was provided an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley.
I did like the Christmas spirit throughout the book. Enjoyed imagining what the decorations in the house and throughout the town looked like! There were a few times when I felt as if we had rerun the cookie baking too much and I lost interest. But then the author would perk up things and my interest returned.
Overall, it's an enjoyable romance set at Christmas.
* I was provided an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley.
October 14, 2018
This is a sweet, holiday read. It does provide a nice morsel of the holiday spirit. The location and the people made me want to hang out with them. Joy and Ben were good but not great. Yes, I enjoyed their company. Joy lives up to her name and is a "joy" to be around. Ben is the type of guy that you can bring home to your mom. So whether separately or together, these two were enjoyable company. There just was a barrier that I personally experienced where the characters were concerned. I felt like I never could connection 100% of the way. Therefore, in turn I struggled some with the story as a whole as well. Yet, as I stated previously, this is a sweet, holiday read.
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