Winterzauber in Manhattan

by Mandy Baggot

Die Engländerin Hayley und ihre Tochter Angel sitzen im Flieger Richtung New York, um im Big Apple Weihnachten zu feiern. Begeistert stürzen sie sich ins Abenteuer: Kutschfahrten im Central Park, Schlittschuhrunden am Rockefeller Centre und Bummel auf der 5th Avenue. Doch die Stadt, die niemals schläft, hat mehr zu bieten – und Angel hat einen Herzenswunsch: ihren Vater kennenzulernen. Während Hayley sich auf die Suche nach dem Mann macht, mit dem sie die eine folgenreiche Nacht verbrachte, läuft sie Oliver über den Weg: Milliardär und Weihnachtsmuffel – bis jetzt. Denn dieses Fest könnte auch für ihn zu einem Fest der Liebe werden ...

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Holiday, Contemporary Romance, Adult

576 pages, Paperback

First published October 2, 2015

About the author

Mandy Baggot is an international bestselling and award-winning romance writer represented by Tanera Simons of Greenstone Literary.

Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!

The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.

Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.

Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.

Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com

Reviews

[Norah Una Sumner · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It’s the most wonderful time of the year… to fall in love.
The temperature is dropping, snow is on its way and Hayley Walker is heading for New York with one wish on her mind…to start over."

Such a wonderful story! I really enjoyed reading about Hayley and Oliver.I loved them both and their stories are extremely interesting.This book turned out to be much more serious than I originally expected it to be.Hayley and her very cute and smart daughter Angel go to New York to visit Hayley’s brother for the holidays.Or is that all that Hayley has in mind? Hayley wants to find Michael,a guy she had a one-night-stand with 10 years ago…and Angel’s father.But what she hadn’t expected is meeting Oliver Drummond,”Mr. Meanie”,Dean’s boss and playboy billionaire with secrets of his own.It turns out that Oliver is not as bad as it seems,even though he hates Christmas…but as she will find out-for a good reason.

The story itself is wonderful,happy and sad at the same time.The supporting characters are amazing,especially Dean and his partner Vern and Clara.I also loved reading about Oliver’s work and Globe,that really fascinated me.Of course,the romance was amazing!



Overall,a wonderful book!
You can check out this review on Bookish Fever.

*E-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.*

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am still in shock that before this year that I have never read a Mandy Baggot book. And now as the year comes to a close she has taken me to Corfu, France and now to Manhattan at Christmas time. As anyone who has ever seen a Christmas film set in New York will know, that it is a magical city at Christmas, and in One Wish in Manhattan it was no exception.

Angel is the product of a one night stand 10 years ago, in Manhattan, between Hayley and a man called Michel. Angel has never known her dad, and when Hayley overhears that her Christmas wish is to meet her father, Hayley knows its time to return to New York, to search for Michel.

What Hayley doesn't count on is meeting billionaire Oliver Drummond, and having feeling for him. Oliver's story is also told, and he is not the biggest fan of the season, with good reason, and as the story progresses you see how his character grows, until he a wonderful man.

The story alternates between the various viewpoints of Hayley, Oliver and occasionally Angel, and each section is headlined with the location the characters are currently in, which helps set the scene a lot.

The descriptions of snowy New York are stunning and you really get the feeling you are there alongside the characters. Hayley and Angel are having the holiday of a lifetime, full of sight seeing, adventure and some really touching moments.

Angel is the absolute shining star of this book, at 9 and a half years old, she is incredibly smart, absorbs facts about everything and has greater emotional awareness than you would expect of someone her age. A scene is always brighter with Angel in it, with her special dictionary, and amazing insights into everything.

Oliver to start with comes across like a stereotypical playboy billionaire but there is so much more to him than that. And along with Hayley is is fantastic discovering more about him,

Other notable characters include Dean (Hayley's brother who lives in an amazing apartment in New York, and works for Oliver), his partner Vern, and also Oliver's mother Cynthia.

There is so much I could say to wax lyrical about this fabulous book, but I really don't want to talk about the memorable first meeting between Oliver and Hayley, or Angel naming a lobster in a Chinese restaurant, or the details of the search for Angel's father, or the inevitable romance storyline, as I feel that you need to discover all of this and more, when you read it for yourself.

I feel that this book would make a wonderful festive film, sort of a mix between elements of Annie and of a few other films, with the overall result being a heart warming and feel good book, and a great way to get you in the festive mood.

Who doesn't love a book with romance, comedy, deeper storylines and families. This was the perfect book for me to get my Christmas reading off to a start with this year and was truly enjoyable.

Thank you so much to Bookoutre and Netgalley for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.

[Annika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was für ein schönes Buch!
Auch wenn das eher nicht so mein übliches Genre war, haben mich die Geschichte und die Charaktere sehr begeistern und rühren können. Trotz der Länge habe ich mich kein einziges Mal gelangweilt oder das Gefühl gehabt, dass sich die Story zieht.
Leider blieb bei mir die erhoffte Weihnachtsstimmung aus, weshalb ich einen Stern abziehen muss.

[bookspumpkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dieses Buch ist traumhaft schön. Nicht nur das Cover, auch die Geschichte ist wundervoll. Es ist emotional, zum Lachen, mit total sympathischen Charakteren.
Und man hat das Gefühl, als würde man selbst gerade zur Weihnachtszeit durch die Straßen New Yorks laufen. Lest alle dieses Buch!

[Simona · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Book provided by the publisher on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

A wonderful and perfect title for this book and I have to say I expected something else, but I am really happy with what the story turned out to be.

The story follows Hayley Walker and her daughter Angel, who go to New York to see Hayley’s brother Dean. Hayley needs a new and fresh start and she wants to fulfil her daughter’s Christmas wish: to meet her dad.

That wish is not easy to fulfil, especially when it’s really hard to track her dad down. Hayley fights for it though and with a little help she finds him. Angel meets her dad…

Throughout this journey Hayley meets billionaire Oliver Drummond. They have a special connection from the start, but he is carrying around some issues himself, about his family and about his health. Can Hayley crack that shell?!

I loved how the story was very well structured and all the characters had their own space to share their story. We got to know Hayley and Oliver really well and Angel was just so special and adorable. The relation between mother and daughter came across really well and in a very beautiful way.

Oliver def added in another spark, he is sexy and successful, but is also surrounded by some mystery, which made the storyline more exciting.

I loved following the characters around and the setting is just wonderful, I mean New York City during Christmas time, what do you want more?!

A festive, adorable and cute story, beautifully written and perfect for Christmas time!

4.5/5

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admit that I have a weakness for great Christmas stories with beautiful covers- and this book was a gorgeous festive read, set in my Number one wish list location.
Hayley is a single mum to Angel, who sounds like an adorable little girl. When she overhears her daughter wishing that she could meet her dad- she hopes that they might find out where he is when she visits her brother in New York.
The characters are so well drawn that you want to keep reading and hope for that happy ever after ending here. You can visualise the lovely scenes playing out on the big screen and feel the crystal clear air around you with sparkly snowflakes!
Oliver provides the great romance element. He’s strong and very charismatic and is the CEO of a family business.
This is one that is going to join my ‘favourites’ bookshelf- so I need to buy a paper copy later. I can imagine curling back up with this one when I want to immerse myself in the festive bubble.
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.

[Agi · Rating 5 out of 5]

So. "One Wish in Manhattan". It has such a lovely cover, right? But well, I started reading this book not expecting too much, to be honest. I was thinking, yeah, another Christmas book set in New York, will be for sure OK, but nothing more. And Oh. My. Word. How WRONG I was! This book has blown my mind and I adored every single second of it, loved all the characters, the setting and the whole idea - this book goes straight to the "My Favourites" shelf and is going to stay there FOR EVER. Well, this story perfectly blends everything that I so adore: romance, brilliant humour, families and their little dramas, and some deeper issues as well. It really starts to feel like Christmas!

Although it has started slow, I must say. For my liking, of course. And I couldn't so much warm to the characters at the beginning, as I really wasn't sure where it's going to take us. Once we were in the UK, the next moment, with other characters, in New York. But, as soon as the things moved to New York only, and it happened relatively quickly, I was Hooked. Yes. With capital H. And even though at first I thought I am never going to like it so much, it turned out that everything there was perfect for me. Let's start with the characters.
At the beginning Hayley seemed to me to be under a lot of stress, she came across as very sad and overwhelmed with all the problems that were surrounding her. She's just quit her job, after her boss has one too many times slapped her on her back, so the money is short, and she's a single mother to a 9 - year - old Angel. Angel has never known her father - in fact, he doesn't know that he has a daughter at all, as it was a one - night stand - but this particular fact she doesn't know and Hayley wants that it stays like this. But lately Angel started to wish from God and Santa Claus (Christmas is coming, yuppi!) to get to know her father, and Hayley heart is breaking. She is determined to make her daughter's dream come true. To do so, the two girls travel to New York, where Hayley met Michel 10 years ago, and where her brother, the successful Dean, lives. As soon as Hayley was away from her own mother, I had a feeling that she chilled out a little, and I so fell in love with her sense of humour, with her wit and her quick ripostes - they were brilliant!
At the beginning I couldn't warm to Angel too much. She came across as knowing too much 9 - year - old, too clever for her age, but soon I got used to her and her knowing - it - all attitude and in fact it made me laugh with tenderness. Yes, there were still moments she was speaking and behaving too much like an adult, but on the other hand, well, there are such kids as Angel, right? But I totally adored the banter between her and her mother, the understanding between those two and how much they loved each other - it was so palpable through the pages, and the more I got to know her, the more I liked her - she was smart, she absorbed facts like a sponge and she never went out of the house without her special dictionary. She was also incredibly empathic and could see and feel things that we often forget about, or are not aware of.

The second relationship of Hayley that I loved so much was this between her and her brother. If I had a brother, I'd probably want him to be like Dean. Even though I had a feeling that his character is not so much developed in this story, it was enough to see how lovely he was, how much he loved his sister and niece, and he was as funny as Hayley, and his relationship with his partner Vern, their dog Randy was perfect and funny! Maybe he was not as guy - ish as I like my guy characters to be, but oh my, they must not all be so stereotyped, right?
Then there is also a third relationship of Hayley that was exceptional - the one with Oliver. She didn't feel intimidated by the fact that he's a billionaire, oh no, not Hayley, and she truly made efforts to get to know the real him, and not the person that other people thought he is. And the change in "Mr. Meanie" (Angel again!) was beautiful! I so loved to see him coming out of his shell, leaving his comfort zones, to progress and grow - but to be honest, I liked him from the beginning, there was this "something" in his character, and I had a feeling there is much more to Oliver than meet the eye. He was funny and truly he had a big heart, but he was also stubborn and this is why it took some time for him to reveal his true face.

In fact, Hayley had no problems with contacts with people at all, and no matter who it was (well, except of her mother), they all were quickly falling under Hayley's spell, me included. There was such incredible warmth to this woman, and I've been keeping everything crossed that she'll find her own happy ever after. I think you can' not like Hayley, with the way she was coping with all her problems, with her making mistakes and yet having her glass half full, not half empty.

I loved how cleverly the author organized the book, and I even adored the bits that were telling us about the Globe, and those that took place in Oliver's office - they were as interesting and as colourful and full in events as the rest of the story. There was actually a lot happening in the novel, because we have a search for Michel, that leads to many bars, clubs and galleries, we have the sight - seeings with Angel, which I loved (I think I can't get enough of New York!), they were so brilliantly described, and didn't concentrate only on the most famous places, then we have the issue of this deadly gene that Oliver may - or may not - have, we have Hayley finding a job in the Big Apple, family drama and we have many, many characters, all of them so distinctive, with their own personalities, that I loved reading about! And I absolutely, totally loved the humour in this story - some of the one - liners and some of the situations, such as the first meeting of Oliver and Hayley, ice skating, Angel giving lobster a name in the restaurant, Angel and her Christmas book, Randy, flashcards... and many, many more had me snorting, laughing out loud, giggling (and I usually don't giggle, I'm too old for giggling) and smiling.

Almost each chapter is divided between few characters and presents their various point of views, and moreover, each of this section is headlined with the location, so we also know where they are right now - and they were very mobile, those people. Very. I loved the descriptions of all those lovely places, and I could actually smell all those pizzas, mmmm. The descriptions of the snowy New York were beautiful, and even though I've read thousand of books set there, those were written with so much feeling, and they were in some way different, so kind and full of feeling - who would think of feeding a horse in Central Park with a carrot? Mandy Baggot has just brought all the things to life.

But this story is not only fun. It is also full of really touching moment, and it's so brilliantly balanced. There is truly so much to this fabulous story that I'd just like to start reading it again - I can only say that you are for a real, wonderful treat. I could give this book 10 stars out of 5. It's a fabulous read that made me feel so good when reading it, and I can whole - heartedly recommend it to you all.

Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.

[Simone Bücherwurm · Rating 2 out of 5]

1,5 Sterne... Kann mir bitte jemand erklären, was an Oliver und Hayley sympathisch sein soll? Sein ständiges Gejammer, dass er eh bald sterben wird, hat mich etwa 400 Seiten lang genervt, nur damit ich am Ende erfahre, dass es einen Test gibt, den er nicht machen will. Am Ende erfährt der Leser dann, dass Oliver dieses Gen NICHT trägt! Na wirklich! Und diese nervtötende Hayley? Die völlig mittellos mit ihrer Tochter nach New York fliegen muss, wo ihr dann auffällt "Ups, ich habe ja gar kein Geld für einen Urlaub! Ich suche mir einen Job!" Wenn ihr langweilig ist, stachelt sie ihre Tochter auf, dass sie sich über den Kleidungsstil der andere Leute lustig machen. Gute Erziehungsmethode - Hayley Walker - Mother of the year. Natürlich verbringt sie ihren Urlaub auch nicht wirklich mit ihrer Tochter, weil sie Zeit braucht um im Lift und sonst wo Sex mit einem Mann zu haben, den sie kennengelernt hat, als er grad vor einer anderen Frau durch den Notausgang geflüchtet ist! Aber mit der Tochter würde ich wohl auch keine Zeit verbringen wollen, weil die so ziemlich die nervigste Figur in diesem Buch war. Aber man liest es ja in jedem zweiten Satz - Angel ist einfach zu klug für diese Welt! Von Anfang bis zum Ende alles einfach nur too much!

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story, fantastic setting but I didn't find any of the characters that likeable. I could have enjoyed it more with likeable characters.

[Cora Tea Party Princess · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 Words: Christmas, New-York, family, happiness, love.

I had very high expectations when I started this book, because I absolutely loved Made in Nashville. I was expecting the same spark, the same magic, the same sizzling romance. And this just fell a little flat for me.

It was a great book, perfect for putting a smile on your face and getting you into the festive mood. It was only my own expectations that let me down.

Angel was my favourite character, I loved her spunk and how she questioned everything.

I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally published on This Chick Reads


* Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *

It's been years since I've read Ms Baggot's book, way too long I believe. When I heard she was releasing a Christmas book, I was over the moon. I absolutely adored "Strings Attached', the last book I read by Ms Baggot, and I simply couldn't wait to see Ms Baggot in Christmas style. 'One Wish in Manhattan' is released by Bookouture, which have fast become one of my favorite publishers. I've read almost all of their Christmas releases and I must say they've got an excellent list of books and amazingly talented authors I absolutely recommend to check.

'One Wish in Manhattan' is one of these beautiful, festive reads full of magic and heart. It tells the story of Hayley who's off to New York with her nine year old daughter, Angel to find Angel's dad. She leaves her job due to harassment from her boss and is off to NY planing on staying with her brother Dean. Her brother works for a successful company and has a great career, unlike her who got pregnant at 18 and became the black sheep in the family. Angel is such a smart kid, very loud and opinionated but a real little genius and despite Hayley being the happiest she has her, she's also aware she's sacrificed all her dreams, one to become a fashion designer, by giving up school and having a baby at such an early age. But Hayley's on a mission now, to find Angel's dad, who was unfortunately just a one night stand after a night of too many drinks. She's never been a slut, she was just young and it was a once in a life kind of thing. She also fears how she will explain to Angel all of this, fearing she might feel unwanted. During their time in NY, the mother-daughter duo experiences so many things, they see both the beautiful and the ugly side of NY. On one occasion and under some strange circumstances, Hayley meets Oliver Drummond, the CEO of one of the biggest companies who's also her brother's boss. Known as one of the most eligible bachelors, Oliver is like a nicer version of Christian Grey. Will Hayley be able to resist his charms and is there hope for Oliver and his love life?

Told from two points of views, Hayley and Oliver's, 'One Wish in Manhattan' was indeed a very quick and easy read for me. There are many lovable characters, who were so vividly portrayed I really felt like they're in the same room with me. The chapters were the perfect length, and the story was fast paced. Most of the story is set in New York, where we get to see Hayley and Angel visiting all sorts of art places in the hope to find Angel's father. However, one of the things which impressed me the most is how effortless Ms Baggot brings us two separate stories, one of the quest after Michel De Vos, Angel's father and the second, the romance between Hayley and Oliver. However, I really felt like both stories are important, it didn't feel at all like one of them was neglected or overshadowed by the other one. They were equally important and made this book rather unique as a whole.

This being said, this is not just a romance story, though the romance part is beautifully and tastefully written. It is also a beautiful story focused on the strong mother-daughter relationship and tells the importance of family. This is the next thing I loved, it's not a cheesy, holiday romance you'll forget in a couple of days or right after the last page.

The characters play such an important part and each one of them adds to the story. They are all lovable (even Oliver gets under your skin) and stand out from the rest you've read about so far. They also felt so real and it felt like their personalities were simply popping out of the pages. I don't know about you, but I do sometimes have problems with book characters who are so similar you simply can't follow the story. Or they are so similar to some you've read about previously by another author. Well, that's not the case with 'One Wish in Manhattan', I can personally guarantee the characters you'll meet here stand out from the rest and are ones that will stay with you even after finishing the story.

Speaking of characters, Hayley was an amazing heroine. Being a mother myself I could totally understand why she's doing what might seem silly to some readers, goes to NY to find someone who she only saw once and just briefly. All she wants is her daughter to have her Christmas wish come true, to meet her dad and understand even if she's a product of a one night stand, that she's still loved and the most precious thing in Hayley's life. Angel is an adorable kid, she's a little genius, reading dictionaries, big books, being like a sponge who just sucks in loads of information so effortlessly. She's was a rather impressing character, though at times I found this a bit repetitive. At times it did feel a bit forced, as if Ms Baggot tried a bit too much to make Angel such a special character. But despite this, I still adored Angel and think she's one the best child characters I've read about. Oliver is someone you might need time to warm up, as assume most female readers will find his behavior too Mr Grey at the beginning. But then again, it's those very female readers who put 50 shades on pedestal, so who knows... But bear in mind, Oliver is nothing like Christian, he does the whole no strings attached however he's not the abusive type. On the contrary, he's well aware that most women want his billions and social influence, so all he does is protect himself from them. He's the opposite around Hayley, guards and safety walls are completely down and you can see his vulnerable side. Hayley is the best thing that happened to him and thanks to her we see Oliver the boss transform, and this was so lovely to see. I couldn't help but think of Oliver as the modern version of Scrooge, who suddenly under the influence of Hayley starts loving Christmas and tries to mend all his relationships, especially those with his family and employees.

Overall, 'One Wish in Manhattan' was a delightful, beautiful story I shall remember and keep in my heart for a long time. It's full of lovely messages which bring hope, just like Christmas does. It speaks about the importance of believing in your wishes, believing in yourself and making every moment in life count. Grab those moments and cherish them, they are your happy memories. Beautifully written and full of heart, 'One Wish in Manhattan' is the absolute necessity for the holiday season, as is mulled wine and mince pies. Enjoy!

[Claudia - BookButterflies · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eine schöne Wintergeschichte, allerdings mit wenig "Weihnachtselementen". Grandios fand ich das New Yorker Setting und es kam Fernweh auf, sobald von bekannten Orten in meiner Lieblingsstadt gesprochen wurde.
Die Nebencharaktere mochte ich allerdings mehr als die Hauptpersonen. Irgendwie konnte ich Haley nicht so richtig ausstehen und die Tochter ging mir mit ihrer Neunmalklugen Art auch hin und wieder auf die Nerven. Alles in allem ist es sehr vorhersehbar und man hätte auch gut 100 Seiten weniger schreiben können. Auch habe ich es mir lustiger vorgestellt.
Wie gesagt - eine nette Wintergeschichte, aber für mich kein Highlight!

[Fafa's Book Corner · Rating 2 out of 5]

Fafa's Book Corner (Wordpress)
Fafa's Book Corner (Blogger)

I received this E-ARC via Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.

DNF

The synopsis sounded really sweet and nice so I decided to request this. While I didn't have high exceptions for this I did except to at least enjoy it. But I was wrong.

The book starts off with Haley mother of a 9 year old daughter Angel. She is guilty of the fact that she quit her job. Her boss was romantically interested in her and at some point got very close to her. And on the spot she quit. She now has no job and she is not sure how she will pay for anything after her trip to New York.

The readers then discover that Haley is a single mom. When she was 17 years old she took a trip to New York. While there she met a man by the name Micheal. She and Micheal did quite a lot during her stay in New York. Then one night after drinking too much she slept with him. Upon arriving back to home she discovers she is pregnant.

Oliver is the CEO of his company. Before running the company he had plans to go into football. But after his father and brother passed away due to a heart attack he was forced to let his dreams go and take the business. Heart attacks run in the family. Specifically the men in the family.

The problem with this book was Oliver. I didn't like him at all. Oliver is an extremely bitter person, has no interest in his life, he doesn't care for the business, he does not bother to remember his employees names let alone greet them, thinks having a panic attack is for the weak, and during his free time has affairs with women. It seemed that the only interest he had was women and wine.

I seriously would've enjoyed this book more had his point of views not been in there. The only reason that this is a 2 star and not 1 star is because of Haley and Angel.

I loved reading Haley's point of view! She was realistic and really funny! Angel was adorable! You could practically feel Haley's love for her daughter and her brother. I was also happy with the fact that when Haley and Oliver met they didn't instantly start kissing. Haley in fact kept her distance.

Overall this was not a good book. I do not recommend this to anyone. But if you have been really looking forward to reading it then go for it. Also if you have read the authors previous books and enjoyed them then, I would recommend this to you.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story explores some highly emotional issues in an easy to read and relate to manner. Ten years ago, the eighteen year old Haley had a one night encounter which has impacted on her life ever since - that was the night she conceived her daughter, Angel. Nine year old Angel is a super bright, precocious young lady who wishes to meet her Dad. Unfortunately Hayley has no idea where he is, so when the opportunity to return to New York, staying with her brother, arises, the two jet off from England, hoping to find him again in time for Christmas. The two make a delightful couple, Mum and daughter together! They’ll have help from Hayley’s brother, his partner, friends and, unexpectedly, his boss!

Oliver Drummond is running scared even though he’s the billionaire CEO of the firm where Hayley’s brother works. Oliver’s brother and father both died from a genetic heart condition that he believes will soon bring about his own demise so he works and plays hard but avoids long term relationships. He accidentally meets Hayley whilst endeavouring to escape from the woman he was drinking with in a Chinese restaurant. Their dialogue is hilarious and this marks the start of more encounters, plenty of flirty banter and a wonderful story.

I really enjoyed this wintery story even though I was actually relaxing in the sun whilst reading it! The characters are all brilliantly portrayed - I think everyone will find Angel to be a star to remember . . . I mean, what nine year old chooses to pack a dictionary when going on holiday? The writing is superb, taking the reader right into the heart of the story so you’re journeying along with the characters, relating to them and feeling their angst.

This is a delectable feast that tugs at the heartstrings. Can Angel meet her Dad for the first time? If she does, how will he react to her existence? What if he now has a family of his own? There are so many questions to be answered and obstacles to be overcome in their search for him! As for Oliver - can he overcome his fears and let love stand a chance? You’ll just have to read it yourself to find out what happens - I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did, whatever the season!

Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you normally read my blog, you'd see that I do love Mandy Baggot's novels (for evidence please see here, here, here and here) and when I got an Amazon Gift Card for my birthday, I knew straight away where I was going to spend it. On Mandy Baggot's other novels of course (as well as some others, but we'll discuss those later).

First of all, I just wanna say how beautiful all of Mandy's books are. The covers of them all are just so pretty and will make you want to pick it up. In this cover, I adore the ombre sky from pink to blue and the snow covered Central Park looks beautiful. The New York City skyline in the background gives you some info on the story and I love the colourful trees in the top corners. Simply magical.

Now, onto the book, and let me just say that before this book, I was in a bit of a reading rut. Every book I picked up, I just weren't feeling it. However, as soon as I started this one, I got my reading mojo back again! I love the way Mandy writes, I feel like I'm there right beside the character. I also love how we get to see the male characters point of view - it just gives the story a different edge that makes it so interesting.

In this particular Christmassy novel, we get to see the point of view from both Hayley and Oliver. Hayley is a single mum, who is looking in New York visiting her brother and is secretly looking for her daughters long-lost-father. Oliver, is the CEO of the family run huge company and is in a bit of a rut himself. He's scared about his health, not wanting to go in the same way as his father and brother, but can't stop living the high life of going on nights out and flirting with women.

The two come together when Hayley realises that her brother works for Oliver and they find that they keep bumping into one another. When in nightclub Vipers one night, Oliver and Hayley spend some time together and find themselves enjoying one anothers company. Their relationship develops from there and it really is a lovely Christmassy read (yes, Mandy Baggot writes beautiful Christmas novels!). I adored reading about New York at Christmas (it's always been a dream of mine to go there at Christmas time!) and it was nice to read about the snow falling in Central Park and all the festive food.

Overall, another beautiful Christmas novel by Mandy Baggot. If you haven't read any of her books yet, then I urge you to!

[Marleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Writing a well-balanced, successful and pure romantic comedy story is a talent that only a few authors have, in my humble opinion. I’ve read many rom-coms and 85 percent are just too similar; shallow and unoriginal; except for writers like Kristan Higgins, and sometimes Susan Elizabeth Phillips.
I had never heard of Mandy Baggott and what she achieved here with “One Wish in Manhattan” is to deliver a genuinely touching and funny story that I enjoyed immensely. The characters had just enough depth to be believable. The back-drop of New York was seen through the eyes of a visitor, which I like. The dialogues were finger-licking funny. The story-line and its content & build-up were perfect. Also on a side note, I liked the fact that the physical scenes were kept to kissing e.g., and that what follows was only a suggestion. Alluding to sex is so much better than describing sex in rom-coms. That’s the success factor. Believe me, it’s so much more compelling when it’s about the heart.

I absolutely loved British Haley Walker, her daughter Angel, her brother Dean & his boyfriend Vernon. Still, my favorite was Oliver Drummond, NYC young captain of industry. Ah! It’s been too long since I’ve encountered such totally scrumptious anti-hero male protagonist. Be assured it was not his looks that did it, it was his words & demeanor that made him the hero.
I cannot wait to read more of Mandy Baggott.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hayley and her daughter are spending a few weeks in New York with Hayley's brother. 9 year old Angel is excited about visiting Art Galleries, Tourist Attractions, and Historical Landmarks - but little does she know that Hayley's real reason for visiting The Big Apple is to try and find Angel's father, an artist she had a one night stand with almost 10 years ago.

Wealthy CEO Oliver Drummond is under pressure at work, so much so that it's starting to affect his health. Stuck in a cycle of meaningless flings, work pressure and family issues, a chance meeting with Hayley is the catalyst for a chain of events that will make Oliver face the past that has been hanging over him and the future he has been running away from.

I LOVED THIS BOOK. It's full to the gills with pop culture references (which I love in books), all the characters are likeable, and the story just flowed really well. I loved the style of humour. The setting of New York City is just perfection for a book set around Christmas. This is a perfect example of how well this genre can be written - it's warm, sweet, romantic, likeable, cosy - just the perfect book to curl up on the couch in front of an open fire with. Gorgeous.

Thanks so much to Bookouture for providing me with a digital copy via Netgalley - I liked it so much that I'll buy a copy as a Christmas gift when it's released in October.

[Julia Sarene · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF - such an annoying male main character, I can't care at all about him (and yes im sure that'll be remedied later).
Another super rich man, who's had such a hard time...
Can get any woman, has to buy nice things to be able to live, acts like a douchebag to his employees, but of course - actually underneath it all he will surely be a nice guy..

I love easy christmas chick lit, and of course it is predictable, but this one just doesn't catch my attention at all. The characters all felt artificial too me. The overly clever 9 year old, the single mum who is of course broke but does everything for her child anyway, the gay brother who is a walking, talking cliché, the rich woman who only wants love and do charity.... They all felt like cardboard cutouts to me.
Also the prose wasn't bad, but felt off at some places, and didn't suck me in.

Sadly not my book.

[Nic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book by Mandy B.

Romance, humour, ups and downs, and all set in New York at Christmas - doesn't get better than that!

I've read pretty much all of Mandy's books, they are great when you need a break from serial killers and thrillers and want a bit of fun escapism.

It has a lead character you root for, a romance you will to happen, good guys, mean guys, a few sad twists and turns and then of course the happy ending you were wishing for.

A feel good story you can whiz through in a day.

Recommended!

[Poongothai · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a wonderful romance set around the holidays. New York came to life in this book. Angel was a sweet character. Hayley was such a refreshing character bringing lots of humor and life to Oliver. The secondary characters were also qute interesting in their own ways.
The cover is magical.
This was my first book by Mandy Baggot and I'll be surely reading her in the future.

Thanks to netgalley

[Shaushka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Herrlich kitschiges Weihnachtsmärchen. ich liebe es!

[Emma Crowley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bookouture definitely excel in producing the most magical, atmospheric covers and One Wish in Manhattan is no different. Shamefully this is my first read by Mandy Baggot but honestly I devoured it and from now on will eagerly await each of her new releases whilst reading her back catalogue. In the months and weeks leading up to the Christmas season we are going to be inundated with festive reads, like many others I adore books centred around Christmas but one niggle I sometimes have is that more often than not Christmas is rarely mentioned in a number of these books. Why go to the bother of focusing a book all around one of the most special times of year and barely mention the big event or the lead up to it? There are numerous opportunities to create a wonderfully, enchanting story associated with the season so in my opinion for a writer it's best not to waste it. In this case none of my issues arose as this book was simply fantastic - a real page turner with a good solid storyline and a fantastic cast of characters. One Wish in Manhattan ticks all the boxes and it certainly has me excited and eager for all the special moments that are sure to be created over the coming weeks.

The book opens in Salisbury in a McDonald’s as Hayley sits with her daughter Angel contemplating her big holiday to New York for Christmas. It's supposed to be a real exciting, adventurous time but she has just quit her job and she has ulterior reasons for the trip. Hayley desperately wants to fulfil Angel's Christmas wish – to find her dad, their last encounter being the night Angel was conceived. Could Hayley's one night stand (charming artist Michel) still be living in the city that never sleeps ten years on? Well there is only one way to find out and Hayley is determined to make her daughter's dream come true.

Hayley and Angel are just fantastic characters, the mother/daughter bond runs deep. They are almost like sisters, best friends and mother and daughter all rolled into one as close as they possibly could be and I really adored both of them. Their love and support for each other radiates from the pages, the banter between the two was brilliant and gave me innumerable laugh out loud moments. Angel is a child genius and her 'special dictionary of facts' is never far from her side. Littered throughout the book are Angel's facts and statements about life in general and New York City. This could have bordered on tedious and inappropriate but Mandy slips them in at just the right moment that they offer light relief from a tense scene or else add superb comedic value. Angel was a child wise beyond her years and more like forty than nine but she made such positive, humorous contributions to the story that without her in it this book would not have worked as well as it did. 'Children had no filter.They were truth tellers' this just totally sums Angel up and I love her for it.

Hayley may well be a single mother but she wants the best for her daughter, her own dreams and aspirations regarding fashion have been put aside. Travelling to New York with Angel she is able to stay with her brother Drew who works in a computer company. He has the plush apartment, the hunky boyfriend and everything he could wish for. Whilst Hayley frets that having lost her job how will she give Angel anything? By committing to a search maybe she can give Angel the greatest gift of all? Hayley to me was strong and determined and someone who always puts everyone else first as is evident throughout the book with her careful considered actions towards others. Hayley should be applauded for her willingness to find the father of her child. She could have just thought I've done well on my own for the guts of ten years, I can keep going but no she knew her daughter needed to form a relationship with her father. A chance encounter with Oliver Drummond, CEO of the company Drew works for, sets in motion a chain of events, connections, twists and turns that had me enthralled right until I read the very last line of this impressive story. Hayley with a little help does everything in her power to find Michel. But does she? The only thing I will say is when Hayley feels she needs money if she wanted to stay in New York longer or treat Angel to nice things she goes and gets a job. Majestic Cleaning was a brilliant addition to the overall storyline but would a tourist really be allowed to work whilst on holiday? Surely they would get thrown out of the country if discovered. I realise Mandy addresses this later on in the book and this plot line is essential but at the time of reading it really bugged me.

The more we read of Oliver in the first six or so chapters the more it struck me how selfish he was and he was engaging in a pity party. How could he be certain his life was going to be cut short like that of his brother and father? He was wishing his life away and not engaging on a day to day basis, embrace each day as it comes, live life to the full as history might not repeat itself. Otherwise he would be left wondering why did I put myself through all that for no reason only one of my creation. The way Oliver speaks to and treats his PA Clara really irked me, she devoted herself to her job and to ensuring Oliver's work life went as smoothly as possible. I think secretly she had a soft spot for him and wanted the best for him even though for quite some part of the book his obsession with what had happened in the past prevented him from moving forward and being the best man he could be both on a personal and professional level. As all the women in Oliver's life including his mother Cynthia just wanted him to break free from the shackles he had placed around himself but it would take a special someone for that to happen. As the story progresses there is certainly one of the best character transformations I have read in a long time and this may sound silly to say but I found myself beginning to fancy Oliver just that little bit. Normally I just read a book and take the male characters as they are but here Mandy Baggott does such a fantastic job of endearing you to each character especially Oliver that I could see beyond the hunky billionaire to a man who was nervous and afraid. 'He didn't do caring like that. It only led to pain'. Hopefully by the end of the book Oliver would be able to retract that statement.

Christmas books can often be in danger of being airy, fairy concentrating too much on the magical, romantical side of things but One Wish in Manhattan was a story of real substance and depth whilst maintaining a cheerful fun side. The headings within each chapter helped the reader identify the various settings throughout the city where scenes were taking place. They really enabled me to identify with the city and the characters. Mandy Baggot has done a super job of making me feel like I was in New York with Hayley, Oliver and co. I've never been to New York, god I would be ashamed to tell you the last time I was on a holiday, but after reading this book I believe I have experienced the cold, the snow, ice skating, the wonderful shops and restaurants, fabulous festive ambiance of New York and much much more. One Wish in Manhattan peels back the layers of its characters to reveal their true selves with the added dash of romance, laughter, forgiveness , healing and all things Christmas I loved every minute of it and didn't want it to end. In the end notes Mandy Baggot hopes we enjoyed our holiday in New York with Hayley, Oliver, Angel and the rest and asks was it the perfect Christmas read? The answer to both those questions Mandy is yes and yes and I will be recommending this to everybody. Let's hope the rest of the Christmas books to come are as good as One Wish in Manhattan.

[Vanessa (bookfairy95) · Rating 5 out of 5]

That one was wonderful!! 🥰
A billionaire and a holiday romance wrapped up in one? Perfection!
With a beautiful setting in a snowy New York, with family time, a big search and a billionaire that think his life will be over soon and who unexpectedly gets to experience real love during the Christmas season. That one is definetely worth the time! ❤️🎄✨❄️

[Leggere Romanticamente · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recensione qui: http://www.leggereromanticamente.com/...

[Laura A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hayley is excited about visiting New York with her daughter. She has made sone changes in her life that she regretted. A nice read.

[Ivonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

DER WEG ZUR SELBSTFINDUNG DURCH EIN WINTERLICH VERSCHNEITES NEW YORK

Eine Frau, die einst ihre Träume aufgab, ein Mann, der das Leben schon längst aufgegeben hat und ein Kind, das das Leben in vollen Zügen genießt. Es geht um Selbstfindung, die Suche nach dem Glück; nach der Vergangenheit aber auch um die Zukunft. Es geht um das Wertvollste, das wir besitzen: Das Leben.

Ich habe das Buch geschenkt bekommen und konnte es kaum erwarten, in dem winterlichen New York abzutauchen und Zeuge einer wundervollen Liebesgeschichte zu werden. New York, Schnee und die wahre Liebe? Ich bin eine hoffnungslose Romantikern und bin gerade für solche Geschichten, insbesondere dann, wenn sie an Weihnachten spielen, immer zu haben. Ich habe mich gestürzt in diese wunderschöne Geschichte und obgleich sie nicht perfekt war, hat sie mich auf eine solch intensive Art und Weise emotional berührt, wie es nicht jedes Buch schafft.

POSITIV

In dem Buch geht es nicht nur um Hayley, die gerade ihren Job hingeschmissen hat und nach New York zu ihrem Bruder flüchtet, samt ihrer neunjährigen Tochter, sondern es geht auch um Oliver Dummont, ein erfolgreicher Millionär, der den Glauben an das Leben bereits vor langer Zeit aufgegeben hat. Hayley hat sich in den Kopf gesetzt, den Vater ihrer Tochter zu finden und ein neues Leben zu beginnen, weit weg von ihrem alten Leben; ihrem alten zu Hause. Irgendwann treffen sich die Wege der beiden und ihre beider Leben nehmen eine plötzliche Wendung. Dieses Buch verfolgt mehrere verschiedene Handlungsstränge, die so spielend leicht ineinander übergehen, dass man es kaum bemerkt. Alles fügt sich perfekt zusammen und läd ein zu einer emotionalen Achterbahnfahrt, die man so schnell nicht mehr vergessen wird.

Wundervoll und auf ihre ganz eigene Art spezielle und interessante Charaktere runden die Geschichte ab. Hayley habe ich gleich von Beginn an als sympathische junge Frau empfunden, mit deren Gefühlen und Gedankengänge ich mich in vielerlei Hinsicht identifzieren konnte. Sie hat einen genialen Humor, nimmt ihre Verwantwortung gegenüber ihrer kleinen Tochter sehr Ernst, ist hier und da etwas überfürsorglich, macht dies aber wett mit ihrer wunderbaren Art, mit den Mitmenschen um sie herum umzugehen. Sie und ihre Tochter Angel sind weniger wie Mutter und Tochter, sondern mehr wie zwei Freundinnen, die gemeinsam das Leben meistern, ohne die Hilfe von Außenstehenden. Sie sind zwei unglaublich starke Persönlichkeiten, die auf der einen Seite nicht unterschiedlicher sein können, sich aber doch so sehr ähneln, dass es schon fast unheimlich ist.

Wenngleich ich Oliver zu Beginn auch etwas skeptisch gegenüber stand, konnte er mich im Laufe der Geschichte absolut überzeugen. Seine Entwicklung vom Anfang bis zum Ende ist enorm, allerdings nicht überstürzt, sondern absolut nachvollziehbar. Er hat diese forsche, schwierige Art an sich, die zwar nicht immer von Vorteil ist, aber ihn irgendwie sympathisch macht.

Und dann wäre da auch noch Angel, die neunjährige Tochter von Hayley, die die Geschichte immerzu mit ihrem kindlichen Humor und ihrer Intelligenz auflockert. Das Mädchen ist lernbegeistert und wissbegierig, macht ihrer Mutter was Allgemeinwissen angeht unglaublich Konkurrenz und ist, trotz ihres jungen Alters, die Stimme der Vernunft; der Ruhepol, der Hayley immer wieder auf den richtigen Weg zurück bringt.

Und zum Schluss wäre da auch noch Dean, Hayleys älterer Bruder, der nicht nur etwas verrückt und unglaublich liebenswert, sondern auch Teil der LGBQT+ Community ist, was mir persönlich unglaublich gut gefallen hat.

Die Autorin macht in dem Buch mehr als deutlich, dass es wichtig ist, die Menschen so zu akzeptieren, wie sie sind und das New York definitiv eine Stadt ist, in der man sich nicht zu verstecken braucht. In New York kann man sein, wer man will, ohne abwertende Blicke dafür zu ernten. Man fühlt sich frei und geliebt; ein sehr wichtiger Punkt, der in diesem Buch immer wieder deutlich gemacht wird. In diesem Zusammenhang spielt ihr Bruder Dean eine sehr große Rolle, der sehr viel Akzeptanz erfährt, was mein Herz zum Schmelzen gebracht hat.

Das Setting ist einfach großartig. Die Geschichte spielt im verschneiten, winterlichen, weihnachtlichen New York was dieses Buch zu dem absolut perfekten Festtagsleseerlebnis macht. Die Autorin beschreibt die Stadt so genau und mit so viel Liebe und Hingabe, dass ich mich fühlte, als wäre ich selbst wieder dort. Sie nimmt ihre Leser mit auf eine Tour durch die großartigste Stadt der Welt, was dieses Buch für jeden New York Liebhaber zu etwas ganz Besonderem macht.

Und dann wäre da natürlich auch noch der Zauber von Weihnachten, der während des gesamten Lesens spürbar und fast mit den Händen greifbar war. Die Autorin beschreibt einfach alles so genau und detailreich, dass man sich problemlos alles vorstellen und beinahe schon das Eis auf der Zunge schmeckt oder den Duft der frisch gebackenen Plätzchen riecht.

Die Geschichte war unglaublich emotional und voll von Magie, Freude, Liebe, Toleranz, Akzeptanz - Hayley hat mich auf ihrem Weg der Selbstfindung mehr als einmal Dinge in Frage stellen lassen. Gerade ab der Mitte bis zum Ende hin, zitterten meine Hände förmlich beim Umblättern einer jeden Seite. Dieses Buch hat mich so berührt, dass ich es kaum in Worte fassen kann und obgleich es sich hierbei um eine Romanze mitten in New York dreht, steht die Liebe nicht im Fokus, sondern vielmehr die Selbstfindung, Selbstakzeptanz und das Leben an sich.


NEGATIV

Leider dauerte es ein wenig, bis ich mich richtig in die Geschichte eingefunden hatte. Der Schreibstil machte mir anfangs etwas zu schaffen, was womöglich auch damit zusammenhängt, dass ich vorher nur englische Romane gelesen hatte und ich erst ein wenig Zeit brauchte, mich wieder an die deutsche Sprache zu gewöhnen.

Dennoch erschien es mir an manchen Stellen etwas langatmig, hier und da hat sich die Geschichte etwas gezogen und das Buch ließ sich leider nicht ganz so schnell weglesen, wie ich es vermutet hatte. Vielleicht war es doch einfach zu schwere Kost, zu emotional, zu voll von Gefühlen, als das man einfach so durch die Seiten geflogen wäre - aber das ist dann doch eher positiv, oder?

Was tatsächlich Meckern auf hohem Niveau ist, mich aber doch recht genervt hat ist die Tatsache, dass sich alle Charaktere gefühlt minütlich "über die Lippen geleckt" oder "die Lippen befeuchtet" haben. Wie gesagt, meckern auf hohem Niveau, aber ich frage mich eben einfach wieso. Ich stehe ja auch nicht stundenlang irgendwo rum und lecke mir alle 60 Sekunden über die Lippen. Das gefühlt in jedem zweiten Satz zu erwähnen, fand ich tatsächlich etwas nervig. Ich war kurz davor "Benutz halt einfach einen Labello, wenn du trockene Lippen hast" dem Buch entgegen zu brüllen.

Manche Stellen hätte man weg lassen können und ich hätte so gerne mehr über Olivers und Hayleys Vergangenheit erfahren, über Olivers Leben, bevor er zum Millionär wurde und über Hayleys Leben, als sie noch in England lebte. Ich hätte auch so gerne etwas mehr über ihren Job als Event Managerin erfahren, leider wurde hierauf kaum eingegangen, was wohl der Tatsache geschuldet war, dass der Fokus der Geschichte einfach auf ganz anderen Dingen lag.

LOHNT SICH DAS BUCH?

Das Buch konnte mich absolut berühren, trotz dessen, dass es sich an manchen Stellen etwas gezogen hat. Es ist das Setting, der Humor und dieses wundervolle Zusammenspiel der Charaktere, die all das wieder wett machen. Die Autorin hat mit diesem Roman eine wunderschöne, romantische, aber auch wertvolle Winter-/Weihnachtsgeschichte geschaffen, die ich wirklich jedem nur ans Herz legen kann, auch den Weihnachtsmuffeln, denn - glaubt es oder nicht - Oliver könnte man tatsächlich mit dem miesgrämigen Scrooge bezeichnen. Es macht einfach so viel Spaß, die Entwicklung der Charaktere mitzuerleben und Zeuge zu werden, wie sie endlich wieder anfangen, das Leben zu genießen und sich selbst wertzuschätzen. Von mir bekommt dieses Buch eine absolute Leseempfehlung.

[Bernadette Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGalley and the Publishers for letting me have a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.

I gave this a huge 5 stars or 10/10. It was pure escapism and transported me from the dreary days just after Christmas in the UK to the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps, New York.

If you love feel good Christmassy reads, then this one fits the bill perfectly. This reminded me a little of Miracle on 34th Street, the film were one of the young lead characters is very sceptical of the whole Christmas story, she meets an old man called Kris Kringle who looks uncannily like Father Christmas. As she gets to know him, her belief in Christmas is restored. She asks him for several things and as these things begin to happen, her life is turned upside down. This young character called Susan reminds me of Angel, the young daughter of Hayley.

In this story Angel, plays a fairly integral part but unlike in Miracle on 34th Street it's her Mum that could fulfil the wish of Angel and not Father Christmas.

It's during Hayley's trip to New York that she meets Oliver Drummond. Hayley has gone to New York with a limited budget and needs to find work while there to help finance the trip. Can the chance meeting with Oliver Drummond be the answer to her prayers and make this a New York forever after?

This was a very easy read and had me shedding the odd tear or two. I really enjoyed it.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many thanks to Hayley at Rather Too Fond Of Books, Bookouture and the author as I won an e copy of this book over on Hayleys blog as part of a give away.

One Wish in Manhattan is a wonderful story of romance that will melt any heart.

I really loved everything about this novel. The whole Christmas vibe very much comes through, throughout the novel which always makes it that bit more magical.

Hayley is a great character, she makes a brave decision to grant her daughters wish of meeting her dad who she has never met, which leaves Hayley feeling very uncertain of what the future could hold. Angel her daughter is just fabulous, I absolutely adored her. She is sweet, funny and highly intelligent for her age. I couldn't get enough of her in this book as she really is such a wonderful character.

Oliver just oozed charm and sex appeal and I for one could certainly see why Hayley is attracted to him. Oliver is a quite a complex character but as his life is quite complicated it is easy to understand why he is the way he is.

One Wish in Manhattan made me want to jump on the next aeroplane to see all the wonderful sights, sounds and smells that Hayley and Angel were experiencing. The restaurants and food just sounded so tantalising and I really wanted to experience it all for myself.

A wonderful story that will really warm the cockles of your heart.

[Thebooktrail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Travel with Mandy Baggot for a wonderful way to start over in New York

Visit the locations in the book here - Mandy Baggot Booktrail

Now I read this at a time where there was no snow on the ground and it was nowhere near Christmas but this book makes things magical! Don't wait till next Christmas to read it!

Ah New York New York, the city that never sleeps and the city of so many people that searching for your real dad is not going to be easy. At any time of year, the city is attractive to visit, but at Christmas, the lights are sparkling, the tree branches are covered in snow, everything seems more magical and inviting. And imagine going there, marvelling at the posh houses on Park Avenue for example and then meeting someone from that world – a billionaire who despite his taste for women – seems to have a heart of gold.

New York at Christmas is a time for adventure, magic and the possibility of starting over. The city is decked out in sparkle and celebrations from the shops to the parks and everything in between. Skating in Central park which becomes a kind of Narnia really is a stunning sight to see and you can ‘t help but wish that Hayley and Angel really start to see the beauty in everything around them.

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a while since I read a proper chicklit book, but I really loved this one! I had never read a book by Mandy Baggot, though I had several on my Goodreads to read list, I will get to them soon after reading this!

Hayley had a one night stand in New York 10 years ago, resulting in her having a little girl named Angel. She overheard Angel wishing to Father Christmas to meet her father and decided she was going to fulfill this wish.

Oliver is a billionaire who became boss of his father's company after he and his older brother died. He thinks he will die young too, so he gets regular panic attacks thinking they are a prelude of a heart attack.

Oliver and Hayley keep running into each other and soon Sparks start to fly.

This book made me feel so happy, like a proper chicklit book Always does with me! I loved the Chemistry Hayley and Oliver had and Angel was such a funny girl.

I would recommend this book to everyone who likes chicklit and feel-good books!