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Sleigh Bells Ring #1-4
Sleigh Bells Ring
Santa Claus is coming to town, and so are the Tucker sisters.
Never mind a pony. The Tucker girls have inherited their father's horse farm for Christmas. Make that a run-down horse farm. It needs some serious TLC in order to make it sell-ready. Joanna knows that by recruiting her sisters and one handsome ranch hand they can fix up the place and even celebrate one last Christmas while they're at it. However, to Isabella, returning to their home in Kentucky bluegrass country for Christmas seems like an impossible hurdle. Can her Chicago boyfriend make life merry and bright again?
One thing's for nothing is peace on earth for Sophia as a new beau brings up old wounds. And when the fate of the horse farm is put in jeopardy because Amy accidentally fraternizes with the enemy, tensions rise. But it's not like the land developer stole Christmas . . . just her heart.
Can the Tucker sisters have themselves a merry little Christmas?
Never mind a pony. The Tucker girls have inherited their father's horse farm for Christmas. Make that a run-down horse farm. It needs some serious TLC in order to make it sell-ready. Joanna knows that by recruiting her sisters and one handsome ranch hand they can fix up the place and even celebrate one last Christmas while they're at it. However, to Isabella, returning to their home in Kentucky bluegrass country for Christmas seems like an impossible hurdle. Can her Chicago boyfriend make life merry and bright again?
One thing's for nothing is peace on earth for Sophia as a new beau brings up old wounds. And when the fate of the horse farm is put in jeopardy because Amy accidentally fraternizes with the enemy, tensions rise. But it's not like the land developer stole Christmas . . . just her heart.
Can the Tucker sisters have themselves a merry little Christmas?
266 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2016
2 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Sandra D. Bricker
44 books267 followersSandra D. Bricker was an entertainment publicist in Los Angeles for more than 15 years, where she attended school to learn screenwriting and eventually taught the craft for several semesters. She became a best-selling, award-winning author of Live-Out-Loud Fiction for the inspirational market, authored books such as the Jessie Stanton novels, and was best known for her Emma Rae Creation series. Over the years, as an ovarian cancer survivor, she spent time and effort toward raising awareness and funds for research, diagnostics, and a cure. Sandra lived in Toledo, Ohio before her passing in 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 20, 2017
When I first started reading this book I assumed it would be made up of four completely different novellas (I don't always read the blurbs of books before I read them) so I was surprised to find that it was four different Christian authors each writing from the point of view of one of four sisters. This is the first time I've seen something like this attempted since I read The Greenfield Legacy, a similar Christian novel.
I was in the mood for something light and romantic and that's what I got from this book. I enjoyed all four sisters and seeing how their troubled situation resolved and watching as they overcame the resentment they all felt because of a difficult situation that had invaded their family. The resolution was satisfying and enjoyable. If you're looking for something Christmassy and easy to read, this would be a good book to try.
I was in the mood for something light and romantic and that's what I got from this book. I enjoyed all four sisters and seeing how their troubled situation resolved and watching as they overcame the resentment they all felt because of a difficult situation that had invaded their family. The resolution was satisfying and enjoyable. If you're looking for something Christmassy and easy to read, this would be a good book to try.
December 25, 2016
First, the disclaimer. "I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own." That done, I had high hopes of reading all the Christmas books in my to-read pile before Christmas! Alas, I failed. SLEIGH BELLS RING is a collection of four novellas by four different authors. Stories, authors, and blurbs are listed below:
All I Want for Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker: JoJo Tucker is surprised to learn that her father, who recently passed away, left her and her sisters a horse farm in Kentucky. She learned this by receiving a final letter from him. None of the girls had been on speaking terms with their father in some time. JoJo returns home and encounters her first crush, Jed Weatherly. Jed’s been working at the farm since her father died to keep things afloat. She figures it is in everyone’s best interest to sell the farm, and she makes plans to get all of her sisters together for Christmas. However, will they be receptive to her plans? Will Jed be able to help JoJo’s Christmas wish come true?
My thoughts: This was a beautiful story, with an energetic, excessively happy heroine who refused to let life get her down, even though she did grieve her father's death. I loved how she waltzed into the ranch house and everyone immediately loved her while she went to work trying to get her sisters to come home for Christmas. I love Ms. Bricker's fun-filled stories while still dealing with real emotions.
Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell: Bella Tucker decides to spend Christmas at her old Kentucky farm with her sisters, at JoJo's request. Bella's job is shaky, so she figures the timing is perfect. Her boyfriend David will go along to visit his own family. He would love to move back to Kentucky, but he is not sure how Bella feels. JoJo and Bella discover some unopened letters their father had sent to their mother while he was in the military. Will these letters bring clarity to the sisters? Will David’s career plans be the end of their relationship?
My thoughts: Bella suffers from wanderlust like her father, so she is considering breaking up with her boyfriend because she's tired of their 'long distance relationship' even though they live in the same apartment building since they both travel all the time. This story was rather flat, the characters weren't as well developed. I also didn't like that they lied (though it was about seemingly unimportant things.).And Bella was RUDE!!! But it was a sweet homecoming story.
I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott: The first person Sophie Tucker encounters when she returns home to visit with her sisters is her high school crush Matthew Weatherly. He rescues the vet from a car accident. Matthew knows that their father wanted to make amends with the girls, and he hopes to convince them that there was a different side to their father than they knew. Matt would love for her to stay in Kentucky, but will Sophie’s past make it too painful? Can she admit her feelings and take a chance on an unknown future?
My thoughts: I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS has the strongest faith message in the book (so far) and I liked that. Matt and Sophie were childhood best friends and both of them had a whole arsenal of pet names for each other that they used frequently. I liked the way Sarah gave Matt a hard time about loving Sophie and not admitting it and I loved the way Matt was the one who led Tuck to the Lord and became a Navy hospital corpsman with the Marines like my husband did. None of the sisters played a major part in this book, it was more focused on the romance. A feel good, sweet story.
Please Come Home for Christmas by Lenora Worth: Amy Tucker Brosseau is a single mother working at a café in New Orleans. While she had been angry with her father, she does agree to return to Kentucky, despite numerous bad memories. She just wants to let go of the farm and her past. She meets Dan Wentworth, who is interested in purchasing the farm. Amy plans to convince her sisters to sell it to him, but will something change her mind?
My thoughts: PLEASE COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS features another rude sister, like Belle. Amy has had some hurts and while she wants to sell she doesn't like the guy who wants to buy. What will she do? Her son loves it in Kentucky, she's the only hold-out on selling and... I really didn't see what Dan liked about her. Feisty, yes. Prickly, yes. He saw that too. Dan was really nice despite being the "go after what I want and no one will stop me type."
That said, SLEIGH BELLS RING has a really good solution to the "to sell or not to sell" decision that I liked, though one of the relationships was not set in stone and it's the readers guess whether or not it will be. If you like Christmas romance novellas (contemporary) this would be a good read, for any time of the year.
All I Want for Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker: JoJo Tucker is surprised to learn that her father, who recently passed away, left her and her sisters a horse farm in Kentucky. She learned this by receiving a final letter from him. None of the girls had been on speaking terms with their father in some time. JoJo returns home and encounters her first crush, Jed Weatherly. Jed’s been working at the farm since her father died to keep things afloat. She figures it is in everyone’s best interest to sell the farm, and she makes plans to get all of her sisters together for Christmas. However, will they be receptive to her plans? Will Jed be able to help JoJo’s Christmas wish come true?
My thoughts: This was a beautiful story, with an energetic, excessively happy heroine who refused to let life get her down, even though she did grieve her father's death. I loved how she waltzed into the ranch house and everyone immediately loved her while she went to work trying to get her sisters to come home for Christmas. I love Ms. Bricker's fun-filled stories while still dealing with real emotions.
Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell: Bella Tucker decides to spend Christmas at her old Kentucky farm with her sisters, at JoJo's request. Bella's job is shaky, so she figures the timing is perfect. Her boyfriend David will go along to visit his own family. He would love to move back to Kentucky, but he is not sure how Bella feels. JoJo and Bella discover some unopened letters their father had sent to their mother while he was in the military. Will these letters bring clarity to the sisters? Will David’s career plans be the end of their relationship?
My thoughts: Bella suffers from wanderlust like her father, so she is considering breaking up with her boyfriend because she's tired of their 'long distance relationship' even though they live in the same apartment building since they both travel all the time. This story was rather flat, the characters weren't as well developed. I also didn't like that they lied (though it was about seemingly unimportant things.).And Bella was RUDE!!! But it was a sweet homecoming story.
I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott: The first person Sophie Tucker encounters when she returns home to visit with her sisters is her high school crush Matthew Weatherly. He rescues the vet from a car accident. Matthew knows that their father wanted to make amends with the girls, and he hopes to convince them that there was a different side to their father than they knew. Matt would love for her to stay in Kentucky, but will Sophie’s past make it too painful? Can she admit her feelings and take a chance on an unknown future?
My thoughts: I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS has the strongest faith message in the book (so far) and I liked that. Matt and Sophie were childhood best friends and both of them had a whole arsenal of pet names for each other that they used frequently. I liked the way Sarah gave Matt a hard time about loving Sophie and not admitting it and I loved the way Matt was the one who led Tuck to the Lord and became a Navy hospital corpsman with the Marines like my husband did. None of the sisters played a major part in this book, it was more focused on the romance. A feel good, sweet story.
Please Come Home for Christmas by Lenora Worth: Amy Tucker Brosseau is a single mother working at a café in New Orleans. While she had been angry with her father, she does agree to return to Kentucky, despite numerous bad memories. She just wants to let go of the farm and her past. She meets Dan Wentworth, who is interested in purchasing the farm. Amy plans to convince her sisters to sell it to him, but will something change her mind?
My thoughts: PLEASE COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS features another rude sister, like Belle. Amy has had some hurts and while she wants to sell she doesn't like the guy who wants to buy. What will she do? Her son loves it in Kentucky, she's the only hold-out on selling and... I really didn't see what Dan liked about her. Feisty, yes. Prickly, yes. He saw that too. Dan was really nice despite being the "go after what I want and no one will stop me type."
That said, SLEIGH BELLS RING has a really good solution to the "to sell or not to sell" decision that I liked, though one of the relationships was not set in stone and it's the readers guess whether or not it will be. If you like Christmas romance novellas (contemporary) this would be a good read, for any time of the year.
September 25, 2016
Sleigh Bells Ring was a collection of four novellas. The thing I liked most about this collection was that each novella was written from one of the Tucker sisters' point of view. I haven't read many collections where each book is connected by a familial relationship, especially when each book is written by a different author. I liked that and would read more collections that did so.
Each tale was a sweet story of love, forgiveness, and the power of family. I would read more books by each author.
*I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Each tale was a sweet story of love, forgiveness, and the power of family. I would read more books by each author.
*I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2016
4 novellas about the Tucker sisters that come home to KY for Christmas after receiving letters from their father that passed away shortly before that. Each sister has their own issues with their father, but with faith and each other they are able to overcome and forgive him. And of course each sister finds love, so that doesn't hurt either!
I don't know if anyone stands out more than the other but I do like how the authors worked together so even though these are 4 stories they run together seamlessly. I wondered how that would work, if they all collaborated on the town and certain points or if one author set up the background and they all used it to create their stories.
When it comes to the romance side, two sisters reunite with past loves/crushes, one sister deepens her relationship with her boyfriend and the last sister finds love again after being widowed. I do think in Amy's case (the widow) that the love happened awfully fast, but it is a novella and sometimes love does strike that quickly.
This book will lift your spirits and leave you with a good feeling.
I don't know if anyone stands out more than the other but I do like how the authors worked together so even though these are 4 stories they run together seamlessly. I wondered how that would work, if they all collaborated on the town and certain points or if one author set up the background and they all used it to create their stories.
When it comes to the romance side, two sisters reunite with past loves/crushes, one sister deepens her relationship with her boyfriend and the last sister finds love again after being widowed. I do think in Amy's case (the widow) that the love happened awfully fast, but it is a novella and sometimes love does strike that quickly.
This book will lift your spirits and leave you with a good feeling.
September 23, 2016
Four sisters return to the Kentucky horse farm where they grew up after learning that their estranged father has left it to them in his will. Reluctant to come home, they all find the key to their future seems to be tied to dealing with their past.
What a beautiful setting for romance, among the snow dusted fields of Kentucky, complete with horses and handsome heroes! The four novellas are linked closely together, building on the one before, telling each sister's part of the story; it flows well, reading like a full novel. They are an interesting family, each one dealing with their father's death from a unique perspective, as well as their mother's years before. They were good examples of how we all grieve a loss differently, and how important it is to forgive in order to heal. As one sister tells another, "Don't let the memories from the past ruin the dreams of the future."
Coming home out of necessity--to decide what to do with the property--brings the unexpected benefit of reconnecting with lost friendships and new loves. There is a lot of fun interaction between some of the couples, and the romances seem realistic, though a bit hurried sometimes. I enjoyed each one. My favorite character was Aunt Sarah, who doles out wisdom as she cooks. She was such a good example of how to genuinely love people.
Recommend for readers looking for a wholesome, inspirational romance.
4.5 stars
(Book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest, original review.)
What a beautiful setting for romance, among the snow dusted fields of Kentucky, complete with horses and handsome heroes! The four novellas are linked closely together, building on the one before, telling each sister's part of the story; it flows well, reading like a full novel. They are an interesting family, each one dealing with their father's death from a unique perspective, as well as their mother's years before. They were good examples of how we all grieve a loss differently, and how important it is to forgive in order to heal. As one sister tells another, "Don't let the memories from the past ruin the dreams of the future."
Coming home out of necessity--to decide what to do with the property--brings the unexpected benefit of reconnecting with lost friendships and new loves. There is a lot of fun interaction between some of the couples, and the romances seem realistic, though a bit hurried sometimes. I enjoyed each one. My favorite character was Aunt Sarah, who doles out wisdom as she cooks. She was such a good example of how to genuinely love people.
Recommend for readers looking for a wholesome, inspirational romance.
4.5 stars
(Book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest, original review.)
November 4, 2016
3.5 stars.
This collection of 4 novellas was such a novelty for me as it is the story of 4 four sisters and it tells each love story in order but they are all interwoven together and occur over the same Christmas holiday and to top it all they were all penned by different authors. However I wouldn't have realized that without being told as they all flow so seamlessly together .
The story is about the Tucker sisters returning one at a time to the Kentucky horse farm they were all raised on, after the death of their estranged father. They are going to have one last shared Christmas before they sell the farm . Returning home though bittersweet at times allows all 4 sisters to find romance. Two of them find it with boys from their past and the other two find new men to make them happy. This book does include (christian themes) with all four girls looking for guidance in their life through prayer but is not excessively religious and is primarily a sweet Christmas romance.
It really was a wonderful Christmas story told in four parts instead of 4 separate novellas and I can recommend adding it to your Christmas reading list.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
This collection of 4 novellas was such a novelty for me as it is the story of 4 four sisters and it tells each love story in order but they are all interwoven together and occur over the same Christmas holiday and to top it all they were all penned by different authors. However I wouldn't have realized that without being told as they all flow so seamlessly together .
The story is about the Tucker sisters returning one at a time to the Kentucky horse farm they were all raised on, after the death of their estranged father. They are going to have one last shared Christmas before they sell the farm . Returning home though bittersweet at times allows all 4 sisters to find romance. Two of them find it with boys from their past and the other two find new men to make them happy. This book does include (christian themes) with all four girls looking for guidance in their life through prayer but is not excessively religious and is primarily a sweet Christmas romance.
It really was a wonderful Christmas story told in four parts instead of 4 separate novellas and I can recommend adding it to your Christmas reading list.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
September 30, 2016
I am generally not a huge fan of novellas or novella collections. They tend to feel choppy or too short to me. However, this one hits the mark. It is fairly seamless between the stories about the four sisters. You get to continue each of their stories, yet told from four different points of view. I think the only thing I missed was hearing more of their dad’s letters to their mom and daughters. I know it would have added a lot of length, but I desperately wanted to read what he wrote.
If you are looking for a fun, easy Christmas read, this heartwarming story of forgiveness, love and family will give you something to warm up to by the fire. It would be perfect to go with Christmas cookies and hot cocoa. The book will have you hunting down your own recipes for cookies, looking in the attic for vintage dresses and hugging your children a little closer.
If you are looking for a fun, easy Christmas read, this heartwarming story of forgiveness, love and family will give you something to warm up to by the fire. It would be perfect to go with Christmas cookies and hot cocoa. The book will have you hunting down your own recipes for cookies, looking in the attic for vintage dresses and hugging your children a little closer.
October 9, 2021
"Sleigh Bells Ring" hit the spot for me and I enjoyed all four novellas overall. The collection flows like one continuous story and I thought all the authors did a good job with continuity. Four sisters return to their Kentucky homeplace after the death of their father, which is something none of them ever planned to do because of broken relationships with him. As each sister returns, her own story is told. The plots are pretty predictable, the romances quick to develop, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment. Faith, forgiveness, and family are strong themes. I loved the characters and the horse farm setting. And the ending provided a neat twist to the "sell or not to sale" decision.
November 15, 2016
Like a cozy sweater and a cup of hot chocolate, Sleigh Bells Ring warms the body, heart and soul. This is a compilation novel, sharing the stories of four sisters after the death of their father, Each sister has left home for their own lives, but each is brought back to their family horse ranch in Kentucky. As complications go, I loved how the over-arching story line was to heal the relationship between the sisters and their memories of their parents, while also exploring the individual lives of each sister. And the whirlwind romances that take place all within a few weeks. Though, by the third and fourth stories, I was a bit tired of the repetition of how their father “abandoned” them for the marine corps.
Of all of the stories, I liked Jo Jo and Jed’s story the best, All I Want for Christmas, by Sandra Bricker. Jo Jo is the youngest Tucker sister. She always had a crush on Jed, the son of the original ranch manager who took over the position after his father died. Jo Jo was just so enthusiastic about EVERYTHING. I couldn’t help but love her. And Jed. He took a second job to support a ranch that wasn’t even his. That says a lot about a person. It is clear that the two belong together.
I also enjoyed Amy’s and Dan’s story, Please Come Home for Christmas, by Lenora Worth. This was the most emotional of the four stories. Amy is trying to make things work for her and her son, after the death of her husband and high school sweetheart. And Dan the Developer is the agent trying to buy the family farm. An unlikely pair if there ever was one. But, then again, maybe not. Dan loves horses and kids. He volunteers at the ranch. Like all four sisters, it took a while for Dan to grow on me. I didn’t want the farm to be sold! And as the advocate for selling, Dan was low on my list of characters to like. But grow on me he did. Dan is a genuinely good guy.
The other two stories in the book, Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell and I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott were ok for me. I didn’t feel as much of a connection with the characters in these stories.
If you are looking for a happy ending, hallmark style, holiday romance, I highly recommend meeting the Tucker sisters and diving into Sleigh Bells Ring. A solid 4 Stars.
Of all of the stories, I liked Jo Jo and Jed’s story the best, All I Want for Christmas, by Sandra Bricker. Jo Jo is the youngest Tucker sister. She always had a crush on Jed, the son of the original ranch manager who took over the position after his father died. Jo Jo was just so enthusiastic about EVERYTHING. I couldn’t help but love her. And Jed. He took a second job to support a ranch that wasn’t even his. That says a lot about a person. It is clear that the two belong together.
I also enjoyed Amy’s and Dan’s story, Please Come Home for Christmas, by Lenora Worth. This was the most emotional of the four stories. Amy is trying to make things work for her and her son, after the death of her husband and high school sweetheart. And Dan the Developer is the agent trying to buy the family farm. An unlikely pair if there ever was one. But, then again, maybe not. Dan loves horses and kids. He volunteers at the ranch. Like all four sisters, it took a while for Dan to grow on me. I didn’t want the farm to be sold! And as the advocate for selling, Dan was low on my list of characters to like. But grow on me he did. Dan is a genuinely good guy.
The other two stories in the book, Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell and I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott were ok for me. I didn’t feel as much of a connection with the characters in these stories.
If you are looking for a happy ending, hallmark style, holiday romance, I highly recommend meeting the Tucker sisters and diving into Sleigh Bells Ring. A solid 4 Stars.
October 14, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Sometimes there is only one way to resolve the past. Going home to face not only the past but the future as well the four Tucker sisters have some life changing decisions to make regarding what to do about their home that was left to all four girls by their father. A father they had kept their distance from for reasons that now don’t seem all that important.
Joanna, Bella, Sophia and Amy have to face the past in order to move on – and that is not as easy as it sounds. All of the sisters will find or rekindle love in this seamlessly woven collection of stories based around one theme – family.
I love Christmas stories, actually any time of the year. Novella collections are usually enjoyable individual stories, but not connected. In Sleigh Bells Ring we get the feel of a complete novel surrounding one family that needs some Christmas magic, forgiveness and true love. Each story is told from one sister’s point of view of her past, her family and her love. Combine them all as they each flow into the next sister’s story and you have what has the feel of a family’s story.
Clean, sweet, unafraid to mention God or prayers, these four women will find a deeper love than any expected in this entertaining collection of Christmas novellas… and perhaps something just as precious as love and that is forgiveness. Give yourself a treat this Christmas season and pick up Sleigh Bells Ring. I found a unique Christmas magic in the Kentucky setting, I believe you will too.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Sometimes there is only one way to resolve the past. Going home to face not only the past but the future as well the four Tucker sisters have some life changing decisions to make regarding what to do about their home that was left to all four girls by their father. A father they had kept their distance from for reasons that now don’t seem all that important.
Joanna, Bella, Sophia and Amy have to face the past in order to move on – and that is not as easy as it sounds. All of the sisters will find or rekindle love in this seamlessly woven collection of stories based around one theme – family.
I love Christmas stories, actually any time of the year. Novella collections are usually enjoyable individual stories, but not connected. In Sleigh Bells Ring we get the feel of a complete novel surrounding one family that needs some Christmas magic, forgiveness and true love. Each story is told from one sister’s point of view of her past, her family and her love. Combine them all as they each flow into the next sister’s story and you have what has the feel of a family’s story.
Clean, sweet, unafraid to mention God or prayers, these four women will find a deeper love than any expected in this entertaining collection of Christmas novellas… and perhaps something just as precious as love and that is forgiveness. Give yourself a treat this Christmas season and pick up Sleigh Bells Ring. I found a unique Christmas magic in the Kentucky setting, I believe you will too.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
October 2, 2016
Four authors create 4 novellas that blend together perfectly With the death of their estranged father, 4 sisters return to the family horse ranch for one last Christmas together before they have to sell. Two find love with old boyfriends and two find men to make their hearts sing. A Christian story that has the girls praying for guidance but is not overly religious. These four stories complement each other well and all the sisters are present in each story. A wonderful Christmas selection for any romance reader on your list.
November 17, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. I've read other novella collections and I liked how one story flowed into the next as if it was one book. Each of the sisters were snarky, and fun loving. This is a perfect book to get you into the holiday spirit.
December 4, 2016
3.5 stars
This novella collection consists of four related contemporary romance novellas. It is a fun, quick read, and it is perfect for the holiday season. While parts of it are predictable, it is enjoyable nonetheless. Each story focuses on one of the Tucker sisters. The stories blend seamlessly, and themes of forgiveness, family, healing, and love are key to the book.
All I Want for Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker: JoJo Tucker is surprised to learn that her father, who recently passed away, left her and her sisters a horse farm in Kentucky. She learned this by receiving a final letter from him. None of the girls had been on speaking terms with their father in some time. JoJo returns home and encounters her first crush, Jed Weatherly. Jed’s been working at the farm since her father died to keep things afloat. She figures it is in everyone’s best interest to sell the farm, and she makes plans to get all of her sisters together for Christmas. However, will they be receptive to her plans? Will Jed be able to help JoJo’s Christmas wish come true?
Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell: Bella Tucker decides to spend Christmas at her old Kentucky farm with her sisters, at JoJo's request. Bella's job is shaky, so she figures the timing is perfect. Her boyfriend David will go along to visit his own family. He would love to move back to Kentucky, but he is not sure how Bella feels. JoJo and Bella discover some unopened letters their father had sent to their mother while he was in the military. Will these letters bring clarity to the sisters? Will David’s career plans be the end of their relationship?
I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott: The first person Sophie Tucker encounters when she returns home to visit with her sisters is her high school crush Matthew Weatherly. He rescues the vet from a car accident. Matthew knows that their father wanted to make amends with the girls, and he hopes to convince them that there was a different side to their father than they knew. Matt would love for her to stay in Kentucky, but will Sophie’s past make it too painful? Can she admit her feelings and take a chance on an unknown future?
Please Come Home for Christmas by Lenora Worth: Amy Tucker Brosseau is a single mother working at a café in New Orleans. While she had been angry with her father, she does agree to return to Kentucky, despite numerous bad memories. She just wants to let go of the farm and her past. She meets Dan Wentworth, who is interested in purchasing the farm. Amy plans to convince her sisters to sell it to him, but will something change her mind?
This novella collection consists of four related contemporary romance novellas. It is a fun, quick read, and it is perfect for the holiday season. While parts of it are predictable, it is enjoyable nonetheless. Each story focuses on one of the Tucker sisters. The stories blend seamlessly, and themes of forgiveness, family, healing, and love are key to the book.
All I Want for Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker: JoJo Tucker is surprised to learn that her father, who recently passed away, left her and her sisters a horse farm in Kentucky. She learned this by receiving a final letter from him. None of the girls had been on speaking terms with their father in some time. JoJo returns home and encounters her first crush, Jed Weatherly. Jed’s been working at the farm since her father died to keep things afloat. She figures it is in everyone’s best interest to sell the farm, and she makes plans to get all of her sisters together for Christmas. However, will they be receptive to her plans? Will Jed be able to help JoJo’s Christmas wish come true?
Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell: Bella Tucker decides to spend Christmas at her old Kentucky farm with her sisters, at JoJo's request. Bella's job is shaky, so she figures the timing is perfect. Her boyfriend David will go along to visit his own family. He would love to move back to Kentucky, but he is not sure how Bella feels. JoJo and Bella discover some unopened letters their father had sent to their mother while he was in the military. Will these letters bring clarity to the sisters? Will David’s career plans be the end of their relationship?
I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott: The first person Sophie Tucker encounters when she returns home to visit with her sisters is her high school crush Matthew Weatherly. He rescues the vet from a car accident. Matthew knows that their father wanted to make amends with the girls, and he hopes to convince them that there was a different side to their father than they knew. Matt would love for her to stay in Kentucky, but will Sophie’s past make it too painful? Can she admit her feelings and take a chance on an unknown future?
Please Come Home for Christmas by Lenora Worth: Amy Tucker Brosseau is a single mother working at a café in New Orleans. While she had been angry with her father, she does agree to return to Kentucky, despite numerous bad memories. She just wants to let go of the farm and her past. She meets Dan Wentworth, who is interested in purchasing the farm. Amy plans to convince her sisters to sell it to him, but will something change her mind?
January 2, 2017
This is the first book I read where there are four different authors writing one story. They did a wonderful job and the story was really great. I would recommend this one anytime, but during the holiday season if you are short on time, this would be a great book to read. It's short and sweet!
December 14, 2021
Perfectly cheesy and predictable.
October 18, 2016
Sleigh Bells Ring follow The Tucker girls as they all make their way back home for Christmas.
It’s bee a number of years since The Tucker girls have all been together. Each novella focuses on an individual sister. Each one staying away from home for their own reasons.
My favorite was Sophia and Matt. They had that mischievous connection that I love so much.
Each story is heartwarming and has that perfect Christmas spirit.
****I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book****
It’s bee a number of years since The Tucker girls have all been together. Each novella focuses on an individual sister. Each one staying away from home for their own reasons.
My favorite was Sophia and Matt. They had that mischievous connection that I love so much.
Each story is heartwarming and has that perfect Christmas spirit.
****I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book****
October 5, 2016
I thought Sleigh Bells Ring was okay. It's not the best book that I've read, but it's definitely not the worst. It's about 4 sisters who come back to their family's horse ranch after their estranged father dies. Each sister has her own love story and a turn as the heroine as it comes closer to Christmas. If you're looking for a fun, easy-going, Christmas story, this would be a good one. I got this book for free from netgalley.
September 24, 2016
Sleigh Bells Ring combines two of my favorite things (well, really four): Christmas, novellas, romance and family. This collection of four Christmas stories written by Sandra D. Bricker, Barbara J. Scott, Lynette Sowell, and Lenora Worth follows four sisters as they decide to what to do with their family horse farm in Kentucky.
Each novella focuses on one sister as she returns home and comes to terms with the memories and losses at the home she left. As she works through her pain, doubt, and unclear future, she also deals with growing romantic feelings with the man in her life. Because I’m a sucker for second chance at love stories (or unrequited love), my favorites in this book were “All I Want for Christmas” by Sandra D. Bricker and “Please Come Home for Christmas” by Lenora Worth. Both Jo-Jo and Sophie come face to face with the men who once were the boys they’d followed around as teenage girls.
All four offerings in this novella collection were enjoyable reads and rooting for the sisters (and the ranch) to find their happy endings came naturally. The four authors did a wonderful job of weaving their separate stories together through not only the decision on the decision of whether or not to sale the ranch but also through Sarah Weatherly. The woman who had been like a second mother to each of them.
What I love about novellas is they are quick and easy reads when you’re ready for a little break between the longer, more intense books. They are also perfect when you only have an hour or so to spare—you get a full story without having to leave in the middle of wondering what’s going to happen next. Add in some sparkling lights, Christmas baking, and snowy weather, and you’ve got the perfect read to cozy up with.
***Gilead Publishing provided me with a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest and fair review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
Each novella focuses on one sister as she returns home and comes to terms with the memories and losses at the home she left. As she works through her pain, doubt, and unclear future, she also deals with growing romantic feelings with the man in her life. Because I’m a sucker for second chance at love stories (or unrequited love), my favorites in this book were “All I Want for Christmas” by Sandra D. Bricker and “Please Come Home for Christmas” by Lenora Worth. Both Jo-Jo and Sophie come face to face with the men who once were the boys they’d followed around as teenage girls.
All four offerings in this novella collection were enjoyable reads and rooting for the sisters (and the ranch) to find their happy endings came naturally. The four authors did a wonderful job of weaving their separate stories together through not only the decision on the decision of whether or not to sale the ranch but also through Sarah Weatherly. The woman who had been like a second mother to each of them.
What I love about novellas is they are quick and easy reads when you’re ready for a little break between the longer, more intense books. They are also perfect when you only have an hour or so to spare—you get a full story without having to leave in the middle of wondering what’s going to happen next. Add in some sparkling lights, Christmas baking, and snowy weather, and you’ve got the perfect read to cozy up with.
***Gilead Publishing provided me with a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest and fair review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
November 9, 2016
Sleigh Bells in the snow is a loevely festive read. With a wonderful cast of characters and a great story line. It is full of romance, heart, family, secrets, forgiveness and Christmas spirit. I really enjoyed this one.
I was drawn to this book by the front cover. It is so pretty and Christmassy. Just look at it isn't it wonderful.
Then I read the bio and I just knew that I had to read it. As the family name of the characters was Tucker which was my maiden name and I just knew it was meant to be. I was hooked.
The book is split into four different parts each one telling the story of a different sister. What I really liked about this book is that it is written by different authors but it reads so smoothly. I was wondering if they all sat down together and worked on the back ground information like the characters, the description of the places, where they wanted the story to go ect. Or did one just write the first story and then the second person read it and then wrote book number two? I found it fascinating and wonderful that it worked so well.
The story is about the four Tucker girls who have inherited at Christmas time their fathers horse farm. Scrap that bit it should read that the sisters have inherited their fathers extremely run down horse farm.
The sisters all have their own lives. With their own problems and none of them really want to go back home. As each of them have problems with their father too. But they know that if they want to seek the farm they are going to have to go back and lay some secrets to rest.
I really enjoyed this book and if you didn't have a lot of time on your hands and you like a good book. Then this is definitely for you as it's easy to get into and easy to pop it down and pick it up again.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and all the fantastic authors for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review
Happy reading everyone
I was drawn to this book by the front cover. It is so pretty and Christmassy. Just look at it isn't it wonderful.
Then I read the bio and I just knew that I had to read it. As the family name of the characters was Tucker which was my maiden name and I just knew it was meant to be. I was hooked.
The book is split into four different parts each one telling the story of a different sister. What I really liked about this book is that it is written by different authors but it reads so smoothly. I was wondering if they all sat down together and worked on the back ground information like the characters, the description of the places, where they wanted the story to go ect. Or did one just write the first story and then the second person read it and then wrote book number two? I found it fascinating and wonderful that it worked so well.
The story is about the four Tucker girls who have inherited at Christmas time their fathers horse farm. Scrap that bit it should read that the sisters have inherited their fathers extremely run down horse farm.
The sisters all have their own lives. With their own problems and none of them really want to go back home. As each of them have problems with their father too. But they know that if they want to seek the farm they are going to have to go back and lay some secrets to rest.
I really enjoyed this book and if you didn't have a lot of time on your hands and you like a good book. Then this is definitely for you as it's easy to get into and easy to pop it down and pick it up again.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and all the fantastic authors for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review
Happy reading everyone
October 14, 2016
Will life ever be the same again, Jo-Jo is left wondering. She gets news of her dads pasting and there is no better time to head home and handle this head on. Her only wish though is for one more family Christmas on the ranch before any decisions are made. Jed knows Jo-Jo would have come home for the funeral if she knew Tuck had past, he knows this in his heart. When she shows up on the farm he wonders if he can convince her to stay or if he is better of moving on all together.
Bella has a bit of her dads Gypsy's spirt in her and she now needs to head home to head home for one last Christmas and figure out whats next. David is so happy with Bella and he knows he has never loved anyone more then he has loved her. When they go home for Christmas can her convince her wondering spirit to stay?
Sophia is going home and she not happy about it, but she knows she needs to do this for her sisters and for her self one more Christmas. Matt can not believe his eyes when Sophia comes literally crashing into his life again. He hopes it's for good but he wonders if its only for a time being. Can he convince her to stay, or will the pain of the past just be to much for both of them?
Amy needs to go home and deal with this whole ranch thing and she is not looking forward to it at all. Dan has one sister he needs to convince that they need to sell, but when he meets her he wonders if maybe the land is not meant to be his but something else.
I loved all four of these short stories. I liked how even though they were from four different authors the stories flowed perfectly together. I really enjoyed how the primary focus was Christmas, coming home and family, but most importantly forgiveness. I would highly recommend this book and I guarantee it will put you in the mood for the holidays.
Bella has a bit of her dads Gypsy's spirt in her and she now needs to head home to head home for one last Christmas and figure out whats next. David is so happy with Bella and he knows he has never loved anyone more then he has loved her. When they go home for Christmas can her convince her wondering spirit to stay?
Sophia is going home and she not happy about it, but she knows she needs to do this for her sisters and for her self one more Christmas. Matt can not believe his eyes when Sophia comes literally crashing into his life again. He hopes it's for good but he wonders if its only for a time being. Can he convince her to stay, or will the pain of the past just be to much for both of them?
Amy needs to go home and deal with this whole ranch thing and she is not looking forward to it at all. Dan has one sister he needs to convince that they need to sell, but when he meets her he wonders if maybe the land is not meant to be his but something else.
I loved all four of these short stories. I liked how even though they were from four different authors the stories flowed perfectly together. I really enjoyed how the primary focus was Christmas, coming home and family, but most importantly forgiveness. I would highly recommend this book and I guarantee it will put you in the mood for the holidays.
September 30, 2016
This set of stories are clean reads that have God in them. The book is told in four parts. Each part deals with a sister and what is going on in her life as the whole book continues. It was done wonderfully.
The first story is All I want for Christmas by Sandra Bricker and is about the youngest sister (of four) returning to her home for Christmas and wishes big wishes! It felt very festive with the tree cutting tradition and reliving her youthful Christmas past. She also finds herself facing the past in more than one way. It's a great start to this book.
Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell writes the second part of this book which is Bella's world. It was good getting to know her life and the big choices she's had to make. Choosing London or the man she loves and her childhood memories is one tough choice. I enjoyed both Christmas traditions told from Davids side and Bellas. There is more praying and talking with God in order to help make the right choices. The old letters the mother never opened were a wonderful addition to the story.
Please Come Home for Christmas by Lenora Worth starts the third part off with a letter from Sophie's father (all the girls get one and start the stories with them) and it seemed to hold more something the other letters had not. I can't put my finger on it but it felt like she needed it the most. She comes home for Christmas and looses control of her car on the icy road to be found by her old crush who still has that effect on her. I thought it was a happy reconnection.
The fourth part of the story is I'll be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott. Amy also finds love unexpectedly. The least likely to sell the family farm was given a new reason to keep it. I loved on this book ended and the compromised reached.
The first story is All I want for Christmas by Sandra Bricker and is about the youngest sister (of four) returning to her home for Christmas and wishes big wishes! It felt very festive with the tree cutting tradition and reliving her youthful Christmas past. She also finds herself facing the past in more than one way. It's a great start to this book.
Her Old Kentucky Home by Lynette Sowell writes the second part of this book which is Bella's world. It was good getting to know her life and the big choices she's had to make. Choosing London or the man she loves and her childhood memories is one tough choice. I enjoyed both Christmas traditions told from Davids side and Bellas. There is more praying and talking with God in order to help make the right choices. The old letters the mother never opened were a wonderful addition to the story.
Please Come Home for Christmas by Lenora Worth starts the third part off with a letter from Sophie's father (all the girls get one and start the stories with them) and it seemed to hold more something the other letters had not. I can't put my finger on it but it felt like she needed it the most. She comes home for Christmas and looses control of her car on the icy road to be found by her old crush who still has that effect on her. I thought it was a happy reconnection.
The fourth part of the story is I'll be Home for Christmas by Barbara J. Scott. Amy also finds love unexpectedly. The least likely to sell the family farm was given a new reason to keep it. I loved on this book ended and the compromised reached.
October 19, 2016
My 4.5 stars, RTBR TOP PICK review:
These four authors pull together compelling and charming stories of four very different sisters on the verge of important decisions, giving readers a hopeful and sweetly romantic reinforcement of the power of family, prayer and faith. Each novella moves through lighthearted moments as well as introspective ones, offering a balance that maintains interest while taking the family issues seriously. This collection is sure to please readers during the holiday season and beyond.
Joanna returns to her childhood home when her long-absent father passes away and warms to the idea of a last Christmas together with her sisters before repairing and selling the horse farm the women inherited. Her enthusiastic attempts to convince Bella, Amy and Sophie to spend the holiday in Kentucky bear fruit with the help of her longtime crush Jed, now employed by the farm. The young women bring emotional baggage that just might find resolution and healing in the hands of God and their shared memories of their parents’ love.
https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...
These four authors pull together compelling and charming stories of four very different sisters on the verge of important decisions, giving readers a hopeful and sweetly romantic reinforcement of the power of family, prayer and faith. Each novella moves through lighthearted moments as well as introspective ones, offering a balance that maintains interest while taking the family issues seriously. This collection is sure to please readers during the holiday season and beyond.
Joanna returns to her childhood home when her long-absent father passes away and warms to the idea of a last Christmas together with her sisters before repairing and selling the horse farm the women inherited. Her enthusiastic attempts to convince Bella, Amy and Sophie to spend the holiday in Kentucky bear fruit with the help of her longtime crush Jed, now employed by the farm. The young women bring emotional baggage that just might find resolution and healing in the hands of God and their shared memories of their parents’ love.
https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...
October 22, 2016
Sleigh Bells Ring is more than Four Contemporary Romance Novellas as billed by the publisher. Sandra D. Bricker, Barbara J. Scott, Lynette Sowell and Lenora Worth have written four connected stories about sisters returning to a Kentucky horse farm. All four stories mesh together perfectly concerning the four sisters. The authors do not miss a beat on the wintry fields or the beautiful horse farm area. The stories flow seamless from one sister to another making it difficult to choose a favorite. All four are wonderfully written with well-developed characters who remain the same as the focus on each sister changes, especially Aunt Sarah.
A lovely series of novellas that remind us that the Christmas Season can be a time of forgiveness as much as it is a time of family, friends – old and new, along with love. A delight holiday read.
4.5 Stars
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
A lovely series of novellas that remind us that the Christmas Season can be a time of forgiveness as much as it is a time of family, friends – old and new, along with love. A delight holiday read.
4.5 Stars
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
October 22, 2016
This book is absolutely amazing. Too be honest I thought like many other box sets I have read that the books would be different stories. So when I got to the end of book 1 I literally screamed " This is it?????" They can't end it like this. WHEW was I relieved when book two continued the story from another sister's point of view. I couldn't read this book fast enough. I considered calling in sick to teach water classes just so I could finish it but my legs needed the water too bad to miss it. I strongly debated it though. I am sure this book will be one that I read each year at the holiday season to get me into the spirit. I think this was the first book I have read by the other 3 authors. I will definitely be looking at their other books and purchasing some to read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 25, 2016
Extraordinary - yes that is what I would say in one word - extraordinary. The book is four novellas - one for each sister - each story intertwines with each other - it flows from one to the other and not many can say that - it is about loss and how to deal with the loss and how different each character deals with the loss. Your heart strings are tugged at, and then your heart jumps a few times when romance is approached as well - you cheer for the sisters and you actually find yourselves being protective of each one of them. You are like a family member - like a fifth sister, and you hate seeing them hurt, and this guy or that guy had better not hurt her. It really is an incredible book - believe me - you will not be disappointed in this book - it is worth your time. I received a copy of this book for an honest review
November 6, 2016
First, I love each novella and that they are great Christmas reads. Sometimes it is nice to have short books that are written so well that you are able to read it in one sitting before you fall asleep at night! Who doesn't love falling asleep to a great read?
Second, you'll fall head over heels in love with the life on the ranch and the Tucker sisters stories. They sure have challenges, like all sisters, but will it stop them from having a wonderful Christmas? The answer is grab the book, start reading and get ready for Christmas!
Third, I am giving a copy away! I loved this book so much and give it a 5/5 star review, I think someone should win a copy. Wynn Wynn Media is so awesome in providing me a copy and I think you should have a copy too! I was not required to write a favorable review, the opinion's expressed here is my own.
Second, you'll fall head over heels in love with the life on the ranch and the Tucker sisters stories. They sure have challenges, like all sisters, but will it stop them from having a wonderful Christmas? The answer is grab the book, start reading and get ready for Christmas!
Third, I am giving a copy away! I loved this book so much and give it a 5/5 star review, I think someone should win a copy. Wynn Wynn Media is so awesome in providing me a copy and I think you should have a copy too! I was not required to write a favorable review, the opinion's expressed here is my own.
October 24, 2016
I would love to give this book a higher rating because the beginning is good and though the ending is a little unbelievable, it is good too. I almost put this book down during the second part of the book. Each part is about 1 of the 4 Tucker sisters and after the wonderful start to the book, it gets boring real quickly. The third part starts getting better and the fourth part is again wonderful.
If you can make it through the second part of the book, titled Her Old Kentucky Home which is about Bella, then you should have no problem with this book.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
If you can make it through the second part of the book, titled Her Old Kentucky Home which is about Bella, then you should have no problem with this book.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
September 28, 2016
Received this book from Netgally for my honest review.
I have read books from Sandra D. Bricker before and I have loved her stories! This book is a very easy read and it is about 4 sisters with their point of view and how they come together as a family again. I wish that this book would have been longer and that there was more of a connection with me and the characters. Things seemed rushed and in parts. It was hard to go from author to author as they have different writing styles. BUT all in all I truly did like the book and each "story" ended with a happily every after.
I have read books from Sandra D. Bricker before and I have loved her stories! This book is a very easy read and it is about 4 sisters with their point of view and how they come together as a family again. I wish that this book would have been longer and that there was more of a connection with me and the characters. Things seemed rushed and in parts. It was hard to go from author to author as they have different writing styles. BUT all in all I truly did like the book and each "story" ended with a happily every after.
October 16, 2016
Sleigh Bells Ring is four beautifully written novellas. I really enjoyed these four wonderful stories it is the perfect time of year. Each novella tells one of the sisters story. This is a must read when it is cold outside and you need to relax. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from publisher via NetGalley.
October 22, 2016
Can a family go home again and resolve the past. These sisters go back to the farm they grew up on and find a path out of the past to the future. Enjoyed the story interconnecting the sisters and their journey. Find a comfortable chair to settle in for good read.
Ebook from Netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are my own.
Ebook from Netgalley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are my own.
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