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All I Want For Christmas
“5-B POPPY LANE” by Debbie Macomber
Come visit with Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. They'll offer you a cup of mulled cider and the story of how they met—and they'll share Helen's breathtaking adventures during the Second World War.
“KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE” by Bella Andre
For Mary Sullivan Christmas has always been about family. As she hangs her ornaments, she's swept back to the first days of her whirlwind romance with her husband--and the love that would be the foundation on which they built their family.
“FINDING EACH OTHER” by Melody Anne
Brayden Steele gave up his love of Christmas many years ago when he lost his mother and father in a car wreck. But just because he no longer believes in Santa Clause, doesn’t mean the magic has given up on him.
“BEFORE THAT PROMISE” by Violet Duke
If anyone can make Drew Lawson believe in the magic of Christmas, it's the mind-wreckingly beautiful Skylar Sullivan. She's the girl-next-door he'd classified as completely off-limits two years ago--and she's standing on his doorstep on Christmas Eve.
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
On the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, Big Mac and Linda McCarthy take a look back at how they came to be, while each of their children confront a new challenge in their own lives. Come to Gansett Island to celebrate the holidays and the anniversary of the island’s most loved couple!
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Welcome to Dundee, Idaho, where the town is small but the hearts of the people living in it are large. A woman seeking refuge in an unfamiliar town during a snowstorm is taken in by a man who helps her discover a new sense of home. But Ken Holbrook provides more than safety and comfort because with him, she also finds love.
“UNMATCHABLE” by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
After Jane Osborne is unceremoniously dumped by a rich man, and then invited to his wedding, on (Christmas Eve no less), she decides to hire a date from Craigslist and pass him off as an upgrade.
“CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY” by Jane Porter
When his goddaughter, Daisy, is orphaned, confirmed bachelor Cormac Sheenan adopts her. All goes well until Marietta's seasonal Santa Claus promises his daughter a mommy for Christmas. Cormac is livid, until his old flame Whitney Alder comes back to town.…
“CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA” by Melanie Shawn
For the movie star and the single mom, will a Christmas Wish become their new reality?
“A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE” by RaeAnne Thayne
Widow and caterer Jenna Wheeler is determined to spin Christmas into the stuff of magic for her four children, even if that means helping out her new landlord, sexy billionaire Carson McRaven. At first, Carson wants nothing to do with Jenna, children or the holidays, but he has a little to learn about the spirit of Christmas.
"THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" by Melinda Curtis
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25--until the gorgeous redhead subbing for his limo driver takes him on a detour.
“GINGERBREAD DREAMS” by Anna J. Stewart
Can carpenter Hamish MacFadden show free-spirit Essie Goodman how magical family--and Christmas--can be?
Come visit with Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. They'll offer you a cup of mulled cider and the story of how they met—and they'll share Helen's breathtaking adventures during the Second World War.
“KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE” by Bella Andre
For Mary Sullivan Christmas has always been about family. As she hangs her ornaments, she's swept back to the first days of her whirlwind romance with her husband--and the love that would be the foundation on which they built their family.
“FINDING EACH OTHER” by Melody Anne
Brayden Steele gave up his love of Christmas many years ago when he lost his mother and father in a car wreck. But just because he no longer believes in Santa Clause, doesn’t mean the magic has given up on him.
“BEFORE THAT PROMISE” by Violet Duke
If anyone can make Drew Lawson believe in the magic of Christmas, it's the mind-wreckingly beautiful Skylar Sullivan. She's the girl-next-door he'd classified as completely off-limits two years ago--and she's standing on his doorstep on Christmas Eve.
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
On the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, Big Mac and Linda McCarthy take a look back at how they came to be, while each of their children confront a new challenge in their own lives. Come to Gansett Island to celebrate the holidays and the anniversary of the island’s most loved couple!
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Welcome to Dundee, Idaho, where the town is small but the hearts of the people living in it are large. A woman seeking refuge in an unfamiliar town during a snowstorm is taken in by a man who helps her discover a new sense of home. But Ken Holbrook provides more than safety and comfort because with him, she also finds love.
“UNMATCHABLE” by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
After Jane Osborne is unceremoniously dumped by a rich man, and then invited to his wedding, on (Christmas Eve no less), she decides to hire a date from Craigslist and pass him off as an upgrade.
“CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY” by Jane Porter
When his goddaughter, Daisy, is orphaned, confirmed bachelor Cormac Sheenan adopts her. All goes well until Marietta's seasonal Santa Claus promises his daughter a mommy for Christmas. Cormac is livid, until his old flame Whitney Alder comes back to town.…
“CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA” by Melanie Shawn
For the movie star and the single mom, will a Christmas Wish become their new reality?
“A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE” by RaeAnne Thayne
Widow and caterer Jenna Wheeler is determined to spin Christmas into the stuff of magic for her four children, even if that means helping out her new landlord, sexy billionaire Carson McRaven. At first, Carson wants nothing to do with Jenna, children or the holidays, but he has a little to learn about the spirit of Christmas.
"THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" by Melinda Curtis
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25--until the gorgeous redhead subbing for his limo driver takes him on a detour.
“GINGERBREAD DREAMS” by Anna J. Stewart
Can carpenter Hamish MacFadden show free-spirit Essie Goodman how magical family--and Christmas--can be?
1750 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
134 people are currently reading
787 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
906 books20.7k followersDebbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
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January 3, 2018
Love is in the air this Christmas
Brenda Novak out did herself with this anthology of authors she put together. All of the stories are amazing. I don’t know which I liked best! I loved this book. Bravo ladies!
Brenda Novak out did herself with this anthology of authors she put together. All of the stories are amazing. I don’t know which I liked best! I loved this book. Bravo ladies!
October 22, 2016
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS is a collection of 14 Christmas novellas combined to benefit diabetes research. I will be reading each novella and adding to my review below as I finish.
A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS by Brenda Novak
I am a big fan of Brenda Novak’s writing and have read all of her Whiskey Creek series as well as both books in the Fairham series and both books in the Evelyn Talbot series. She is on my short list of authors who I will one-click their books without hesitation.
Ms. Novak writes in such a way that you instantly connect with the characters. By the middle of the book you are completely invested in their story. This book is the first one I have read in her Dundee series, but I will definitely be reading more of them. Cierra was left with nothing after the man she planned to marry died. With no other options, she accepts an offer to move to Dundee, Idaho. Once there she is caught in a snow storm and ends up on the Ken Holbrook’s doorstep. He knows there is more to her story than what she is telling him and after finding out more, he is determined to help her. This was a sweet love story that didn’t feel rushed like most novellas tend to do.
Once again, Ms. Novak has drawn me in and further solidified herself as one of my favorite authors!
CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA by Melanie Shawn
This is the first time I have ever read anything by Melanie Shawn. I really enjoyed Kyle, Aurora and Angel’s story! Kyle is an A-list actor who stars in the top movies and happens to be Angel’s favorite actor. Angel’s mom knows this and gets in touch with Kyle’s manager to try and set up and meet-and-greet for her daughter to boost her spirit. The moment they meet, everything changes.
This was a sweet novella and the characters were so likeable. You find yourself rooting for them from the beginning! I will definitely be reading the rest of the books in this series!
CRUEL INTENTIONS by Scarlett York
Wow! Where to start with this review?! Jessa and her mom Courtney don't live a life of glitz and glam. Instead they live paycheck-to-paycheck barely making enough to survive and keep a roof over their heads. Suddenly, Jessa finds herself without her mom and thrust into a world she couldn't imagine.
This was a quick read and it kept my attention. It does end in a cliff-hanger of sorts with so many unanswered questions! I will definitely be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS by Brenda Novak
I am a big fan of Brenda Novak’s writing and have read all of her Whiskey Creek series as well as both books in the Fairham series and both books in the Evelyn Talbot series. She is on my short list of authors who I will one-click their books without hesitation.
Ms. Novak writes in such a way that you instantly connect with the characters. By the middle of the book you are completely invested in their story. This book is the first one I have read in her Dundee series, but I will definitely be reading more of them. Cierra was left with nothing after the man she planned to marry died. With no other options, she accepts an offer to move to Dundee, Idaho. Once there she is caught in a snow storm and ends up on the Ken Holbrook’s doorstep. He knows there is more to her story than what she is telling him and after finding out more, he is determined to help her. This was a sweet love story that didn’t feel rushed like most novellas tend to do.
Once again, Ms. Novak has drawn me in and further solidified herself as one of my favorite authors!
CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA by Melanie Shawn
This is the first time I have ever read anything by Melanie Shawn. I really enjoyed Kyle, Aurora and Angel’s story! Kyle is an A-list actor who stars in the top movies and happens to be Angel’s favorite actor. Angel’s mom knows this and gets in touch with Kyle’s manager to try and set up and meet-and-greet for her daughter to boost her spirit. The moment they meet, everything changes.
This was a sweet novella and the characters were so likeable. You find yourself rooting for them from the beginning! I will definitely be reading the rest of the books in this series!
CRUEL INTENTIONS by Scarlett York
Wow! Where to start with this review?! Jessa and her mom Courtney don't live a life of glitz and glam. Instead they live paycheck-to-paycheck barely making enough to survive and keep a roof over their heads. Suddenly, Jessa finds herself without her mom and thrust into a world she couldn't imagine.
This was a quick read and it kept my attention. It does end in a cliff-hanger of sorts with so many unanswered questions! I will definitely be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
October 22, 2016
Who doesn't love a good Christmas story? This anthology is filled with wonderful feel good novella's that will put you in the Christmas spirit. The best part? All the proceeds from the sale of this book go to fund Diabetes research.
The collection includes KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE, by Bella Andre. If you are familiar with her books, you know about the Sullivan family. The Sullivan's have 8 children, and each has had their story told. I have always wanted to know Mary and Jack's story, how they came to be together and raise their beautiful family. It starts out with Mary putting the ornaments her family made on the Christmas tree. As she puts them on the tree, she remember meeting Jack, and looks back at their lives together. You will love it!
Also in this collection is A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS, by Brenda Novak. I am a big fan of Ms. Novak's work, and thought I had read all of the books in the Dundee series. I must have missed one, because it is a surprising trip back to the wonderful town of Dundee, Idaho! We meet Cierra, who comes to the U.S. to marry a stranger, so that she can help her sisters in Guatemala. This is Cierra's story, which includes a visit from some of the people we have met in the series. This story is heartwarming and a wonderful addition to the Dundee series.
One great thing about anthologies is, you can sample work from authors you haven't read before. I especially enjoyed reading CRUEL INTENTIONS by Scarlett York. I have never read her work, and enjoyed her writing style. This story features Courtney and all of the twist and turns of her life. It is a good read that left me wanting more!
I highly recommend this collection, because it is for a good cause, and being Christmas stories, how can you go wrong?
The collection includes KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE, by Bella Andre. If you are familiar with her books, you know about the Sullivan family. The Sullivan's have 8 children, and each has had their story told. I have always wanted to know Mary and Jack's story, how they came to be together and raise their beautiful family. It starts out with Mary putting the ornaments her family made on the Christmas tree. As she puts them on the tree, she remember meeting Jack, and looks back at their lives together. You will love it!
Also in this collection is A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS, by Brenda Novak. I am a big fan of Ms. Novak's work, and thought I had read all of the books in the Dundee series. I must have missed one, because it is a surprising trip back to the wonderful town of Dundee, Idaho! We meet Cierra, who comes to the U.S. to marry a stranger, so that she can help her sisters in Guatemala. This is Cierra's story, which includes a visit from some of the people we have met in the series. This story is heartwarming and a wonderful addition to the Dundee series.
One great thing about anthologies is, you can sample work from authors you haven't read before. I especially enjoyed reading CRUEL INTENTIONS by Scarlett York. I have never read her work, and enjoyed her writing style. This story features Courtney and all of the twist and turns of her life. It is a good read that left me wanting more!
I highly recommend this collection, because it is for a good cause, and being Christmas stories, how can you go wrong?
December 1, 2016
The book is ok, but some of the stories got a little boring. I know it's for a wonderful cause that I fully support, but perhaps fewer stories with more depth would have been more effective.
January 1, 2017
As with all anthologies, some were great and others not so good.
January 1, 2017
As one would expect, this compendium of 14 novellas and short stories included several that were excellent reads and a few that were not very good. Considered all together, I guess they average 3 Stars. Here are my thoughts on the stories:
“KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE” by Bella Andre
Two Stars: Too long and too much detail. I quit at about ¾ .
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Four Stars: A Good short story – abrupt resolution, but that happens in short stories.
“5-B POPPY LANE CEDAR COVE by Debbie Macomber
Four Stars: This short story is quite involving; perhaps too much drama for a short story, but very interesting after one suspends belief
“SPIRIT OF THE SEASON” by Heather Graham”
Four Stars: Well-written, heartwarming, but a little sappy and unrealistic in places
CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY” by Jane Porter.
Four Stars: Well-written, interesting
“UNMATCHABLE” by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
Two Stars: I mostly skip-read this one – not very interesting
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
Two Stars: This one jumped from one story to another and the characters were hard to keep straight. There didn’t seem to be any coherence and direction to build any suspense; consequently, I just didn’t get involved or care how the story ended. I finally just skipped to the next story. I upped the rating to two stars based on the smooth writing style (structure and vocabulary.)
“CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA” by Melanie Shawn
Two Stars: Too long; too many pointless sex scenes; minimal plot. I upped the rating to two stars based on the fact that the writing is structurally sound and effectively edited
FINDING EACH OTHER” by Melody Anne
One Star: I almost quit reading after this sentence in the first chapter: “She’d went through the motions of life…” I decided that this egregious verb-tense error COULD indicate a simple cut-and-paste gaffe instead of extremely poor writing and editing, so I read on (overlooking the numerous comma errors.) After the second chapter I realized that the story was very shallow and formulaic, filled with clichés and mundane vocabulary. I moved on to the next story in the collection.
“THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE” by RaeAnne Thayne
Four Stars: I enjoyed this novella; it is well-written, the characters are thoroughly developed and interesting, and the writing style is smooth and highly readable.
“BEFORE THAT PROMISE” by Violet Duke
Two Stars: The author's studiedly-effusive writing style became irritating to me eventually. Every noun had two or three over-the-top adjectives preceding it, and every verb was similarly modified. This practice led to long and confusing sentences as well as an adolescent feel to the story. The two chapters I read also contained several glaring verb-tense errors.
“GINGERBREAD DREAMS” by Anna J. Stewart
Three Stars: This novella is interesting and mostly well-written. It could use a little revising for clarity and sentence structure as well as a little editing for grammar and punctuation.
"THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" by Melinda Curtis
Four Stars: this well-written novels does an amazing job of providing fully-drawn and likable characters in a very short format.
“CRUEL INTENTIONS” by Scarlett York
Three Stars: The novela has an inusual plot fairly skillfully presented, however the final product would have been smoother and more effective had the author or her editor done one more draft to eliminate simple cut-and-paste errors and grammar errors.
“KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE” by Bella Andre
Two Stars: Too long and too much detail. I quit at about ¾ .
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Four Stars: A Good short story – abrupt resolution, but that happens in short stories.
“5-B POPPY LANE CEDAR COVE by Debbie Macomber
Four Stars: This short story is quite involving; perhaps too much drama for a short story, but very interesting after one suspends belief
“SPIRIT OF THE SEASON” by Heather Graham”
Four Stars: Well-written, heartwarming, but a little sappy and unrealistic in places
CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY” by Jane Porter.
Four Stars: Well-written, interesting
“UNMATCHABLE” by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
Two Stars: I mostly skip-read this one – not very interesting
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
Two Stars: This one jumped from one story to another and the characters were hard to keep straight. There didn’t seem to be any coherence and direction to build any suspense; consequently, I just didn’t get involved or care how the story ended. I finally just skipped to the next story. I upped the rating to two stars based on the smooth writing style (structure and vocabulary.)
“CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA” by Melanie Shawn
Two Stars: Too long; too many pointless sex scenes; minimal plot. I upped the rating to two stars based on the fact that the writing is structurally sound and effectively edited
FINDING EACH OTHER” by Melody Anne
One Star: I almost quit reading after this sentence in the first chapter: “She’d went through the motions of life…” I decided that this egregious verb-tense error COULD indicate a simple cut-and-paste gaffe instead of extremely poor writing and editing, so I read on (overlooking the numerous comma errors.) After the second chapter I realized that the story was very shallow and formulaic, filled with clichés and mundane vocabulary. I moved on to the next story in the collection.
“THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE” by RaeAnne Thayne
Four Stars: I enjoyed this novella; it is well-written, the characters are thoroughly developed and interesting, and the writing style is smooth and highly readable.
“BEFORE THAT PROMISE” by Violet Duke
Two Stars: The author's studiedly-effusive writing style became irritating to me eventually. Every noun had two or three over-the-top adjectives preceding it, and every verb was similarly modified. This practice led to long and confusing sentences as well as an adolescent feel to the story. The two chapters I read also contained several glaring verb-tense errors.
“GINGERBREAD DREAMS” by Anna J. Stewart
Three Stars: This novella is interesting and mostly well-written. It could use a little revising for clarity and sentence structure as well as a little editing for grammar and punctuation.
"THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" by Melinda Curtis
Four Stars: this well-written novels does an amazing job of providing fully-drawn and likable characters in a very short format.
“CRUEL INTENTIONS” by Scarlett York
Three Stars: The novela has an inusual plot fairly skillfully presented, however the final product would have been smoother and more effective had the author or her editor done one more draft to eliminate simple cut-and-paste errors and grammar errors.
October 25, 2016
Reviews for A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS by Brenda Novak, FINDING EACH OTHER by Melody Anne and GINGERBREAD DREAMS by Anna J. Stewart from ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS box set. These 3 novellas are free ARCS for an honest review.
A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS: Cierra Romero, an immigrant from Guatemala, was on her way to Dundee to find the man who is going to save her and her family. The man she was suppose to marry died of a stroke just before the wedding in a "mail order" type arrangement. Her fiance's "ex" stepped in and "sent" Cierra to her brother in Dundee. Cierra lost her way once she reached Dundee and ended up at cabin of Ken Holbrook, a former NFL player.
When Ken discovered who Cierra's "intended" was, he stepped in to help her out. In the meantime, he started falling for the Guatemalan beauty. Ken found Cierra a safe place to live as a nanny, but continued to spend time with Cierra hoping to build a loving relationship with her.
FINDING EACH OTHER: Cora and Brayden were a couple a decade ago, but Brayden left Cora for another life. When Brayden reappears suddenly, Cora is suspicious. Brayden wants to pick up where they left off, but Cora's heart is still bruised. Can Brayden topple Cora's carefully built walls?
GINGERBREAD DREAMS: Essie lives in a "Gingerbread" trailer and is on her way to the "job of a lifetime" when her car breaks down outside Hamish MacFadden's homestead in northern California. The dream job is a Nutcracker type wedding in Lake Tahoe on Christmas day and Essie is to create a Nutcracker gingerbread castle. But a sudden storm and Hamish's wonderful family (6 nieces and nephews he is raising, along with his father ) sneak into Essie's heart. Hamish proves to be a loving father figure for the kids, but Essie is leery of letting the man enter her heart. When the time comes to move on, will Essie be able to leave this delightful man and his family?
This box set is filled with Christmas novellas and the profits benefit diabetes. Although novellas are not my favorite (I'm just getting into the story when it ends), I totally enjoyed these 3 novellas and look forward to reading the other entries when I get my set.
A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS: Cierra Romero, an immigrant from Guatemala, was on her way to Dundee to find the man who is going to save her and her family. The man she was suppose to marry died of a stroke just before the wedding in a "mail order" type arrangement. Her fiance's "ex" stepped in and "sent" Cierra to her brother in Dundee. Cierra lost her way once she reached Dundee and ended up at cabin of Ken Holbrook, a former NFL player.
When Ken discovered who Cierra's "intended" was, he stepped in to help her out. In the meantime, he started falling for the Guatemalan beauty. Ken found Cierra a safe place to live as a nanny, but continued to spend time with Cierra hoping to build a loving relationship with her.
FINDING EACH OTHER: Cora and Brayden were a couple a decade ago, but Brayden left Cora for another life. When Brayden reappears suddenly, Cora is suspicious. Brayden wants to pick up where they left off, but Cora's heart is still bruised. Can Brayden topple Cora's carefully built walls?
GINGERBREAD DREAMS: Essie lives in a "Gingerbread" trailer and is on her way to the "job of a lifetime" when her car breaks down outside Hamish MacFadden's homestead in northern California. The dream job is a Nutcracker type wedding in Lake Tahoe on Christmas day and Essie is to create a Nutcracker gingerbread castle. But a sudden storm and Hamish's wonderful family (6 nieces and nephews he is raising, along with his father ) sneak into Essie's heart. Hamish proves to be a loving father figure for the kids, but Essie is leery of letting the man enter her heart. When the time comes to move on, will Essie be able to leave this delightful man and his family?
This box set is filled with Christmas novellas and the profits benefit diabetes. Although novellas are not my favorite (I'm just getting into the story when it ends), I totally enjoyed these 3 novellas and look forward to reading the other entries when I get my set.
November 1, 2016
All I Want For Christmas by Debbie Macomber, Bella Andre, Melody Anne, Violet Duke, Marie Force, Brenda Novak, Laurelin Paige, Jane Porter, Melanie Shawn, RaeAnne Thayne
(14 Christmas Novellas to Benefit Diabetes Research)
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Welcome to Dundee, Idaho, where the town is small but the hearts of the people living in it are large. A woman seeking refuge in an unfamiliar town during a snowstorm is taken in by a man who helps her discover a new sense of home.
A darling story of an almost mail order bride forced to find other work to support herself, while hoping that she would not be forced back home to Guatemala because of her immigration status. She finds warmth and comfort and maybe love in the town of Dundee.
Touching and satisfying for the holiday season.
this is Cierra Romero and Ken's story.
Cierra Romero came to the States from Guatemala on a visa to marry a much older man. However, her fiance has died.
KEN COULDN’T HELP wondering what Cierra had thought of Tiffany’s visit. She wouldn’t
look at him as she served breakfast, so he knew she’d heard their conversation.
will Cierra and Ken be more than friends? read this story to find out.
Dundee stories:
Book 1: A Baby Of Her Own
Book 2: A Husband Of Her Own
Book 3: A Family Of Her Own
Book 4: A Home Of Her Own
Book 5: Stranger In Town
Book 6: Big Girls Don’t Cry
Book 7: The Other Woman
Book 8: Coulda Been A Cowboy
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
On the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, Big Mac and Linda McCarthy take a look back at how they came to be, while each of their children confront a new challenge in their own lives.
this is Mac and Linda McCarthy's story.
Come to Gansett Island to celebrate the holidays and the anniversary of the island's most loved couple!
McCarthys of Gansett Island
1. Maid for Love
2. Fool for Love
3. Ready for Love
4. Falling for Love
5. Hoping for Love
6. Season for Love
7. Longing for Love
8. Waiting for Love
9. Time for Love
10. Meant for Love
10.5. Chance for Love
11. Gansett After Dark
12. Kisses After Dark
13. Love After Dark
14. Celebration After Dark
15. Desire After Dark
and THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Melinda Curtis.
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25--until the gorgeous redhead subbing for his limo driver takes him on a detour.
this is Emma Roberts and Simon's story.
Emma Roberts fills in as the limo driver for hotel owner, Simon Castles.
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25.
will Simon and Emma be more than friends? read this story to find out.
Marrying the Single Dad
(Harmony Valley, book 8)
You May Now Kiss the Bridesmaid
(Bridesmaids, book 4)
A Heartwarming Holiday
An omnibus of novels by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, Amie Denman, Cheryl Harper, Tara Taylor Quinn, Tara Randel, Leigh Riker, Carol Ross, Anna J Stewart, Amy Vastine and Cari Lynn Webb
Love, Special Delivery
(Harmony Valley, book 9
I highly recommend.
All I Want For Christmas by Debbie Macomber, Bella Andre, Melody Anne, Violet Duke, Marie Force, Brenda Novak, Laurelin Paige, Jane Porter, Melanie Shawn, RaeAnne Thayne is a 5 stars book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of these three stories."
more stories from All I Want For Christmas by Debbie Macomber Bella Andre Melody Anne Violet Duke Marie Force Brenda Novak Laurelin Paige Jane Porter Melanie Shawn RaeAnne Thayne
(14 Christmas Novellas
“5-B POPPY LANE” by Debbie Macomber
Come visit with Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. They'll offer you a cup of mulled cider and the story of how they met.
“KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE” by Bella Andre
For Mary Sullivan Christmas has always been about family. As she hangs her ornaments, she's swept back to the first days of her whirlwind romance with her husband--and the love that would be the foundation on which they built their family.
“FINDING EACH OTHER” by Melody Anne
Brayden Steele gave up his love of Christmas many years ago when he lost his mother and father in a car wreck. But the magic hasn’t given up on him.
“BEFORE THAT PROMISE” by Violet Duke
If anyone can make Drew Lawson believe in the magic of Christmas, it's the girl-next-door he's classified as completely off-limits.
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
On the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, Big Mac and Linda McCarthy take a look back at how they came to be, while each of their children confront a new challenge in their own lives.
“SPIRIT OF THE SEASON” by Heather Graham”
While struggling to raise her newly orphaned nephew, Davey, widow Becky Wexham must deal with the feelings she experiences when she once again comes into contact with Tim Yeagher, an old flame and Davey's Little League coach.
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Welcome to Dundee, Idaho, where the town is small but the hearts of the people living in it are large. A woman seeking refuge in an unfamiliar town during a snowstorm is taken in by a man who helps her discover a new sense of home.
“UNMATCHABLE” by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
After Jane Osborne is unceremoniously dumped by a rich man, and then invited to his wedding, on (Christmas Eve no less), she decides to hire a date from Craigslist and pass him off as an upgrade.
“CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY” by Jane Porter
When his goddaughter, Daisy, is orphaned, confirmed bachelor Cormac Sheenan adopts her. All goes well until Marietta's seasonal Santa Claus promises his daughter a mommy for Christmas.
“CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA” by Melanie Shawn
For the movie star and the single mom, will a Christmas Wish become their new reality?
“A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE” by RaeAnne Thayne
Widow and caterer Jenna Wheeler is determined to spin Christmas into the stuff of magic for her four children, even if that means helping out her new landlord, sexy billionaire Carson McRaven..
"THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" by Melinda Curtis
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25--until the gorgeous redhead subbing for his limo driver takes him on a detour.
“GINGERBREAD DREAMS” by Anna J. Stewart
Can carpenter Hamish MacFadden show free-spirit Essie Goodman how magical family--and Christmas--can be?
“CRUEL INTENTIONS” by Scarlett York
For fans of Pretty Little Liars…It’s hard to be a rhinestone in a diamond world...I was far from living the dream, but now I'm stuck in a nightmare of lies, deceit....and murder. Merry Christmas to me.
(14 Christmas Novellas to Benefit Diabetes Research)
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Welcome to Dundee, Idaho, where the town is small but the hearts of the people living in it are large. A woman seeking refuge in an unfamiliar town during a snowstorm is taken in by a man who helps her discover a new sense of home.
A darling story of an almost mail order bride forced to find other work to support herself, while hoping that she would not be forced back home to Guatemala because of her immigration status. She finds warmth and comfort and maybe love in the town of Dundee.
Touching and satisfying for the holiday season.
this is Cierra Romero and Ken's story.
Cierra Romero came to the States from Guatemala on a visa to marry a much older man. However, her fiance has died.
KEN COULDN’T HELP wondering what Cierra had thought of Tiffany’s visit. She wouldn’t
look at him as she served breakfast, so he knew she’d heard their conversation.
will Cierra and Ken be more than friends? read this story to find out.
Dundee stories:
Book 1: A Baby Of Her Own
Book 2: A Husband Of Her Own
Book 3: A Family Of Her Own
Book 4: A Home Of Her Own
Book 5: Stranger In Town
Book 6: Big Girls Don’t Cry
Book 7: The Other Woman
Book 8: Coulda Been A Cowboy
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
On the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, Big Mac and Linda McCarthy take a look back at how they came to be, while each of their children confront a new challenge in their own lives.
this is Mac and Linda McCarthy's story.
Come to Gansett Island to celebrate the holidays and the anniversary of the island's most loved couple!
McCarthys of Gansett Island
1. Maid for Love
2. Fool for Love
3. Ready for Love
4. Falling for Love
5. Hoping for Love
6. Season for Love
7. Longing for Love
8. Waiting for Love
9. Time for Love
10. Meant for Love
10.5. Chance for Love
11. Gansett After Dark
12. Kisses After Dark
13. Love After Dark
14. Celebration After Dark
15. Desire After Dark
and THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Melinda Curtis.
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25--until the gorgeous redhead subbing for his limo driver takes him on a detour.
this is Emma Roberts and Simon's story.
Emma Roberts fills in as the limo driver for hotel owner, Simon Castles.
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25.
will Simon and Emma be more than friends? read this story to find out.
Marrying the Single Dad
(Harmony Valley, book 8)
You May Now Kiss the Bridesmaid
(Bridesmaids, book 4)
A Heartwarming Holiday
An omnibus of novels by Anna Adams, Melinda Curtis, Amie Denman, Cheryl Harper, Tara Taylor Quinn, Tara Randel, Leigh Riker, Carol Ross, Anna J Stewart, Amy Vastine and Cari Lynn Webb
Love, Special Delivery
(Harmony Valley, book 9
I highly recommend.
All I Want For Christmas by Debbie Macomber, Bella Andre, Melody Anne, Violet Duke, Marie Force, Brenda Novak, Laurelin Paige, Jane Porter, Melanie Shawn, RaeAnne Thayne is a 5 stars book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of these three stories."
more stories from All I Want For Christmas by Debbie Macomber Bella Andre Melody Anne Violet Duke Marie Force Brenda Novak Laurelin Paige Jane Porter Melanie Shawn RaeAnne Thayne
(14 Christmas Novellas
“5-B POPPY LANE” by Debbie Macomber
Come visit with Helen Shelton, her granddaughter Ruth and Ruth's husband, Paul. They'll offer you a cup of mulled cider and the story of how they met.
“KISSING UNDER THE MISTLETOE” by Bella Andre
For Mary Sullivan Christmas has always been about family. As she hangs her ornaments, she's swept back to the first days of her whirlwind romance with her husband--and the love that would be the foundation on which they built their family.
“FINDING EACH OTHER” by Melody Anne
Brayden Steele gave up his love of Christmas many years ago when he lost his mother and father in a car wreck. But the magic hasn’t given up on him.
“BEFORE THAT PROMISE” by Violet Duke
If anyone can make Drew Lawson believe in the magic of Christmas, it's the girl-next-door he's classified as completely off-limits.
“CELEBRATION AFTER DARK” by Marie Force
On the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary, Big Mac and Linda McCarthy take a look back at how they came to be, while each of their children confront a new challenge in their own lives.
“SPIRIT OF THE SEASON” by Heather Graham”
While struggling to raise her newly orphaned nephew, Davey, widow Becky Wexham must deal with the feelings she experiences when she once again comes into contact with Tim Yeagher, an old flame and Davey's Little League coach.
“A DUNDEE CHRISTMAS” by Brenda Novak
Welcome to Dundee, Idaho, where the town is small but the hearts of the people living in it are large. A woman seeking refuge in an unfamiliar town during a snowstorm is taken in by a man who helps her discover a new sense of home.
“UNMATCHABLE” by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
After Jane Osborne is unceremoniously dumped by a rich man, and then invited to his wedding, on (Christmas Eve no less), she decides to hire a date from Craigslist and pass him off as an upgrade.
“CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY” by Jane Porter
When his goddaughter, Daisy, is orphaned, confirmed bachelor Cormac Sheenan adopts her. All goes well until Marietta's seasonal Santa Claus promises his daughter a mommy for Christmas.
“CHRISTMAS WISH: A HOPE FALLS HOLIDAY NOVELLA” by Melanie Shawn
For the movie star and the single mom, will a Christmas Wish become their new reality?
“A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE” by RaeAnne Thayne
Widow and caterer Jenna Wheeler is determined to spin Christmas into the stuff of magic for her four children, even if that means helping out her new landlord, sexy billionaire Carson McRaven..
"THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS" by Melinda Curtis
Simon Castle' s on his way to a make-or-break meeting unseasonably scheduled for December 25--until the gorgeous redhead subbing for his limo driver takes him on a detour.
“GINGERBREAD DREAMS” by Anna J. Stewart
Can carpenter Hamish MacFadden show free-spirit Essie Goodman how magical family--and Christmas--can be?
“CRUEL INTENTIONS” by Scarlett York
For fans of Pretty Little Liars…It’s hard to be a rhinestone in a diamond world...I was far from living the dream, but now I'm stuck in a nightmare of lies, deceit....and murder. Merry Christmas to me.
November 5, 2016
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
Ms. Novak's contribution deals with some serious issues in a caring and heartfelt way. Cierra Romero was brought to America as a male order bride. When the groom to be dies before the wedding, Cierra needs to find a way to stay in the US, she has family in Guatemala depending on her. She finds herself at the door of Ken Holbrook, who isn'the at all sure what to do with her.
Spirit of the Season by Heather Graham
Widowed mother Becky Wexham will do whatever it takes to raise her kids. That now includes her nephew Davey, after the death of her brother. Davey had a hard year and doesn't really feel like he fits in with Becky'so kids. All he wants for Christmas is to make the travel baseball team. Becky is his biggest supporter. Little does she know that Davey wants to make the team because he thinks Becky and the coach would be the perfect couple.
Gingerbread Dreams by Anne Stewart
Hamish McFadden is taking care of his twin niece and nephew when they discover Essie Goodman in her broken down truck in front of their home. When a snowstorm strands her with Hamish's family, she finds that what she thought wanted may just not be what'she best.
This is just a sample of the wonderful stories included in the collection. Each is like taking a big bite of a Christmas cookie - leaving you hungry for more.
Ms. Novak's contribution deals with some serious issues in a caring and heartfelt way. Cierra Romero was brought to America as a male order bride. When the groom to be dies before the wedding, Cierra needs to find a way to stay in the US, she has family in Guatemala depending on her. She finds herself at the door of Ken Holbrook, who isn'the at all sure what to do with her.
Spirit of the Season by Heather Graham
Widowed mother Becky Wexham will do whatever it takes to raise her kids. That now includes her nephew Davey, after the death of her brother. Davey had a hard year and doesn't really feel like he fits in with Becky'so kids. All he wants for Christmas is to make the travel baseball team. Becky is his biggest supporter. Little does she know that Davey wants to make the team because he thinks Becky and the coach would be the perfect couple.
Gingerbread Dreams by Anne Stewart
Hamish McFadden is taking care of his twin niece and nephew when they discover Essie Goodman in her broken down truck in front of their home. When a snowstorm strands her with Hamish's family, she finds that what she thought wanted may just not be what'she best.
This is just a sample of the wonderful stories included in the collection. Each is like taking a big bite of a Christmas cookie - leaving you hungry for more.
November 1, 2016
I've read a few of these stories by my favorite authors! First of all, Brenda Novak's story, A Dundee Christmas was by far 5 stars! I loved this story of a woman down on her luck, trying to support her and her loved ones. She is rescued from a bad situation and finds more than just a job, she finds love. Such a sweet sweet story.
Christmas Wish by Melanie Shawn was a story that I couldn't put down, I stayed up late reading the whole story and am so glad I did. This story hit so close to home dealing with a sick child. Her mom does everything for her and puts her needs on the back burner as most mom's would do. When a movie star comes to meet her daughter in the hospital life completely changes for everyone and what may seem to good to be true, is just really an answer to prayer.
Cruel Intentions I didn't like as much. I had to restart the story a few times. About half way through I got involved with the story and started to enjoy it, however, it leaves you at a cliffhanger and made me mad.
This collection is amazing and supports a wonderful cause. I plan to keep reading all of these stories and will update my review as I do so!
Christmas Wish by Melanie Shawn was a story that I couldn't put down, I stayed up late reading the whole story and am so glad I did. This story hit so close to home dealing with a sick child. Her mom does everything for her and puts her needs on the back burner as most mom's would do. When a movie star comes to meet her daughter in the hospital life completely changes for everyone and what may seem to good to be true, is just really an answer to prayer.
Cruel Intentions I didn't like as much. I had to restart the story a few times. About half way through I got involved with the story and started to enjoy it, however, it leaves you at a cliffhanger and made me mad.
This collection is amazing and supports a wonderful cause. I plan to keep reading all of these stories and will update my review as I do so!
November 25, 2017
Lots of heartwarming Christmas
This had some good Christmas stories and a couple I had read before. My 2 favorites are from RaeAnne Thayne and Bella Andre who can be counted on to tug at the heart.
But there were a couple that left me a bit cold, especially Scarlett York's - in part because it wasn't a novella rather an excerpt from a book so you have this story that is rather depressing . . . and then ends, bah humbug! And it's really the reason I gave the book 3 stars, to be left without an end to a sad story on Christmas!?! It's like leaving the Christmas Carol at the point where Tiny Tim dies or where the Grinch has the sled of gifts falling off the cliff. It left me feeling very much like a Christmas cookie that had been forgotten and undecorated.
This had some good Christmas stories and a couple I had read before. My 2 favorites are from RaeAnne Thayne and Bella Andre who can be counted on to tug at the heart.
But there were a couple that left me a bit cold, especially Scarlett York's - in part because it wasn't a novella rather an excerpt from a book so you have this story that is rather depressing . . . and then ends, bah humbug! And it's really the reason I gave the book 3 stars, to be left without an end to a sad story on Christmas!?! It's like leaving the Christmas Carol at the point where Tiny Tim dies or where the Grinch has the sled of gifts falling off the cliff. It left me feeling very much like a Christmas cookie that had been forgotten and undecorated.
February 2, 2018
Holiday read
I alway enjoy purchasing books where proceeds go to charity and this one is close to my heart. My favorite story in the book series was Kissing Under The Mistletoe by Bella Andre. It was beautifully written. Tugging at my heartstrings. My least favorite was the last story included written by Scarlett York. It was the only one that ended in a cliffhanger and besides the fact that it happens in December it was the least holiday inspired story of the group. Ms. York’s writing was good and if you were interested in seeing what happens next you are out of luck as under the major retailers her books are nonexistent. All the other authors wrote lovely stories where you felt the Christmas Cheer. Skip the last story and enjoy this book series.
I alway enjoy purchasing books where proceeds go to charity and this one is close to my heart. My favorite story in the book series was Kissing Under The Mistletoe by Bella Andre. It was beautifully written. Tugging at my heartstrings. My least favorite was the last story included written by Scarlett York. It was the only one that ended in a cliffhanger and besides the fact that it happens in December it was the least holiday inspired story of the group. Ms. York’s writing was good and if you were interested in seeing what happens next you are out of luck as under the major retailers her books are nonexistent. All the other authors wrote lovely stories where you felt the Christmas Cheer. Skip the last story and enjoy this book series.
November 5, 2016
I love the holiday season and absolutely love when authors put out Christmas books!! I especially loved the book from Brenda Novak. Her Dundee series has always held a special place for me and I enjoyed getting to revisit with the characters from that series! I also really enjoyed Before That Promise by Violet Duke. I have never read any of her books but can't wait to get caught up! The story between Drew and Skylar and can't wait for the second book in their story to see how it all works out! If you are looking for a feel good set and enjoy holiday stories this is the set for you, you won't be disappointed!!
December 19, 2017
Great collection for a worthy cause
I am a type one diabetic. So this was a no brainer purchase. And come on, Debbie Macomber. The icing on the cake were other authors I have enjoyed before. Reading the stories has been a fun way to spend some evenings. I enjoyed all of the stories. And like Brenda Novak says, we all hope for a cure. Maybe not in my lifetime but maybe in her son's.
I am a type one diabetic. So this was a no brainer purchase. And come on, Debbie Macomber. The icing on the cake were other authors I have enjoyed before. Reading the stories has been a fun way to spend some evenings. I enjoyed all of the stories. And like Brenda Novak says, we all hope for a cure. Maybe not in my lifetime but maybe in her son's.
August 25, 2022
14 exceptional stories of Christmas.
Some love the season. Some have enough and more reason not to.
But in each of the stories the magic of togetherness and promise bonds the loner to the community.
Lovely pick for Christmas
Some love the season. Some have enough and more reason not to.
But in each of the stories the magic of togetherness and promise bonds the loner to the community.
Lovely pick for Christmas
June 6, 2017
Great collection from a lot of favorite authors!
December 11, 2018
Great set of stories. Great group of authors. Many of these stories are linked to series. It was wonderful getting reconnected with characters from some of my favorite series.
December 29, 2018
Great collection of Christmas Stories from some of my favorite authors, plus I was able to discover some new ones too!
February 6, 2019
For a good cause Diabetes research. All good Christmas stories.
Read
January 21, 2021Don’t want to review
November 19, 2016
A great collection of Christmas novellas put together to benefit diabetes research. The collection is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit! With 14-different novellas to choose from, you can read stories from your favorite authors, or find a new favorite!
They include:
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
Cierra Romero came to the U.S. as an older gentleman’s mail order bride. Unfortunately, he wasn’t quite divorced and they didn’t make it to the altar before he died. Desperate to stay in the US so she can take care of her sisters at home, she heads to Dundee, Idaho where she is promised a “job.”She arrives with the clothes on her back and the address on a piece of paper, but gets lost and ends up on Ken Holborook’s doorstep in a snow storm.
Ken has just come back to town and is trying to figure out what to do next. The last thing he expects is to feel protective of a woman he never met. It is heart-warming to watch these two get together.
A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE by RaeAnne Thayne
RaeAnne Thayne is a new-to-me author, and I don’t know how I haven’t discovered her. In this novella, Widow Jenna Wheeler is trying to make this Christmas special for her four children since the past two have not been what they used to be, between her husband's death and, then, the illness of her daughter. Carson McRaven bought most of the ranch from Jenna, agreeing to let her keep part with her home, but regrets it every time he visits, as he deals with Jenna’s three rambunctious boys.
A visit before Christmas and another encounter with the boys makes Carson realize that maybe something is missing in his life. When Carson needs Jenna’s catering expertise to help him land a big deal, he becomes more involved with the Wheeler family. With the magic of the season, and a family that is accepting and caring, Carson realizes he could have something he has never had before, if only he has the courage to grab it.
This is another heart-warming Christmas tale that embraces the feelings of the season.
A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY by Jane Porter
Jane Porter takes us back to Marietta, MT and her Sheenan's with Cormac's story. Though it is a part of a larger series, it can easily be read without reading the others.
Cormac has become a very successful Media Mogul since he left Marietta, but his relationships weren't always successful. When he met Whitney by chance, he made a date with her before realizing he worked for him. They had a great relationship until he got too close and broke it off without warning. Not too much later, his Goddaughter Daisy was orphaned after a terrible accident, leaving him as her guardian. Unfortunately, this puts him into a nasty custody battle with Whitney, her godmother, with obvious results.
Cormac is determined to be a good father and provide a good life for Daisy. When there is a lockdown at her school, he is too far away to get there fast, which brings him to the decision to move his entire business to Marietta. He just has to convince Whitney to stay with the company long enough to get company moved successfully. Whitney is determined to move on, but agrees to help design and move the new offices, especially with the added bonus of time with Daisy.
With Cormac working hard to change his life, prove to Whitney he has changed, an adorable Daisy, and of course, lovable Kris Krinkles, it has all the makings for a Christmas miracle.
The characters are great, Cormac really has some growing to do. Whitney is a strong character, and Cormac has to work hard to prove that they can have a future together. I love Daisy and her faith in "Santa."
A visit to small-town Marietta, Montana, a loose take on Miracle on 34th Street, and characters that are easy to relate to, make this holiday read a must-read any time of the year.
This is only a small sampling of the wonderful Christmas stories that await in this boxed collection. Pull up a cozy reading spot, grab something warm to drink, and allow yourself be transported into the Christmas season, all for a good cause.
They include:
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
Cierra Romero came to the U.S. as an older gentleman’s mail order bride. Unfortunately, he wasn’t quite divorced and they didn’t make it to the altar before he died. Desperate to stay in the US so she can take care of her sisters at home, she heads to Dundee, Idaho where she is promised a “job.”She arrives with the clothes on her back and the address on a piece of paper, but gets lost and ends up on Ken Holborook’s doorstep in a snow storm.
Ken has just come back to town and is trying to figure out what to do next. The last thing he expects is to feel protective of a woman he never met. It is heart-warming to watch these two get together.
A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE by RaeAnne Thayne
RaeAnne Thayne is a new-to-me author, and I don’t know how I haven’t discovered her. In this novella, Widow Jenna Wheeler is trying to make this Christmas special for her four children since the past two have not been what they used to be, between her husband's death and, then, the illness of her daughter. Carson McRaven bought most of the ranch from Jenna, agreeing to let her keep part with her home, but regrets it every time he visits, as he deals with Jenna’s three rambunctious boys.
A visit before Christmas and another encounter with the boys makes Carson realize that maybe something is missing in his life. When Carson needs Jenna’s catering expertise to help him land a big deal, he becomes more involved with the Wheeler family. With the magic of the season, and a family that is accepting and caring, Carson realizes he could have something he has never had before, if only he has the courage to grab it.
This is another heart-warming Christmas tale that embraces the feelings of the season.
A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE FOR DAISY by Jane Porter
Jane Porter takes us back to Marietta, MT and her Sheenan's with Cormac's story. Though it is a part of a larger series, it can easily be read without reading the others.
Cormac has become a very successful Media Mogul since he left Marietta, but his relationships weren't always successful. When he met Whitney by chance, he made a date with her before realizing he worked for him. They had a great relationship until he got too close and broke it off without warning. Not too much later, his Goddaughter Daisy was orphaned after a terrible accident, leaving him as her guardian. Unfortunately, this puts him into a nasty custody battle with Whitney, her godmother, with obvious results.
Cormac is determined to be a good father and provide a good life for Daisy. When there is a lockdown at her school, he is too far away to get there fast, which brings him to the decision to move his entire business to Marietta. He just has to convince Whitney to stay with the company long enough to get company moved successfully. Whitney is determined to move on, but agrees to help design and move the new offices, especially with the added bonus of time with Daisy.
With Cormac working hard to change his life, prove to Whitney he has changed, an adorable Daisy, and of course, lovable Kris Krinkles, it has all the makings for a Christmas miracle.
The characters are great, Cormac really has some growing to do. Whitney is a strong character, and Cormac has to work hard to prove that they can have a future together. I love Daisy and her faith in "Santa."
A visit to small-town Marietta, Montana, a loose take on Miracle on 34th Street, and characters that are easy to relate to, make this holiday read a must-read any time of the year.
This is only a small sampling of the wonderful Christmas stories that await in this boxed collection. Pull up a cozy reading spot, grab something warm to drink, and allow yourself be transported into the Christmas season, all for a good cause.
May 5, 2017
Mostly great stories
My favorite of the bunch was Anna J Stewart's book. One book I had already read, but it was fun rereading it. Every story was good, except for Scarlett York's book. It didn't feel like it had belonged with the rest...I have reviewed each book on its own also.
My favorite of the bunch was Anna J Stewart's book. One book I had already read, but it was fun rereading it. Every story was good, except for Scarlett York's book. It didn't feel like it had belonged with the rest...I have reviewed each book on its own also.
January 13, 2017
I picked up this book on Kindle and thought it would be great to read a few stories here and there throughout the holiday season. What I didn't realize is that the book is 1750 pages long and some stories are hundreds of pages in length! Didn't stop me from reading a handful of them...might read a few more in the next couple of days :)
Celebration After Dark by Marie Force
2 stars
A couple celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary reflects on how they met and how their family has grown. The flashback to how Big Mac and Linda met was cute and I enjoyed their story, but the pieces set in the current day leading up to the anniversary party were ridiculous. Several of their children are at a crossroads in their relationships and, in just a few short chapters, have to face massive personal obstacles.
Too much for a short Christmas novella. But, it is set in Rhode Island on a fictionalized version of Block Island, and I loved that aspect :)
The Cowboy's Christmas Miracle by RaeAnne Thayne
4 stars
It is official: I love Thayne's Christmas stories! This was definitely one of the longer stories and featured a widowed mother of four who is trying to make her catering business work after being forced to sell all but 20 acres of her ranch after her husband's death. Oh, and the buyer of said ranch? An incredibly rich and attractive CEO.
Cheesy? Yes. Totally implausible? Yes. Heartwarming? Absolutely.
Unmatchable by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
2 stars
Eh. It was a set-up very much like The Wedding Date when Jane needs a date to her ex-boyfriend's wedding on Christmas Eve. Unable to find anyone suitable to meet her high, upper class, rich expectations, she takes to Craigslist (scoff) to find a hot man who she can mold into her ideal date.
Jane was super superficial. The guy who's name is escaping me was weird. Overall, it didn't work.
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy by Jane Porter
3 stars
I have read a couple of Porter's books and she has a horrible habit of weaving in way too serious of a premise for her books. This one featured a broken heart, a deadly car accident, an orphaned child, a bitter court battle, and a school shooting. But all of that happens previous to the start of the story and the story primarily deals with Cormac, his adopted daughter Daisy, and Whitney all find happiness and family at the holidays...with a little help from Santa himself!
Oh, and Cormac is an unbelievably attractive, rich CEO. Never hurts. Despite some of the too-heavy-for-a-Christmas-novella topics, I enjoyed the story!
5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber
1 star
Ugh, what the heck was this?! First of all, there was barely any Christmas. It was like saying a book was centered around Valentine's Day because someone ate chocolates. It was more like an anti-war novella. I think? Maybe it was a pro-war novella?
It was really about Ruth and Paul who met through writing letters to each other while Paul was in Afghanistan (blech) and then have to decide what to do with their relationship when he visits anti-war Ruth in Seattle on leave. Even more than that, it is a story about Helen, Ruth's grandma, and her time fighting with the French Resistance.
I was super confused.
Celebration After Dark by Marie Force
2 stars
A couple celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary reflects on how they met and how their family has grown. The flashback to how Big Mac and Linda met was cute and I enjoyed their story, but the pieces set in the current day leading up to the anniversary party were ridiculous. Several of their children are at a crossroads in their relationships and, in just a few short chapters, have to face massive personal obstacles.
Too much for a short Christmas novella. But, it is set in Rhode Island on a fictionalized version of Block Island, and I loved that aspect :)
The Cowboy's Christmas Miracle by RaeAnne Thayne
4 stars
It is official: I love Thayne's Christmas stories! This was definitely one of the longer stories and featured a widowed mother of four who is trying to make her catering business work after being forced to sell all but 20 acres of her ranch after her husband's death. Oh, and the buyer of said ranch? An incredibly rich and attractive CEO.
Cheesy? Yes. Totally implausible? Yes. Heartwarming? Absolutely.
Unmatchable by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee
2 stars
Eh. It was a set-up very much like The Wedding Date when Jane needs a date to her ex-boyfriend's wedding on Christmas Eve. Unable to find anyone suitable to meet her high, upper class, rich expectations, she takes to Craigslist (scoff) to find a hot man who she can mold into her ideal date.
Jane was super superficial. The guy who's name is escaping me was weird. Overall, it didn't work.
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy by Jane Porter
3 stars
I have read a couple of Porter's books and she has a horrible habit of weaving in way too serious of a premise for her books. This one featured a broken heart, a deadly car accident, an orphaned child, a bitter court battle, and a school shooting. But all of that happens previous to the start of the story and the story primarily deals with Cormac, his adopted daughter Daisy, and Whitney all find happiness and family at the holidays...with a little help from Santa himself!
Oh, and Cormac is an unbelievably attractive, rich CEO. Never hurts. Despite some of the too-heavy-for-a-Christmas-novella topics, I enjoyed the story!
5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber
1 star
Ugh, what the heck was this?! First of all, there was barely any Christmas. It was like saying a book was centered around Valentine's Day because someone ate chocolates. It was more like an anti-war novella. I think? Maybe it was a pro-war novella?
It was really about Ruth and Paul who met through writing letters to each other while Paul was in Afghanistan (blech) and then have to decide what to do with their relationship when he visits anti-war Ruth in Seattle on leave. Even more than that, it is a story about Helen, Ruth's grandma, and her time fighting with the French Resistance.
I was super confused.
December 31, 2016
I read three of the stories in this collection, including A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak, Celebration After Dark by Marie Force, and The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis, all set during the Christmas season, and I thoroughly enjoyed them.
Brenda Novak’s A Dundee Christmas, published in 2010, was a touching story about Cierra and Ken. Cierra, hoping to find a contact she was referred to for a job, gets lost in a snowstorm and stumbles into Ken's cabin nearly frozen, where she collapses. Ken and his brother Brent help her out, as it appears she may have hypothermia. Even though it was the wrong cabin, it turns out to be a blessing in disguise. As she and Ken become acquainted, Cierra's pride in wanting to become independent and find work gets in the way of Ken trying to care for her. It's hard to keep her there. I have read some of the other books in this series, and will definitely return to reading more of these heartwarming books and novellas.
Marie Force’s Celebration After Dark from 2015, is a memory-filled story of celebrating Mac and Linda’s 40 years of marriage just days before Christmas on Gansett Island, off the coast of Providence, Rhode Island. Reminiscing about all the family that followed their marriage, who are gathering to give them a surprise party, gave me an overview of all the other books in this series. I definitely want to backtrack and read them all.
Melinda Curtis’s The Night Before Christmas from 2006, a standalone Christmas novella, is a life changing story about wealthy Scrooge-like Simon, who convinces Emma to drive him overnight from Reno to Las Vegas in order to attend a very important meeting he has early Christmas morning. She accepts, after being bribed with a lot of money, but with the condition that she stop in Virginia City to see family and help deliver food and gifts to those in need. It is Christmas Eve! This book had me smiling at all of the Scrooge-type references and how Simon takes a different look at his life and how he will handle the future.
All three were fantastic and I look forward to reading the rest of them. [I received these three stories for free and have purchased the whole set that will help benefit this fundraiser for diabetes research.]
I have now read The Cowboy’s Christmas Miracle by RaeAnne Thayne from 2008, and found myself laughing, tearful, and very moved. Jenna is a kind, wonderful, tolerant, and an overall warm-hearted widow with four children. Carson is her neighbor who visits his home in Pine Gulch, Idaho when he can from his work base and life in San Francisco. Jenna was forced to sell most of the land to make ends meet, and Carson was the buyer. This story starts when Carson arrives to entertain guests he has arriving from Germany for part of his stay. When unable to have the chef he wanted at his home to cook for his guests, he hires Jenna. The children are a handful at ages 10, 8, 6, and 18 months, and as rambunctious as they are, they warm your heart. Both Jenna and Carson have a lot of history in their own past that influenced who they are. What they both become is a different story. I loved this book!
Brenda Novak’s A Dundee Christmas, published in 2010, was a touching story about Cierra and Ken. Cierra, hoping to find a contact she was referred to for a job, gets lost in a snowstorm and stumbles into Ken's cabin nearly frozen, where she collapses. Ken and his brother Brent help her out, as it appears she may have hypothermia. Even though it was the wrong cabin, it turns out to be a blessing in disguise. As she and Ken become acquainted, Cierra's pride in wanting to become independent and find work gets in the way of Ken trying to care for her. It's hard to keep her there. I have read some of the other books in this series, and will definitely return to reading more of these heartwarming books and novellas.
Marie Force’s Celebration After Dark from 2015, is a memory-filled story of celebrating Mac and Linda’s 40 years of marriage just days before Christmas on Gansett Island, off the coast of Providence, Rhode Island. Reminiscing about all the family that followed their marriage, who are gathering to give them a surprise party, gave me an overview of all the other books in this series. I definitely want to backtrack and read them all.
Melinda Curtis’s The Night Before Christmas from 2006, a standalone Christmas novella, is a life changing story about wealthy Scrooge-like Simon, who convinces Emma to drive him overnight from Reno to Las Vegas in order to attend a very important meeting he has early Christmas morning. She accepts, after being bribed with a lot of money, but with the condition that she stop in Virginia City to see family and help deliver food and gifts to those in need. It is Christmas Eve! This book had me smiling at all of the Scrooge-type references and how Simon takes a different look at his life and how he will handle the future.
All three were fantastic and I look forward to reading the rest of them. [I received these three stories for free and have purchased the whole set that will help benefit this fundraiser for diabetes research.]
I have now read The Cowboy’s Christmas Miracle by RaeAnne Thayne from 2008, and found myself laughing, tearful, and very moved. Jenna is a kind, wonderful, tolerant, and an overall warm-hearted widow with four children. Carson is her neighbor who visits his home in Pine Gulch, Idaho when he can from his work base and life in San Francisco. Jenna was forced to sell most of the land to make ends meet, and Carson was the buyer. This story starts when Carson arrives to entertain guests he has arriving from Germany for part of his stay. When unable to have the chef he wanted at his home to cook for his guests, he hires Jenna. The children are a handful at ages 10, 8, 6, and 18 months, and as rambunctious as they are, they warm your heart. Both Jenna and Carson have a lot of history in their own past that influenced who they are. What they both become is a different story. I loved this book!
November 2, 2016
This collection of books are all Christmas Novellas. They are quick, easy and fun reads. Great to pick up during the holidays to get a little quiet time in and the profits are going to benefit Diabetes research!
Here are the ones I have read so far:
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
I am a huge fan of Ms. Novak's Whiskey Creek series and have not read any of the Dundee series, but I really enjoyed this story. Cierra Romera is from Guatemala and came to Las Vegas, NV to be a mail order bride for an older man. The day before their marriage, the man dies and Cierra is left all alone. This was suppose to be her chance at money to help her orphaned siblings back home. When Cierra is told she could have a place to live in Dundee, Idaho, she decides to hitch rides in hope of a better future. When Cierra gets lost, she ends up knocking on the door of Ken Holbrook, a retired football player who just moved back home. Let's just say sparks fly! Ken offers to help Cierra when he realizes she is all alone without much. Cierra is too proud to just take his assistance and instead becomes his housekeeper. I really liked how these two were not looking for each other, but somehow found each other! Their story is sweet with a little bit of sexy and has a wonderful happy ending.
Finding Each Other by Melody Anne
I loved this great story of second chances. Brayden Steele used to date Cora Richmond but because of bad things from his past, he walked away from her, but never forgot her. Ten years later, now that Brayden's in a better place, he has come back for his girl! He knows he has a tough road ahead of him but when he first sees Cora, he can tell that she still has feeling for him. I really enjoyed how Brayden pursued her. It was a fun, sweet story and I just loved how Brayden eventually won Cora over....and the ending.....perfect!
Gingerbread Dreams by Anna J. Stewart
I have never read anything by this author before, but I really enjoyed her voice. She adds such emotion with a side of humor that really kept me intrigued. Her characters were slightly quirky and that made the story even better! Hamish MacFadden and his father have had the responsibility of his sister's six kids for the past 10 months. She just dropped them off to travel with her band. Just as their lives are getting into a routine, Essie Goodman crashes into their world when her gingerbread house on wheels breaks down in front of their house and ends up stuck in the snow. With a horrible storm approaching and a broken radiator, Essie accepts their offer to stay with them. Hamish is drawn to Essie's happy-go-lucky attitude along with her sweet, cute looks. Essie is drawn to Hamish but was raised that it is wrong to settle down and that you should instead continue to chase your dreams. After spending a few days with this crazy clan, Essie is starting to have doubts about her family's opinions. This was such a fun, sweet story and their happy ending was great!
Here are the ones I have read so far:
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
I am a huge fan of Ms. Novak's Whiskey Creek series and have not read any of the Dundee series, but I really enjoyed this story. Cierra Romera is from Guatemala and came to Las Vegas, NV to be a mail order bride for an older man. The day before their marriage, the man dies and Cierra is left all alone. This was suppose to be her chance at money to help her orphaned siblings back home. When Cierra is told she could have a place to live in Dundee, Idaho, she decides to hitch rides in hope of a better future. When Cierra gets lost, she ends up knocking on the door of Ken Holbrook, a retired football player who just moved back home. Let's just say sparks fly! Ken offers to help Cierra when he realizes she is all alone without much. Cierra is too proud to just take his assistance and instead becomes his housekeeper. I really liked how these two were not looking for each other, but somehow found each other! Their story is sweet with a little bit of sexy and has a wonderful happy ending.
Finding Each Other by Melody Anne
I loved this great story of second chances. Brayden Steele used to date Cora Richmond but because of bad things from his past, he walked away from her, but never forgot her. Ten years later, now that Brayden's in a better place, he has come back for his girl! He knows he has a tough road ahead of him but when he first sees Cora, he can tell that she still has feeling for him. I really enjoyed how Brayden pursued her. It was a fun, sweet story and I just loved how Brayden eventually won Cora over....and the ending.....perfect!
Gingerbread Dreams by Anna J. Stewart
I have never read anything by this author before, but I really enjoyed her voice. She adds such emotion with a side of humor that really kept me intrigued. Her characters were slightly quirky and that made the story even better! Hamish MacFadden and his father have had the responsibility of his sister's six kids for the past 10 months. She just dropped them off to travel with her band. Just as their lives are getting into a routine, Essie Goodman crashes into their world when her gingerbread house on wheels breaks down in front of their house and ends up stuck in the snow. With a horrible storm approaching and a broken radiator, Essie accepts their offer to stay with them. Hamish is drawn to Essie's happy-go-lucky attitude along with her sweet, cute looks. Essie is drawn to Hamish but was raised that it is wrong to settle down and that you should instead continue to chase your dreams. After spending a few days with this crazy clan, Essie is starting to have doubts about her family's opinions. This was such a fun, sweet story and their happy ending was great!
December 17, 2016
All I Want For Christmas
An anthology of Christmas stories to help fund diabetic research. Romance, feel good reads. I've read four so far.
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
A darling story of an almost mail order bride forced to find other work to support herself, while hoping that she would not be forced back home to Guatemala because of her immigration status. She finds warmth and comfort and maybe love in the town of Dundee.
Touching and satisfying for the holiday season.
The Cowboy's Christmas Miracle by Reanna Thayne
A widowed mother of four caters a few meals for the cowboy business man that bought her former ranch. Soon more than the meals are heating up.
A truly touching story about a lonely man who finds unexpected love.
5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber
A Cedar Cove holiday back story that helps set the series. Stands by itself.
An old story told from World War II bring family together. Have your parents or grandparents shared stories of their younger days that changed your perspective of them?
Before That Promise by Violet Duke
Aww. Attraction put on hold because of age. A powerful attraction of two very good people. A bit tempting. A bit sad because this was only the beginning. Now, excuse me while I go buy everything I can in print by this author. Deliciousness to follow!
“Feeling more Neanderthal than human at the moment, he refrained from saying anything that would surely come out in you-come-back-to-my-cave grunts. Instead, he just zeroed in on her face to drink every last detail of her in.
God, she was a knockout”
Excerpt From: Before That Promise by Violet Duke
The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
Christmas redemption of a Scrooge is the theme of this s novella.
Emma is do cheerful! My office needs some of that cheer. Adorable and a bit of a tear-jerker.
“With dramatic eye-rolling, the kid dumped his items on the couch next to Simon. “My name’s Johnny. The quicker we wrap, the sooner we can have pie. Do you know how to wrap? If not, I need to go find someone else.” He glanced around the room and Simon followed his lead, taking in all the blue-collar dads and uncles who fit in so well. “My dad’s busy and all the good uncles are taken.” Johnny turned back to Simon, sizing him up.
Simon began rolling out the paper.
“Grandma’s pies are the best.” Johnny smacked his lips. “My new best friend, Wallace, he’s really good with music, but his mom has to spend money on the doctor bills instead of presents this year. I put his name on the Express list because I don’t want Wallace to be sad.”
Okay, so maybe Emma was right. Even the kid wanted to help for reasons other than a slice of pie."
Excerpt From: The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
Cruel Intentions by Scarlett York
A heavy topic of a mother's supposed suicide as Christmas time and the resulting confusion of the teenage daughter when unknown relatives show up.
This is really just an intro to a series. Not a complete story other than a girl's introduction to the fast selfish world of wealth, privilege, and back stabbing.
An anthology of Christmas stories to help fund diabetic research. Romance, feel good reads. I've read four so far.
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
A darling story of an almost mail order bride forced to find other work to support herself, while hoping that she would not be forced back home to Guatemala because of her immigration status. She finds warmth and comfort and maybe love in the town of Dundee.
Touching and satisfying for the holiday season.
The Cowboy's Christmas Miracle by Reanna Thayne
A widowed mother of four caters a few meals for the cowboy business man that bought her former ranch. Soon more than the meals are heating up.
A truly touching story about a lonely man who finds unexpected love.
5-B Poppy Lane by Debbie Macomber
A Cedar Cove holiday back story that helps set the series. Stands by itself.
An old story told from World War II bring family together. Have your parents or grandparents shared stories of their younger days that changed your perspective of them?
Before That Promise by Violet Duke
Aww. Attraction put on hold because of age. A powerful attraction of two very good people. A bit tempting. A bit sad because this was only the beginning. Now, excuse me while I go buy everything I can in print by this author. Deliciousness to follow!
“Feeling more Neanderthal than human at the moment, he refrained from saying anything that would surely come out in you-come-back-to-my-cave grunts. Instead, he just zeroed in on her face to drink every last detail of her in.
God, she was a knockout”
Excerpt From: Before That Promise by Violet Duke
The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
Christmas redemption of a Scrooge is the theme of this s novella.
Emma is do cheerful! My office needs some of that cheer. Adorable and a bit of a tear-jerker.
“With dramatic eye-rolling, the kid dumped his items on the couch next to Simon. “My name’s Johnny. The quicker we wrap, the sooner we can have pie. Do you know how to wrap? If not, I need to go find someone else.” He glanced around the room and Simon followed his lead, taking in all the blue-collar dads and uncles who fit in so well. “My dad’s busy and all the good uncles are taken.” Johnny turned back to Simon, sizing him up.
Simon began rolling out the paper.
“Grandma’s pies are the best.” Johnny smacked his lips. “My new best friend, Wallace, he’s really good with music, but his mom has to spend money on the doctor bills instead of presents this year. I put his name on the Express list because I don’t want Wallace to be sad.”
Okay, so maybe Emma was right. Even the kid wanted to help for reasons other than a slice of pie."
Excerpt From: The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
Cruel Intentions by Scarlett York
A heavy topic of a mother's supposed suicide as Christmas time and the resulting confusion of the teenage daughter when unknown relatives show up.
This is really just an intro to a series. Not a complete story other than a girl's introduction to the fast selfish world of wealth, privilege, and back stabbing.
October 31, 2016
I read "A Dundee Christmas " by Brenda Novak. C came to America to get married to an old rich man in order to take care of her family back home. He dies before their wedding and now she is on her way to Dundee to find the brother of her fiance's ex wife's brother. When she to Dundee she has lost her suitcase and her money. She ends up on the doorstep of Ken Holbrook with only the address she is looking for nearly frozen to death. What she finds is caring and compassion
I also read "Unmatched" by Lauralie Paige and Katie McGee. I did not like Jenny Osborne. She is rich and is the epitome of a snob. She was raised to worry about what others think about you. She holds herself to rigid standards. She gets dumped by a man who advertised marriage to a compatible woman, love not expected. She meets Ian and ends up hiring him to be her date to the wedding of the man that dumped her. She spends all their time together trying to mold him into what she expects him to be.
The last story I read was "The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis. Mr. Castle needs to get to a meeting in Vegas but his driver left for California. He has no other way to get there until Emma arrives to drop off her fare in her Lincoln Town Car. She does not want to take him to Vegas because she has Christmas Eve plans. Mr. Castle will not be swayed and she agrees as long as they make a stop at her home. She discovers email is a selfish scrooge. Can.she help him see the errors of his ways?
Brenda brings a great set of authors together in the wonderful box set to raise money for Diabetes. The stories are wonderfullying written short reads that make you want the holidays to be here already!
I also read "Unmatched" by Lauralie Paige and Katie McGee. I did not like Jenny Osborne. She is rich and is the epitome of a snob. She was raised to worry about what others think about you. She holds herself to rigid standards. She gets dumped by a man who advertised marriage to a compatible woman, love not expected. She meets Ian and ends up hiring him to be her date to the wedding of the man that dumped her. She spends all their time together trying to mold him into what she expects him to be.
The last story I read was "The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis. Mr. Castle needs to get to a meeting in Vegas but his driver left for California. He has no other way to get there until Emma arrives to drop off her fare in her Lincoln Town Car. She does not want to take him to Vegas because she has Christmas Eve plans. Mr. Castle will not be swayed and she agrees as long as they make a stop at her home. She discovers email is a selfish scrooge. Can.she help him see the errors of his ways?
Brenda brings a great set of authors together in the wonderful box set to raise money for Diabetes. The stories are wonderfullying written short reads that make you want the holidays to be here already!
November 11, 2016
4 Stars
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
Dundee, Book 9
This is not a romance in the traditional sense but the beginning of a romance with endless possibilities to follow. Cierra Romero had nothing and no one here in the United States. She was headed to Dundee, Idaho to find work but found retired football player, Ken Holbrook instead.
What a great beginning! Romance at Christmas has its own special place in this reader's heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5 Stars
Celebration After Dark by Marie Force
Gansett Island, Book 14
AMAZING! What a fantastic look into Mac and Linda's lives. Sharing the memories from the beginning. Seeing how far the kids have come. Sharing memories with friends. Feeling their deep commitment and undying love for each other. Envy! That is what I'm feeling right now. Also, sadness because, for now, it's over. I can't wait to read about the last two of their children.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4 Stars
The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
The Harmony Valley Series
This is a short Scrooge type of story but different. A romance set around Christmas that deals with family, love and giving. It's about teaching someone what's really important in this giving season.
A Dundee Christmas by Brenda Novak
Dundee, Book 9
This is not a romance in the traditional sense but the beginning of a romance with endless possibilities to follow. Cierra Romero had nothing and no one here in the United States. She was headed to Dundee, Idaho to find work but found retired football player, Ken Holbrook instead.
What a great beginning! Romance at Christmas has its own special place in this reader's heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5 Stars
Celebration After Dark by Marie Force
Gansett Island, Book 14
AMAZING! What a fantastic look into Mac and Linda's lives. Sharing the memories from the beginning. Seeing how far the kids have come. Sharing memories with friends. Feeling their deep commitment and undying love for each other. Envy! That is what I'm feeling right now. Also, sadness because, for now, it's over. I can't wait to read about the last two of their children.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4 Stars
The Night Before Christmas by Melinda Curtis
The Harmony Valley Series
This is a short Scrooge type of story but different. A romance set around Christmas that deals with family, love and giving. It's about teaching someone what's really important in this giving season.
November 2, 2016
I received a complimentary copy of three of the stories in this set, and I went and bought the entire thing for quite a few reasons. First of all, it goes to a great cause. Secondly, this is a phenomenal lineup of authors. Thirdly, I adored the three stories I have read so far. The story by Brenda Novak was very emotional, and interesting. I couldn't imagine being in Cierra's situation, but Novak's writing put me very close to it, and my heart was breaking for her. At the same time, I couldn't help but admire her determination and strength. Debbie Macomber's story was fantastic as well. She seamlessly blended multiple stories in this novella, and I loved it. It was dramatic and romantic. Anna J. Stewart is a new author for me. Gingerbread Dreams was marvelous. I loved the MacFadden family, and I would love to see more of them. Stewart did a great job with the characters. There were quite a few of them, but each one stood out. I became attached to this big family, and Essie and Tink as well. I kind of expected these stories to be just feel-good holiday stories, but they were so much more than that. The three stories I have read so far were full of drama, romance, suspense, and emotional moments. I can't wait to read the others.
February 18, 2017
Great reading
Loved all of the stories in this book, read some authors I have never read before, recommend this book for sure
Loved all of the stories in this book, read some authors I have never read before, recommend this book for sure
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