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Lizzie's Christmas Escape
A gorgeous country house hotel, a liberal dusting of snow, a cosy weekend away…what more could Lizzie ask for at Christmas?
Every Christmas Lizzie promises herself that things will change and she will leap into the new year a new woman. And yet here she is again, at the beginning of December and nothing is different. Her girls have grown up and left home, her husband Henry is slumped in front of the TV and she is alone in the kitchen, seeking refuge in the cooking sherry and talking to her Gary Barlow calendar. She’s also been very diverted by handsome new neighbour Marcus and she knows she shouldn’t be …
So when best friend Ann suggests a weekend away in the country, Lizzie jumps at the chance. Will this Christmas escape give Lizzie some much needed perspective and allow her to mend her marriage? Or will Marcus prove to be too much of a distraction?
Every Christmas Lizzie promises herself that things will change and she will leap into the new year a new woman. And yet here she is again, at the beginning of December and nothing is different. Her girls have grown up and left home, her husband Henry is slumped in front of the TV and she is alone in the kitchen, seeking refuge in the cooking sherry and talking to her Gary Barlow calendar. She’s also been very diverted by handsome new neighbour Marcus and she knows she shouldn’t be …
So when best friend Ann suggests a weekend away in the country, Lizzie jumps at the chance. Will this Christmas escape give Lizzie some much needed perspective and allow her to mend her marriage? Or will Marcus prove to be too much of a distraction?
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2016
186 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Christie Barlow
41 books437 followersAuthor Girl - published by One More Chapter @HarperCollinsUK
Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com
Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
November 23, 2016
Well, this one hit the spot for me! I was in a major mood for a great Christmas book to warm my heart and Lizzie’s Christmas Escape fit the bill.
There was a lot I liked about this novel. Sometimes Christmas books just aren’t that Christmasy, and the story segues into more of a mystery or a comedy that just happens to occur in late December. This book, on the other hand, is full of holiday atmosphere. We get decorations, shopping, cozy gatherings on cold winter snowy nights, holiday meals around the table, and more. Another thing I really loved was the author’s writing style. I immediately fell into it and happily let it pull me along. The characters are well drawn and I definitely had my favorites to cheer for. The author is from the UK, and I loved learning lots of new British words and about different British treats. Most importantly, the themes of the tale are wonderful—all about what is really important in life and how the grass, as green as it looks, really isn’t always greener on the other side. We also see just how blessed a person is to have one best friend who is always there when the s**t hits the fan.
What was not to like? Not much, though I saw a few of the many twists coming. Having said that, chick lit is probably more predictable than any other genre, and that is really something one should expect when taking on a book from this category. I can say the same for tears. There were enough tears shed in this story to fill an ocean, though in all fairness I would be crying a river too if I were in the predicaments Lizzie and Ann found themselves in.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Lizzie and the rest of the cast and surely hope Ms. Barlow plans to write an annual holiday story. If she does, I’m there. Highly recommended for all looking to get into the Christmas spirit.
I wish to thank Net Galley, Bookouture, and Christie Barlow for a copy of this novel. The opinions in my review are mine alone and not biased in any way.
There was a lot I liked about this novel. Sometimes Christmas books just aren’t that Christmasy, and the story segues into more of a mystery or a comedy that just happens to occur in late December. This book, on the other hand, is full of holiday atmosphere. We get decorations, shopping, cozy gatherings on cold winter snowy nights, holiday meals around the table, and more. Another thing I really loved was the author’s writing style. I immediately fell into it and happily let it pull me along. The characters are well drawn and I definitely had my favorites to cheer for. The author is from the UK, and I loved learning lots of new British words and about different British treats. Most importantly, the themes of the tale are wonderful—all about what is really important in life and how the grass, as green as it looks, really isn’t always greener on the other side. We also see just how blessed a person is to have one best friend who is always there when the s**t hits the fan.
What was not to like? Not much, though I saw a few of the many twists coming. Having said that, chick lit is probably more predictable than any other genre, and that is really something one should expect when taking on a book from this category. I can say the same for tears. There were enough tears shed in this story to fill an ocean, though in all fairness I would be crying a river too if I were in the predicaments Lizzie and Ann found themselves in.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Lizzie and the rest of the cast and surely hope Ms. Barlow plans to write an annual holiday story. If she does, I’m there. Highly recommended for all looking to get into the Christmas spirit.
I wish to thank Net Galley, Bookouture, and Christie Barlow for a copy of this novel. The opinions in my review are mine alone and not biased in any way.
October 16, 2016
Lizzie always promises herself she will change and that she will leap into the New Year a new woman. Her girls have grown up and left home. Her husband Henry is slumped in front of the TV while she is in the kitchen with the cooking sherry.
They have a handsome new neighbour Marcus and he is a nice diversion for Lizzie. When her friend Ann suggests a weekend away Lizzie jumps at the chance. Will this help her mend her broken marriage.
A lovely book that will make you laugh and cry. The characters you will feel you know by the end of the book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Christine Barlow for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
They have a handsome new neighbour Marcus and he is a nice diversion for Lizzie. When her friend Ann suggests a weekend away Lizzie jumps at the chance. Will this help her mend her broken marriage.
A lovely book that will make you laugh and cry. The characters you will feel you know by the end of the book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Christine Barlow for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2016
Lizzie is in a rut. Her children have grown up and left home, her husband goes to work, expects dinner, then sits in his seat to watch darts. Lizzie talks to her best friend and sidekick, Ann, and her Gary Barlow calendar about how she wants things to change, but she’s done nothing about it - till inspiration arrives in the form of her new neighbour, Marcus. He’s temptation on two legs as far as Lizzie is concerned - and the feeling seems to be mutual. Should she succumb?
There are a plethora of well developed characters and relationships in this enthralling story, but most are hiding their true feelings and motivations and it is their revelations that make this such a great story. Everyone seems to be playing a role but it isn’t necessarily a role they want for life. This sets up conflicts and turmoil that only honesty can help resolve. There are lies, deception and so much more to be uncovered for any of the relationships to stand a chance of a long term HEA. It certainly wasn’t the story I’d expected from the blurb - most of it is the lead up to the escape and the breakdown in relationships rather than a fun festive romance. Not everything works out for everyone concerned. There are some traumatic and life changing discoveries to be made before the end, especially as people become aware of the infidelities of others. There are some laugh out loud moments amongst the turmoil and it isn’t a particularly festive read but it is a good story that is well written, has great complex characters and keeps you guessing about how things will work out in the end.
I’ve said this before but just have to share it again. I was excited to be able to download an advanced reader copy of this novel and tweeted to share my news. Whilst there I checked out the page of the author, Christie Barlow, and learnt that the book is dedicated to one of her friends, Ann Sandeman, and her name is used for one of the characters . . . . I also found out why. It seems that Ann is a 45 year old single mum with three children aged 8, 10 and 12 years old. She is also a feisty lady who has been fighting cancer for the last nine years. You can read more about this in this newspaper article http://m.theargus.co.uk/news/14680670... …
Ann sounds link an inspirational lady and is a great character in the book. I hope she makes a full and speedy recovery and achieves her own HEA in reality!
If you’re inspired by Ann’s story and wish to donate to either of the charities she supports, here are their links:
Clic Sargent - @TeamCLICSargent - http://www.clicsargent.org.uk/content... …
and Walk the Walk - @WalktheWalk - http://www.walkthewalk.org/donate/
I was gifted an ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
There are a plethora of well developed characters and relationships in this enthralling story, but most are hiding their true feelings and motivations and it is their revelations that make this such a great story. Everyone seems to be playing a role but it isn’t necessarily a role they want for life. This sets up conflicts and turmoil that only honesty can help resolve. There are lies, deception and so much more to be uncovered for any of the relationships to stand a chance of a long term HEA. It certainly wasn’t the story I’d expected from the blurb - most of it is the lead up to the escape and the breakdown in relationships rather than a fun festive romance. Not everything works out for everyone concerned. There are some traumatic and life changing discoveries to be made before the end, especially as people become aware of the infidelities of others. There are some laugh out loud moments amongst the turmoil and it isn’t a particularly festive read but it is a good story that is well written, has great complex characters and keeps you guessing about how things will work out in the end.
I’ve said this before but just have to share it again. I was excited to be able to download an advanced reader copy of this novel and tweeted to share my news. Whilst there I checked out the page of the author, Christie Barlow, and learnt that the book is dedicated to one of her friends, Ann Sandeman, and her name is used for one of the characters . . . . I also found out why. It seems that Ann is a 45 year old single mum with three children aged 8, 10 and 12 years old. She is also a feisty lady who has been fighting cancer for the last nine years. You can read more about this in this newspaper article http://m.theargus.co.uk/news/14680670... …
Ann sounds link an inspirational lady and is a great character in the book. I hope she makes a full and speedy recovery and achieves her own HEA in reality!
If you’re inspired by Ann’s story and wish to donate to either of the charities she supports, here are their links:
Clic Sargent - @TeamCLICSargent - http://www.clicsargent.org.uk/content... …
and Walk the Walk - @WalktheWalk - http://www.walkthewalk.org/donate/
I was gifted an ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
October 4, 2016
Even though I’m a huge fan of crime/psychological thrillers there are a small bunch of authors who write what I call “need to escape, cheer me up books” and the very talented Christie Barlow is one of those authors, and she certainly never disappoints me. I’m sure millions of women will relate to Lizzie on many levels, she’s in a humongous rut, her marriage is stale, in fact she has better conversations with her Gary Barlow calendar than she does with her husband! her children have flown the nest and she’s not sure where her life is going (ring a bell anyone?), but then the very handsome and charismatic Marcus moves into her street and things take a turn for the better or do they? You will just have to read Lizzie’s Christmas Escape to find out!
What I absolutely love about the authors book is her attention to her characters, they are a joy to read about, they are so well developed by the end of the book you really do feel you are saying “goodbye” to old friends. The relationship between Lizzie and Ann was heartwarming and very genuine, they are the best of friends and you couldn’t help wishing for a friend just like Ann or Lizzie. Their friendship is one many woman could only wish for they are supportive, loyal of one and other and the humour and banter between them helps them through the difficult times, and there are plenty of those! The dialogue between the two friends was so realistic at times I thought I was eavesdropping on a friends conversation, it’s full of humour and honesty that only true friends would understand, and at times I laughed out loud at some of their conversations.
Lizzie’s story reminded me very much of an old adage “the grass isnt always greener on the other side”, or is it? this was something Lizzie was forced to find out for herself I’m afraid. Lizzie’s story made me laugh and cry, sometimes all in the same chapter, you can understand Lizzie feeling fed up with life and why she strived to find something better, but life is what you make it, and just maybe Lizzie will have to learn this lesson through making her own mistakes. As Christmas approaches you can’t help feeling sorry for the two friends (everything seems so much worse during this period, don’t you think?), as they experience what could be their worse Christmas ever.
What I would say about Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is its a shame that many readers will only pick this book up if they are looking for a “Christmassy” read, I read it whilst led on a sun lounger in Portugal, and I feel this book has so much more to offer than a mediocre Christmas read, it’s about family, reaching a crossroads in life, and the importance of family and friends, with a “just what the Dr ordered, a dose of humour thrown in”
Christie Barlow has again written a captivating and charming book packed full of characters you will care about one way or another, full of drama and bucketfuls of humour. So I would recommend you pull the curtains, light the fire (unless you have an electric one of course!) and pour yourself something sparkling and immerse yourself in Lizzie’s heartwarming tale. This is a book I would recommend to anyone looking for “a feel good read” and definitely NOT just to be read at Christmas!
What I absolutely love about the authors book is her attention to her characters, they are a joy to read about, they are so well developed by the end of the book you really do feel you are saying “goodbye” to old friends. The relationship between Lizzie and Ann was heartwarming and very genuine, they are the best of friends and you couldn’t help wishing for a friend just like Ann or Lizzie. Their friendship is one many woman could only wish for they are supportive, loyal of one and other and the humour and banter between them helps them through the difficult times, and there are plenty of those! The dialogue between the two friends was so realistic at times I thought I was eavesdropping on a friends conversation, it’s full of humour and honesty that only true friends would understand, and at times I laughed out loud at some of their conversations.
Lizzie’s story reminded me very much of an old adage “the grass isnt always greener on the other side”, or is it? this was something Lizzie was forced to find out for herself I’m afraid. Lizzie’s story made me laugh and cry, sometimes all in the same chapter, you can understand Lizzie feeling fed up with life and why she strived to find something better, but life is what you make it, and just maybe Lizzie will have to learn this lesson through making her own mistakes. As Christmas approaches you can’t help feeling sorry for the two friends (everything seems so much worse during this period, don’t you think?), as they experience what could be their worse Christmas ever.
What I would say about Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is its a shame that many readers will only pick this book up if they are looking for a “Christmassy” read, I read it whilst led on a sun lounger in Portugal, and I feel this book has so much more to offer than a mediocre Christmas read, it’s about family, reaching a crossroads in life, and the importance of family and friends, with a “just what the Dr ordered, a dose of humour thrown in”
Christie Barlow has again written a captivating and charming book packed full of characters you will care about one way or another, full of drama and bucketfuls of humour. So I would recommend you pull the curtains, light the fire (unless you have an electric one of course!) and pour yourself something sparkling and immerse yourself in Lizzie’s heartwarming tale. This is a book I would recommend to anyone looking for “a feel good read” and definitely NOT just to be read at Christmas!
October 21, 2016
Christie Barlow has had the most gorgeous covers for her books this year and this one is no exception with a beautiful Christmas tree all decked out ready for the festive season. It put a huge smile on my face before I even ventured inside to discover where Lizzies Christmas Escape would take her.
Lizzie is a character that many of us will be able to relate to and I loved her from the moment I met her. Stuck in a relationship routine with a husband who no longer seems to notice her, she only feels happy and complete when her girls are home from university or when she with her best friend Ann. Lizzie and Ann have the most wonderful friendship and both characters have been so well written that it makes their natural relationship flow beautifully whenever they are together on the page. I just adored them both. The storyline takes a while to get to the actual escape to the country house hotel, but it's the dramatic and life changing journey leading up to it that makes it all worthwhile. And the author has a lovely humorous way of introducing the darker, jaw dropping moments so that you don't really know what's coming until you're there, shocked!
There are so many Christmas books out there at the moment but this is definitely a stand out one for me. It's a feelgood romp that makes you laugh on one page only to want to cry on the next. It has a way of slowly creeping up on you until it's under your skin and you feel like you could actually be a part of this family. Strong women, strong friendships and a perfectly plotted storyline throughout make this a Christmas treat to remember! So make your Christmas preparations this year include sitting down with some fizz and a mince pie and read Lizzies Christmas Escape-its much more fun than prepping those sprouts!
Lizzie is a character that many of us will be able to relate to and I loved her from the moment I met her. Stuck in a relationship routine with a husband who no longer seems to notice her, she only feels happy and complete when her girls are home from university or when she with her best friend Ann. Lizzie and Ann have the most wonderful friendship and both characters have been so well written that it makes their natural relationship flow beautifully whenever they are together on the page. I just adored them both. The storyline takes a while to get to the actual escape to the country house hotel, but it's the dramatic and life changing journey leading up to it that makes it all worthwhile. And the author has a lovely humorous way of introducing the darker, jaw dropping moments so that you don't really know what's coming until you're there, shocked!
There are so many Christmas books out there at the moment but this is definitely a stand out one for me. It's a feelgood romp that makes you laugh on one page only to want to cry on the next. It has a way of slowly creeping up on you until it's under your skin and you feel like you could actually be a part of this family. Strong women, strong friendships and a perfectly plotted storyline throughout make this a Christmas treat to remember! So make your Christmas preparations this year include sitting down with some fizz and a mince pie and read Lizzies Christmas Escape-its much more fun than prepping those sprouts!
October 21, 2016
Lizzie is a character that I think many readers will relate to. She has been with her husband Henry for a lot of years and now that her children have left home she is feeling at a bit of a loss. She realises how much her relationship with Henry has become one of habit and the feelings and fun they used to once have seems to have gone some what stale. Not only that but all her hopes and dreams that she put to one side seem to also be getting further out of reach.
Luckily for Lizzie she has her best friend Ann who really is the most perfect friend. The friendship between these two woman shines out all the way through the novel. I laughed as well as cried along with them both throughout the story and by the end I actually felt quite bereft that I wouldn’t be spending anymore time with them.
Even though the magical time of the year (Christmas) is apparent throughout the whole book, this is soooooo much more than a festive read. It is very much a story of friendship and that wonderful bond that forms over the years. The being there at every tragedy, emergency, mile stones in our lives and overall making some of our happiest memories together. It will also have readers sit back and take a good long hard look at their own marriage and make you remember what it was that made you fall in love with your other halves and how to keep that fire between you both lit.
Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is a powerful and emotional story that will stay with me for a very long time to come and with quite a few surprises in store, my heart felt like it literally stopped more than a few times. The author is an expert in creating characters that really reach out to readers and touch you in a way you wouldn’t have ever thought possible.
A thought provoking read that touches your heart and soul. Simply stunning.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Luckily for Lizzie she has her best friend Ann who really is the most perfect friend. The friendship between these two woman shines out all the way through the novel. I laughed as well as cried along with them both throughout the story and by the end I actually felt quite bereft that I wouldn’t be spending anymore time with them.
Even though the magical time of the year (Christmas) is apparent throughout the whole book, this is soooooo much more than a festive read. It is very much a story of friendship and that wonderful bond that forms over the years. The being there at every tragedy, emergency, mile stones in our lives and overall making some of our happiest memories together. It will also have readers sit back and take a good long hard look at their own marriage and make you remember what it was that made you fall in love with your other halves and how to keep that fire between you both lit.
Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is a powerful and emotional story that will stay with me for a very long time to come and with quite a few surprises in store, my heart felt like it literally stopped more than a few times. The author is an expert in creating characters that really reach out to readers and touch you in a way you wouldn’t have ever thought possible.
A thought provoking read that touches your heart and soul. Simply stunning.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2016
This was an enjoyable read. It has warm characters, a lovely story line, it's written in a well-voiced style, and it has the perfect Christmas atmosphere.The story is touching, quite the emotional roller coaster. It's the perfect read for the holiday season.
December 26, 2016
I rarely get overly excited about romance novels, as I don’t often fall in love with them, but I have to admit I loved Lizzie’s Christmas Escape from beginning to end. This story turned out to be so much more than I expected it to be. It was a book that just kept on giving.
This is definitely my favourite festive read this year. Having said that, the story isn’t overly festive and could therefore be very much enjoyed any time of year. Don't be fooled into thinking this is just a light-hearted Christmas read, as there was more depth to the story than I was expecting.
If I’m completely honest, I did fall for Marcus. A man who is tidy, loves dogs, likes building snowmen and decorating Christmas trees. What’s not to love?
I highly recommend this to those who love romance, women’s fiction and family sagas. Lizzie’s Christmas Escape kept my interest throughout. I found myself thinking about it through the day and looking forward to reading it every night.
This is definitely my favourite festive read this year. Having said that, the story isn’t overly festive and could therefore be very much enjoyed any time of year. Don't be fooled into thinking this is just a light-hearted Christmas read, as there was more depth to the story than I was expecting.
If I’m completely honest, I did fall for Marcus. A man who is tidy, loves dogs, likes building snowmen and decorating Christmas trees. What’s not to love?
I highly recommend this to those who love romance, women’s fiction and family sagas. Lizzie’s Christmas Escape kept my interest throughout. I found myself thinking about it through the day and looking forward to reading it every night.
October 21, 2016
Full review on www.novelgossip.com
Most of you know by now that I’m a sucker for a pretty cover and this may be one of my favorite covers ever! Stunning. What’s inside is just as gorgeous and this is much more than just a Christmas novel. It wasn’t even close to what I expected, but I don’t mean that in a negative way. I assumed that it would mostly revolve around Lizzie having some sort of crazy adventure but instead it was a lovely story about strong friendships, family, marriage woes, and the trials of an average life.
Lizzie is stuck in a monotonous cycle in her life and has been for years. Her two daughters are grown and off at university and her husband Henry couldn’t be more disinterested in her life. She does have her best friend, Ann and the two are as thick as thieves. Lizzie was such a fantastic character, the kind that I would want as a friend for myself. She’s experiencing a midlife slump and isn’t sure about anything in her life anymore. She’s lonely and just wants to feel loved and appreciated again. I found her to be wholly relatable and altogether utterly delightful. Her friendship with Ann was beautiful, the two supported each other no matter what. They were also so funny and their conversations had me cracking up.
Marcus is Lizzie’s new next door neighbor and the two have an immediate connection. Lizzie is feeling rejuvenated and dazzled by simply spending time with Marcus, but she’s not the type to step out on Henry. Can she just be friends with him without jeopardizing her marriage? Does she still even want to be married to Henry? A weekend away with Ann may be just what she needs to figure everything out. But she may get way more than she bargained for…
There were several twists and turns that I was not expecting at all and things didn’t turn out the way I thought they would either, but I was absolutely not disappointed in the end. There were moments of laughter and joy, but there were also moments were I was teary eyed and emotional. I love a book that can bring out a variety of emotions within me and this one certainly did. It was a feel good, warm and cozy read that I was sad to see come to a close, I felt like I was saying goodbye to a dear friend when my time with Lizzie came to and end.
Most of you know by now that I’m a sucker for a pretty cover and this may be one of my favorite covers ever! Stunning. What’s inside is just as gorgeous and this is much more than just a Christmas novel. It wasn’t even close to what I expected, but I don’t mean that in a negative way. I assumed that it would mostly revolve around Lizzie having some sort of crazy adventure but instead it was a lovely story about strong friendships, family, marriage woes, and the trials of an average life.
Lizzie is stuck in a monotonous cycle in her life and has been for years. Her two daughters are grown and off at university and her husband Henry couldn’t be more disinterested in her life. She does have her best friend, Ann and the two are as thick as thieves. Lizzie was such a fantastic character, the kind that I would want as a friend for myself. She’s experiencing a midlife slump and isn’t sure about anything in her life anymore. She’s lonely and just wants to feel loved and appreciated again. I found her to be wholly relatable and altogether utterly delightful. Her friendship with Ann was beautiful, the two supported each other no matter what. They were also so funny and their conversations had me cracking up.
Marcus is Lizzie’s new next door neighbor and the two have an immediate connection. Lizzie is feeling rejuvenated and dazzled by simply spending time with Marcus, but she’s not the type to step out on Henry. Can she just be friends with him without jeopardizing her marriage? Does she still even want to be married to Henry? A weekend away with Ann may be just what she needs to figure everything out. But she may get way more than she bargained for…
There were several twists and turns that I was not expecting at all and things didn’t turn out the way I thought they would either, but I was absolutely not disappointed in the end. There were moments of laughter and joy, but there were also moments were I was teary eyed and emotional. I love a book that can bring out a variety of emotions within me and this one certainly did. It was a feel good, warm and cozy read that I was sad to see come to a close, I felt like I was saying goodbye to a dear friend when my time with Lizzie came to and end.
December 20, 2016
Lizzie's closest companion is her Garry Barlow calendar. Her husband Henry has stopped talking to her and he's distant and withdrawn. Lizzie knows she's being neglected and she's had enough. When her new neighbor Marcus does pay attention Lizzie feels a lot better about herself. She knows it's wrong to see him, but he's kind and they get along well.
Lizzie's best friend Ann needs a distraction and they decide to go to the countryside for some pampering. There Lizzie can think in peace about her marriage, Marcus and what she wants to do with her life. What should she do and what will be the wisest choice? This Christmas will indeed be different, but will it also be better than the last? Will Lizzie's Christmas wish to have a less predictable and boring life come true?
Lizzie's Christmas Escape is an interesting and enjoyable story about a marriage that's in a rut, true love, trust, secrets and friendship. Lizzie is a sweetheart. She does everything for the people she loves and is being taken for granted. She doesn't want her life to be that way, so she does something about it. She's strong and determined and I liked that about her. Ann is a great and cheerful friend and I loved their warm and honest connection. It was wonderful to read about their bond and their adventures.
Christie Barlow's writing flows easily. She's written an emotional story, but it's never too much, there's some lightheartedness as well. Lizzie's Christmas Escape is a thought-provoking story about routine, getting older and marital problems. I loved that Lizzie grows so much as a person throughout the story. She and Ann don't have an easy December, but that doesn't mean they can't have a good time. There aren't only tears of sadness, there is still joy as well, which is something I liked a lot. I loved Christy Barlow's sympathetic way of writing and I admire her creativity. There are plenty of unexpected twists and turns in the story and everything comes together in a fitting way. The ending is really sweet and romantic and it has the exact right Christmas spirit.
Lizzie's best friend Ann needs a distraction and they decide to go to the countryside for some pampering. There Lizzie can think in peace about her marriage, Marcus and what she wants to do with her life. What should she do and what will be the wisest choice? This Christmas will indeed be different, but will it also be better than the last? Will Lizzie's Christmas wish to have a less predictable and boring life come true?
Lizzie's Christmas Escape is an interesting and enjoyable story about a marriage that's in a rut, true love, trust, secrets and friendship. Lizzie is a sweetheart. She does everything for the people she loves and is being taken for granted. She doesn't want her life to be that way, so she does something about it. She's strong and determined and I liked that about her. Ann is a great and cheerful friend and I loved their warm and honest connection. It was wonderful to read about their bond and their adventures.
Christie Barlow's writing flows easily. She's written an emotional story, but it's never too much, there's some lightheartedness as well. Lizzie's Christmas Escape is a thought-provoking story about routine, getting older and marital problems. I loved that Lizzie grows so much as a person throughout the story. She and Ann don't have an easy December, but that doesn't mean they can't have a good time. There aren't only tears of sadness, there is still joy as well, which is something I liked a lot. I loved Christy Barlow's sympathetic way of writing and I admire her creativity. There are plenty of unexpected twists and turns in the story and everything comes together in a fitting way. The ending is really sweet and romantic and it has the exact right Christmas spirit.
October 23, 2016
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
The cover of this book advertised "A sparkling, feel good Christmas romance" so I was excited to curl up with my first holiday book of the season. Who doesn't like a feel good Christmas romance? Early reviews were also very positive which enhanced my expectations of this book.
I have to say that I must be the exception to the rule because I didn't feel like there was anything sparkly or feel good about this story. Even the title was a little misleading. Lizzie's Christmas escape did not happen until the second half of the book and was only a small part of the story. I kept waiting for all the funny bits that other reviewers talked about and they never came. Were we reading the same book?
This book was about adultery, making excuses and feeling sorry for yourself. I cringed on so many occasions and I found Lizzie to be extremely hard to like. There were times when I wanted to reach my hand through the book and knock some sense into her. The only thing that rang true with the marketing is that the Christmas season did happen to occur within the pages of this book. It was more of a women's fiction than anything. In my opinion it didn't even come close to chic lit or a feel good holiday romance.
I probably would have enjoyed the book if it were not packaged as a Christmas story. It was too depressing and filled with way too much drama and bad choices to be sparkly or to feel anything but sadness. Take out Christmas, sparkly, feel good and get rid of reviews that say it was even remotely funny and there would be a fairly decent (yet depressing) story of Lizzie's mid life struggle after her children leave the nest.
Unfortunately because of the cover and synopsis I was expecting one thing but got something completely different and because of that it did impact my rating of the book.
** I received an advanced readers copy from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
The cover of this book advertised "A sparkling, feel good Christmas romance" so I was excited to curl up with my first holiday book of the season. Who doesn't like a feel good Christmas romance? Early reviews were also very positive which enhanced my expectations of this book.
I have to say that I must be the exception to the rule because I didn't feel like there was anything sparkly or feel good about this story. Even the title was a little misleading. Lizzie's Christmas escape did not happen until the second half of the book and was only a small part of the story. I kept waiting for all the funny bits that other reviewers talked about and they never came. Were we reading the same book?
This book was about adultery, making excuses and feeling sorry for yourself. I cringed on so many occasions and I found Lizzie to be extremely hard to like. There were times when I wanted to reach my hand through the book and knock some sense into her. The only thing that rang true with the marketing is that the Christmas season did happen to occur within the pages of this book. It was more of a women's fiction than anything. In my opinion it didn't even come close to chic lit or a feel good holiday romance.
I probably would have enjoyed the book if it were not packaged as a Christmas story. It was too depressing and filled with way too much drama and bad choices to be sparkly or to feel anything but sadness. Take out Christmas, sparkly, feel good and get rid of reviews that say it was even remotely funny and there would be a fairly decent (yet depressing) story of Lizzie's mid life struggle after her children leave the nest.
Unfortunately because of the cover and synopsis I was expecting one thing but got something completely different and because of that it did impact my rating of the book.
September 17, 2016
Loved this wonderful, heartwarming tale. Especially loved Lizzie herself and was rooting for her throughout this delightful book. Loved the friendship between Lizzie and Ann. Loved every page of this amazing, beautiful, lovely book. Highly recommended.
November 8, 2016
I love the front cover of this book and I went in with high hopes. As sometimes happens those high hopes fell flat. It's not that it was a terrible book. It just wasn't one for me.
Lizzie the main character got on my nerves. Ok so your marriage has gone a little stale. You are doing the same things every week. Your husband loves nothing more than sitting in front of the telly watching darts. Thats no excuse in my opinion for having an affair. Has Lizzie not heard of talking to her husband telling him exactly how he feels and making him listen to her. Doesn't every relationship get a bit like this. We are all creatures of habit who like to have routine so it doesn't surprise me that this happened.
The umming and ahhing the constant justification for Lizzies affair had me shouting at the book in frustration on more than one occasion.
I found the characters shallow and annoying.
It took ages to get into the bit where she exactly goes away for a bit.
The only saving grace. I liked the ending.
Happy reading everyone
Lizzie the main character got on my nerves. Ok so your marriage has gone a little stale. You are doing the same things every week. Your husband loves nothing more than sitting in front of the telly watching darts. Thats no excuse in my opinion for having an affair. Has Lizzie not heard of talking to her husband telling him exactly how he feels and making him listen to her. Doesn't every relationship get a bit like this. We are all creatures of habit who like to have routine so it doesn't surprise me that this happened.
The umming and ahhing the constant justification for Lizzies affair had me shouting at the book in frustration on more than one occasion.
I found the characters shallow and annoying.
It took ages to get into the bit where she exactly goes away for a bit.
The only saving grace. I liked the ending.
Happy reading everyone
September 15, 2019
I’d like to thank Christine Barlow, Bookouture, and Zaffre Publishing for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Lizzie Stevens is bored and lonely. Married and pregnant by nineteen, she settled into life as a mum and housewife, forsaking her ambitions as a seamstress. Her two daughters are grown and gone to college, and her husband has a daily routine that doesn’t include telling her he loves or appreciates her. She decides something needs to change. But before she can decide exactly how to go about changing her life, a handsome stranger moves in across the street. He bathes her in attention and affection, and Lizzie begins to fall in love with him. Yet a nagging doubt inside her insists something isn’t right…
Well. I’m not sure how to feel about this book. I want to give a disclaimer right now: my only experience with marriage is what I have read and observed in others, so I’m no authority on marital relations… Everything that follows is my subjective opinion.
Everything I’ve ever heard about marriage—and relationships in general, really—stressed that communication is key. TALK to one another. Nothing is ever resolved without communication. Therefore, I have a very hard time feeling sorry for Lizzie, because from the way I understood the story, she never once tried to talk to Henry about how she was feeling. She might have attempted a couple of passive-aggressive moves, like buying lingerie and trying to tempt him into bed, but another thing I’ve always heard about relationships—men don’t get subtlety. If it isn’t spelled out for them in black and white, they probably won’t pick up on it. They appreciate directness and practicality, so it doesn’t surprise me that Henry never picked up on her attempts or the extent of her unhappiness. I remember when I was a kid, my mom would get annoyed with my dad when he didn’t do what she wanted him to do, and he’d always tell her that he wasn’t a mind-reader. (They’re divorced now, by the way.) COMMUNICATION.
I’m also disinclined to like Lizzie because it never occurred to her—except maybe once, very briefly, toward the end when everything was blowing up in her face—that she wasn’t the only unhappy member of that household. She was so wrapped up in her own woe-is-me that she didn’t realize how terribly depressed her husband was. (That night she bought the lingerie and tried to tempt him, if she’d intended to do what I think she’d intended to do when she’d knelt down in front of his chair—THAT was a big red flag. If a guy’s turning down, er, servicing, something is very wrong.)
I did like Henry, though. We didn’t see much of him, and he seemed like a turd at first, but by god, once Abbie had opened his eyes and pointed out to him that he needed to do something to save his marriage, he didn’t hesitate to change his habits. He loved Lizzie, had never stopped loving her, and though he’d lost his way for a while, he got right back on track and wanted to make her happy. The poor guy was just in a little rut. He’d needed his wife to steal the remote, turn off the TV, and goad him into talking to her. Thank god for Abbie.
I’m not going anywhere near Marcus, so just know that he missed his calling in theatre. Abbie and Freya, Lizzie and Henry’s two daughters, were both kind and considerate children. Well, Abbie didn’t seem kind at first, but she was stressed out and anxious—and pregnant—which can make us all a little irritable, right? Leo seemed nice as well. As for Ann, Lizzie’s bestie…she seemed a little two-faced. One minute she was giggling and encouraging Lizzie to check out her hot new neighbor, then the next she was cautioning her to be careful what she wished for. She can’t have it both ways—either she approves of extra-marital affairs, or she doesn’t. And judging by the way she reacted to her husband’s…she doesn’t. So she should never have encouraged Lizzie to seek “adventure” elsewhere. Ann seemed like a good person, a good friend, in general, but she didn’t give the best advice.
Speaking of Ann and her husband, Dave…my heart broke for them. Whether or not his affair was different or worse than Lizzie’s is a gray area, but in my personal opinion, his was worse. To have two-timed your wife, who you supposedly still adore, for ten years… I don’t feel bad for him. He can tell Ann he loves her, he can beg for forgiveness until the cows come home, but he had his chance to stop, to make things right, every minute of every day during those ten years, and by all appearances, he had no intentions of quitting his affair. He just happened to get caught. And how could he not have known where Ann and Lizzie were going away to? Isn’t that one of the first questions you ask when your wife says she’s going away for a few days? And he’d just left the brochure of the hotel where he was taking his mistress lying on the table? Baloney. If that was the kind of crap he pulled, either Ann was dense as a rock or he should have been caught a very long time ago. That whole situation smacks of convenience. Dave’s affair was a plot device intended, I assume, to show Lizzie how an affair hurts the cuckolded party. I’m not sure it was necessary, because she’d already begun having doubts and Marcus’ wife drove the point home. Poor Ann, used and abused.
All right, so I’ve torn apart the plot and the characters. As for the writing, it was quite good! Charming with an easy flow. If this writing had told a different story, I probably would have loved it. However, because it told the story it did, I have more issues. The title page describes the novel as a sparkling, feel-good Christmas romance. Not from where I’m standing, it’s not. It didn’t sparkle, nor did it make me feel good (until the very end when Lizzie and Henry finally COMMUNICATED), and I wouldn’t even call this a romance. It was all about Lizzie and her emotional journey. I believe that’s called women’s fiction. Just because she was wined and dined by Marcus and ended up reunited in love with her husband at the end does not make this a romance. A romance has a main plot that focuses on a relationship. Women’s fiction has a main plot that focuses on a woman’s life and relating it to the reader. This was the latter.
Overall, not my kind of story…but I’d be curious enough to look into the author’s other work.
noapologybookreviews.com
keeneyeediting.com
Lizzie Stevens is bored and lonely. Married and pregnant by nineteen, she settled into life as a mum and housewife, forsaking her ambitions as a seamstress. Her two daughters are grown and gone to college, and her husband has a daily routine that doesn’t include telling her he loves or appreciates her. She decides something needs to change. But before she can decide exactly how to go about changing her life, a handsome stranger moves in across the street. He bathes her in attention and affection, and Lizzie begins to fall in love with him. Yet a nagging doubt inside her insists something isn’t right…
Well. I’m not sure how to feel about this book. I want to give a disclaimer right now: my only experience with marriage is what I have read and observed in others, so I’m no authority on marital relations… Everything that follows is my subjective opinion.
Everything I’ve ever heard about marriage—and relationships in general, really—stressed that communication is key. TALK to one another. Nothing is ever resolved without communication. Therefore, I have a very hard time feeling sorry for Lizzie, because from the way I understood the story, she never once tried to talk to Henry about how she was feeling. She might have attempted a couple of passive-aggressive moves, like buying lingerie and trying to tempt him into bed, but another thing I’ve always heard about relationships—men don’t get subtlety. If it isn’t spelled out for them in black and white, they probably won’t pick up on it. They appreciate directness and practicality, so it doesn’t surprise me that Henry never picked up on her attempts or the extent of her unhappiness. I remember when I was a kid, my mom would get annoyed with my dad when he didn’t do what she wanted him to do, and he’d always tell her that he wasn’t a mind-reader. (They’re divorced now, by the way.) COMMUNICATION.
I’m also disinclined to like Lizzie because it never occurred to her—except maybe once, very briefly, toward the end when everything was blowing up in her face—that she wasn’t the only unhappy member of that household. She was so wrapped up in her own woe-is-me that she didn’t realize how terribly depressed her husband was. (That night she bought the lingerie and tried to tempt him, if she’d intended to do what I think she’d intended to do when she’d knelt down in front of his chair—THAT was a big red flag. If a guy’s turning down, er, servicing, something is very wrong.)
I did like Henry, though. We didn’t see much of him, and he seemed like a turd at first, but by god, once Abbie had opened his eyes and pointed out to him that he needed to do something to save his marriage, he didn’t hesitate to change his habits. He loved Lizzie, had never stopped loving her, and though he’d lost his way for a while, he got right back on track and wanted to make her happy. The poor guy was just in a little rut. He’d needed his wife to steal the remote, turn off the TV, and goad him into talking to her. Thank god for Abbie.
I’m not going anywhere near Marcus, so just know that he missed his calling in theatre. Abbie and Freya, Lizzie and Henry’s two daughters, were both kind and considerate children. Well, Abbie didn’t seem kind at first, but she was stressed out and anxious—and pregnant—which can make us all a little irritable, right? Leo seemed nice as well. As for Ann, Lizzie’s bestie…she seemed a little two-faced. One minute she was giggling and encouraging Lizzie to check out her hot new neighbor, then the next she was cautioning her to be careful what she wished for. She can’t have it both ways—either she approves of extra-marital affairs, or she doesn’t. And judging by the way she reacted to her husband’s…she doesn’t. So she should never have encouraged Lizzie to seek “adventure” elsewhere. Ann seemed like a good person, a good friend, in general, but she didn’t give the best advice.
Speaking of Ann and her husband, Dave…my heart broke for them. Whether or not his affair was different or worse than Lizzie’s is a gray area, but in my personal opinion, his was worse. To have two-timed your wife, who you supposedly still adore, for ten years… I don’t feel bad for him. He can tell Ann he loves her, he can beg for forgiveness until the cows come home, but he had his chance to stop, to make things right, every minute of every day during those ten years, and by all appearances, he had no intentions of quitting his affair. He just happened to get caught. And how could he not have known where Ann and Lizzie were going away to? Isn’t that one of the first questions you ask when your wife says she’s going away for a few days? And he’d just left the brochure of the hotel where he was taking his mistress lying on the table? Baloney. If that was the kind of crap he pulled, either Ann was dense as a rock or he should have been caught a very long time ago. That whole situation smacks of convenience. Dave’s affair was a plot device intended, I assume, to show Lizzie how an affair hurts the cuckolded party. I’m not sure it was necessary, because she’d already begun having doubts and Marcus’ wife drove the point home. Poor Ann, used and abused.
All right, so I’ve torn apart the plot and the characters. As for the writing, it was quite good! Charming with an easy flow. If this writing had told a different story, I probably would have loved it. However, because it told the story it did, I have more issues. The title page describes the novel as a sparkling, feel-good Christmas romance. Not from where I’m standing, it’s not. It didn’t sparkle, nor did it make me feel good (until the very end when Lizzie and Henry finally COMMUNICATED), and I wouldn’t even call this a romance. It was all about Lizzie and her emotional journey. I believe that’s called women’s fiction. Just because she was wined and dined by Marcus and ended up reunited in love with her husband at the end does not make this a romance. A romance has a main plot that focuses on a relationship. Women’s fiction has a main plot that focuses on a woman’s life and relating it to the reader. This was the latter.
Overall, not my kind of story…but I’d be curious enough to look into the author’s other work.
noapologybookreviews.com
keeneyeediting.com
December 17, 2018
I have loved all of Christie's books and this one has to be one of my favourite simply brilliant so well written and covers so much and has you hooked from the first page. It has everything from being unhappy to affairs and about families and making up and do heartwarming. Full of Christmas time to and needing to get away to sort yourself out. It's fantastic and worth far more than five stars for sure.
Lizzy always tells herself that every Christmas things will change and she will be a new woman but never happens. This Christmas is coming up and her husband Harry is ignoring her and watching tv more and she's finding herself on her as the children have left home. One day the doorbell goes and her heart nearly stops as a new neighbour pops round he's called Marcus and her head is turned and she gets herself caught up in the effects he's showing her. She has a best friend Ann and she looses her mother the evening they are out at Marcus's Christmas do and she starts to question herself and Ann suggests they go away for a nights and escape from it all. They have a great time but Lizzie sees Anna's husband at the hotel with another woman will she tell her friend or not can they work through it or not and when Lizzie goes home and Harry has left after seeing a photo of her with Marcus. Does Marcus turn out to be all she thinks he is and will she realise her mistake and get back with Harry or not and will this Christmas change in the end for her or not.
It's a fantastic read and loved it so much.
Lizzy always tells herself that every Christmas things will change and she will be a new woman but never happens. This Christmas is coming up and her husband Harry is ignoring her and watching tv more and she's finding herself on her as the children have left home. One day the doorbell goes and her heart nearly stops as a new neighbour pops round he's called Marcus and her head is turned and she gets herself caught up in the effects he's showing her. She has a best friend Ann and she looses her mother the evening they are out at Marcus's Christmas do and she starts to question herself and Ann suggests they go away for a nights and escape from it all. They have a great time but Lizzie sees Anna's husband at the hotel with another woman will she tell her friend or not can they work through it or not and when Lizzie goes home and Harry has left after seeing a photo of her with Marcus. Does Marcus turn out to be all she thinks he is and will she realise her mistake and get back with Harry or not and will this Christmas change in the end for her or not.
It's a fantastic read and loved it so much.
November 12, 2023
I'm still working my way through Christmas books that have been on my To Be Read pile for a long time, so this book was next! I've read so many books by this author, but I've strangely never read this one! We meet Lizzie who is married to Henry. Their marriage is going a bit stale with the same old routines, so when Lizzie meets the new next door neighbour Marcus she definitely finds her head being turned and wonders if the grass is greener on the other side!
I have to admit out of all the books by this author this was my least favourite. I initially started off feeling sorry for Lizzie with Henry appearing to be taking her for granted and not giving her much attention. When she meets Marcus however and a little bit of innocent flirting turns into something much more, my liking for her falls a little. She criticises Henry to everyone but never tells him how she feels, which seemed a bit unfair. The storyline however held my attention and as I read I could tell that not everything was as it seemed and we were due some surprises along the way. The story flowed well and I liked the supporting characters, especially Lizzie's friend Ann.
As a Christmas read, it had a few seasonal moments, but due to the nature of Lizzie and Ann's storylines I didn't feel particularly festive whilst reading it. I did like the book though, the storyline held my interest and I enjoyed seeing where the characters and storylines were going. It wasn't, however, as light-hearted and romantic as I thought it was going to be.
I have to admit out of all the books by this author this was my least favourite. I initially started off feeling sorry for Lizzie with Henry appearing to be taking her for granted and not giving her much attention. When she meets Marcus however and a little bit of innocent flirting turns into something much more, my liking for her falls a little. She criticises Henry to everyone but never tells him how she feels, which seemed a bit unfair. The storyline however held my attention and as I read I could tell that not everything was as it seemed and we were due some surprises along the way. The story flowed well and I liked the supporting characters, especially Lizzie's friend Ann.
As a Christmas read, it had a few seasonal moments, but due to the nature of Lizzie and Ann's storylines I didn't feel particularly festive whilst reading it. I did like the book though, the storyline held my interest and I enjoyed seeing where the characters and storylines were going. It wasn't, however, as light-hearted and romantic as I thought it was going to be.
March 2, 2017
Lizzie's Christmas Escape by Christie Barlow
Lizzie isn't happy in her relationship with her husband Henry. She starts getting friendly with her neighbor Marcus and he invites her to his work Christmas party. She is taking a big chance to go but decides to go. I have already reviewed this but my review got lost somehow. This was a very engaging story and I loved reading it. It was a warm cosy feeling reading this. Lizzie's two daughters are grown adults. Her marriage has lost its sparkle and she feels the excitement again by spending time with Marcus.
Marcus is renting a house near Lizzie. Lizzie still loves her husband Henry but she has begun to think is this all there is. Lizzie is only in her early forties, much too young to get stuck in a rut. Lizzie says to herself that the only thing that Henry and her share it a mortgage. Lizzie has a best friend named Anne. They met at college when they were sixteen. Lizzie confides to Anne about everything and they get together a lot and have a good time. Lizzie envies Anne's marriage to her husband Dave. After all of these years their love for each other was still going strong. They haven't fallen into a rut like Lizzie and Dave. Will Lizzie risk her marriage by accepting Marcus's invitation to the Christmas party?
Thank you to Net Galley, Christie Barlow and the Publisher for my copy for a fair and honest review.
Lizzie isn't happy in her relationship with her husband Henry. She starts getting friendly with her neighbor Marcus and he invites her to his work Christmas party. She is taking a big chance to go but decides to go. I have already reviewed this but my review got lost somehow. This was a very engaging story and I loved reading it. It was a warm cosy feeling reading this. Lizzie's two daughters are grown adults. Her marriage has lost its sparkle and she feels the excitement again by spending time with Marcus.
Marcus is renting a house near Lizzie. Lizzie still loves her husband Henry but she has begun to think is this all there is. Lizzie is only in her early forties, much too young to get stuck in a rut. Lizzie says to herself that the only thing that Henry and her share it a mortgage. Lizzie has a best friend named Anne. They met at college when they were sixteen. Lizzie confides to Anne about everything and they get together a lot and have a good time. Lizzie envies Anne's marriage to her husband Dave. After all of these years their love for each other was still going strong. They haven't fallen into a rut like Lizzie and Dave. Will Lizzie risk her marriage by accepting Marcus's invitation to the Christmas party?
Thank you to Net Galley, Christie Barlow and the Publisher for my copy for a fair and honest review.
September 11, 2016
Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is a story about family life, dilemmas, friendship and how the grass isn‘t always greener on the other side of the fence.
Lizzie Stevens has reached that point in her life when she is wondering ‘is this all that life has to offer?’ Her daughters have left home to attend university and her relationship with her husband, Henry, has reached the point where they are more friends than husband and wife. Discontentment has resulted in Lizzie’s head being turned by the charming new neighbour Marcus.
Christie has once again done an amazing job of bringing the characters to life and their personalities shine through. From the very first chapter I adored Lizzie and could immediately identify with her. She is facing issues in life that many can relate to. A case of ‘empty nest syndrome’, Lizzie has lost her purpose in life and needs to regain her sense of identity while her marriage has become stuck in a rut. Christie writes with an acute understanding of the emotions involved in the issues Lizzie faces and always with sensitivity. I didn’t always agree with Lizzie’s behaviour, but it is written in such a way that I empathised with her and totally got where she was coming from.
This is also a book about the importance of friendship. The portrayal of the relationship between Lizzie and Ann is lovely and heartfelt. The characters work perfectly together, Ann is the more adventurous and outgoing of the two and the differences in their personalities make for a winning combination. Theirs is a friendship based on humour, support, understanding and neither judges the other.
Reading one of Christie’s books feels a little bit like coming home after time away. There is a warmth in her writing that is irresistible, drawing you into the story and the life of the characters immediately and Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is no exception. It has exactly the right combination of tug at your heart strings moments and down to earth humour which is perfectly placed. It is well paced and you just have to keep on reading to find out what the outcome for Lizzie will be, once I started reading I could not put this book down.
A brilliantly told story that you can totally relate to. It makes you laugh and cry in equal measure, completely draws you in and on finishing I felt as though I had spent time with a couple of good friends. Like a glass of mulled wine it left me feeling warm and fuzzy inside - perfect Christmas reading!
Thanks to Christie Barlow, Bookouture and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Published 21 October 2016 by Bookouture.
Lizzie Stevens has reached that point in her life when she is wondering ‘is this all that life has to offer?’ Her daughters have left home to attend university and her relationship with her husband, Henry, has reached the point where they are more friends than husband and wife. Discontentment has resulted in Lizzie’s head being turned by the charming new neighbour Marcus.
Christie has once again done an amazing job of bringing the characters to life and their personalities shine through. From the very first chapter I adored Lizzie and could immediately identify with her. She is facing issues in life that many can relate to. A case of ‘empty nest syndrome’, Lizzie has lost her purpose in life and needs to regain her sense of identity while her marriage has become stuck in a rut. Christie writes with an acute understanding of the emotions involved in the issues Lizzie faces and always with sensitivity. I didn’t always agree with Lizzie’s behaviour, but it is written in such a way that I empathised with her and totally got where she was coming from.
This is also a book about the importance of friendship. The portrayal of the relationship between Lizzie and Ann is lovely and heartfelt. The characters work perfectly together, Ann is the more adventurous and outgoing of the two and the differences in their personalities make for a winning combination. Theirs is a friendship based on humour, support, understanding and neither judges the other.
Reading one of Christie’s books feels a little bit like coming home after time away. There is a warmth in her writing that is irresistible, drawing you into the story and the life of the characters immediately and Lizzie’s Christmas Escape is no exception. It has exactly the right combination of tug at your heart strings moments and down to earth humour which is perfectly placed. It is well paced and you just have to keep on reading to find out what the outcome for Lizzie will be, once I started reading I could not put this book down.
A brilliantly told story that you can totally relate to. It makes you laugh and cry in equal measure, completely draws you in and on finishing I felt as though I had spent time with a couple of good friends. Like a glass of mulled wine it left me feeling warm and fuzzy inside - perfect Christmas reading!
Thanks to Christie Barlow, Bookouture and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Published 21 October 2016 by Bookouture.
October 2, 2016
This is not the story I was expecting, based on what I had read of the blurb. I was expecting a story where the majority of it would be this big weekend country escape, with a best friend, and that it would be incredibly funny and feel good.
The book I have just read, barely featured an escape, and in fact is a story that felt a bit more serious than I would have wanted at all from a Christmas book. There is certainly snow and there is definitely Christmas, and I loved that Lizzie spoke to her Gary Barlow calendar in the same way as Shirley Valentine talks to her wall.
In fact some of the early bit of the book felt very Shirley Valentine-esque, with the couple very stuck in their routine, and in fact Lizzie's husband Henry even has chips and egg one night each week. Nothing changes from day to day and they are stuck in a rut, and Lizzie is understandably wanting more from her life.
As a result it is very easy to see why she is flattered by the attention of the charming new neighbour Marcus, in fact I was really attracted to him too, although he did seem a bit too good to be true. Meanwhile Ann has her own things to deal with this Christmas, including a husband that seems to keep working very late, and a mother who is seriously ill, and siblings that seem to only be interested in money.
There seems to be a recurring theme about fidelity in this book, with Lizzie trying what to do about Marcus being just one of the relationships in question.
I loved the unconditional friendship between Ann and Lizzie, even if I didn't really connect to the rest of their families. Lizzie and Ann have a great friendship, and they are very supportive of each other. Despite Ann's drunken flirty nature, she has some very solid words of advice for Lizzie, throughout the story.
I feel mildly discombobulated as normally when I read a Christie Barlow book, I end up laughing a lot, and yet apart from a couple of very amusing incidents, I just didn't find the book particularly funny, nor did it give me a feeling of Christmas. What it is though is very good story, that was certainly intriguing and kept me guessing about the outcomes.
Thank you so much to Bookouture and Netgalley for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
The book I have just read, barely featured an escape, and in fact is a story that felt a bit more serious than I would have wanted at all from a Christmas book. There is certainly snow and there is definitely Christmas, and I loved that Lizzie spoke to her Gary Barlow calendar in the same way as Shirley Valentine talks to her wall.
In fact some of the early bit of the book felt very Shirley Valentine-esque, with the couple very stuck in their routine, and in fact Lizzie's husband Henry even has chips and egg one night each week. Nothing changes from day to day and they are stuck in a rut, and Lizzie is understandably wanting more from her life.
As a result it is very easy to see why she is flattered by the attention of the charming new neighbour Marcus, in fact I was really attracted to him too, although he did seem a bit too good to be true. Meanwhile Ann has her own things to deal with this Christmas, including a husband that seems to keep working very late, and a mother who is seriously ill, and siblings that seem to only be interested in money.
There seems to be a recurring theme about fidelity in this book, with Lizzie trying what to do about Marcus being just one of the relationships in question.
I loved the unconditional friendship between Ann and Lizzie, even if I didn't really connect to the rest of their families. Lizzie and Ann have a great friendship, and they are very supportive of each other. Despite Ann's drunken flirty nature, she has some very solid words of advice for Lizzie, throughout the story.
I feel mildly discombobulated as normally when I read a Christie Barlow book, I end up laughing a lot, and yet apart from a couple of very amusing incidents, I just didn't find the book particularly funny, nor did it give me a feeling of Christmas. What it is though is very good story, that was certainly intriguing and kept me guessing about the outcomes.
Thank you so much to Bookouture and Netgalley for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
August 31, 2016
What a corker of a book! Relatable, enticing, full of humour and drama in double doses and with a huge dollop of Christmas sprinkled in! It’s pace doesn’t slow down for a second, from the first page you are hooked!
Lizzie and Henry fell in love at college, got married young and had two babies quickly after. They are now both in their 40’s with Lizzie having ‘empty nest syndrome’ and feeling neglected, lonely and unloved. With a handsome new next door neighbour on the scene to throw in some excitement, Lizzie’s life is turned upside down!.
Lizzie and Ann’s friendship is comical and heart-warming. I loved the way they bounced off each other with hilarious conversations and that their friendship was unconditional throughout all the ups and downs. Henry is a husband I am sure many wives could relate to, in fact their marriage is one a lot of couples could relate to and this is what makes the book so interesting.
I loved Lizzie! I loved her little chats to her Gary Barlow calendar in the pantry and her drive to want something more for her life. The book is quintessentially British, with X Factor and Strictly thrown in here and there, as well as mulled wine, mince pies and the Great British Bake off!
It’s a quirky, Christmassy, friendship filled, page turner of a book that I read in one day!! I can picture myself reading it all over again in the Winter with the dark night’s drawing in, curled up with my cuppa and packet of hob nobs and still enjoy it as much the second time around!!
****Arc provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
Lizzie and Henry fell in love at college, got married young and had two babies quickly after. They are now both in their 40’s with Lizzie having ‘empty nest syndrome’ and feeling neglected, lonely and unloved. With a handsome new next door neighbour on the scene to throw in some excitement, Lizzie’s life is turned upside down!.
Lizzie and Ann’s friendship is comical and heart-warming. I loved the way they bounced off each other with hilarious conversations and that their friendship was unconditional throughout all the ups and downs. Henry is a husband I am sure many wives could relate to, in fact their marriage is one a lot of couples could relate to and this is what makes the book so interesting.
I loved Lizzie! I loved her little chats to her Gary Barlow calendar in the pantry and her drive to want something more for her life. The book is quintessentially British, with X Factor and Strictly thrown in here and there, as well as mulled wine, mince pies and the Great British Bake off!
It’s a quirky, Christmassy, friendship filled, page turner of a book that I read in one day!! I can picture myself reading it all over again in the Winter with the dark night’s drawing in, curled up with my cuppa and packet of hob nobs and still enjoy it as much the second time around!!
****Arc provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
September 6, 2016
I loved this book, yet another by one of my favourite authors!
I felt that the character lizzie was likable and friendly, I wanted her to be happy and her friendships to flourish.
ended with a real feel good for christmas.
I felt that the character lizzie was likable and friendly, I wanted her to be happy and her friendships to flourish.
ended with a real feel good for christmas.
December 9, 2016
Didn't like it! It's not at all what the cover and the blurb promise it to be. Well, not a story to read around Christmas time for sure! It's all about a selfish woman, who has fallen out of love with her husband and is cheating on him with the neighbour. Not recommended!
July 14, 2022
Lizzie is in the empty nest stage of her life. Her husband Henry is pretty much set in his ways, working all day, coming home, plopping down in his chair in front of the television with a beer and ignoring Lizzie. Is it any wonder that her head is turned by the handsome new neighbour who pays her attention? Trying to sort out what she wants out of life and what changes she needs to make get influenced by how Marcus makes her feel, so time away with her BFF Annie help her put things in perspective, but is it too late?
I had very mixed feelings about Lizzie's Christmas Escape. I enjoy an uplifting story around Christmas, but this book had me feeling a bit down. First, I am not a big advocate of cheating and lying, so that put me off. As the story went on, I did feel for both Lucy and Henry and wasn't sure if their marriage could be saved, but with Christmas in the title, I was pretty sure it would have a happy ending. The characters were realistic as well as the situation, which is a sad comment on our society. Lack of communication is often the culprit when marriages begin to fall apart and this book is no exception. The secondary characters (children, boyfriends, acquaintances) all play a role, but they are small and serve a purpose. Overall, this was a story about relationships, honesty, family infidelity, forgiveness and communication. It takes place during the Christmas holidays with parties etc. playing a role, but for me this is not what I look for when I read a Christmas story. Penny Andrews does a great job narrating this audiobook. She does a good job with the voices using tone, expression and emotion to make the characters come alive and for the listener to easily identify who is speaking.
I had very mixed feelings about Lizzie's Christmas Escape. I enjoy an uplifting story around Christmas, but this book had me feeling a bit down. First, I am not a big advocate of cheating and lying, so that put me off. As the story went on, I did feel for both Lucy and Henry and wasn't sure if their marriage could be saved, but with Christmas in the title, I was pretty sure it would have a happy ending. The characters were realistic as well as the situation, which is a sad comment on our society. Lack of communication is often the culprit when marriages begin to fall apart and this book is no exception. The secondary characters (children, boyfriends, acquaintances) all play a role, but they are small and serve a purpose. Overall, this was a story about relationships, honesty, family infidelity, forgiveness and communication. It takes place during the Christmas holidays with parties etc. playing a role, but for me this is not what I look for when I read a Christmas story. Penny Andrews does a great job narrating this audiobook. She does a good job with the voices using tone, expression and emotion to make the characters come alive and for the listener to easily identify who is speaking.
December 5, 2019
This was a Christmas book crammed full of emotion, from the first few pages you felt for Lizzie and her sad life. You embraced her friendship with her new neighbour and wished her to have a meaningful relationship. This book was incredibly addictive because you wanted to know what was going to happen next.
I loved the strong friendship between Lizzie and her best friend Ann - it was so heartwarming and I loved their sense of humour, I laughed out loud many times with their interactions!
Some brilliant unexpected twists kept me enthralled and I loved the ending! Just perfect 👌 ❤️
I loved the strong friendship between Lizzie and her best friend Ann - it was so heartwarming and I loved their sense of humour, I laughed out loud many times with their interactions!
Some brilliant unexpected twists kept me enthralled and I loved the ending! Just perfect 👌 ❤️
November 20, 2019
2.5
"Lizzie's Christmas Escapes" sounded like an entertaining Christmas story and I was looking forward to read it.
I liked the beginning and I started well into the story. I was curious about Lizzie's escape and what was going to happen. With the new male neighbor arriving I was starting to get skeptical. The story then started turning into a direction I didn't like at all. The story lost me more and more and unfortunately it wasn't a cosy Christmas read I expected.
The ending was way too much for my liking and it bit too sappy happy. In parts it was very unrealistic as well.
The atmosphere had a few bits of Christmas here and there but couldn't get me into the Christmas spirit. I was really hoping for more here.
"Lizzie's Christmas Escapes" sounded like an entertaining Christmas story and I was looking forward to read it.
I liked the beginning and I started well into the story. I was curious about Lizzie's escape and what was going to happen. With the new male neighbor arriving I was starting to get skeptical. The story then started turning into a direction I didn't like at all. The story lost me more and more and unfortunately it wasn't a cosy Christmas read I expected.
The ending was way too much for my liking and it bit too sappy happy. In parts it was very unrealistic as well.
The atmosphere had a few bits of Christmas here and there but couldn't get me into the Christmas spirit. I was really hoping for more here.
December 10, 2019
Heartwarming
The first thing I have to say is that Barlow’s writing style is just brilliant, I read this book in under 24 hours during the middle of a busy work week, it is addictively page turning good!
The characters that Barlow creates are detailed to perfection and the journey she takes you on will have you run the spectrum of emotions from laugh out loud funny to being teary eyed from the heart breaking moments of the plot. I was recommended this book by a fellow book club member/ author Kiltie Jackson ( I highly recommend her books also) and am so thankful she introduced me to Lizzie Stevens and her journey! This is an easy 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 that I would recommend to everyone!
It is not your everyday roses and sunshine Christmas novel but it will warm your heart just the same!
!
The first thing I have to say is that Barlow’s writing style is just brilliant, I read this book in under 24 hours during the middle of a busy work week, it is addictively page turning good!
The characters that Barlow creates are detailed to perfection and the journey she takes you on will have you run the spectrum of emotions from laugh out loud funny to being teary eyed from the heart breaking moments of the plot. I was recommended this book by a fellow book club member/ author Kiltie Jackson ( I highly recommend her books also) and am so thankful she introduced me to Lizzie Stevens and her journey! This is an easy 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 that I would recommend to everyone!
It is not your everyday roses and sunshine Christmas novel but it will warm your heart just the same!
!
September 4, 2016
It is the beginning of December and Christmas is looming ahead for Lizzie. She realises this year that perhaps things need to change and she needs to escape not from Christmas because she loves that, but from the monotony of her marriage and lack of self identity that has set in.
Henry her husband, comes in from work, asks where his tea is, collects it and then sits in front of the television. Day after day it is the same thing. They don't even talk, Lizzie has resorted to drinking alone in the kitchen and talking to her Gary Barlow calendar in the pantry. She knows something has to change.
When Marcus moves in opposite Lizzie, an unlikely friendship strikes up and Lizzie suddenly fills like she can achieve what she has always wanted to now that her children no longer need her as much and Henry does not seem that interested anymore. Is this unlikely friendship going to develop into something else...
Ann is Lizzie's best friend. She is struggling to look after her mother and everything that comes with that now she has been moved into care home. Her own son is a worry as he is in the Army and she is successfully making her way up the career ladder. Ann and Lizzie rely on each other not just for all the sad times but for the fun times too, drinking, eating, shopping and even bingo.
Ann suggests a weekend away just the two of them, as a distraction to Christmas as well as everything else going on, stranger behaviour from Lizzie's daughters, her marriage woes with Henry and the excitement that having Marcus in her life is creating. Ann is wanting to escape from the responsiblity of her life for a little while.
You know that not everything is going to go to plan and this whole story had been guessing, second guessing and getting it completely wrong for the start. I loved it because of that. I thought I knew exactly where this storyline was going to and I was wrong. It made me laugh and cry in equal measure and perhaps it did not go where I wanted it to, but it was the right way really.
A great book about the strength and support of friendship no matter what life throws at you and how making the wrong decision can sometimes be the right one all set to the background of Christmas.
Henry her husband, comes in from work, asks where his tea is, collects it and then sits in front of the television. Day after day it is the same thing. They don't even talk, Lizzie has resorted to drinking alone in the kitchen and talking to her Gary Barlow calendar in the pantry. She knows something has to change.
When Marcus moves in opposite Lizzie, an unlikely friendship strikes up and Lizzie suddenly fills like she can achieve what she has always wanted to now that her children no longer need her as much and Henry does not seem that interested anymore. Is this unlikely friendship going to develop into something else...
Ann is Lizzie's best friend. She is struggling to look after her mother and everything that comes with that now she has been moved into care home. Her own son is a worry as he is in the Army and she is successfully making her way up the career ladder. Ann and Lizzie rely on each other not just for all the sad times but for the fun times too, drinking, eating, shopping and even bingo.
Ann suggests a weekend away just the two of them, as a distraction to Christmas as well as everything else going on, stranger behaviour from Lizzie's daughters, her marriage woes with Henry and the excitement that having Marcus in her life is creating. Ann is wanting to escape from the responsiblity of her life for a little while.
You know that not everything is going to go to plan and this whole story had been guessing, second guessing and getting it completely wrong for the start. I loved it because of that. I thought I knew exactly where this storyline was going to and I was wrong. It made me laugh and cry in equal measure and perhaps it did not go where I wanted it to, but it was the right way really.
A great book about the strength and support of friendship no matter what life throws at you and how making the wrong decision can sometimes be the right one all set to the background of Christmas.
October 24, 2016
So here I am again reading another Christmas book.... what on earth is going on?! I hear you all saying. Well after reading Kitty Countryside Dream earlier in the year and absolutely loving it. I couldn't resist reading Lizzie's Christmas Escape.Which I have to say it isn't has Christmasy has I thought it was going to be!
Like Kitty I found this a quick and easy read which I devoured in one afternoon. In this story we meet Lizzie who promises herself thing will change in the new year but with her girls who are grown up and left home and a husband who comes home from work to sit in from of the TV night after night. Which all seems the same old to Lizzie and finds herself taking refuge in cooking and talking to her Gary Barlow calendar which made my giggle. Until she meets Marcus will he help mend her marriage or not is the question?!
So for me I have no idea what what it like to be in that situation being single and never being married. So I couldn't relate to Lizzy and found those parts of the story to serious or maybe I was a bit jealous of her! Anyway using my Miss Marple skills I totally guessed the outcome so the ending was no surprise to me at all.
But what I did love about this story was Lizzie and best friend Anne's friendship. We have all got that one special best friend. Their friendship and story line was the core of the story for me. And shows what best friends really are, with plenty of laugh out loud scenes. Which is what this author is all about.
This story does have something for everyone. Even though I prefer Kitty, I highly recommend giving this giving it 4 stars.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Like Kitty I found this a quick and easy read which I devoured in one afternoon. In this story we meet Lizzie who promises herself thing will change in the new year but with her girls who are grown up and left home and a husband who comes home from work to sit in from of the TV night after night. Which all seems the same old to Lizzie and finds herself taking refuge in cooking and talking to her Gary Barlow calendar which made my giggle. Until she meets Marcus will he help mend her marriage or not is the question?!
So for me I have no idea what what it like to be in that situation being single and never being married. So I couldn't relate to Lizzy and found those parts of the story to serious or maybe I was a bit jealous of her! Anyway using my Miss Marple skills I totally guessed the outcome so the ending was no surprise to me at all.
But what I did love about this story was Lizzie and best friend Anne's friendship. We have all got that one special best friend. Their friendship and story line was the core of the story for me. And shows what best friends really are, with plenty of laugh out loud scenes. Which is what this author is all about.
This story does have something for everyone. Even though I prefer Kitty, I highly recommend giving this giving it 4 stars.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2017
***Rating: 3.5/5***
It’s that time of year when a keen December chill has arrived and despite my best efforts the decorations are well and truly tangled. And so, with its enticing title and dazzlingly festive cover, Lizzie’s Christmas Escape sounded like the perfect diversion, just bursting with a magical quality that was just too good to miss.
For me this book would perhaps be better renamed as Lizzie’s Christmas Crisis! There are a few heart-warming seasonal delights, plus amusing little chats with Gary Barlow who is concealed in Lizzie’s pantry (in calendar form, of course!), yet the mood did not embrace all things jolly. This isn’t a relationship rollercoaster for our leading lady, rather how the ride became monotonous as her weekly routine creaks by.
Lizzie may have been presented with the opportunity (or maybe an excuse) to inject a little excitement into her life, but my opinion of her antics was divided throughout. She seemed fairly grounded to me, so I couldn’t understand how easily swayed she was by the promise of romantic recreation – she’d be much better off redirecting the energy she used to fantasise how the grass might be greener and actually spell out how discontented she feels to her husband/family!
While I may not have found the total feel-good factor I was looking for, I will say that the bountiful, everlasting friendship of Lizzie and Ann was pretty special, come rain or shine. Also, the decisions the characters make provide an eye-opening reminder that it’s not just one life that could be transformed as a result of their actions.
It’s that time of year when a keen December chill has arrived and despite my best efforts the decorations are well and truly tangled. And so, with its enticing title and dazzlingly festive cover, Lizzie’s Christmas Escape sounded like the perfect diversion, just bursting with a magical quality that was just too good to miss.
For me this book would perhaps be better renamed as Lizzie’s Christmas Crisis! There are a few heart-warming seasonal delights, plus amusing little chats with Gary Barlow who is concealed in Lizzie’s pantry (in calendar form, of course!), yet the mood did not embrace all things jolly. This isn’t a relationship rollercoaster for our leading lady, rather how the ride became monotonous as her weekly routine creaks by.
Lizzie may have been presented with the opportunity (or maybe an excuse) to inject a little excitement into her life, but my opinion of her antics was divided throughout. She seemed fairly grounded to me, so I couldn’t understand how easily swayed she was by the promise of romantic recreation – she’d be much better off redirecting the energy she used to fantasise how the grass might be greener and actually spell out how discontented she feels to her husband/family!
While I may not have found the total feel-good factor I was looking for, I will say that the bountiful, everlasting friendship of Lizzie and Ann was pretty special, come rain or shine. Also, the decisions the characters make provide an eye-opening reminder that it’s not just one life that could be transformed as a result of their actions.
August 17, 2016
Hats off to Christie Barlow. This is one of the best books ive read this year! Great loveable characters that your drawn to straight away.The book has a warm feeling that just keeps you wanting to read on and find out whats going to happen.
At the start of the book we meet Lizzie. I think shes a character a lot of us can all relate to. So instantly we are warmed to her and feel a whole lot of love for her from the very start of the book. Shes a mum to older daughters who have left home, which leaves her home alone with her husband Henry who barely notices her anymore. They are both stuck in a routine & practically fallen out of love for each other which is so sad cause theyve been together for so long. Then a new hunky neighbour moves in who shows Lizzie a lot of interest and gives her the attention she so longs for. Will they be able to reignite the spark in their marriage or is she going to take up a new life with her new neighbour.
Lizzies best friend Ann is a big feature in this book too. She is another loveable character. We meet her family and embark on a journey of challenges, christmas trips & nights out with lizzie. Their friendship is so strong and I think its a main part of getting Lizzie threw this difficult part of her life.
The book really gets you in the christmas mood & makes you want to grab your best friend and head to the christmas market.
At the start of the book we meet Lizzie. I think shes a character a lot of us can all relate to. So instantly we are warmed to her and feel a whole lot of love for her from the very start of the book. Shes a mum to older daughters who have left home, which leaves her home alone with her husband Henry who barely notices her anymore. They are both stuck in a routine & practically fallen out of love for each other which is so sad cause theyve been together for so long. Then a new hunky neighbour moves in who shows Lizzie a lot of interest and gives her the attention she so longs for. Will they be able to reignite the spark in their marriage or is she going to take up a new life with her new neighbour.
Lizzies best friend Ann is a big feature in this book too. She is another loveable character. We meet her family and embark on a journey of challenges, christmas trips & nights out with lizzie. Their friendship is so strong and I think its a main part of getting Lizzie threw this difficult part of her life.
The book really gets you in the christmas mood & makes you want to grab your best friend and head to the christmas market.
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