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Matchsticks and Candy Canes
Love can thaw the fiercest winter.
In a society where elves are no longer creatures of myth and magic, Brynne Mirren is just trying to survive the holidays as one of Santa’s Rejects. Loyal to her duty as the eldest child, she stands outside in the freezing cold and sell matchbooks—not that anyone would buy anything from an elf. Each fruitless day is the same without exception until her path crosses with Carter Holly. Persistent though he is, she can’t help but wonder if he has an ulterior motive.
After all, very few humans look kindly on elves these days.
Days before Christmas, Brynne’s life takes a drastic turn and she is forced to trust the gentle stranger in the darkest time of her life. Carter Holly continues to surprise her, stirring up new feelings within her with every act of kindness.
Though the threat of freezing along with her matchbooks is very real, Brynne can't forget that falling in love with a human is even more dangerous.
In a society where elves are no longer creatures of myth and magic, Brynne Mirren is just trying to survive the holidays as one of Santa’s Rejects. Loyal to her duty as the eldest child, she stands outside in the freezing cold and sell matchbooks—not that anyone would buy anything from an elf. Each fruitless day is the same without exception until her path crosses with Carter Holly. Persistent though he is, she can’t help but wonder if he has an ulterior motive.
After all, very few humans look kindly on elves these days.
Days before Christmas, Brynne’s life takes a drastic turn and she is forced to trust the gentle stranger in the darkest time of her life. Carter Holly continues to surprise her, stirring up new feelings within her with every act of kindness.
Though the threat of freezing along with her matchbooks is very real, Brynne can't forget that falling in love with a human is even more dangerous.
- GenresFantasy
ebook
Published December 9, 2016
18 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Wilson
21 books576 followersC.E. Wilson was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, grew up in Millersville, Pennsylvania, and has been living in Pittsburgh since 2009. For the first few years living in Pittsburgh, she was an English teacher. Her first book, "Oath of Servitude," was published in 2012. In 2013, she quit teaching to be a full time author and hasn't looked back since. She loves spending time with her daughter and husband.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 6, 2016
Carter Holly has been waiting on this day to come for a year now. Today is the day that the little Elf girl sets up Shoppe across the street from his uncle’s bakery selling matchsticks. Carter has watched the girl for a few years now. He has wanted for so long just to have the nerve to talk to her but unfortunately he has not had enough courage until now. Yep today is the day. Yep today is the big day. The day that he finally does it yep he is going to talk to her.
Brynne Mirren is the oldest child in her family so it has fallen on her shoulders to help out the family. Brynne’s family have been down on their luck as of late her father doesn’t have a job so that is why Brynne sets her cart up on the street hoping that the big giants, the humans will buy them. Brynne has been taught all her life that humans could not be trusted. Brynne is very afraid of all the big giant humans. But when tragedy strikes Brynne’s family and she is left all alone she has no choice but to trust the big giant human.
Carter is the guy that all girls want he is so loving and kind and wants nothing more than to protect Byrnne to keep her safe from all harm. He just has the biggest heart always waiting to help everybody and make them happy.
Brynne is just like all girls who just want to someone to hold her and love her and just make everything better. She has so much warmth and love in her heart. She loves and cares for her family so very much especially her little brother and sister. She loves her father too she knows he is just having a hard time having to live in a world of giants and can’t find a job.
Brynne and Carter make the cutest couple. I just adore Brynne she is so cute and small. I kind of know how she feels living in a world of giants as I do myself. Well I am not as short as she is but I do live with giants. I am 4’10” and my husband is 6’2” so I know what it is like to stand in front of him and have to lean over backwards to see up into his face. Ha-ha! I also have two step-sons who are tall as well. The oldest is 6’5” and the youngest is 6’ so you see I do know a little bit of how she feels.
I have so enjoyed reading Brynne and Carter’s story. There was this one scene that I really loved and that is when Brynne decides to go climbing. I would like to know more about Brynne and her family and how they ended up where they are now. I would also like to read more about Brynne and Carter’s life together. They have a hard road ahead of them but hopefully they can change the world.
With this year I think I am going to start a list of some kind that includes Christmas stories. It is not a wish list, it is a list where you add books that you have read and would read again. But they must be Christmas stories. Matchsticks and Candy Canes have made it on that list. Do you have a list? What is on your list? Have you read Matchsticks and Candy Canes? No? Pick up a copy today and read it by Christmas and then add it to your list.
Brynne Mirren is the oldest child in her family so it has fallen on her shoulders to help out the family. Brynne’s family have been down on their luck as of late her father doesn’t have a job so that is why Brynne sets her cart up on the street hoping that the big giants, the humans will buy them. Brynne has been taught all her life that humans could not be trusted. Brynne is very afraid of all the big giant humans. But when tragedy strikes Brynne’s family and she is left all alone she has no choice but to trust the big giant human.
Carter is the guy that all girls want he is so loving and kind and wants nothing more than to protect Byrnne to keep her safe from all harm. He just has the biggest heart always waiting to help everybody and make them happy.
Brynne is just like all girls who just want to someone to hold her and love her and just make everything better. She has so much warmth and love in her heart. She loves and cares for her family so very much especially her little brother and sister. She loves her father too she knows he is just having a hard time having to live in a world of giants and can’t find a job.
Brynne and Carter make the cutest couple. I just adore Brynne she is so cute and small. I kind of know how she feels living in a world of giants as I do myself. Well I am not as short as she is but I do live with giants. I am 4’10” and my husband is 6’2” so I know what it is like to stand in front of him and have to lean over backwards to see up into his face. Ha-ha! I also have two step-sons who are tall as well. The oldest is 6’5” and the youngest is 6’ so you see I do know a little bit of how she feels.
I have so enjoyed reading Brynne and Carter’s story. There was this one scene that I really loved and that is when Brynne decides to go climbing. I would like to know more about Brynne and her family and how they ended up where they are now. I would also like to read more about Brynne and Carter’s life together. They have a hard road ahead of them but hopefully they can change the world.
With this year I think I am going to start a list of some kind that includes Christmas stories. It is not a wish list, it is a list where you add books that you have read and would read again. But they must be Christmas stories. Matchsticks and Candy Canes have made it on that list. Do you have a list? What is on your list? Have you read Matchsticks and Candy Canes? No? Pick up a copy today and read it by Christmas and then add it to your list.
December 14, 2016
Really enjoyed the book. Nice book to read for the Christmas holiday. I was so happy I received this book to read by the way of the author. I really loved the relationship between Carter and Brynne. When I first found out that the book was going to be about a human and elf falling in love, I was not sure if I was going to like the book at all.
I am so glad I chose to give this book a chance because it was a fun, cute, and interesting story. I loved Carter's cousins Tyler and Taylor so much, especially there reaction when they first meet Brynne. Boy that really cracked me up, along with what Brynne was doing to Carter. And no its not what you might be thinking I was talking about. What a fun book to read to get you into the Christmas holiday.
I am so glad I chose to give this book a chance because it was a fun, cute, and interesting story. I loved Carter's cousins Tyler and Taylor so much, especially there reaction when they first meet Brynne. Boy that really cracked me up, along with what Brynne was doing to Carter. And no its not what you might be thinking I was talking about. What a fun book to read to get you into the Christmas holiday.
January 2, 2018
Oh Gosh! I absolutely fell in love with this new take on the original tale The Little Match Girl. I can't get enough of these characters & I want so much more. Brynne Mirren & Carter Holly are totally kissable & adorable. Whats not to love Santa's reject elfs, sweet candy cane baked goods, & Christmas spirit. With a spectacular set of supporting character's that accentuate the tale. This is one of my all time favourite Christmas stories I have ever read & just maybe my favourite. A must read Christmas Novel perfect for holiday season reading by the fireplace with a hot gingerbread latte to keep you cozy. I absolutely want & need more of Brynne & Carter. I would love to get to know more about what happens to Brianne's family & I just want more Candy Canes & Matchsticks.
December 9, 2016
I did receive this book as a free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 2nd book I've read by C.E. The book is unlike any other.
The story is about a young man, Carter, who helps in his Uncle's bakery shop. Across the strut for the last few years has always been a little elf, who has a matchstick cart. She sells two matchbook for $1. All this time, has always wondered about her. Who she is, where she's from, why is she here selling matchbook daily.
However, Carter, this year, gets the courage to go and talk with her. He finds out her name is Brynne and she's very pretty for an elf or human. He does notice that her clothes are no more than rags themselves with holes all over. He invites her into his uncle's bakery to warm up. However, Brynne knows the human world is quite different from the elf world. She does say now quite a few times.
However, Brynne does accept Carter's invitation and warms up inside the store.
Carter and Brynne are about the same age, although she is elf size and he is human size.
Brynne's family leaves during the day while she is with Carter. She doesn't know what she will do for food or heat. She doesn't even know where they have gone. Carter comes to her rescue. He takes her back to the bakery and works things out with his uncle to have Brynne stay with him and his wife, Aunt Heather.
Brynne is quite skiddish around humans. Although around Carter and his family she is fine being around them.
Brynne quickly learns to help out in the family bakery and at the aunt & uncle's house.
We do not know what happened with the elves for Santa to lose faith in them and why they are discarded so easily now. Some back stories of what else happened would be nice. This is a good heart warming story.
This is the 2nd book I've read by C.E. The book is unlike any other.
The story is about a young man, Carter, who helps in his Uncle's bakery shop. Across the strut for the last few years has always been a little elf, who has a matchstick cart. She sells two matchbook for $1. All this time, has always wondered about her. Who she is, where she's from, why is she here selling matchbook daily.
However, Carter, this year, gets the courage to go and talk with her. He finds out her name is Brynne and she's very pretty for an elf or human. He does notice that her clothes are no more than rags themselves with holes all over. He invites her into his uncle's bakery to warm up. However, Brynne knows the human world is quite different from the elf world. She does say now quite a few times.
However, Brynne does accept Carter's invitation and warms up inside the store.
Carter and Brynne are about the same age, although she is elf size and he is human size.
Brynne's family leaves during the day while she is with Carter. She doesn't know what she will do for food or heat. She doesn't even know where they have gone. Carter comes to her rescue. He takes her back to the bakery and works things out with his uncle to have Brynne stay with him and his wife, Aunt Heather.
Brynne is quite skiddish around humans. Although around Carter and his family she is fine being around them.
Brynne quickly learns to help out in the family bakery and at the aunt & uncle's house.
We do not know what happened with the elves for Santa to lose faith in them and why they are discarded so easily now. Some back stories of what else happened would be nice. This is a good heart warming story.
December 7, 2016
As heart warming as a warm cup of cocoa on a cool winter's evening, Matchsticks and Candy Canes is an innocent, sweet with a touch of bitter, Christmas love story.
Warning: Possible spoilers ahead
In the world of Brynne Mirren and Carter Holly, Christmas elves are real and were once employed by Santa himself in the North Pole, until some untold event caused Santa to cast out the elves. Now, most elves are unable to support themselves through work, due to their unearned reputation and live in very poor conditions. To try and earn money for her family, protagonist Brynne Mirren sells matchsticks and dried flowers at her cart throughout the cold winter days. From her vantage place she can see Carter Holly's uncle's bakery and dreams of the world within. Unbeknownst to her, Carter has noticed the small elf, and has been working up the courage to speak to her for years. From there an unlikely friendship blooms.
I highly recommend this story if you are in the market for a sweet little Christmas tale, or if you love star-crossed romances. It truly is a heart warmer!
Warning: Possible spoilers ahead
In the world of Brynne Mirren and Carter Holly, Christmas elves are real and were once employed by Santa himself in the North Pole, until some untold event caused Santa to cast out the elves. Now, most elves are unable to support themselves through work, due to their unearned reputation and live in very poor conditions. To try and earn money for her family, protagonist Brynne Mirren sells matchsticks and dried flowers at her cart throughout the cold winter days. From her vantage place she can see Carter Holly's uncle's bakery and dreams of the world within. Unbeknownst to her, Carter has noticed the small elf, and has been working up the courage to speak to her for years. From there an unlikely friendship blooms.
I highly recommend this story if you are in the market for a sweet little Christmas tale, or if you love star-crossed romances. It truly is a heart warmer!
December 5, 2016
This beautifully touching remake of the Little Match Stick Girl is touching and heartwarming. A beautiful story of overcoming prejudice and narrow minded thinking, of love and acceptance for who you are not what you are. The family support and togetherness is so awesome, showing the true Christmas Spirit. A great read for kids of all ages (in our minds only of course). Carter goes against the norm and reaches out in friendship after years of watching from the safety of his uncles bakery. When he does finally reach out he changes not only his life but his families too and just in the nick of time for Brynne.
Well written with plenty of fun and laughter. The story flows well and is different from what we have come to expect from Ms Wilson but she continues to show up in different genres we don't expect her in. My first read from Ms Dublin but I will be looking forward to many more.
Well written with plenty of fun and laughter. The story flows well and is different from what we have come to expect from Ms Wilson but she continues to show up in different genres we don't expect her in. My first read from Ms Dublin but I will be looking forward to many more.
December 8, 2016
Matchsticks and Candy Canes is such a sweet holiday story. Brynne Mirren is a sweet girl who doesn’t have the best life. Dealing with a mean dad as well as the constant discrimination against elves, Brynne is a tough, admirable character. Carter Holly is a guy that grew up comfortably, not needing to worry about money, but he has the biggest heart and he longs for Brynne. Will they overcome their many differences? You will have to read to find out.
I first fell in love with C.E. Wilson’s writing when I read To Nowhere, and since then I have read The Promise and Untitled Beauty (The Boy with Words and This is Me. are still waiting for me to read). I have yet to be disappointed by any of C.E. Wilson’s books; therefore, I highly recommend each one of them!
I received a copy of this book and volunteered to review it.
I first fell in love with C.E. Wilson’s writing when I read To Nowhere, and since then I have read The Promise and Untitled Beauty (The Boy with Words and This is Me. are still waiting for me to read). I have yet to be disappointed by any of C.E. Wilson’s books; therefore, I highly recommend each one of them!
I received a copy of this book and volunteered to review it.
January 3, 2017
Not bad, just weird
So this is a story about a boy who falls in love with a Christmas elf. It was well written, but weird. As an older reader I couldn't get into a romance that was between a normal boy and a girl that was as tall as his shin. One minute he is having to carry her around in his arms, the next, he is kissing her. She can't hold his hand, only his fingers, but he can cup her head and kiss her?
The logistics wouldn't work! I think this book would have been much better if they had made the elf the wise of a little person at least, because other wise it is just creepy and is essentially a story of a boy getting intimate with a doll!
So this is a story about a boy who falls in love with a Christmas elf. It was well written, but weird. As an older reader I couldn't get into a romance that was between a normal boy and a girl that was as tall as his shin. One minute he is having to carry her around in his arms, the next, he is kissing her. She can't hold his hand, only his fingers, but he can cup her head and kiss her?
The logistics wouldn't work! I think this book would have been much better if they had made the elf the wise of a little person at least, because other wise it is just creepy and is essentially a story of a boy getting intimate with a doll!
December 8, 2016
Carter is a normal teenager he helps his uncle now and then at his bakery well for the past 2 Christmas's he sees a elf across the street she's beautiful and Carter really wants to talk to her. Brynne a little elf that sells matches for her family. One day out of the blue Carter talks to her. I loved this book it's perfect for the holidays! It teaches you about judging people and how we all need to realize no matter what anyone looks like we all deserve to be loved and respected. 5/5 stars ❤️ *** I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book ***
December 10, 2016
Matchsticks and Candy Canes is a sweet story written by C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin, a story of an elf and a human. I previously read Untitled Beauty by C.E. Wilson and am intrigued by her different approach to nontraditional stories. This is beautifully written and magically over the holiday season. I found Carter to be endearing, attempting to not discriminate as others do.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
December 22, 2016
I really enjoyed Matchsticks And Candy Canes by C.E.. Wilson and Mary Dublin.
It is a new take on the story of The Little Match Girl, and it is written brilliantly.
I loved the characters and how they interacted with each other, especially of course Brynn and Carter, their chemistry was felt right thru the pages.
I loved the bakery, I could almost smell the wonderful smells of the Christmas rolls and scones.
I think my favorite part is the underlying story that even if there is differences, and we all know everyone is unique in their own way, that we can and should be able to life together in peace and except the differences.
This is a feel good easy to read beautiful story and I definitely recommend that everyone reads it!
It is a new take on the story of The Little Match Girl, and it is written brilliantly.
I loved the characters and how they interacted with each other, especially of course Brynn and Carter, their chemistry was felt right thru the pages.
I loved the bakery, I could almost smell the wonderful smells of the Christmas rolls and scones.
I think my favorite part is the underlying story that even if there is differences, and we all know everyone is unique in their own way, that we can and should be able to life together in peace and except the differences.
This is a feel good easy to read beautiful story and I definitely recommend that everyone reads it!
January 2, 2017
Great book to read during the holiday season. Unusual couple- a human boy and a Christmas elf.
Christmas elves, for some unknown reason, have become social outcasts and live in run down areas, supporting themselves.No longer working for Santa Claus, it seems.
Carter Holly has observed Brynne Mirren, an elf selling matchsticks opposite his uncle's bakery, for some time now. He finally plucks up the courage to speak to her and things blossom from there. Abandoned by her family, Brynne ends up alone but Carter makes sure she is okay when he convinces his uncle to take her in.Not everyone accepts this though. Will love prevail?
Heartwarming. Social issues hidden in a fantasy. A story that gives you food for thought, not unlike Dicken's 'A Christmas Carol'.
Christmas elves, for some unknown reason, have become social outcasts and live in run down areas, supporting themselves.No longer working for Santa Claus, it seems.
Carter Holly has observed Brynne Mirren, an elf selling matchsticks opposite his uncle's bakery, for some time now. He finally plucks up the courage to speak to her and things blossom from there. Abandoned by her family, Brynne ends up alone but Carter makes sure she is okay when he convinces his uncle to take her in.Not everyone accepts this though. Will love prevail?
Heartwarming. Social issues hidden in a fantasy. A story that gives you food for thought, not unlike Dicken's 'A Christmas Carol'.
January 4, 2017
Adorable
This was a cute story. Carter and Brynne are absolutely adorable and seeing all the obstacles that Brynne had to go through was sad, but seems to have made things come out better for them. Thank you for sharing.
This was a cute story. Carter and Brynne are absolutely adorable and seeing all the obstacles that Brynne had to go through was sad, but seems to have made things come out better for them. Thank you for sharing.
January 20, 2017
Love between a human and a elf
Carter,a baker,takes pity on a elf(Brianne),around Christmas. She's trying to make do by helping her family by selling matchbooks from a cart.carters uncle,who owns the bakery is hesitant at first about carter and briannes friendship.
Carter,a baker,takes pity on a elf(Brianne),around Christmas. She's trying to make do by helping her family by selling matchbooks from a cart.carters uncle,who owns the bakery is hesitant at first about carter and briannes friendship.
December 4, 2017
Very good
A good story which happens during the Christmas season and addresses prejudices, loss, heartache, love, forgiveness and acceptance but nt in a '"in your face"kind of way. A must read!
A good story which happens during the Christmas season and addresses prejudices, loss, heartache, love, forgiveness and acceptance but nt in a '"in your face"kind of way. A must read!
March 7, 2017
This was the perfect Christmas story. There was every element in this story; love, drama, real life events feelers, and more. There wasn't a time I wasn't sucked in and wanting to know where the story is going to go next. Even if it isn't the holiday season pick this book up and try to put it down.
December 11, 2016
Love can thaw the fiercest winter.
In a society where elves are no longer creatures of myth and magic, Brynne Mirren is just trying to survive the holidays as one of Santa’s Rejects. Loyal to her duty as the eldest child, she stands outside in the freezing cold and sell matchbooks—not that anyone would buy anything from an elf. Each fruitless day is the same without exception until her path crosses with Carter Holly. Persistent though he is, she can’t help but wonder if he has an ulterior motive.
After all, very few humans look kindly on elves these days.
Wow C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin writing together is pure magic. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book and freely give this review. That being said, this book was so sweet and amazing. It really pulled at my heart and turned this grinch for a moment into a holiday lover again.
Carter Holly loved going to his uncle’s bakery and helping out, especially for two years now around Christmas time. Not only because of all the yummy smells and holiday treats but because he gets to see her, the elf. Elves are a rarity where Carter lives but every year he has seen this particular elf, selling matches near his uncle’s bakery. He was curious about her. She seemed to be young and while he had his mother’s warnings rattling around in his head he could not believe that this tiny human could really be an evil creature.
“There was nothing scary about the young woman across the street, just the small differences. Once in a while he caught a glimpse of her pointed ears which she tried so desperately to keep hidden in her fluffy brown hair and worn out hat. And while she seemed to be so young, she also had looked terribly frail.”
Brynne Mirren was a Christmas elf who sold matches during the winter months trying to keep her family fed. Having a rough home life, she has to go out and sell the matches or face going home to the worst situation imaginable. One day the unimaginable happens, a human speaks to Brynne and her life begins to change.
“She took a large bite and a tentative smile grew on her face. Within a minute, the croissant had disappeared. She looked across the street and for a brief moment met his eyes.
“Thank you,” she breathed with a soft voice that pooled like mist in the winter air. He smiled back at her. Perhaps this winter would bring something better than more snow and sweets.”
Carter and Brynne begin a tentative friendship and as the day’s pass Carter feels more and more protective of Brynne. Will they be able to get past the stigma separating them as human and elf or will their differences tear them apart. You MUST read this to find out what happens. I give this book an outstanding 5 cupcakes. Beautifully written, such a sweet book.
~Melissa~
In a society where elves are no longer creatures of myth and magic, Brynne Mirren is just trying to survive the holidays as one of Santa’s Rejects. Loyal to her duty as the eldest child, she stands outside in the freezing cold and sell matchbooks—not that anyone would buy anything from an elf. Each fruitless day is the same without exception until her path crosses with Carter Holly. Persistent though he is, she can’t help but wonder if he has an ulterior motive.
After all, very few humans look kindly on elves these days.
Wow C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin writing together is pure magic. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book and freely give this review. That being said, this book was so sweet and amazing. It really pulled at my heart and turned this grinch for a moment into a holiday lover again.
Carter Holly loved going to his uncle’s bakery and helping out, especially for two years now around Christmas time. Not only because of all the yummy smells and holiday treats but because he gets to see her, the elf. Elves are a rarity where Carter lives but every year he has seen this particular elf, selling matches near his uncle’s bakery. He was curious about her. She seemed to be young and while he had his mother’s warnings rattling around in his head he could not believe that this tiny human could really be an evil creature.
“There was nothing scary about the young woman across the street, just the small differences. Once in a while he caught a glimpse of her pointed ears which she tried so desperately to keep hidden in her fluffy brown hair and worn out hat. And while she seemed to be so young, she also had looked terribly frail.”
Brynne Mirren was a Christmas elf who sold matches during the winter months trying to keep her family fed. Having a rough home life, she has to go out and sell the matches or face going home to the worst situation imaginable. One day the unimaginable happens, a human speaks to Brynne and her life begins to change.
“She took a large bite and a tentative smile grew on her face. Within a minute, the croissant had disappeared. She looked across the street and for a brief moment met his eyes.
“Thank you,” she breathed with a soft voice that pooled like mist in the winter air. He smiled back at her. Perhaps this winter would bring something better than more snow and sweets.”
Carter and Brynne begin a tentative friendship and as the day’s pass Carter feels more and more protective of Brynne. Will they be able to get past the stigma separating them as human and elf or will their differences tear them apart. You MUST read this to find out what happens. I give this book an outstanding 5 cupcakes. Beautifully written, such a sweet book.
~Melissa~
December 22, 2016
Love can thaw the fiercest winter.
In a society where elves are no longer creatures of myth and magic, Brynne Mirren is just trying to survive the holidays as one of Santa’s Rejects. Loyal to her duty as the eldest child, she stands outside in the freezing cold and sell matchbooks—not that anyone would buy anything from an elf. Each fruitless day is the same without exception until her path crosses with Carter Holly. Persistent though he is, she can’t help but wonder if he has an ulterior motive.
After all, very few humans look kindly on elves these days.
Wow C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin writing together is pure magic. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book and freely give this review. That being said, this book was so sweet and amazing. I give this book 5 amazingly sweet scones
Carter and Brynne begin a tentative friendship and as the day’s pass Carter feels more and more protective of Brynne. Will they be able to get past the stigma separating them as human and elf or will their differences tear them apart. You MUST read this to find out what happens. I give this book an outstanding 5 scones Beautifully written, such a sweet book
In a society where elves are no longer creatures of myth and magic, Brynne Mirren is just trying to survive the holidays as one of Santa’s Rejects. Loyal to her duty as the eldest child, she stands outside in the freezing cold and sell matchbooks—not that anyone would buy anything from an elf. Each fruitless day is the same without exception until her path crosses with Carter Holly. Persistent though he is, she can’t help but wonder if he has an ulterior motive.
After all, very few humans look kindly on elves these days.
Wow C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin writing together is pure magic. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book and freely give this review. That being said, this book was so sweet and amazing. I give this book 5 amazingly sweet scones
Carter and Brynne begin a tentative friendship and as the day’s pass Carter feels more and more protective of Brynne. Will they be able to get past the stigma separating them as human and elf or will their differences tear them apart. You MUST read this to find out what happens. I give this book an outstanding 5 scones Beautifully written, such a sweet book
December 22, 2016
Note: I received an ARC of this book and volunteered to write an honest review. And I apologize for taking so long. I just can't get rid of my reading slump!
This book is beautiful.
C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin did such an amazing job!
The story was super cute. My favorite thing about it is that it's not just about the romance, it's also about acceptance and inclusion. Also, it revolves around Christmas, and there's nothing I like more than warm cozy Christmas stories.
The characters were great! Carter and Brynne were my favorites. Getting to see them bonding was one of the best things. Also Brynne's sister was super cute when Brynne told her what Carter did for her. And OMG Carter's twin cousins... I loved the scene when they met Brynne.
I would've loved to know more about Brynne's family and the story of Elves and Christmas. Why the true Christmas spirit was barely there anymore.. A little bit more of background story would've been great. However that's not something that interfeers with the how the flows.
I truly enjoyed reading Matchsticks and Candy Canes. It was an amazing read to get in the Christmas mood just in time. I totally recommend it!
This book is beautiful.
C.E. Wilson and Mary Dublin did such an amazing job!
The story was super cute. My favorite thing about it is that it's not just about the romance, it's also about acceptance and inclusion. Also, it revolves around Christmas, and there's nothing I like more than warm cozy Christmas stories.
The characters were great! Carter and Brynne were my favorites. Getting to see them bonding was one of the best things. Also Brynne's sister was super cute when Brynne told her what Carter did for her. And OMG Carter's twin cousins... I loved the scene when they met Brynne.
I would've loved to know more about Brynne's family and the story of Elves and Christmas. Why the true Christmas spirit was barely there anymore.. A little bit more of background story would've been great. However that's not something that interfeers with the how the flows.
I truly enjoyed reading Matchsticks and Candy Canes. It was an amazing read to get in the Christmas mood just in time. I totally recommend it!
December 28, 2016
Another great one from C.E. Wilson. I just seriously love the stories she puts together with her littles. Everytime I read one of her books like this, that's what it reminds me of. lol But anyway, yes this was a great story with all the feels in it and a HEA. I'm kind of wondering if there will be more to this story line but there is no cliffhanger. Just a story of two unlikely people finding each other and fighting the odds as they go. Luckily one of them has a few people to support them and only want happiness for all involved.
Brynne is adorable, loving, hardworking and a beautiful soul. I really loved her because no matter what she tries to be her best even when she feels her worst.
Carter is such a sweetheart and is what we all need in our life at some point. He really made me proud of him and the things he does to make Brynne happy. Carter must learn his greatness from his aunt and uncle.. lol
C.E. thank you for allowing me to review yet another one of your amazing books!!
Brynne is adorable, loving, hardworking and a beautiful soul. I really loved her because no matter what she tries to be her best even when she feels her worst.
Carter is such a sweetheart and is what we all need in our life at some point. He really made me proud of him and the things he does to make Brynne happy. Carter must learn his greatness from his aunt and uncle.. lol
C.E. thank you for allowing me to review yet another one of your amazing books!!
December 13, 2016
Definitely different than other books I read, but sometimes that's a great thing. I thought it was a great book to read for the Christmas holiday!!!
I really thought Brynne and Carter made a super cute couple. I love that Carter didn't care that Brynne was an elf, and people seemed to really have a problem with elf's but that didn't matter to Carter.
I really loved Carter's twin cousins. Taylor and Tyler when they meet Brynne, I loved there reaction to her. I just thought it was so precious, and so freaking funny!!!!
I just think people should definitely buy this book to read for the Christmas season!!!! So I would most definitely recommend that people buy and read this awesome book.
I voluntarily offered to read and review this book from the Author. And this is my honest opinion on what I thought about this book. Thanks so much from the Author for letting me read this awesome book.
I really thought Brynne and Carter made a super cute couple. I love that Carter didn't care that Brynne was an elf, and people seemed to really have a problem with elf's but that didn't matter to Carter.
I really loved Carter's twin cousins. Taylor and Tyler when they meet Brynne, I loved there reaction to her. I just thought it was so precious, and so freaking funny!!!!
I just think people should definitely buy this book to read for the Christmas season!!!! So I would most definitely recommend that people buy and read this awesome book.
I voluntarily offered to read and review this book from the Author. And this is my honest opinion on what I thought about this book. Thanks so much from the Author for letting me read this awesome book.
January 24, 2017
Sweet story in C.E Wilsons original style. I've read quite a few of her books, and they are always an interesting read. This book follows her usual style and is an intriguing Christmas read.
Elves have been disowned by Santa and outcast into the world. They have to find a new way in the world but unfortunately, are not welcomed into society.
Brynne sells matches to help her family. She's out in the cold every day opposite the bakery. Carter is intrigued by the little elf, but he's heard the rumours. They are not to be trusted. The elf across the street from his uncle's shop doesn't look like a witch, in fact, she looks cold and frail. He's watched her from afar for years, but this Christmas things are going to change.
Matchsticks and candy canes is an unconventional romance novel.
4.5 stars out of 5.
Elves have been disowned by Santa and outcast into the world. They have to find a new way in the world but unfortunately, are not welcomed into society.
Brynne sells matches to help her family. She's out in the cold every day opposite the bakery. Carter is intrigued by the little elf, but he's heard the rumours. They are not to be trusted. The elf across the street from his uncle's shop doesn't look like a witch, in fact, she looks cold and frail. He's watched her from afar for years, but this Christmas things are going to change.
Matchsticks and candy canes is an unconventional romance novel.
4.5 stars out of 5.
January 18, 2017
A young human: "He wondered when the terms elves and witches had become synonymous. An elf's Dad: “Do you know what humans do? They lie. They cheat. They steal. They humiliate us.” This was a beautifully written story of caring, discrimination, misinformation and taking a chance. Where people are happy to see from a distance, or not look, and believe the worst. Afraid to cross the perceived beliefs of those around them. An interesting use of the Matchstick Girl tale. Taking a chance on caring because it feels right.
December 12, 2016
Super cute Christmas read.
January 4, 2017
I couldn't focus
I had a really hard time reading this book. The whole story just seemed off and too weird. Unfortunately. I didn't enjoy it
I had a really hard time reading this book. The whole story just seemed off and too weird. Unfortunately. I didn't enjoy it
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