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The Canal Boat Café Christmas #1
The Canal Boat Café Christmas: Port Out
A Christmas special continuing the charming and heart-warming story of The Canal Boat Café, the runaway bestseller.
Summer and Mason take their upbeat and feelgood Canal Boat Café to London for Christmas, with unexpected results.
Port Out – Summer is so in love with her boyfriend Mason and dreams of taking the next step with him, but is Mason ready too? When her friend Claire offers Summer a chance to come to London with her canal boat, Summer thinks this will give them a chance to find out, and they embark on a magical journey on the canal all the way to the scenic beauty of Little Venice. But will it be plain sailing all the way?
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2017
55 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
About the author
Cressida McLaughlin
61 books695 followersI grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 21, 2019
Well this has been a delightful read and I have thoroughly enjoyed being reacquainted with all of the characters but especially Summer and Mason.
It was a short light easy read that ends in somewhat of a cliff hanger so I'm very much looking forward to book 2 to this 2 part book series.
Another thing I loved was all the mention of the yummy food especially the Christmas themed food & mince pie latte, just delicious.
It was a short light easy read that ends in somewhat of a cliff hanger so I'm very much looking forward to book 2 to this 2 part book series.
Another thing I loved was all the mention of the yummy food especially the Christmas themed food & mince pie latte, just delicious.
December 6, 2017
I couldn't wait to read this as I loved the full book and wanted to hear more about the characters and village and it didn't disappoint me at all very well written and continues on so well with romance and friendship very easy enjoyable read. Summer and Mason are very much in love and summer still has her cafe and she's in love with Mason and wants to propose to him so speaks with her friend about the best way. It's coming up to Christmas and another friend has ivied her and Mason to travel to London on the canal boat which they agree to do and she decides she's going to wait till New year to propose but they both head down to London and they get a shock while there and not a happy one and how does Mason cope but what does summer think as well. Really beautiful read.
November 12, 2017
Really enjoyed this book, bit of a cliff hanger at the end so will desperate to find out how it ends
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2020
An enjoyable Christmas romance
June 7, 2023
I love historical events like this.
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?
In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.
It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.
I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...
Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus
We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.
7. Reading is Motivational
By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/resmondo-boa...
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https://theboatyacht.com/tiara-2700-o...
https://numberoneboats.com/tiara-2700...
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?
In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.
It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.
I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...
Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus
We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.
7. Reading is Motivational
By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/resmondo-boa...
https://numberoneboats.com/resmondo-b...
https://theboatyacht.com/tiara-2700-o...
https://numberoneboats.com/tiara-2700...
November 8, 2017
Wow. I'm not even sure that words can describe how much I absolutely loved this follow-on novella! It had everything I love reading about at Christmas; gingerbread, decorations, hot chocolates, Christmas carols and so, so much more! The story follows on from Cressida's previous works: The Canal Boat Cafe, but I think this could easily be read as a standalone as Cressida covers everything that took place in the book beforehand.
First of all, I was so excited when I heard there was even going to be another story on Mason and Summer, and secondly, just take a look at that cover! It's sooo pretty! I absolutely adore the bold colours used, the poinsettia in the bottom left, the robin, the wreath, even the way the Canal Boat Cafe sign is hanging and the snow surrounding it is so pleasing to the eye. Just beautiful!
Now, onto the story itself, it's available to buy now (part one is out now- part two is out in December - which I cannot wait for!!) and I would 100% urge you to give it a read. It's hard to put down, but so easy to read. With a festive feel throughout the novella. The cakes and macarons that they bake just sound delicious, and the hot chocolate will have your mouth watering.
The story follows Summer and boyfriend Mason as they embark on a journey to Little Venice in London to take part in a Canal Boat Christmas Fair (doesn't that just sound so exciting!?). This book actually made me really, really want to visit Little Venice and I was soon looking up how to get there and was telling my boyfriend that we're definitely going sometime soon! Anywho, I loved the whole novella. The parts before the Christmas Fair, the travelling to Little Venice, and of course the twist at the end of the book! Which I didn't see coming at all! But I'm so eager to read the next one to find out what happens now!
Overall, a fantastically festive Christmas novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would. I cannot wait for the next one!! Cressida McLaughlin does it again!
First of all, I was so excited when I heard there was even going to be another story on Mason and Summer, and secondly, just take a look at that cover! It's sooo pretty! I absolutely adore the bold colours used, the poinsettia in the bottom left, the robin, the wreath, even the way the Canal Boat Cafe sign is hanging and the snow surrounding it is so pleasing to the eye. Just beautiful!
Now, onto the story itself, it's available to buy now (part one is out now- part two is out in December - which I cannot wait for!!) and I would 100% urge you to give it a read. It's hard to put down, but so easy to read. With a festive feel throughout the novella. The cakes and macarons that they bake just sound delicious, and the hot chocolate will have your mouth watering.
The story follows Summer and boyfriend Mason as they embark on a journey to Little Venice in London to take part in a Canal Boat Christmas Fair (doesn't that just sound so exciting!?). This book actually made me really, really want to visit Little Venice and I was soon looking up how to get there and was telling my boyfriend that we're definitely going sometime soon! Anywho, I loved the whole novella. The parts before the Christmas Fair, the travelling to Little Venice, and of course the twist at the end of the book! Which I didn't see coming at all! But I'm so eager to read the next one to find out what happens now!
Overall, a fantastically festive Christmas novel which I thoroughly enjoyed. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would. I cannot wait for the next one!! Cressida McLaughlin does it again!
June 4, 2019
Summer and Mason have been together a year now only Summer plans to propose this Christmas after all the hustle and bustle is over.
However when the opportunity comes along to join their friend Claire in London's waterway's, Little Venice comes up the pair have to decide whether to travel and be busy or stay where they usually moor and relax and with the return of an old flame things get tense...
I enjoyed being back in the canal boat café and especially when it was at Market Harborough in the book, a village close to me! The adventure was dragged out by a lot of Summer rethinking her proposal idea and Mason's ex Tania came up a lot and the end drama was suspenseful and draws us in to read the next book!
However when the opportunity comes along to join their friend Claire in London's waterway's, Little Venice comes up the pair have to decide whether to travel and be busy or stay where they usually moor and relax and with the return of an old flame things get tense...
I enjoyed being back in the canal boat café and especially when it was at Market Harborough in the book, a village close to me! The adventure was dragged out by a lot of Summer rethinking her proposal idea and Mason's ex Tania came up a lot and the end drama was suspenseful and draws us in to read the next book!
November 17, 2017
Whilst I loved this book, the end of the story or next part of the story isn't even available until December. Next time I shall think carefully before purchasing a book by this author. I'd read the first book and thought wow I actually quite like this and assumed the next one would be the same, I was very wrong. I do feel there are some parts that could have been left out and then there would be no need to put the story into multiple books. I would happily have given a minimum of four stars had the story ended in one book but as it didn't I dropped a star off of it, I dropped another star for how quickly characters who didn't get on are suddenly sharing secrets.
December 17, 2023
The Canal cafe Christmas sees the return of this lovely story of Summer, the owner of the Canal cafe and her boyfriend Mason, along with the other loveable characters. But this sees our main protagonist and her boyfriend head on a new adventure to Little Venice in London. Summer is deeply in love with Mason and dreams of taking their relationship to the next level, but is Mason ready. Claire asks Summer and Mason to join her, and the fellow travellers Summer had previously travelled with to London. This was the opportunity for Summer to see if her and Mason's relationship were to move forward. The question is, is it going to be as plain sailing as Summer expects it to be .
November 10, 2017
Another excellent story
As usual couldn't put it down but didn't want it to end. Love the way the books carry on and always keep you guessing. All the twist and turns means you're always surprised. Perfect for the run up to Christmas, can wait for the next instalment. Will they or won't they?
As usual couldn't put it down but didn't want it to end. Love the way the books carry on and always keep you guessing. All the twist and turns means you're always surprised. Perfect for the run up to Christmas, can wait for the next instalment. Will they or won't they?
January 22, 2018
Nice catch up
I loved this novella that allowed us to see more of Summer and Mason as their relationship progressed and the cafe expanded. Throwing in Masons ex, being in London away from her support network I wonder how Summer will manage to negotiate her feelings and relationship with Mason. I look forward to reading the next book.
I loved this novella that allowed us to see more of Summer and Mason as their relationship progressed and the cafe expanded. Throwing in Masons ex, being in London away from her support network I wonder how Summer will manage to negotiate her feelings and relationship with Mason. I look forward to reading the next book.
January 3, 2022
I love the idea of living on the canals and waterways in Britain, it seems so peaceful and relaxing, so I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere of this book. This book is really not finished as it continues on so I will definitely read the next one to complete this storyline.
If you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of boats and water, these are for you. It's like taking a holiday!
If you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of boats and water, these are for you. It's like taking a holiday!
November 8, 2017
A sweet short into Summer & Mason and how their relationship has progressed. I wish it hadn't ended on such a cliff-hanger / to be continued but I'm invested so I'll probably be reading the next one too!
December 11, 2017
Loved the original trio of books and this is a lovely start to the next chapter of the Canal Boat Cafe Christmas series. Can't wait to see what happens next with Summer and the rest of the characters.
December 6, 2017
It was lovely to be reunited with Summer, Mason and the other characters that live near their canal barges.
I've downloaded the second in this series and can't wait to find out how their week in London goes. This book gets a thumbs up from me as it's a nice easy read.
I've downloaded the second in this series and can't wait to find out how their week in London goes. This book gets a thumbs up from me as it's a nice easy read.
January 3, 2020
Lovely return to this adorable series, great to be back with Summer and Mason again, bit slow to start but it’s setting up the scene, most happens towards the end and can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
March 14, 2021
I was told i dould read this as a stand alone and maybe you can but i felt like i was missing so much. That said enjoyable read but not a bookthat makes me want to say wow i want to know more about these characters
September 5, 2023
Disappointing
Having read all the previous books in the series I was really looking forward to this one but it’s pace is so pedantic, the storyline so clumsily worked it was unbelievably bad. Sorry but you must do better
Having read all the previous books in the series I was really looking forward to this one but it’s pace is so pedantic, the storyline so clumsily worked it was unbelievably bad. Sorry but you must do better
May 15, 2025
This was yet another enjoyable read, a few turns in it. As always a good storyline getting you shocked from the beginning of it, but also followed on from the last book. Can't wait to read her next book in this series.
November 10, 2017
Great series of books
I absolutely love this series of books. Easy to read and great on going story that you don't want to end. I hope there are many more to come.
I absolutely love this series of books. Easy to read and great on going story that you don't want to end. I hope there are many more to come.
November 10, 2017
loved this follow up from the last series
February 14, 2018
great book
May 13, 2018
Almost at the end if this feel good series. Will they, won't they??? Love the excursion of the narrow boats into London. Sad that I only have one book left to read.
June 5, 2018
Lovely relaxing read and great story
June 15, 2018
Lovely Xmas story on the canals
Excellent as usual loving catching up on the canals....unexpected ending wanting more ...
Summers beautiful cafe with lots of lovely treats on offer.
Excellent as usual loving catching up on the canals....unexpected ending wanting more ...
Summers beautiful cafe with lots of lovely treats on offer.
June 17, 2019
Good quick read though it ends abruptly and sets up the second book. Probably could have just been part of the second book and published as a complete Christmas book.
October 26, 2020
Loved the continuing story of the Canal Boat Café. What a treat!
January 3, 2021
A very festive read. A little predictable but a happy read all the same. The description of situations, scenery and actions were beautifully carried out
Read
October 21, 2023DNF this was so boring, nothing happens, I have up nearly halfway through. I only read that much as it was the only book I had with me on a journey
December 28, 2025
One word....MAGICAL!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews