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The Best Little Christmas Shop
Come home for Christmas to the Best Little Christmas Shop – the snowiest, cosiest place you can be!
Home for the holidays…
Icing gingerbread men, arranging handmade toys and making up countless Christmas wreaths in her family’s cosy little Christmas shop isn’t usually globe-trotter Lexi’s idea of fun. But it’s all that’s keeping her mind off romance. And, with a broken engagement under her belt, she’s planning to stay well clear of that for the foreseeable future…until gorgeous single dad Cal Martin walks through the door!
Christmas takes on a whole new meaning as Lexi begins to see it through Cal’s adorable five-year-old son’s eyes. But, finding herself getting dangerously close to the mistletoe with Cal, Lexi knows she needs to back off. She’s sworn off love, and little George needs a stability she can’t provide. One day she’ll decide whether to settle down again – just not yet.
But the best little Christmas shop in this sleepy, snow-covered village has another surprise in store…
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2017
254 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Maxine Morrey
38 books308 followersMaxine has wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember and wrote her first (very short) book for school when she was ten. Coming in first, she won a handful of book tokens – perfect for a bookworm!
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 15, 2017
5☆The Perfect Beautiful Romantic Christmas Story.
I was so excited when I found out Maxine's newest Christmas Book was on Blog Tour. I jumped at the chance to read it.
The Best Little Christmas Shop is simply Charming. It will make you feel warm inside, fall in love with the characters, be swept away with the Romance, and the magic of Christmas.
I absolutely adored reading this book.
Lexi moves back to her small bedsit in her parents house after a really bad break up with a famous F1 driver.
So she sets out to help out in their beautiful Christmas Shop.
In walks Cal and George (Cal's adorable 5year old Son).
George is about to Charm Lexi with his innocence and the need for affection.
When Lexi fixes George's bear with special stitches a friendship and bond is formed.
I mean let's not forget Cal here, he is sexy, endearing, Charming, a fantastic Dad and has an eye for Lexi!!!
I simply adored George, he melted my heart and for me he was the best Character. He made the story for me.
It truly was like I was experiencing Christmas through a child's eyes!
I loved watching Lexi and Cal's friendship blossom.
Both have their guard up but with Lexi she was so hurt she finds it so hard to let go.
I loved how close she was to her family and brothers.
I am a real family person and my Mum is my best friend so it was a joy to see.
Cal is a closed book and very private but when he is with Lexi you see his heart start to melt as he opens up and shares his pain.
Cal hasn't had life easy and to see him grow and let people in is so heartwarming.
The Best Little Christmas Shop will capture your heart as you become a part of the magic.
There is nothing more I can say except....If there is one Christmas Book you read this Year then let it be The Best Little Christmas Shop. You won't be disappointed.
Maxine has this way of captivating her readers with charismatic and memorable Characters and the magic of Christmas with a sprinkle of Romance and humour.
I received this book from the Publisher in which I voluntarily reviewed for the Blog Tour.
My Review is also on my blog website plus a fab Competition:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
I was so excited when I found out Maxine's newest Christmas Book was on Blog Tour. I jumped at the chance to read it.
The Best Little Christmas Shop is simply Charming. It will make you feel warm inside, fall in love with the characters, be swept away with the Romance, and the magic of Christmas.
I absolutely adored reading this book.
Lexi moves back to her small bedsit in her parents house after a really bad break up with a famous F1 driver.
So she sets out to help out in their beautiful Christmas Shop.
In walks Cal and George (Cal's adorable 5year old Son).
George is about to Charm Lexi with his innocence and the need for affection.
When Lexi fixes George's bear with special stitches a friendship and bond is formed.
I mean let's not forget Cal here, he is sexy, endearing, Charming, a fantastic Dad and has an eye for Lexi!!!
I simply adored George, he melted my heart and for me he was the best Character. He made the story for me.
It truly was like I was experiencing Christmas through a child's eyes!
I loved watching Lexi and Cal's friendship blossom.
Both have their guard up but with Lexi she was so hurt she finds it so hard to let go.
I loved how close she was to her family and brothers.
I am a real family person and my Mum is my best friend so it was a joy to see.
Cal is a closed book and very private but when he is with Lexi you see his heart start to melt as he opens up and shares his pain.
Cal hasn't had life easy and to see him grow and let people in is so heartwarming.
The Best Little Christmas Shop will capture your heart as you become a part of the magic.
There is nothing more I can say except....If there is one Christmas Book you read this Year then let it be The Best Little Christmas Shop. You won't be disappointed.
Maxine has this way of captivating her readers with charismatic and memorable Characters and the magic of Christmas with a sprinkle of Romance and humour.
I received this book from the Publisher in which I voluntarily reviewed for the Blog Tour.
My Review is also on my blog website plus a fab Competition:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...
November 18, 2017
Here is a link to my blog so you can see photos of Mr Mousy:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
Firstly, the things I loved most about this book were Bear, the teddy bear. Oh my goodness, my heart melted. This book won me over very early on with Bear, the injured teddy bear. I can cope with injured humans, but not an injured teddy bear. Oh, the horror! It actually reminded me of Mr Mousy. My Auntie Sharon gave him to me for my first birthday, and I still have him to this day. Apparently I was rather upset that despite him being a mouse he didn’t have a tail. My mum ended up attaching a plaited tail on him with the only colour wool she had in the house, which was mint green, and doesn’t go with the rest of Mr Mousy, but I didn’t care, I was just happy he had a tail. I may be almost forty years old, but I still love him so much.
I also loved the Four Seasons shop. What a great idea, selling gifts and decorations suited to each season. There was plenty of festive fun too, with an adult-sized elf, decorations, fairy lights, Christmas trees, snowflakes, candy canes, cuddly turkeys wearing Santa hats, cinnamon sticks, eggnog, a Christmas parade with decorated floats and Father Christmas on his sleigh.
The reason for 4 starts instead of 5 is because I didn’t fully connect with the characters within this story. I think that may the fault of the previous book I read, rather than this book itself. I just wasn’t ready to let go of the previous characters I’d been reading about, which made it harder to warm to the ones in this book, except for little George and Bear the teddy, of course.
Overall this is an enjoyable festive romance set within a fun and cosy close-knit community.
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
Firstly, the things I loved most about this book were Bear, the teddy bear. Oh my goodness, my heart melted. This book won me over very early on with Bear, the injured teddy bear. I can cope with injured humans, but not an injured teddy bear. Oh, the horror! It actually reminded me of Mr Mousy. My Auntie Sharon gave him to me for my first birthday, and I still have him to this day. Apparently I was rather upset that despite him being a mouse he didn’t have a tail. My mum ended up attaching a plaited tail on him with the only colour wool she had in the house, which was mint green, and doesn’t go with the rest of Mr Mousy, but I didn’t care, I was just happy he had a tail. I may be almost forty years old, but I still love him so much.
I also loved the Four Seasons shop. What a great idea, selling gifts and decorations suited to each season. There was plenty of festive fun too, with an adult-sized elf, decorations, fairy lights, Christmas trees, snowflakes, candy canes, cuddly turkeys wearing Santa hats, cinnamon sticks, eggnog, a Christmas parade with decorated floats and Father Christmas on his sleigh.
The reason for 4 starts instead of 5 is because I didn’t fully connect with the characters within this story. I think that may the fault of the previous book I read, rather than this book itself. I just wasn’t ready to let go of the previous characters I’d been reading about, which made it harder to warm to the ones in this book, except for little George and Bear the teddy, of course.
Overall this is an enjoyable festive romance set within a fun and cosy close-knit community.
November 15, 2017
Book reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Lexi has returned to her family home after an abrupt ending to her career as a chief engineer for an F1 racing team. She is hurt and disillusioned about what she is going to do next. For now she is concentrating on spending some time with her parents, brothers and their growing families.
Whilst back at home Lexi decides to help out in the families little village shop, ‘The Four Seasons’, this is where she first claps eyes on the gorgeous Cal Martin.
Cal is a businessman, the boss of her best friend Xander and single father to five year old George. Over the coming weeks the two have an obvious attraction to one another, but when Cal wants to be more than just friends, Lexi pulls away telling him that they shouldn’t see each other again.
Lexi is keeping a secret from everyone, and she is not prepared to hurt the man she has fallen in love with, but will Cal just let her slip through his fingers?
This is the first book that I have read by Maxine Morrey and if this one is anything to go by I will have to catch up with her previous work. It’s not very often that a book has such a hold on me that I spent until the early hours of the morning reading it, only to pick it up again as soon as I woke up.
The plot is very family orientated, which is just perfect for a Christmas book. I can’t say any of the characters irked me. Yes, Lexi and Cal sometimes needed their heads banging together, but they were the characters that made this book so special, not forgetting adorable little George too.
I loved the vivid descriptions of a little snow covered village with Christmas decorations everywhere and warm friendly people. Maxine Morrey’s writing style just swept me along as it naturally flowed. I was intrigued to find out what Lexi was keeping to herself, but Maxine certainly made me wait for the answer.
This is a book that you will fall in love with. Grab that cuppa, make yourself cosy and dive right into, The Best Little Christmas Shop, where you will laugh, smile, rejoice, but most of all feel warm and fuzzy inside. The perfect book to get you into that Christmas spirit.
Lexi has returned to her family home after an abrupt ending to her career as a chief engineer for an F1 racing team. She is hurt and disillusioned about what she is going to do next. For now she is concentrating on spending some time with her parents, brothers and their growing families.
Whilst back at home Lexi decides to help out in the families little village shop, ‘The Four Seasons’, this is where she first claps eyes on the gorgeous Cal Martin.
Cal is a businessman, the boss of her best friend Xander and single father to five year old George. Over the coming weeks the two have an obvious attraction to one another, but when Cal wants to be more than just friends, Lexi pulls away telling him that they shouldn’t see each other again.
Lexi is keeping a secret from everyone, and she is not prepared to hurt the man she has fallen in love with, but will Cal just let her slip through his fingers?
This is the first book that I have read by Maxine Morrey and if this one is anything to go by I will have to catch up with her previous work. It’s not very often that a book has such a hold on me that I spent until the early hours of the morning reading it, only to pick it up again as soon as I woke up.
The plot is very family orientated, which is just perfect for a Christmas book. I can’t say any of the characters irked me. Yes, Lexi and Cal sometimes needed their heads banging together, but they were the characters that made this book so special, not forgetting adorable little George too.
I loved the vivid descriptions of a little snow covered village with Christmas decorations everywhere and warm friendly people. Maxine Morrey’s writing style just swept me along as it naturally flowed. I was intrigued to find out what Lexi was keeping to herself, but Maxine certainly made me wait for the answer.
This is a book that you will fall in love with. Grab that cuppa, make yourself cosy and dive right into, The Best Little Christmas Shop, where you will laugh, smile, rejoice, but most of all feel warm and fuzzy inside. The perfect book to get you into that Christmas spirit.
October 24, 2017
I loved this brilliant festive read with a very special ending! It is packed with all the delights of the season and wrapped up beautifully in love. Ex-F1 mechanic Lexi has returned from her globe trotting, fast paced job to her family home and business and is endeavouring to review her options whilst helping by working in the family's Christmas shop. She was involved in wreath making when a sharp holly leaf almost - but not quite - made her use profanities in front of George, the adorable five year old son of Cal Martin! After such an innocuous introduction George and Cal both prove detrimental to her previous dreams as she starts re-considering her options and her dreams . . . .
This is a truly heart-warming story from the very beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into the close knit community and the families who live there. It is a fantastic book to snuggle up with, a cosy read to keep you enthralled regardless of the weather outside. Get ready to meet some fantastic characters - especially Lexi's older brothers and her ex-fiancé - as well as Apollo, who merits his own special mention. The family dynamics, the melting of barriers, festive fun and developing romance are integral components in this story. Lexi may have decided to put off settling down but fate and love have other plans for her!
This author has a brilliant way of bringing her characters and scenarios to life with her vivid descriptions. I feel like I've actually been there exploring the Little Christmas Shop, meeting the characters and seeing the sights therein. If you're looking for an engaging and highly entertaining Christmas read, grab yourself a copy of this fantastic book!
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is a truly heart-warming story from the very beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into the close knit community and the families who live there. It is a fantastic book to snuggle up with, a cosy read to keep you enthralled regardless of the weather outside. Get ready to meet some fantastic characters - especially Lexi's older brothers and her ex-fiancé - as well as Apollo, who merits his own special mention. The family dynamics, the melting of barriers, festive fun and developing romance are integral components in this story. Lexi may have decided to put off settling down but fate and love have other plans for her!
This author has a brilliant way of bringing her characters and scenarios to life with her vivid descriptions. I feel like I've actually been there exploring the Little Christmas Shop, meeting the characters and seeing the sights therein. If you're looking for an engaging and highly entertaining Christmas read, grab yourself a copy of this fantastic book!
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
December 13, 2017
You'll instantly fall in love with the cute couple Cal and Lexi. If you love the magical Christmas feeling you get when reading Christmas books you'll love, The Best Little Christmas Shop book. It's full of snow,glitter and glam,fairy lights and delicious treats. Lexi works in her family's cosy Christmas gift shop. It's a magical place inside filled to the rafters with Christmas goodness, the kind that just makes you want to buy everything inside this magical shop to duplicate it in your own house. Gingerbread men to rocking horses from wreaths to sweets of all kinds and Father Christmas decorations. After a failed relationship with a billionaire race car driver, Lexi has guarded her heart fiercely from any hint of a new relationship. That may change though when new to turn Cal and his adorable son, George shows up at the shop to buy Christmas gifts. What really melted my heart was the little boy's bear called, Bear. Lexi offers to sew him up while George and his father shop. Who in this day and age would do that ? That was just the sweetest thing! Lexi's frozen heart starts to thaw to the thought of relationships as she spends more time with the sweetheart of a little boy George and his ruggedly handsome,heart stopping father, Cal.
This is such an endearing book full of good times and family. You're going to need to add this one to your Christmas book wish list. It's just that good!
Pub Date 03 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is such an endearing book full of good times and family. You're going to need to add this one to your Christmas book wish list. It's just that good!
Pub Date 03 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 15, 2017
So cute, so festive, so almost had me in tears but also laughing...simply fabulous!
Easily one of my favourite Christmas books I've read this year, its full of family and Christmas and what really is the best little Christmas shop about. I loved this shop so much would have loved to work there myself. And the shop is central to the story, as its Lexi's family business and also where she first meets Cal and George.
Cal is the village heart throb, and not only that he is a single dad to five year old George. The reasoning behind his single fatherhood status is not something I would have predicted and generally with what has gone on in Cal's past I have felt really sorry for him at times.
George is the shining star of the book is is a bundle of cuteness, says some fantastic things and generally lightens up any scene. I absolutely loved him and his bear.
Lexi is a bit harder to really get to know mainly as the things she is hiding from Cal are also hidden infuriatingly to the reader so although we can guess at what exactly is going on with her, I wasn't completely sure and it did take me a bit longer to really start rooting for her. I think that is in part because is was a F1 race engineer but there is hardly any formula one in this book - with such an exciting original job I would have loved to have seen more about that life.
Lexi has a huge family and I loved getting to know them all. She is the youngest with 3 older, protective brothers, and they really added to the story, especially some of the sub plots.
This is a wonderfully Christmassy story, and its full of the warmth of the season. I loved pretty much every about this book and desperately hope this isn't the last we see of Cal, Lexi and George.
Thanks to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Easily one of my favourite Christmas books I've read this year, its full of family and Christmas and what really is the best little Christmas shop about. I loved this shop so much would have loved to work there myself. And the shop is central to the story, as its Lexi's family business and also where she first meets Cal and George.
Cal is the village heart throb, and not only that he is a single dad to five year old George. The reasoning behind his single fatherhood status is not something I would have predicted and generally with what has gone on in Cal's past I have felt really sorry for him at times.
George is the shining star of the book is is a bundle of cuteness, says some fantastic things and generally lightens up any scene. I absolutely loved him and his bear.
Lexi is a bit harder to really get to know mainly as the things she is hiding from Cal are also hidden infuriatingly to the reader so although we can guess at what exactly is going on with her, I wasn't completely sure and it did take me a bit longer to really start rooting for her. I think that is in part because is was a F1 race engineer but there is hardly any formula one in this book - with such an exciting original job I would have loved to have seen more about that life.
Lexi has a huge family and I loved getting to know them all. She is the youngest with 3 older, protective brothers, and they really added to the story, especially some of the sub plots.
This is a wonderfully Christmassy story, and its full of the warmth of the season. I loved pretty much every about this book and desperately hope this isn't the last we see of Cal, Lexi and George.
Thanks to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 3, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Hand on heart, I could read a Maxine Morrey novel every day of the week without getting bored. Selfishly I wish the author would produce 365 books in one year, but unless the author is an octopus and has book ideas coming out of her like a stampede of people on the Boxing Day sales, I may have to resign myself to the fact it will never happen. Sniff.
Anywhooooo! Maxine Morrey is back with yet another toasty warm novel - the perfect excuse to ignore everyone in your household with. Not that I am speaking from experience or anything...
Lexi, just like her life, is a tad broken. She's back in her family home working in the family business. Her own career put on the back burner for the immediate future. What happened? Lexi doesn't like to talk about a situation which broke her heart, yet to move forward with her life, she needs to approach and put it to bed. Speaking of putting to bed...there's a 'new' man in town. A man whose son was 0.5 seconds away from hearing some extremely colourful words. A man who has had his heart-broken in the past and only wants to do right by his son. A man who would find any excuse to frequent a shop...just because.
Lexi is my kinda gal. She is hilarious. Sassy. Beyonce type independent. And of course, feisty. She's the type of person I want to be when I grow up! -ignores the fact that I'll be 28 soon-.
I could tell almost straight away that Cal and Lexi were going to hit it off. Whether that was because she doted on Cal's little boy, George, or whether she was actually attracted to the man himself, I'm still not entirely sure. Either way, there was certainly something in the air.
I loved how naive both of the main characters came across, despite being well into their adulthood and aware of certain meaningful feelings. Sometimes it was as though Cal and Lexi were in high school as love-sick teenagers! Of course I just wanted to bang their heads together and tell them to get on with it, but it was super cute watching their relationship blossom, especially with a child in the equation. Often people forget the child in new friendships and relationships, or rule single parents out completely as being 'too much of a challenge' or 'damaged goods'. Lexi however, was the complete opposite. I could give the author a hug for the way that she has portrayed a single parent in this book, whilst also keeping the heart of the child at the forefront of any decision making, ensuring that little George was involved every single time. As daft as this sounds, it did make me a little bit emotional read it, I must admit.
Now, I absolutely flipping loved this book. I loved the surprises in the storyline regarding Lexi's family. I loved Lexi's family full stop! I felt like I was being wrapped up in a blanket the entire time I was reading 'The Best Little Christmas Shop'. I was afraid that when I closed the book the cosiness would diminish and I would end up feeling cold*.
*Reader, it did.
Seeing as I pride myself on being honest and writing honest reviews every time, I feel like I would be going against that if I didn't mention something which, in my eyes, disappointed me a smidge. Sigh. The ending. If there was another book following this one then I would have no problem at all with the ending as it piqued my interest and left me hanging. But, because there isn't a sequel in the pipeline at the moment, the ending kept me hanging and made me feel like there was more to the storyline. Don't get me wrong, the entire novel was beautifully written and it's not a negative thing that I wanted a sequel to the book. I am just a bit disappointed at how it was left wide open with an abrupt finish. I really do hope that the author does write a sequel to this book as I feel that Lexi's family have so much more to give and I want to follow their journey with them.
Aside from that, this book blew me away and, as you can tell, left me wanting more, more, MORE!!
To say that 'The Best Little Christmas Shop' was a magical read would be an understatement of the year. Being perfectly honest, the magic and warmth in this book ranked as high as good ol' Santa Claus, and you can't get anymore magical than that old dude!
Sometimes you can read a book which can make you feel loved from the tip of your toes, to the top of your head. Sometimes you can read a book which warms your heart like the biggest duvet. Sometimes you can read a book which leaves you feeling a sense of loss when the book comes to an end. Sometimes you can read a book that you would love to read for the first time, every time. Sometimes that 'sometimes' changes to every time, and that 'every time' would be my response to 'would you recommend a Maxine Morrey novel?'.
Every.Single.Time.
Thanks HQDigitalUK.
Hand on heart, I could read a Maxine Morrey novel every day of the week without getting bored. Selfishly I wish the author would produce 365 books in one year, but unless the author is an octopus and has book ideas coming out of her like a stampede of people on the Boxing Day sales, I may have to resign myself to the fact it will never happen. Sniff.
Anywhooooo! Maxine Morrey is back with yet another toasty warm novel - the perfect excuse to ignore everyone in your household with. Not that I am speaking from experience or anything...
Lexi, just like her life, is a tad broken. She's back in her family home working in the family business. Her own career put on the back burner for the immediate future. What happened? Lexi doesn't like to talk about a situation which broke her heart, yet to move forward with her life, she needs to approach and put it to bed. Speaking of putting to bed...there's a 'new' man in town. A man whose son was 0.5 seconds away from hearing some extremely colourful words. A man who has had his heart-broken in the past and only wants to do right by his son. A man who would find any excuse to frequent a shop...just because.
Lexi is my kinda gal. She is hilarious. Sassy. Beyonce type independent. And of course, feisty. She's the type of person I want to be when I grow up! -ignores the fact that I'll be 28 soon-.
I could tell almost straight away that Cal and Lexi were going to hit it off. Whether that was because she doted on Cal's little boy, George, or whether she was actually attracted to the man himself, I'm still not entirely sure. Either way, there was certainly something in the air.
I loved how naive both of the main characters came across, despite being well into their adulthood and aware of certain meaningful feelings. Sometimes it was as though Cal and Lexi were in high school as love-sick teenagers! Of course I just wanted to bang their heads together and tell them to get on with it, but it was super cute watching their relationship blossom, especially with a child in the equation. Often people forget the child in new friendships and relationships, or rule single parents out completely as being 'too much of a challenge' or 'damaged goods'. Lexi however, was the complete opposite. I could give the author a hug for the way that she has portrayed a single parent in this book, whilst also keeping the heart of the child at the forefront of any decision making, ensuring that little George was involved every single time. As daft as this sounds, it did make me a little bit emotional read it, I must admit.
Now, I absolutely flipping loved this book. I loved the surprises in the storyline regarding Lexi's family. I loved Lexi's family full stop! I felt like I was being wrapped up in a blanket the entire time I was reading 'The Best Little Christmas Shop'. I was afraid that when I closed the book the cosiness would diminish and I would end up feeling cold*.
*Reader, it did.
Seeing as I pride myself on being honest and writing honest reviews every time, I feel like I would be going against that if I didn't mention something which, in my eyes, disappointed me a smidge. Sigh. The ending. If there was another book following this one then I would have no problem at all with the ending as it piqued my interest and left me hanging. But, because there isn't a sequel in the pipeline at the moment, the ending kept me hanging and made me feel like there was more to the storyline. Don't get me wrong, the entire novel was beautifully written and it's not a negative thing that I wanted a sequel to the book. I am just a bit disappointed at how it was left wide open with an abrupt finish. I really do hope that the author does write a sequel to this book as I feel that Lexi's family have so much more to give and I want to follow their journey with them.
Aside from that, this book blew me away and, as you can tell, left me wanting more, more, MORE!!
To say that 'The Best Little Christmas Shop' was a magical read would be an understatement of the year. Being perfectly honest, the magic and warmth in this book ranked as high as good ol' Santa Claus, and you can't get anymore magical than that old dude!
Sometimes you can read a book which can make you feel loved from the tip of your toes, to the top of your head. Sometimes you can read a book which warms your heart like the biggest duvet. Sometimes you can read a book which leaves you feeling a sense of loss when the book comes to an end. Sometimes you can read a book that you would love to read for the first time, every time. Sometimes that 'sometimes' changes to every time, and that 'every time' would be my response to 'would you recommend a Maxine Morrey novel?'.
Every.Single.Time.
Thanks HQDigitalUK.
November 10, 2017
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I absolutely adored this book!!! It was soooo good that I think I might try and read it again before Christmas, it allowed me to escape from the mundane day to day and I became wrapped upon the story. I loved the writing style which flowed so well through the story and helped bring it all to life. The characters were brilliant and the interaction between them really made the book for me - it is most certainly a book I'm going to be recommending to friends and family - it has definitely been a highlight of my Christmas reading so far in 2017!! 5 stars from me - loved it!!
I absolutely adored this book!!! It was soooo good that I think I might try and read it again before Christmas, it allowed me to escape from the mundane day to day and I became wrapped upon the story. I loved the writing style which flowed so well through the story and helped bring it all to life. The characters were brilliant and the interaction between them really made the book for me - it is most certainly a book I'm going to be recommending to friends and family - it has definitely been a highlight of my Christmas reading so far in 2017!! 5 stars from me - loved it!!
November 2, 2017
Lexi used to work in formula one as an engineer. She headed home to be with a friend in need and consequently lost her job and career and is now working in “Four Seasons” the family shop selling, at this time of year, all things Christmas. Cal and his son George pop in for some decorations. Cal is a friend of one of Lexi’s friends and so they get talking. Lexi has a past as has Cal. Can they make things work or are there just too many insurmountable obstacles? This is a heartwarming book from the start that makes you want to curl up in front of a roaring fire with a hot chocolate and enjoy the ride comfortably. I’m not usually into romance but I do enjoy a lighthearted read. Families and their loves, likes and differences, each a part of a tableaux. What some have and others have never experienced and never will. This is brilliantly descriptive so you can picture the shop and the decorations, the people and scenes as well as the emotions and thoughts along the way. A perfect present and a highly enjoyable read.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
October 19, 2017
I absolutely loved this wonderful Christmas read. Full of Christmas magic, sparkle, snow, gingerbread men, toys, Christmas wreaths, fun, happiness, love, friendship, family, amazing characters, fantastic settings this book is everything you need for the festive season. I absolutely loved every single minute of this book and if you are chicklit/romance fan. You will too. This book is absolutely wonderful. Loved it.
November 16, 2017
Maxine Morrey where on earth have your books been all my life?! My first time reading anything by this author and this story simply blew me away with its emotional narrative, beautiful descriptions, and characters that have burrowed into my heart forever.
Lexi likes to play to her strengths and she knows she is an excellent engineer as her previous career in Formula 1 has proven, but when she makes a personal choice it changes her life drastically and she finds herself living back home, working in her family's beloved store, unsure of what her next move will be. Relationships only ever seem to cause pain so Lexi definitely wants to avoid entanglements of the heart but when a little boy and his handsome father walk into the Christmas store one day, Lexi knows she is in trouble. Can Lexi find the strength and self-belief to take a chance at love? Or will she push everyone away as she tries to protect them from the hurt that she believes will inevitably happen?
I completely fell head over heels in love with this story and all of the characters, from Lexi, Cal, and adorable George, to Lexi's fabulously nosy family and friends who want to see their Lexi light up with love. Now there were times where I wanted to shake some sense into Lexi but I understood why she was acting the way she was, which made her all the more likeable.
THE BEST LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP by Maxine Morrey is an emotional, romantic, captivating story about love, fear, and taking chances, and I could not put this book down. Reading this story beside the twinkling lights of my Christmas tree was the perfect end to a lovely day and I highly recommend that you all read this wonderfully festive story now.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Rachel's Random Resources.
Lexi likes to play to her strengths and she knows she is an excellent engineer as her previous career in Formula 1 has proven, but when she makes a personal choice it changes her life drastically and she finds herself living back home, working in her family's beloved store, unsure of what her next move will be. Relationships only ever seem to cause pain so Lexi definitely wants to avoid entanglements of the heart but when a little boy and his handsome father walk into the Christmas store one day, Lexi knows she is in trouble. Can Lexi find the strength and self-belief to take a chance at love? Or will she push everyone away as she tries to protect them from the hurt that she believes will inevitably happen?
I completely fell head over heels in love with this story and all of the characters, from Lexi, Cal, and adorable George, to Lexi's fabulously nosy family and friends who want to see their Lexi light up with love. Now there were times where I wanted to shake some sense into Lexi but I understood why she was acting the way she was, which made her all the more likeable.
THE BEST LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP by Maxine Morrey is an emotional, romantic, captivating story about love, fear, and taking chances, and I could not put this book down. Reading this story beside the twinkling lights of my Christmas tree was the perfect end to a lovely day and I highly recommend that you all read this wonderfully festive story now.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Rachel's Random Resources.
October 29, 2017
‘Please don’t tell me that was a goodbye kiss,’ he whispered. I shook my head, the smile spreading on my face. ‘No. It wasn’t. It was a time to be brave kiss.’
Actual Rating 3.5 Stars
After her engagement goes up in flames, Lexi returns home to help out in her family's christmas shop. Little does she know that she'll find something much better than tinsel and gingerbread cookies in those aisles. When she meets Cal Martin, single parent to the most adorable boy in existence, Lexi has to decide whether to follow her heart or her head as her past comes knocking - in the form of a great job offer.
This was such a lovely read that definitely got me in the Christmas spirit! I loved the atmosphere this book created with all things Christmas - decorating, baking, walking in the snow, and so much more. Lexi's part of a big family and it felt so cozy to read about their close-knit relationships.
The only thing that really irked me were the frequent remarks about being a 'tomboy' and how being feminine was associated with wearing frilly dresses and crying. They were such unneccesary comments and aided to perpetuate the stereotypes people still hold about women. One example: "she hollered in a voice that belied her delicate stature and build. It still amazed me that this slight and very feminine woman had produced men the size of my brothers."
Or: "I’m just not all feminine and girly like Giselle. She cries and looks beautiful."
I do understand that girls and women come in all shapes and sizes and that everyone is different in the way the express and dress themselves; still, it felt forced to keep referring to Lexi's best friend Giselle as the gorgeous, girly one, while Lexi was the tomboyish, tough one.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this magical, festive story and can't wait to dive into Maxine Morrey's other stories!
I would recommend this to anyone ready for Christmas, in need for some fluffly slow-burn romance, and a whole lot of family fun!
*I received a copy of this novel via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Actual Rating 3.5 Stars
After her engagement goes up in flames, Lexi returns home to help out in her family's christmas shop. Little does she know that she'll find something much better than tinsel and gingerbread cookies in those aisles. When she meets Cal Martin, single parent to the most adorable boy in existence, Lexi has to decide whether to follow her heart or her head as her past comes knocking - in the form of a great job offer.
This was such a lovely read that definitely got me in the Christmas spirit! I loved the atmosphere this book created with all things Christmas - decorating, baking, walking in the snow, and so much more. Lexi's part of a big family and it felt so cozy to read about their close-knit relationships.
The only thing that really irked me were the frequent remarks about being a 'tomboy' and how being feminine was associated with wearing frilly dresses and crying. They were such unneccesary comments and aided to perpetuate the stereotypes people still hold about women. One example: "she hollered in a voice that belied her delicate stature and build. It still amazed me that this slight and very feminine woman had produced men the size of my brothers."
Or: "I’m just not all feminine and girly like Giselle. She cries and looks beautiful."
I do understand that girls and women come in all shapes and sizes and that everyone is different in the way the express and dress themselves; still, it felt forced to keep referring to Lexi's best friend Giselle as the gorgeous, girly one, while Lexi was the tomboyish, tough one.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this magical, festive story and can't wait to dive into Maxine Morrey's other stories!
I would recommend this to anyone ready for Christmas, in need for some fluffly slow-burn romance, and a whole lot of family fun!
*I received a copy of this novel via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
December 5, 2017
Lexi came home after her career as a chief engineer in F1 hit a wall, with all of the associated paparazzi attention as she was involved with the team’s driver at the time. The baby in the family with 3 older brothers, she’s always considered herself a tomboy, and is uncomfortable with all things ‘girly’ as she grew up rushing about to keep up with her brothers. Now home for the first extended time in years and finding herself enjoying her remove from the racing circuit more than she thought she would and working at the family’s shop: now transformed into a Christmas wonderland, she’s biding her time until the new year as she waits for a new offer from a racing team to return to the life she’s ‘meant to have’. Oh Lexi – it is so obvious to everyone BUT you that being home, pitching in at the store, spending time with your family and friends makes you happy: happier than the job offer you received. But when a little boy appears, a teddy bear with a wonky head and his gorgeous father appear in the shop, instantly Lexi offers to ‘perform surgery’, fixing Bear and giving him a jaunty new scarf. Thus Lexi meets George and his father Cal: new to the village, with plenty of interested females, single and attached, watching his every move.
Cal, a successful businessman who works with classic cars moved to the village with his young son George to give him a better life with more space and fresh air out of London. Taking full responsibility and custody of George after his mother refused to be involved, Cal is hoping to give George a good life- far better than his own in foster care. Cal is both fiercely protective of George and his feelings, and slightly flummoxed by the boy’s questions, interests and parricularly his instant attachment to Lexi. Not interested in allowing anyone in enough to hurt either him or the child, but somehow he just can’t stop running into Lexi. Of course, her best friend’s husband and her brother both work with Cal, and George has become friends with her nephew and niece, and her family has done (in typical fashion) everything they can to welcome Cal and George to town and making them feel a part of the family and community.
Cal is hard not to like – his relationship with George and his determination to keep him safe and happy is wonderful, and you can’t help but appreciate his warmth and willingness to help out those he likes. Lexi, on the other hand, while a wonderfully kind and clearly welcoming person was frustrating – SO frustrating as she first couldn’t see what was in front of her, then refused to let go of her fear of all the bad things that could happen if she took a chance. Oh the back and forth wore a hole in the carpet here: everyone: from her mother, her friends and even her brothers see just how well-matched she and Cal were – and if that wasn’t enough, her ex Marco, F1 driver and former fiancé saw it – and it was his surprising offer and words of sense that finally made a difference.
Full of emotions – this story fairly oozed family acceptance, love and goodwill. Even when Lexi was at her most frustrating, her brother Dan’s and her parents’ support and acceptance, even extending to quiet reprimands and gentle nudges into the fray of confusion she was experiencing was wonderful – everyone deserves family and friends just like that. When you add in a Great Dane that can’t help but be adorable even as he snores away in the warmest place possible, the Christmas festivities and the wonderful additions to the family and the holiday themed store that can’t help but put you in the spirit, the story fairly flies by to a conclusion that is expected yet surprising in just how well it works for everyone.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Cal, a successful businessman who works with classic cars moved to the village with his young son George to give him a better life with more space and fresh air out of London. Taking full responsibility and custody of George after his mother refused to be involved, Cal is hoping to give George a good life- far better than his own in foster care. Cal is both fiercely protective of George and his feelings, and slightly flummoxed by the boy’s questions, interests and parricularly his instant attachment to Lexi. Not interested in allowing anyone in enough to hurt either him or the child, but somehow he just can’t stop running into Lexi. Of course, her best friend’s husband and her brother both work with Cal, and George has become friends with her nephew and niece, and her family has done (in typical fashion) everything they can to welcome Cal and George to town and making them feel a part of the family and community.
Cal is hard not to like – his relationship with George and his determination to keep him safe and happy is wonderful, and you can’t help but appreciate his warmth and willingness to help out those he likes. Lexi, on the other hand, while a wonderfully kind and clearly welcoming person was frustrating – SO frustrating as she first couldn’t see what was in front of her, then refused to let go of her fear of all the bad things that could happen if she took a chance. Oh the back and forth wore a hole in the carpet here: everyone: from her mother, her friends and even her brothers see just how well-matched she and Cal were – and if that wasn’t enough, her ex Marco, F1 driver and former fiancé saw it – and it was his surprising offer and words of sense that finally made a difference.
Full of emotions – this story fairly oozed family acceptance, love and goodwill. Even when Lexi was at her most frustrating, her brother Dan’s and her parents’ support and acceptance, even extending to quiet reprimands and gentle nudges into the fray of confusion she was experiencing was wonderful – everyone deserves family and friends just like that. When you add in a Great Dane that can’t help but be adorable even as he snores away in the warmest place possible, the Christmas festivities and the wonderful additions to the family and the holiday themed store that can’t help but put you in the spirit, the story fairly flies by to a conclusion that is expected yet surprising in just how well it works for everyone.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
December 2, 2017
When I saw this book on Netgalley the cover caught my attention. When I read the synopsis I was very interested and when I was granted access I was very happy. I didn't take me long to read it and I started liking it from the very beginning.
This is a very sweet romantic story, but it is not only about love, it's about family, about taking chances and enjoying your life. I loved the characters, albeit I must confess I wanted to shake Lexi into her senses more than once. I loved Cal (Can I have one of those, please?) and George (One of those too!).
I felt connected with the story in so many levels. Being the only girl, and having three older brothers, when I started reading I immediately clicked with the story. And not just that, but also felt identified with some of the feelings and thoughts of Lexi and Cal.
I loved the story, the writing style is easy, light and funny (I loved Lexi's voice); the characters are lovely (the main ones and secondary ones as well-like Dan, Mum and Gis) and in the end it's a story that leaves you full of hope, Christmas cheer and a very warm feeling in your heart. I totally loved feeling that way and since it's the first Christmas book I read this year I'll definitely have a special place in my heart.
This is a very sweet romantic story, but it is not only about love, it's about family, about taking chances and enjoying your life. I loved the characters, albeit I must confess I wanted to shake Lexi into her senses more than once. I loved Cal (Can I have one of those, please?) and George (One of those too!).
I felt connected with the story in so many levels. Being the only girl, and having three older brothers, when I started reading I immediately clicked with the story. And not just that, but also felt identified with some of the feelings and thoughts of Lexi and Cal.
I loved the story, the writing style is easy, light and funny (I loved Lexi's voice); the characters are lovely (the main ones and secondary ones as well-like Dan, Mum and Gis) and in the end it's a story that leaves you full of hope, Christmas cheer and a very warm feeling in your heart. I totally loved feeling that way and since it's the first Christmas book I read this year I'll definitely have a special place in my heart.
December 27, 2019
2.5
The premise of the book had me hooked immediately and I was looking forward to a festive and cosy setting. Unfortunately the book couldn't live up to my expectations.
The little Christmas shop was hardly metioned in the story. There was a bit about in the beginning but then nothing anymore which had me really disappointed and could have built a strong festive setting. The setting was nice but had no festive or cosy atmosphere at all. Only to the end Christmas was mentioned and it got a little bit festive.
I found the storyline pretty boring and there was hardly anything happening. There were pretty long descriptions about the dates of Lexi and Cal as well as the past of Lexi. The characters weren't mine either, Lexi was pretty annoying and all the others characters were way too perfect without any flaws.
Although the story was very dragging, I got quickly through it which is a plus, otherwise I probably wouldn't have finished the book.
The premise of the book had me hooked immediately and I was looking forward to a festive and cosy setting. Unfortunately the book couldn't live up to my expectations.
The little Christmas shop was hardly metioned in the story. There was a bit about in the beginning but then nothing anymore which had me really disappointed and could have built a strong festive setting. The setting was nice but had no festive or cosy atmosphere at all. Only to the end Christmas was mentioned and it got a little bit festive.
I found the storyline pretty boring and there was hardly anything happening. There were pretty long descriptions about the dates of Lexi and Cal as well as the past of Lexi. The characters weren't mine either, Lexi was pretty annoying and all the others characters were way too perfect without any flaws.
Although the story was very dragging, I got quickly through it which is a plus, otherwise I probably wouldn't have finished the book.
November 9, 2017
Nice to have a main character in a snowmance novel that is not super girly girl but a bit of a tomboy. Rare to find. Really enjoyed the story overall, 3.5 stars.
February 26, 2021
Blog Review: https://trishadoeseverythingbutstudy2...
Not one of my favourites from Maxine Morrey...
Overall, the book is just awesome! We have angst, we have pining, we have hot love interest who also has a really cute son; I mean, what's there to not love?
The answer is, probably nothing except for the writing and execution in some places. I felt this could have been a lot shorter, and with way less denial. It was also a bit of insta-lovey, but more or less made up for it?
I also didn't like the constant what-is-masculine-what-is-feminine-our-MC-is-definitely-too-masculine-to-be-feminine-or-is-she because that was getting on my nerves, and feeling pretty sexist. I'm sorry, but it did.
I loved the Christmas part of this, though it was pretty less in this book. I've loved this aspect of almost all of the Maxine Morrey books I've read with Christmas, which is not a lot, but I'm going to read more!
I'm definitely going to read others by her, and I'd recommend this to anyone who likes rom-coms, Christmas, hot love interests with small kids, slight previous love interest drama, and fluffy angst. (is that an oxymoron? I don't care)
Not one of my favourites from Maxine Morrey...
Overall, the book is just awesome! We have angst, we have pining, we have hot love interest who also has a really cute son; I mean, what's there to not love?
The answer is, probably nothing except for the writing and execution in some places. I felt this could have been a lot shorter, and with way less denial. It was also a bit of insta-lovey, but more or less made up for it?
I also didn't like the constant what-is-masculine-what-is-feminine-our-MC-is-definitely-too-masculine-to-be-feminine-or-is-she because that was getting on my nerves, and feeling pretty sexist. I'm sorry, but it did.
I loved the Christmas part of this, though it was pretty less in this book. I've loved this aspect of almost all of the Maxine Morrey books I've read with Christmas, which is not a lot, but I'm going to read more!
I'm definitely going to read others by her, and I'd recommend this to anyone who likes rom-coms, Christmas, hot love interests with small kids, slight previous love interest drama, and fluffy angst. (is that an oxymoron? I don't care)
November 1, 2017
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
*
DNF at 42%
*sigh* I don't normally review books I don't finish, however I'm making an exception. I've found that I like reading other's reviews of DNF reads (particularly of books I like!) because it's neat to get a different perspective.
I was drawn to this novel because of the cover - look at it, it's so cute! And the synopsis sounded promising. I tried really hard to finish The Best Little Christmas Shop, as I didn't want to give up on it. But I just couldn't do it.
It started out so well. Lexi had returned home after a period away and some drama in her work and personal life. Her family runs a store that changes with the season, and in the lead up to Christmas there's some serious wreath making and decorating going on.
I liked Lexi's family, well, mainly one of her brothers. Their relationship seemed sweet and I was hoping that feel would continue throughout. But then we met the love interest, Cal, and it all fell apart.
Unfortunately there was no chemistry between Cal and Lexi at all. She seemed to misunderstand most of what he said, only for him to have to reassure her that he didn't mean it like that.
Another thing that annoyed me was her constant comparisons of herself and other women (eg: her best friend), how she's not feminine and delicate, what does anyone see in her. Gosh. And there was a passing thought of another lady not having pure intentions when it came to interacting with Cal (heaven forbid he possibly has female friends that aren't her friends too).
The stereotypes of women really grated on my nerves, I can't stand it when women put themselves, or others, down because they don't meet the supposed expectations of society and what it is to be female. I just couldn't enjoy this story at all; though George, Cal's young son, was adorable.
I did read the end to make sure I didn't want to continue to see how that played out, and all it did was make me roll my eyes so...nope.
I'm sure plenty out there will enjoy this book as a bit of fun, Christmassy, escapism. But it just wasn't for me.
*
DNF at 42%
*sigh* I don't normally review books I don't finish, however I'm making an exception. I've found that I like reading other's reviews of DNF reads (particularly of books I like!) because it's neat to get a different perspective.
I was drawn to this novel because of the cover - look at it, it's so cute! And the synopsis sounded promising. I tried really hard to finish The Best Little Christmas Shop, as I didn't want to give up on it. But I just couldn't do it.
It started out so well. Lexi had returned home after a period away and some drama in her work and personal life. Her family runs a store that changes with the season, and in the lead up to Christmas there's some serious wreath making and decorating going on.
I liked Lexi's family, well, mainly one of her brothers. Their relationship seemed sweet and I was hoping that feel would continue throughout. But then we met the love interest, Cal, and it all fell apart.
Unfortunately there was no chemistry between Cal and Lexi at all. She seemed to misunderstand most of what he said, only for him to have to reassure her that he didn't mean it like that.
Another thing that annoyed me was her constant comparisons of herself and other women (eg: her best friend), how she's not feminine and delicate, what does anyone see in her. Gosh. And there was a passing thought of another lady not having pure intentions when it came to interacting with Cal (heaven forbid he possibly has female friends that aren't her friends too).
The stereotypes of women really grated on my nerves, I can't stand it when women put themselves, or others, down because they don't meet the supposed expectations of society and what it is to be female. I just couldn't enjoy this story at all; though George, Cal's young son, was adorable.
I did read the end to make sure I didn't want to continue to see how that played out, and all it did was make me roll my eyes so...nope.
I'm sure plenty out there will enjoy this book as a bit of fun, Christmassy, escapism. But it just wasn't for me.
November 26, 2019
I received a free copy of this book by the book’s publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much for letting me read this!
The story centres around Lexi, a tomboy who has grown up surrounded by boys. She’d been her parents last hope for a girl and when she arrived she wasn’t a girly girl after all. Instead she’d made her career in repairing vehicles, notably as an F1 mechanic. When life makes her take a decision choosing between family and career, she risks her career to be there for her family and loses her job as a result.
Lexi’s family own a seasonal business and at Christmas it’s one of the most popular shops around. When her family hear the news of her job loss, she’s thrown straight into helping fulfil orders and helping customers. One customer happens to make a huge impact upon her life. Cal Martin wanders into the store with his adorable five year old son and turns what she thinks she knows upside down.
This was definitely an easy to read and enjoyable holiday read. It felt realistic and had a lovely cosy feel to the novel. The author creates really vivid images in your mind of the world she’s created, which is probably why I enjoyed reading it so much! The dog in story is hilarious and probably my favourite character along with George.
The main reason for me not giving this book five stars is because at times I found Lexi irritating. There are only so many times you can try to push somebody away before they are going to go away and she clearly didn’t get the memo. It was as if she was expecting the world to do everything for her and fit the pieces together. Life and fate don’t work like that. Despite that, it was easy to read and enjoyable.
The story centres around Lexi, a tomboy who has grown up surrounded by boys. She’d been her parents last hope for a girl and when she arrived she wasn’t a girly girl after all. Instead she’d made her career in repairing vehicles, notably as an F1 mechanic. When life makes her take a decision choosing between family and career, she risks her career to be there for her family and loses her job as a result.
Lexi’s family own a seasonal business and at Christmas it’s one of the most popular shops around. When her family hear the news of her job loss, she’s thrown straight into helping fulfil orders and helping customers. One customer happens to make a huge impact upon her life. Cal Martin wanders into the store with his adorable five year old son and turns what she thinks she knows upside down.
This was definitely an easy to read and enjoyable holiday read. It felt realistic and had a lovely cosy feel to the novel. The author creates really vivid images in your mind of the world she’s created, which is probably why I enjoyed reading it so much! The dog in story is hilarious and probably my favourite character along with George.
The main reason for me not giving this book five stars is because at times I found Lexi irritating. There are only so many times you can try to push somebody away before they are going to go away and she clearly didn’t get the memo. It was as if she was expecting the world to do everything for her and fit the pieces together. Life and fate don’t work like that. Despite that, it was easy to read and enjoyable.
November 3, 2017
Having read a few Christmas books this year – actually, by the beginning of November I’ve probably read more than I usually do by Christmas Eve – I thought I knew it all and then along comes Maxine Morrey with this amazingly warm, feel good read.
Lexi is used to working and surviving in a man’s world. With only brothers for siblings she can more than hold her own and could not only survive but thrive in the world of Formula One. Returning home to her large, noisy family she realises how much she has missed over the years, but she frets for her chosen career too. And then, as if she wasn’t in enough of a quandary, in walks drop-dead gorgeous Cal Martin with his equally adorable five year old son, George.
This is a wonderful read. It has all the Christmas elements you could wish for along with a well thought out structure which has the reader wondering to the end. As with all good noel novels, there is indecision, unhappiness and a wealth of good cheer. I want to live in Lexi’s village, and I want to shop in Four Seasons! Meeting Cal would be a bonus of course .. but not sure my husband would be too happy about that! There is no doubt that I closed this book with a sigh of contentment and satisfaction – and what more can any reader ask? A truly delicious read which will undoubtedly leave every bookworm with a warm and fuzzy festive glow, and I recommend you add it to your Christmas list right now!
My grateful thanks to publisher HQ Digital for providing an arc via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
Lexi is used to working and surviving in a man’s world. With only brothers for siblings she can more than hold her own and could not only survive but thrive in the world of Formula One. Returning home to her large, noisy family she realises how much she has missed over the years, but she frets for her chosen career too. And then, as if she wasn’t in enough of a quandary, in walks drop-dead gorgeous Cal Martin with his equally adorable five year old son, George.
This is a wonderful read. It has all the Christmas elements you could wish for along with a well thought out structure which has the reader wondering to the end. As with all good noel novels, there is indecision, unhappiness and a wealth of good cheer. I want to live in Lexi’s village, and I want to shop in Four Seasons! Meeting Cal would be a bonus of course .. but not sure my husband would be too happy about that! There is no doubt that I closed this book with a sigh of contentment and satisfaction – and what more can any reader ask? A truly delicious read which will undoubtedly leave every bookworm with a warm and fuzzy festive glow, and I recommend you add it to your Christmas list right now!
My grateful thanks to publisher HQ Digital for providing an arc via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
did-not-finish
December 11, 2018DNF / on hold at 20%. It makes me sad to quit a book where there’s realistically nothing wrong with it, I’m just not in the mood for it. I don’t have motivation to pick it up and it’s dragging my reading life down a little bit. The MC was interesting enough and I kind of like the love interest (and his cute son) but I’m just not into this for me right now. Maybe next year, I mean it!
December 28, 2018
An enjoyable little love story—one at Christmas no less! As much as I enjoyed this, I couldn’t help thinking, “Seriously, are these people REAL?” I’m all for fictional creations of characters, but the unrealistically PERFECT depictions of some and the absolutes frustrating stupidity of others had me smh.
Still, if you’re a hopeless romantic who likes Hallmark, it’s worth the quick read!
Still, if you’re a hopeless romantic who likes Hallmark, it’s worth the quick read!
December 5, 2018
I really loved the cover and the description however, I found this story to be long winded and boring and I had a hard time getting through it. I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review the is book.
January 5, 2020
Sellel lool oleks olnud rohkem potentsiaali, kui peategelane ei oleks pidevalt ülemõelnud ja halanud, et tema küll ühegi mehega suhtes ei saa olla, sest ta rikub need kõik ära (ühel teatud isiklikul põhjusel). Ja olgugi, et tema kodukanti hiljaaegu kolinud uus meesterahvas, kes temasse ülepea armub, väidab, et teda ei häiri miski ja nad saavad kõigega hakkama, ajab naine ikka oma joru. Ikka tõeline juhm. Ja siis raamatu viimasel 10 leheküljel otsustab naisterahvas, et vist ikka võiks proovida ning siis laabubki kõik kohe - abieluettepanek, pulmad jne :D No johhaidiii!!!
December 19, 2024
Cute but a little too slow.
December 25, 2018
Disappointing
I really don't like stories where one (or more) of the characters is just plain stupid through most of the story. I won't be reading more of her books.
I really don't like stories where one (or more) of the characters is just plain stupid through most of the story. I won't be reading more of her books.
November 13, 2017
I first came across Maxine a couple of years ago when I picked up her book called A Winter’s Fairytale. I was instantly hooked on her wonderful stories and characters and found myself each year eagerly awaiting news of a new one. We definitely got spoilt this year, as this is Maxine’s second!
Lexi is an ex F1 engineer – used to globe trotting off around the world. She’s currently back at home after her work and personal life all went a little pear shaped and is now helping out in the little family business ‘Four Seasons’ – a shop which at this current time of year sells absolutely everything Christmas related. Not only is her career taking a little back seat, but also her relationship status. That is until single dad Cal and his son George walks into the shop…
Lexi is a bit of a different sort of rom-com character – she’s always been a bit of a tomboy. Growing up being the youngest of 4 children (3 brothers) as well as doing a predominantly male job means she’s a very feisty, stubborn and independent character. Sometimes a little too much so, I just wanted to bang her head and tell her to stop being so stubborn with Cal!
I always love the romance side to this author’s stories. This one had all the usual fun, flirty, will they won’t they moments, but the relationship was definitely a little more slower building than others, but I think this was correctly done though with the single parent issue. I’m a single parent myself and relationships really have to be so much more thought about in this situation, so credit to the author in putting little George at the forefront of both Cal and Lexi’s minds and highlighting these points.
In my reviews I always promise to be completely honest, and whilst I loved the ending of this book in one way, I also felt it was a tiny bit too open. I think it was maybe because I really rooted for the characters – I just wanted to share that next chapter in their special journey with them (even if it was just for another chapter or two).
For this time of the year you can’t lose with a book from this author. You always get a lovely, light hearted, cosy read – that sometimes you just need in life! It’s full of fun, romance, families… and what seems like a sprinkling of Christmas magic. The background characters are all wonderfully likeable ( I esp loved Giselle and Xander) and there’s also a tougher issue or two touched upon as well.
Lexi is an ex F1 engineer – used to globe trotting off around the world. She’s currently back at home after her work and personal life all went a little pear shaped and is now helping out in the little family business ‘Four Seasons’ – a shop which at this current time of year sells absolutely everything Christmas related. Not only is her career taking a little back seat, but also her relationship status. That is until single dad Cal and his son George walks into the shop…
Lexi is a bit of a different sort of rom-com character – she’s always been a bit of a tomboy. Growing up being the youngest of 4 children (3 brothers) as well as doing a predominantly male job means she’s a very feisty, stubborn and independent character. Sometimes a little too much so, I just wanted to bang her head and tell her to stop being so stubborn with Cal!
I always love the romance side to this author’s stories. This one had all the usual fun, flirty, will they won’t they moments, but the relationship was definitely a little more slower building than others, but I think this was correctly done though with the single parent issue. I’m a single parent myself and relationships really have to be so much more thought about in this situation, so credit to the author in putting little George at the forefront of both Cal and Lexi’s minds and highlighting these points.
In my reviews I always promise to be completely honest, and whilst I loved the ending of this book in one way, I also felt it was a tiny bit too open. I think it was maybe because I really rooted for the characters – I just wanted to share that next chapter in their special journey with them (even if it was just for another chapter or two).
For this time of the year you can’t lose with a book from this author. You always get a lovely, light hearted, cosy read – that sometimes you just need in life! It’s full of fun, romance, families… and what seems like a sprinkling of Christmas magic. The background characters are all wonderfully likeable ( I esp loved Giselle and Xander) and there’s also a tougher issue or two touched upon as well.
November 14, 2017
After having a pretty long week where it seemed to be one thing after another going wrong I really needed a pick me up. So I knew it was the perfect time to read The Best Little Christmas Shop. The question is did it have the ability to cheer me up...
Well that's easy, of course it did if you have never read a book by Maxine Morrey you really need to pick one up. After just a few pages I was drawn right in giving me a gorgeous warm feeling just like getting a great big hug.
The story is pretty family centered which I loved there is a lovely connection that Lexi shares with her family. Then add in the wonderful father/son relationship between Cal and George, it made me smile and sigh at the same time. At the start of the book Lexi is a little lost and Maxine Morrey has written a wonderful main character that I couldn't help but become attached to. I loved her journey throughout the book and how slowly but surely she finds herself again. With a little help from her family, her blossoming friendship with George and her flirty interactions with Cal.
I was easily smiling all the way through especially at some of the embarassing scrapes and situations that Lexi found herself in and pretty much all involving Cal! The Best Little Christmas Shop is flirty, fun and completely heartwarming but also has a softer emotional side to it which gave the story an extra special touch. It's the type of story where you don't want to put the book down but you also don't want it to end. There is the addition of Christmas to the story but it isn't too overpowering and just added to the overall charm and romance of the book.
Left me glowing with warmth, just perfect for those colder evenings. A fabulous pick me up!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for the invite to join the tour along with my copy from HQ Digital & Netgalley. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Well that's easy, of course it did if you have never read a book by Maxine Morrey you really need to pick one up. After just a few pages I was drawn right in giving me a gorgeous warm feeling just like getting a great big hug.
The story is pretty family centered which I loved there is a lovely connection that Lexi shares with her family. Then add in the wonderful father/son relationship between Cal and George, it made me smile and sigh at the same time. At the start of the book Lexi is a little lost and Maxine Morrey has written a wonderful main character that I couldn't help but become attached to. I loved her journey throughout the book and how slowly but surely she finds herself again. With a little help from her family, her blossoming friendship with George and her flirty interactions with Cal.
I was easily smiling all the way through especially at some of the embarassing scrapes and situations that Lexi found herself in and pretty much all involving Cal! The Best Little Christmas Shop is flirty, fun and completely heartwarming but also has a softer emotional side to it which gave the story an extra special touch. It's the type of story where you don't want to put the book down but you also don't want it to end. There is the addition of Christmas to the story but it isn't too overpowering and just added to the overall charm and romance of the book.
Left me glowing with warmth, just perfect for those colder evenings. A fabulous pick me up!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for the invite to join the tour along with my copy from HQ Digital & Netgalley. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 1, 2018
A gentle enough tale for the Festive Season full of family, decorations and the obligatory touch of snow and romance.
Lexi has returned home after blowing her job and is helping out in the fanily's seasonal store which of course means lots of decorations. Something about Lexi doesn't read quite right for me and I could not really get invested in the what had happened between her and Mario and why she had left her job with no notice resulting in her being summarily sacked. She is irritating and keep being told how "good" she is only cemented my feelings about her.
She has the sort of family you only read about in books. They all love each other and can say absolutely anything to each other at any time without it resulting in week (or month) long charged silences or feuds. As the only girl of 5 children she has grown up a tomboy and because she has missed so many family functions due to her high flying job they all appear to think she is about 5 and needs their constant correction and permanent fussing over.
The will-they-won't-they relationship with Cal Martin and his angelic son George also didn't grip me. Whether I am just faded because I have read so many Christmas themed romances of late I cannot be certain but all I know is this one didn't do it for me. The characters were a little too shiny and polished to be real people and although the village and the store itself were unendingly charming they simply weren't enough to lift this book for me.
The writing itself is on the good side of competent and the plotting of the book leads to a nicely paced unfolding of the tale. Sadly, it was a tale I didn't really care for but that likely says more about me than the work of Maxine Morrey. I would definitely give her books another try as I didn't hate it, I just found it all a bit meh.
Lexi has returned home after blowing her job and is helping out in the fanily's seasonal store which of course means lots of decorations. Something about Lexi doesn't read quite right for me and I could not really get invested in the what had happened between her and Mario and why she had left her job with no notice resulting in her being summarily sacked. She is irritating and keep being told how "good" she is only cemented my feelings about her.
She has the sort of family you only read about in books. They all love each other and can say absolutely anything to each other at any time without it resulting in week (or month) long charged silences or feuds. As the only girl of 5 children she has grown up a tomboy and because she has missed so many family functions due to her high flying job they all appear to think she is about 5 and needs their constant correction and permanent fussing over.
The will-they-won't-they relationship with Cal Martin and his angelic son George also didn't grip me. Whether I am just faded because I have read so many Christmas themed romances of late I cannot be certain but all I know is this one didn't do it for me. The characters were a little too shiny and polished to be real people and although the village and the store itself were unendingly charming they simply weren't enough to lift this book for me.
The writing itself is on the good side of competent and the plotting of the book leads to a nicely paced unfolding of the tale. Sadly, it was a tale I didn't really care for but that likely says more about me than the work of Maxine Morrey. I would definitely give her books another try as I didn't hate it, I just found it all a bit meh.
November 11, 2017
This book had me at the word 'shop' as I always love to read books where shops are involved. The shop in question is The Four Seasons, run by Lexi's family and it's quite a clever set up as the stock changes for each of the four seasons. We meet Lexi in the run up to Christmas and so it's a Christmas shop and it just sounds so lovely and inviting.
Lexi has (or had) a fascinating job working in Formula 1 but it's all gone pear-shaped and she's back home living above the garage at her parents' house and working in the shop, not to mention dressing up as an elf and decorating gingerbread men. When she meets gorgeous new guy in town, Cal Martin, and his son, George, it seems that her life may be on the up again if only she can let herself be happy.
I thought Cal was really lovely and from the way he was described he has all the women swooning at his feet. Not to mention his very cute little boy who wins Lexi over straightaway. However, I have to say that I found Lexi really quite annoying at times. I wanted to grab her and shake her and tell her to get on with it. I think for me this book was a little on the long side and I just wanted it to get to the point. It probably just reflects my impatient nature though!
Having said that, it's ultimately a feel-good Christmas read, one that is light and sweet and ideal for the season. Lexi's family is made up of some interesting characters and they all added something to the mix, along with her best friends, Xander and Giselle. As an ensemble piece it works really well.
It's a tender, gentle love story/romance and I'd love to take a visit to The Best Little Christmas Shop. I'd also rather like to know what happens to Lexi and Cal next - a sequel perhaps?
Lexi has (or had) a fascinating job working in Formula 1 but it's all gone pear-shaped and she's back home living above the garage at her parents' house and working in the shop, not to mention dressing up as an elf and decorating gingerbread men. When she meets gorgeous new guy in town, Cal Martin, and his son, George, it seems that her life may be on the up again if only she can let herself be happy.
I thought Cal was really lovely and from the way he was described he has all the women swooning at his feet. Not to mention his very cute little boy who wins Lexi over straightaway. However, I have to say that I found Lexi really quite annoying at times. I wanted to grab her and shake her and tell her to get on with it. I think for me this book was a little on the long side and I just wanted it to get to the point. It probably just reflects my impatient nature though!
Having said that, it's ultimately a feel-good Christmas read, one that is light and sweet and ideal for the season. Lexi's family is made up of some interesting characters and they all added something to the mix, along with her best friends, Xander and Giselle. As an ensemble piece it works really well.
It's a tender, gentle love story/romance and I'd love to take a visit to The Best Little Christmas Shop. I'd also rather like to know what happens to Lexi and Cal next - a sequel perhaps?
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