Christmas in St Ives

by Miranda Dickinson

A wonderfully festive ebook short that will get you excited for the Christmas season, by the author of the bestselling Fairytale of New York.

'This is Miranda at her sparkliest best. Christmas In St Ives is Christmassy perfection; brimming with romance, warmth and magic. But it’s not just a novella, it’s a tantalizing prequel to Somewhere Beyond The Sea and I can’t wait to read that!' Cathy Bramley, author of The Lemon Tree Cafe .

Heartbroken Cerrie Austin is doing her best to hold it together in the run up to Christmas. Not easy when her cheating ex works in the same school and everyone’s eyes are on her. The last thing she needs is a new teacher meddling in her beloved nativity play, even if he is charming, handsome and a talented musician. The Christmas performance is her pride and joy, and she won’t be undermined.

Seren McArthur has recently returned to her Cornish hometown and is enjoying being close to her family and her oldest friends again. St Ives is at its most magical at Christmas, with fairy lights and tinsel in every shop window, tempting locals and holidaymakers alike as they pick up gifts. But an exciting opportunity is just around the will she stay or will she go?

Meanwhile, the St Ives Christmas celebrations are in plans for a giant lantern parade through the starlit streets have ground to a halt. As the snow starts to fall, can Cerrie, Seren and their friends Kieran and Aggie rally around in time to save the big day?

'Christmas in St Ives sparkles with Miranda magic!' Holly Hepburn, author of the bestselling Little Picture House By the Sea series

Christmas in St Ives is a charming novella that introduces you to the characters from Miranda Dickinson’s upcoming novel, Somewhere Beyond the Sea . Available for preorder now!

Genres: Christmas, Romance

103 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 19, 2017

About the author

Miranda Dickinson has always had a head full of stories. Coming from a creative family where stories and songs were always present, it was perhaps inevitable that she would end up adoring words. A songwriter for over 15 years, Miranda has successfully penned over thirty songs, delivering both live and recorded performances in a range of venues across the UK and Europe. Her first solo project album, About Time is due for release this year. To hear her music, visit www.mirandadickinson.com - and be sure to leave a message if you like it!

Miranda began writing in earnest four years ago with her first novel, Coffee at Kowalski's - a romantic comedy set in New York's Upper West Side. This was spotted on HarperCollins' site for unpublished authors, Authonomy.com at the end of 2008 and was released by Avon (part of HC) as Fairytale of New York on 12th November 2009. She has also written several short stories, scripts and novel excerpts, many of which are published on Helium.com. Miranda is also a regular contributor for www.myvillage.com writing a range of local interest articles for the Birmingham area and national film and festival reviews.

Reviews

[Nicola Clough · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great Christmas short story and gets you in the mood and although it was a short story it wasn't rushed and you got into the characters and set in beautiful Cornwall so what more could you want.

[Fabulous Book Fiend · Rating 5 out of 5]

ok this was just the perfect start to the festive season for me. I am now ready to drink peppermint mochas, mulled wine and snowballs, watch all the christmas films and wrap my presents. And all this from one novella. I decided not to gobble up this festive offering in one go but to take it in slowly and savour it so I read it in 3 sittings. I really feel like i got to know the characters this way and I can't wait to meet them again in Somewhere Beyond the Sea in June 2018!

I think that Cerrie was my favourite character but that is because she is a kick-ass teacher and just a kick-ass woman in general. Miranda did such a good job writing about what it is like to be a teacher putting on a christmas production and got all the little important details spot on! I loved Aggie too and I know I would loved to visit her coffee hut after a long day at school as well. Of course I know we are going to find out more about Seren in Somewhere Beyond The Sea, and I really hope I get to see all of these characters get their happy endings in that book next year.

This works really well as a novella because it is getting us ready for christmas, but also getting us ready for this novel next year. I love the fact that we have been introduced to these characters, we know some of their back story and their relationships to each other. But also we get to know about their lives and their town. It was great getting to know how the community works so we candice right in when the novel is out next year.

The Christmas level in this novel is on high and it really does celebrate all the little things that we take for granted during the festive season. there isn't so much talk pop christmas trees, christmas dinner and the presents, but the events like the school play and the shop windows being dressed. `the first festive drink of the season and people breaking up from school for the holidays. I know these things are so important to me and reading about them made me feel so ready for the holidays.

This book was a bargain and could definitely be a quick read if you decided to devour it all at once. Whether you are planning to read the follow up novel or not, I would definitely recommend picking this one up to get you in the festive mood and make you feel all warm and sparkly this winter!

[Cressida McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, warm and Christmassy. A huge treat. I loved every page.

[Katey Lovell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful introduction to a host of new characters - and I'm already in love with Cerrie, Seren and the rest of the gang.

As someone who has experience of organising nativity plays, I could particularly empathise with the emotions that accompanied the school-based scenes!

Overall, I loved the warm, believable characters, the glorious setting and the easy-to-read style which made me devour this novella. I can't wait for the summer for the next instalment!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty cute story, enjoyable setting. I’ll seek out more from this author. Did seem a bit rushed due to the length if the story, or maybe I just wish it were longer 🙃

[Samantha Luke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was listed as a short story but was actually longer than usual.
Thoroughly enjoyable Christmas read set in Cornwall. I will be adding the follow up to my want to read list

[Donna Maguire · Rating 4 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I was really looking forward to reading this book after seeing a lot of posts about it on social media so I pre-ordered my copy and read it a few days after it was released but it has taken me a little while with my daughter being poorly to put together my review.

For me I thought that this book was a nice refreshing change from some of the more traditional Christmas books romance/chick lit books out there, I felt that this one developed the characters at home and in their jobs, and the festive period whilst was central to the stories for each character, it also played a backseat to this.  The writing was funny and effective and it really showed that the characters were believable with good personalities, with each having their own set of issues and problems that they put to one side to enjoy their Christmas in St Ives.

The book flowed really well and I loved the characters so I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next release - Somewhere Beyond the Sea when it is released next year.  I enjoyed the writing style as always and I liked the cover and felt it was very effective and not overly Christmassy - I have given the book 4 stars and really recommend it to anyone looking for something slightly different, but very enjoyable this festive season!!

[Rachel (Rae) · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all I have to mention the lovely cover because if the cover doesn't get you into the festive spirit then the story certainly will. I loved this bunch of characters especially Cerrie who when we meet her has to unfortunately still work with her ex. You can feel how uncomfortable she is and my heart did go out to her especially facing the scrutiny from her colleagues even if they mean well.

The writing is as ever warm and witty which is to be expected from Miranda Dickinson. Even though it is a novella I still felt that connection to the characters and in no time at all felt as if I was on my way to getting to know them. As well as my interest well and truly peaked for reading Somewhere Beyond the Sea. I really appreciated hearing the story from the different perspectives making the story even more rounded. Christmas in St Ives didn't feel rushed at all giving me chance to experience the story at a lovely pace but also involving the reader in this set of characters lives. There are some laughs along the way especially to do with the nativity play. Christmas in St Ives has a gorgeous heart warming feel to it, making it a perfect festive read!

Five stars from me!

With thanks to Pan Macmillan and Miranda Dickinson for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What could be better than a romantic story set in Cornwall? How about a romantic story set in Cornwall at Christmas? Christmas in St Ives is a lovely novella where the reader is introduced to the characters from Miranda Dickinson’s next full length novel, Somewhere Beyond the Sea. I really enjoyed the way the chapters were told from the points of view of the different characters. As well as helping me get to know them, I felt it made the story fairly bounce along.

I was particularly drawn to the character of teacher Cerrie and her dedication to her pupils. Recovering from a very public betrayal and break-up, she throws herself into the school's Christmas play more than ever and is not happy when the new teacher is asked to be involved even if he is stunningly good looking and disgustingly talented. I was giggling along at all the little things which went wrong which are of course, the things which make school nativity plays so endearing: the child with its finger up its nose, baby Jesus nearly falling off the stage, angelic singing but also angelic infighting!

The story also sets up romantic possibilities for some of the other characters and other chances for personal fulfilment in their personal and work lives. However, just as one character is looking at the possibility of a happier future, another is having to put their dreams on hold.  I am really looking forward now to meeting the characters again when Somewhere Beyond the Sea is released in June next year.

[Rachel (Smelleykins) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Miranda wanted people to join #TeamSparkly for a big exciting reveal-y thing, I had to be a part of it. I was very lucky that there was room. I was even more lucky that I recieved an advance copy.

I love christmas books. Theres just something so cosy and magical about them. This book is no exception. Set in cornwall over the festive season, it draws you in instantly. The characters were just amazing and I loved Cerrie so so much. I really enjoyed her sense of wonder with christmas. Setting up the children for their big production, how finally she could enjoy christmas her way.

I've never been to Cornwall before, but Mirandas attention to detail and description of the place, really makes the reader want to go there. It is being added to my holiday places must see. The story is a real feel good. It's also the prequal to Mirandas next book 'Somewhere Beyond The Sea'.

If you love a good festive read. Then get this now. YOu won't be disappointed.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I have read anything by Miranda Dickinson and I wasn't disappointed.

This is a beautifully written Christmas short story about a group of friends who live in a small community. The writing flowed brilliantly and the characters seemed very real. The book has left me wanting to read more about Seren, Cerrie, Aggie and Kieran, so I've just pre-ordered the next installment called "Somewhere Beyond The Sea" - roll on June 2018 when it is due to be released!

[Shannon Landers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas In St Ives: 4 friends have their own dramas, surrounding the big Lantern Festival in St Ives.

I don't do ebooks, but this was an exception, as Miranda Dickinsons books are wonderful. I love the insights of the characters set in the festive season..only thing being as a Prequel, I could have done with descriptions of the characters for my imagination without relying on the unread main book.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short, festive story with a good range of characters. I liked the easy flow of the writing and the humorous moments. I did feel that there were lots of loose ends but see that this is a prequel to a novel being published in the summer of 2018 so look forward to that and seeing the characters develop further.

[D.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fab multiple character viewpoint novella that ended far too soon. I'm hope the story continues in another book.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light read set in the lovely St Ives

[Kirsty Padden-barr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fab way to start the run up to Christmas!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, very christmassy, lots of love around, just a beautiful story!!!

[Ginny Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

First e-book I've ever read! A prequel to Somewhere beyond the sea. Great story :)

[Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an interesting story but I found it hard to distinguish the characters, especially when the chapter was from Kieran's point of view, as they all sounded the same

[Emma Hardy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb characters, lots of fun. Short but sweet. Loved it.

[denise edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good story very enjoyable would have loved it to be longer. But great as a short story.

[mrsljgibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first Miranda Dickinson book that I have read and I hope it is the first of many!!
I really loved this book and can’t wait for the sequel to be released in June 2018.
I loved all the characters-especially the main four characters who are best friends and who the story is set around.
The book is set in St.Ives and I absolutely love any book that is set at the beach!!
It is the perfect short Christmas read and definitely got me in the mood for Christmas!!!

[Julie Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas in St Ives is a short, e-novella set in the beautiful Cornish town of St Ives during the run up to Christmas. It introduces us to four main characters, Cerrie, Seren, Aggie and Kieran - a group of friends supporting each other and their close-knit community in St Ives, whilst each dealing with secret struggles, challenges and passions. These characters will be the focus of Miranda's new novel Somewhere Beyond the Sea which will be published in June 2018, so it is lovely to get a sneak introduction to the characters and the setting and, having met them and had a taster of their stories, I am now tingly with anticipation for the new book. So much so that I already have it on pre-order. (As an added bonus, there is an extract from Somewhere Beyond the Sea at the end of this novella to whet you appetite even further). This book works completely as a standalone book in its own right, though.

As a short novella, this is the perfect read to curl up with and devour in a single, decadent sitting, and you'll want to make sure you give yourself time to do this because once you dive in to the charming world of St Ives at Christmas, the build up to their festival and the sparkly lantern parade, and into the lives of Cerrie, Seren, Aggie and Kieran, you won't want to leave until you've finished. So grab a comfy chair, a blanket, a cup of something warm and spicy and jump in. Miranda's writing is beautifully descriptive and so immersive you'll soon forget where you are and you'll be right in the heart of the story.

Cerrie is a teacher in the local primary school and she is in charge of the annual nativity play. Her scenes were some of my favourites in the book. My children are sadly now past the cute tinsel haloes, tea towel shepherd headdresses and baby doll Jesus stage, but this took my right back to those days as a proud parent and I absolutely loved it. I'm also now going to be constantly on the look out for sea glass when I go to the beach, which I'd never heard of before but forms an important part of Seren's story (you'll have to read the book to find out more!)

This is a gorgeous, warm and fuzzy book that is the perfect thing to get you in the mood for the festive season. I defy anyone who reads it not to want to string up the fairy lights, glug some mulled wine and wrap up warm to visit a Christmas market or other wintry celebration, preferably in St Ives, which sounds magical. So if you are feeling a bit Grinchy about the fact it is only NINE-AND-A-HALF WEEKS UNTIL CHRISTMAS, or you just want something to cheer you up as the nights draw in, you won't do better than this lovely tale.

[Simona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas in St. Ives a lovely and festive short story introducing us to the characters of Miranda Dickinson’s upcoming novel Somewhere Beyond the Sea.

My favourite character was Cerrie Austin. She is a teacher preparing her class for the Christmas play. The trouble is her ex works at the school, he cheated on her and then another teacher comes along, getting involved into the play. I could really relate to
Cerrie and loved following her story.

Seren McArthur has returned to her hometown and finds herself close to her family and old friends again. She makes beautiful jewellery. Aggie and Kieran are wonderful characters as well, just a great bunch of friends to read about.

I absolutely adore Miranda Dickinson’s writing. It’s warm, passionate, full of details and just magical. I loved every second of this book and it made me really excited for the full size book coming next year. Do I really have to wait until June 2018?!

The story covers topics like love, family, relationships, friendship, trust, honesty and much more. The setting is absolutely beautiful and of course it includes a lot of christmassy elements, which is just fantastic.

JUST MAGICAL!!!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really lucky to be included in Miranda’s #TeamSparkly to help promote the book on Twitter so I was fortunate to receive an advance copy.

I loved this book. I’m a huge fan of Miranda’s so I was so excited to hear she was writing a Christmas novella, her style of writing is perfect for a Christmas book.

It was really festive, feel good and generally lovely. I enjoyed the characters (this is crucial in enjoying a book) and found them to be realistic and relatable which made me identify with them.

My only problem with the book is that it wasn’t long enough! But Miranda has solved this problem as this is a prequel to her upcoming book which is out in 2018 so I’ll be able to catch up with the characters then.

I thoroughly recommend this book.