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The Winter Series #3

Cardinal Cabin

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From New York Times bestselling author Joanne DeMaio comes a heartwarming novel as merry and bright as a red-feathered cardinal taking flight.

Frank Lombardo's never been spontaneous. The closest he's come was accepting a side job chopping firewood for a lakeside community of rustic cabins. But with another lonely holiday season imminent, Frank's sister urges him to be spontaneous because, seriously, who does he ever expect to meet out in the woods?

With a suitcase in hand and a bit of reluctance, too, Penny Hart arrives at Cardinal Cabin on Snowflake Lake. It's only for a brief stay, though nobody knows where she is. Not her boss, not her friends...

Only Frank Lombardo. As the two unexpectedly meet at Addison's hidden hideaway, a spontaneous kiss sets everything amiss. But can the magic of this quaint New England town keep these snowy sweethearts together?

Cardinal Cabin is an enchanting tale about finding love where you least expect it. So come on inside. A cozy fire crackles, lights twinkle on the evergreen tree, snowflakes tap at the windowpanes, and little redbirds bring cheer this time of year.

The Winter Series Reading Order:
Book 1 - Snowflakes and Coffee Cakes
Book 2 - Snow Deer and Cocoa Cheer
Book 3 - Cardinal Cabin
Book 4 - First Flurries
Book 5 - Eighteen Winters
Book 6 - Winter House
Book 7 - Winter Road
And more Winter Novels

268 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2017

170 people are currently reading
922 people want to read

About the author

Joanne DeMaio

39 books947 followers
Joanne DeMaio is the prolific New York Times bestselling author of The Seaside Saga and other novels. She lives with her family in Connecticut and is currently at work on upcoming books.

Joanne enjoys hearing from readers at Facebook.com/JoanneDeMaioAuthor.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
Profile Image for LORI CASWELL.
2,863 reviews327 followers
November 4, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts

Every time I hear a new book is being released by Joanne I scramble to find room in my reading schedule as soon as possible. All her books have been a complete joy to read, they have tugged at my heartstrings and made me shed a few tears but most have happy heartwarming endings that leave me with a huge smile on my face.

In Cardinal Cabin Penny Hart arrives at Snowflake Lake on a special assignment for her job at the travel agency. It is part of promotion that entails her sending a photo clue each day to be posted in the travel agency’s window for people to submit guesses about where she may be staying.

Frank Lombardo is responsible for chopping wood for the cabins on the lake. He is surprised to find Penny has fallen in a snowbank soon after her arrival. Helping her up he hears his sister’s words in his head “be more spontaneous” and he does something very spontaneous after he gets Penny back on her feet. Something that could change both their lives…

Staying in the Cardinal Cabin on Snowflake Lake as Christmas draws near sounds perfect to me. Penny Hart finds it absolutely delightful, but she can’t venture far from the cabin because someone could see her and the contest would be ruined. The people staying in the other cabins are sworn to secrecy. Frank too must keep their meeting a secret even though his sister and his friends know he is hiding something. The whole premise is absolutely charming.

This story is well written, poignant, and is a perfect holiday read. It is filled with wonderful true to life characters that are fun and engaging. The setting is positively idyllic. I loved the way Penny and Frank’s romance unfolds very quickly, almost love at first sight.

The cardinals have extra meaning for me as a cardinal sighting is said to mean that a loved one who has passed away is nearby. Cardinals have always been a favorite of mine and I have collected many pictures, plates and figurines over the years, but they have a greater meaning for me since my son passed away. Penny has an experience with one in the book that had me laughing and I thought that is a passed loved one clearly trying to tell her something.

This is an excellent addition to Joanne DeMaio’s Addison Cove series. They can all be read as stand alone but I encourage you to read them all. This one should be a the top of your Christmas Reading List!
Profile Image for Judy Collins.
3,264 reviews443 followers
October 17, 2017
CARDINAL CABIN A magical nostalgic holiday escape —with an ideal New England snowy rustic storybook setting! Great to catch up with familiar characters from DeMaio's previous books.

Join me Oct 18 Blog Tour Host. Congrats to author on her 10th novel!

Bestselling author, Joanne Demaio returns to magical New England following The Beach Inn (summer) and her famous Christmas editions: Wishing on Snowflakes, a holiday collection of two books—Snowflakes and Coffee Cakes and Snow Deer and Cocoa Cheer with her latest holiday getaway to CARDINAL CABIN — another enchanting holiday adventure of unexpected love and humor, surrounded by a magical snowy rustic setting.

"Making the birds even more special, folklore has it that cardinals grant wishes . . . When you see a cardinal, make a wish. But the important part. . . After making the wish, close your eyes, tight. . . If the cardinal is still there when you open your eyes, legend has it your wish will come true."

Frank Lombardo (33) and his sister Gina own Addison Boathouse, the crown jewel of Addison. Serving a dual purpose, the summer months it is the main attraction for outdoor events with kayaks and canoes.

During the winter months, it is known for its weddings and Christmas party season as a premier waterfront venue at Snowflake Lake. With weeks of decorating the final touches are being completed. The brother-sister team carry out the legacy of their dad's business, turning it over to them to carry on.

Gina is married with a son and wants her brother to find love. He does not like discussing his single-status with his prying sister. He has purchased the large English Tudor home from his parents and she is bugging him about not decorating it for Christmas. Why bother? What for?

In addition to this business, he also is a part-time lumberjack at the cabin rentals.

Gus Haynes, the owner in his seventies, and getting older and with his wife’s passing, needs help with the rustic cabins nestled in the snowy woods among the silver and sugar maples, willows, birch and elm trees.

From splitting logs to keep the wood burning stoves, snow clearing, and the seasonal chores of the property.

Of course, his sister reminds him he is taking himself "off the market" by working out in the woods for Gus on the weekends. After all, “who do you ever expect to meet out in the woods?” She urges him to be spontaneous. “Find yourself a girl for the holidays.”

The last thing Frank wants is holidays and weddings. He enjoys escaping in the woods to keep his mind occupied away from match-making and his sister pushing him into a romance.

Little does Frank know he may stumble upon the girl of his dreams in these same woods.

Penny Hart has never ridden on a snowtorcycle before; however, appears this is the only way around in the woods to her rented cabin, driven by Gus.

Cardinal Cabin is among the small little charming rustic A-frame cabins and bungalows surrounding a secluded lake. She is here for a two-week stay and no one knows her whereabouts, except for Gus, the driver.

Penny Hart, (33) is single and in marketing with a travel company— Addison’s Suitcase Escapes. She is hiding out for two weeks for a merry mystery. A secret undisclosed destination even to her coworkers.

She must furnish clues and people will need to guess her location. The winner will receive a getaway to the respective location. She must keep a low profile while here so her secret stays safe during the promotion.

“Guess Travel Agent’s Holiday Hideaway for a Chance to Win the Getaway.” On Christmas Eve one lucky entrant will be drawn to win an all expense weekend getaway at Hart’s secret New England locale.

‘Tis the season for adventure and Yuletide surprises, plus an unexpected romance.

As much as she treasures her own cozy apartment, she is excited when she sees her cabin all decorated for Christmas with even a tree. She has the feeling she has stepped into a woodland fairy tale.

The true beauty and magic were the many cardinals. . . "Each one looked like pretty red ornaments on the soft, snow-laden pines."

Then she spots a handsome lumberjack. Just like an old-fashioned movie or a nostalgic wintry postcard. She slips and falls on the ice and her cocoa travel mug and journal goes flying along with her blanket. Guess who spots her and picks her up?

Frank even kisses her before he thinks about what he is doing. Spontaneity? All he knows is that her name is Penny and she fell in the snow. They both are shocked and delighted at the same time. A mystery woman? A mystery man? They are embarrassed but excited. However, both decide they will get back to work and pretend this never happened. But can they?

Penny has to start with clues. She needs to keep her mind on her work, not a romance with a man she just met. She has to be creative with photos so as not to give too much away.

In the meantime, readers get to reacquaint themselves with characters from previous books at Whole Latte Life coffee shop and catch up with Wes and Jane and their upcoming wedding, among others.

Frank soon learns Penny’s identity as well as Gus. Gus is a true romantic at heart and his wife loved the Cardinal Cabin. With a little "added help" and creative planning from Gus (he reminds me of Santa), the two lovebirds are pushed towards one another.

We also catch up with Greg (Wes' brother from a previous book) the doctor, which is not a welcome visit from Frank’s perspective. He always is after the ladies.

However, pictures are worth a thousand words. Appears there is a spark of romance in the woods. But can the magic of this quaint New England town keep these snowy sweethearts together? Will cardinal wishes come true?

. . . "The magic of travel isn't always about how far you roam. It's about keeping your curiosity and sense of adventure even while close to home. Life can then take you in new and surprising directions."

From the hush of the woods, soft and calming, to the sparkling white snow, twinkling lights, and crackling fire, Joanne transports readers to a picturesque setting for her annual holiday edition with vivid imagery, descriptive holiday delights, and lovable characters.

With a little magic, romance, nostalgia, silver bells, and holiday cheer another heartwarming story! (loved Gus's character)

Being from South Florida, where it is sunny and warm year round, I look forward to my annual trip to wintry New England without the costly travel expense and extensive planning. Just turn down the A/C, close the shutters, grab a throw and a cup of tea or espresso and the author takes you on a magical adventure from the comfort of your own home.

I am especially fond of rustic, and miss my log cabin in Big Canoe, GA surrounded by deer, trees, lakes, and blankets of snow. This charming story took me back to those fond memories of past Christmases in the mountains.

If you have not read Joanne Demaio books, you are missing a rare treat. I have read all her books and anxiously await the next. I continue to say, her series are prime for the Hallmark Channel! Still looking forward to each of them "coming alive" on the big screen.

JDCMustReadBooks
Profile Image for Christy.
1,273 reviews68 followers
September 29, 2017
I adore Christmas and winter books. I’ve read the two other books by Joanne that are set in Addison Cove, the same sweet New England town ins which Cardinal Cabin takes place. This is completely a stand-alone, but I highly recommend you read Wishing on Snowflakes too which contains the two other Christmas books: Snowflakes and Coffee Cakes & Snow Deer and Cocoa Cheer. Some of the characters from those books show up in Cardinal Cabin.

I love reading a book that feels like home, and Cardinal Cabin fits the bill. It is cozy (hmm, who would have thought I like cozy things…), fun, romantic, and sweet. The characters in Cardinal Cabin are very well written, and I want to be Penny. Just putting that out there. Her assignment for work is to keep the readers guessing. Each day she sends a new photo to her workplace, a travel agency, and at the end of her trip, the readers get to guess where she is. Little do they know that she is closer than they think.

Addison Cove feels so real, and I so want to take a trip to stay in Cardinal Cabin! When you read the book, I’m sure you’ll feel the same way. And if you know of a place like this, please send me there. Maybe I’ll meet my Frank too.

I highly recommend this along with Wishing on Snowflakes. You’ll fall in love with the town and the characters. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Leah.
1,976 reviews
December 19, 2020
This takes place in Connecticut. It is one year after the previous book. The story involves a cabin, birds, a photo hunt contest, and romance. I still like the town. Some of the previous shops and events were mentioned or visited or participated in. It was nice to catch up on the previous couples and characters, too. I didn't like the main characters in this one. I also didn't like the cabin owner. They did things that I didn't like.
Profile Image for Mrs Mommy Booknerd http://mrsmommybooknerd.blogspot.com.
2,219 reviews93 followers
October 23, 2017
FirstLine ~ "What's it all for, anyway?" Frank Lombardo asks.

I love the holidays and I love books that make me long for the spirit and feeling of the wonderful holiday. DeMaio can really get to the heart of her characters and makes the reader really understand their point of view, which makes the reader feel connected to them. I adored this whole story. I loved the setting, the characters and the story. I loved that this story made me feel good, got me in the mood for Christmas and makes me believe in the power of love. DeMaio is a great storyteller and one not to be missed.
Profile Image for Susan Peterson.
1,997 reviews381 followers
October 1, 2017
Cozy, heartwarming Christmas romance

Cardinal Cabin is a book that I will add to my collection of Christmas novels that I read every year. This is a tender, cozy, heartwarming romance...perfect to read snuggled in front of a crackling fire. Frank is lonely and a bit forlorn, wondering what all the fuss over the holidays is all about. Penny works for a travel agency, hiding out in a delightful cabin as part of a contest run by a travel agency. Their first chance encounter instantly sets off sparks! Their times together are so charming and romantic, sure to enchant readers. This book is brimming with ambience, love, and Christmas cheer!
Profile Image for Tisha (IG: Bluestocking629).
925 reviews40 followers
November 29, 2022
What a fun cozy Christmas read! The setting was amazing. I'm truly enjoying this author and her apparent love of snowy Christmasy Christmastime.
Profile Image for Kristen.
111 reviews9 followers
October 4, 2017
A heartwarming holiday romance novel that makes you believe in being spontaneous, believe in being in love, and makes you feel right at home in the town of Addison. Enjoy this magnificent Christmas story with Frank, Penny and their friends on Snowflake Lake.
Profile Image for Carol Boyer.
455 reviews30 followers
October 17, 2017
If you want to be swept away to a perfectly, magical Christmas story this is one filled with all those dreams that are filled with snow laden branches and the cheerful call of Cardinals, hinting of romance. What I loved was the many rich descriptions of the cabins decorated with pine, sparkling lights, burning logs in fireplaces, candlelight, and crystal table settings, the smell of wonderful food, and the warmth within and so much more. Penny is a travel agent who is promoting her Suitcase Escapes contest where she is hidden away in secret for customers to guess her location. In a surprise meeting with Frank, she literally immediately falls for his handsome lumberjack appearance. Their romance is sweet, yet at times there are moments when one walks away before learning the whole truth. Will the magic of the cardinals bring them back together? I loved the heartwarming enchanting dream like quality to this book, a truly wonderful magical Christmas story! It has all charm of Joanne Demaio's previous novels and more.
111 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2018
Oh my gosh, this is like a Hallmark movie in a book...this book, in all its fluff was impossible to put down....like seriously. I started it on a Sunday morning with coffee and had all kinds of stuff to get done that day but instead, just kept coming back to it and was done by late afternoon. It was like impossible to leave alone! The characters were predictable but dear....the story itself was just so dang perfect...in kind of the most annoying way. But a perfect book to read on a lazy day....I only wish that I was reading it during the winter holiday season as that's when it took place. Very catchy ideas on love and the characters were endearing. I kind of hate to say I like it, because I usually read much more serious, involved books but it was a sweet book to read.
Profile Image for Snem.
993 reviews9 followers
February 14, 2024
And we’re back baby! Yes to lumberjacks, yes to getting the first kiss right out of the way in the very beginning. Quite a few cinematic moments like Gus’ private trolley escape and the interrupted veranda bit during the wedding. Loved the whole town getting involved in Penny’s vacation mystery. And the visceral imagery of Frank’s single place setting.

I do not love all this tension over a very basic miscommunication. I also don’t love this idea that everyone has to stay in Addison all the time forever. Can’t Frank take some time off and travel with Penny around? Same with Wes and Jane from the last book, they could have gone to California together and then return to Addison.

So yeah it’s bordering on too provincial. But I thought this was a return to form for DeMaio in a big big way. I liked Frank and Penny so I recommend this series if you need some holiday spirit, miss the holidays or you’re seeking comfort, but read in order for a better experience.
3,317 reviews31 followers
July 4, 2018
A sweet romance set at Christmas with the main characters being Frank Lombardo and Penny Hart. Both are lonely but not sure what to do about when they meet at the Cardinal Cabin. The book was an easy read.
Profile Image for Ashley Reading Stewardess.
211 reviews36 followers
December 23, 2019
Firstly, I must thank Mary, a member of the author’s publishing team, for letting me know that Barnes and Noble has messed up with this month’s serial read and didn’t load all the chapters properly. The true ending of this holiday romance did not disappoint and I look forward to reading the other holiday books in this series.
Profile Image for Kathleen.
1,437 reviews35 followers
January 7, 2018
In Cardinal Cabin, author Joanne DeMaio transports the reader to the tranquil small New England town of Addison, Connecticut for a heartwarming Christmas tale of family, friendship, and finding unexpected love.

Penny Hart is a travel agent at Suitcase Escapes in Addison. She is a reluctant travel agent who doesn't like to leave the comfort of her home. But when her boss Ross recruits her for a holiday travel mystery promotion called "Where in New England is Penny?" Penny finds herself renting a bird-themed cabin (Cardinal Cabin), providing photo clues of her mystery location for two weeks leading up to Christmas at Snowflake Lake, a secluded lakeside community that is Addison's well-kept and treasured secret.

Frank Lombardo and his sister Gina own Addison Boathouse, which serves a dual purpose of boat storage on the lower level and a banquet hall on the upper level that has become the town's premier waterfront venue. Between the duties at the boathouse and a side job as a handyman at the lakeside cabin community of Snowflake Lake, Frank has no time for romance. But Gina wants her brother to loosen up, be spontaneous, and take a chance at finding love.

A walk in the snow-covered woods of Snowflake Lake provides an unexpected meeting between Penny and Frank that ends in a spontaneous kiss. Who would guess that this secluded lakeside community would help their relationship blossom into something more as a secretive travel promotion, the magic of cardinals and the mystique of little cardinal themed cabin by the lake, and Addison's holiday spirit gives them an unexpected chance at finding love?

Cardinal Cabin is a wonderful Christmas story that will tug at the heartstrings and fill the reader with seasonal joy. Author Joanne DeMaio weaves a spellbinding tale set in the quaint New England town of Addison, Connecticut, that captivates the reader's attention with a heartwarming romance. This delightful holiday tale has a rich description of the breathtaking small town setting, holiday tradition, lovely cardinals, Christmas decorations, and delicate swirls of snowflakes. Penny and Frank are given an unexpected chance at love as their story unfolds in a magical way that will make the reader believe in the power of love and friendship, and the joy of the holiday season.

There are not enough words that I can express about the simplicity and beauty in which author Joanne DeMaio weaves her wonderful heartwarming and multi-layered stories that are filled with a mixture of love, friendship, family, and life's unexpected special moments, it is simply breathtaking. As the readers follow Penny and Frank's story, they will discover the delightful secluded lakeside hideaway cardinal cabin, it is simply magical!

I would be remiss if I didn't mention how much this wonderful story spoke to my heart, especially because of my love of cardinals. When I saw that the author wrote a holiday novel with a cardinal theme, I knew it would become my favorite story, and I wasn't disappointed. The richly vivid description of the town of Addison and the hidden hideaway beauty of the bird-themed cabin lakeside community of Snowflake Lake is phenomenal, you'll yearn to visit the area and watch the lovely cardinals flit among the snow-capped tree branches. Ms. DeMaio has a special gift for transporting the readers into every story that she weaves while leaving them yearning for more!

Cardinal Cabin is an enchanting holiday story full of warmth and comfort that will remind the reader of the magic, joy, cheer, and spirit of Christmas. It is a lovely story that will resonate with the reader for a very long time.

http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Profile Image for Laurel-Rain.
Author 6 books256 followers
October 10, 2017
Frank Lombardo's never been spontaneous. The closest he's come was accepting a side job chopping firewood for a lakeside community of rustic cabins. But with another lonely holiday season imminent, Frank's sister urges him to be spontaneous because, seriously, who does he ever expect to meet out in the woods?

With a suitcase in hand and a bit of reluctance, too, Penny Hart arrives at Cardinal Cabin on Snowflake Lake. It's only for a brief stay, though nobody knows where she is. Not her boss, not her friends...

Only Frank Lombardo. As the two unexpectedly meet at Addison's hidden hideaway, a spontaneous kiss sets everything amiss. But can the magic of this quaint New England town keep these snowy sweethearts together?

My Thoughts: Winter in New England comes alive in Cardinal Cabin, as the author paints gorgeous word pictures of the snowy setting and gifts us with images of the interiors. I could see the little cabin that Penny Hart has rented, from the outside cardinal door knocker to the milk can holding sprigs of pine needles...and can sense how she might feel as though she has stepped into a Christmas card. We follow her as she immerses herself in her surroundings.

And then there is Frank Lombardo, the man who is not spontaneous, suddenly captivated by Penny with the copper hair. He is chopping wood when he hears her cry out; she has slipped and fallen. Picking her up leads to an unexpected and spontaneous connection.

Familiar characters reappear in Addison, where I’ve enjoyed visits in previous books. I like how the old favorite characters return, and then we meet some new ones. And along the way, we get to visit places like the Snowflakes & Coffee Cakes and Whole Latte shops.

The romance between Frank and Penny grows unexpectedly. Meanwhile, Penny settles in to her vacation, snapping photos to email to her office: she is a travel agent at Suitcase Escapes, and a contest is going on at the agency. Contestants must guess where Penny has gone for her getaway. She doesn’t like to travel, so her clever destination choice keeps her close to what she loves.

Near misses, some hilarious disguises, and a bad storm follow. Will the new pairing survive the New England winter and the hiding out required by the contest? Can a misunderstanding derail what they have begun? A beautifully wrought tale that made me want to spend Christmas in Addison, along with the characters. 5 stars.

Profile Image for Julie Barrett.
9,196 reviews205 followers
September 15, 2017
Cardinal Cabin by by Joanne DeMaio
super good read, missed lunch yesterday and almost dinner because iw as reading this book. this morning a full hour on the bike while reading and i'm finally done, with happy tears, thanks for writing such a meaningful story. cant wait for more!
.
Love this authors style of writing and know from just looking at the cover it's a keeper!
So happy to be able to follow the group of characters for the past several years as they grow older in the CT seaside community.
So the story starts out with Penny Hart and she's been assigned a secret destination contest where others try to guess where she's at and they also go inside the travel agent company to book their travels.
Story also follows Frank Lombardo who is a handy man of many talents as he goes about tending to Gus bird named cabins (loved the history behind them) during the winter months. So many chores to do and also help his sister Gina with wedding plans for friends.
Love the hidden treasures I found in this book: near and deer is an actual web site, hairspray does work for holding glitter in place, song by Frank is one I've heard before but never knew it by that name-yes hubby thought I lost it when I went to youttube to hear it-it's just Sept here; boat parade and all it stands for every year.
Learning how to snowshoe and ice fish-priceless! Penny tries to stay hidden but some meetings are inevitable and then others are told and will hold her secret. Other events occur and others discover her and it's just a matter of time before everybody will know. She has a week left to go.... Love hearing of others traditions, puzzle that turns into a picture for the wall-many of these I have myself and flip them over during different times of the year.
Love hearing of the birds and what to use to attract them-such fond memories of my mother and the birds she'd attract in her feeders.
Such detailed descriptions of the festivities and decorations at every location: games played during events and know they'd be so much fun to participate in; charity events.
Snowtorcycle-so cool! Love the nighttime adventures but he misunderstands a call he had overheard parts of it...
She hadn't planned on having company or her boss wanting her to go nationwide with the travel company....it's all one big fantasy, not real, or is it?
I received a review copy from the author and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Carol.
1,844 reviews21 followers
September 30, 2017
I am a fan of Joanne DeMaio's books and Cardinal Cabin did not let me down. Penny Hart reluctantly took on an assignment of going to a secret hideaway vacation place, and providing pictures and clues for a contest. Contestants can enter and also discuss their travel plans. She is charmed by Cardinal Cabin when she arrives and later decides to go for a walk to look for a location for pictures.

Frank and Gina Lombardo co-own the two story Addison Boat House and are preparing it for a local wedding. Frank, like Penny is not in an relationship and wants to fill his extra hours so he takes on a side job of chopping wood and doing minor repairs at the cabins at Snowflake Lake where Penny is staying. He is outside chopping wood and spots her falling in the snow. He hurries over to help her up.

The cardinals in this story flit in and out of it often. I have always loved them and was sad when I moved away from the Midwest. But later on a vacation to Massachuetts, I saw one at the Plimouth Plantation. First I heard a cheery voice and then turned. The male cardinal brought tears to my eyes. So this book is very special to me because I learned some cardinal folklore and it made me realize that I had always associated winter and Christmas with cardinals.

This book is full of treasures and easily connects with my memories. I hope that you will take a cup of cocoa and read it on a cold wintry night.

I received a review copy from the author and that in no way influenced my thoughts or feeling about this book.
263 reviews8 followers
January 11, 2018
CARDINAL CABIN
AUTHOR: JOANNE DEMAIO

FIVE STARS

Once again, Joanne Demaio has created a brilliant heartwarming holiday love story. CARDINAL CABIN gives you that peaceful, joyful Christmas feeling and fills you with happiness. I would love to walk down the charming streets of Addison, Connecticut and see the festive store fronts decorated for Christmas, and wave at Gus as he guides another group of jolly folks on the holiday trolley excited to see the holiday decorations.

Penny Hart is a travel agent for Suitcase Escapes. This Christmas Suitcase Escapes decided to sponsor a mystery contest. The winner must discover the location where Penny is spending the holidays. Every day another photo and clue is posted in their front window. All the town people are abuzz with excitement trying to figure out her destination.

When Gus picks up Penny on his famous snowtorcycle to deliver her to the holiday destination, she is unaware that her life is about to become fun and exciting as well.

Frank Lomardo is a handsome, considerate and single, part-time helper at Snowflake Lake where Penny will reside at Cardinal Cabin for two weeks.

When Penny and Frank’s paths cross, they are both smitten! Neither of them expected the passion and attraction that lead to romance, misunderstandings and a little matchmaking.

CARDINAL CABIN is the perfect holiday read. Grab a cup of cocoa and enjoy! If it is your first Joanne Demaio book, you will want to immediately download her others and add her to your favorite author list.
Profile Image for Susan (The Book Bag).
978 reviews88 followers
September 26, 2017
Joanne DeMaio is one of my favorite authors—one of my must-read authors. I love getting one of her books because I know I'm going to be taking a journey back to visit some good friends. Cardinal Cabin took me back to Addison where it all began in her first novel, Whole Latte Life.

Joanne always writes lovely, positive stories—those feel-good stories that we all love to read. Cardinal Cabin is another one of her wonderful stories, full of the people I loved in her previous books. I love how people and places from her other novels just pop into the story to make me feel right at home. I feel like I am catching up with old friends.

Penny and Frank are two lonely people. Neither one of them really have much going on in their social lives, they are just sort of going through the motions of life. With the holidays coming up, Frank in particular, is very Scrooge-like. He doesn't understand what all the fuss of Christmas is about. And Penny is just out there, doing her job. Neither one of them have a clue about what's about to happen.

I love Christmas stories and I look forward to all the new Christmas books that start coming out about now. This story was the absolute perfect one to start off my Christmas reading. Cardinal Cabin is truly a Christmas tale, full of decorations, music, gifts, good will, and love. I enjoyed reading it and even though Christmas is several months away, it totally got me into the holiday spirit.
Profile Image for Denise Barney.
388 reviews10 followers
December 26, 2019
This was the Free Serial Read for December on Barnes & Noble’s Nook app.

Frank Lombardo co-owns The Boathouse with his sister, the spot in Addison, CT, for winter weddings and Christmas parties. But Frank is a loner, preferring to be out chopping wood at Snowflake Lake, helping Gus maintain the rustic cabins there.

Penny Hart is a travel agent who prefers to stay home herself. However, she finds herself at Snowflake Lake as part of a campaign by her boss to drum up business for the travel agency. Penny will post clues where she is for the next two weeks and people will guess where she is to win a two-week getaway.

Penny and Frank “meet cute,” and the rest is a Hallmark Christmas movie. Love blooms, but Penny needs to keep her location a secret. There is a possible competitor for her affections. Frank’s sister suspects he’s met someone, and Gus dispenses wisdom about life and love.

This is the third book by Ms DeMaio that Free Serial reads has featured, the other two taking place at Stony Point Beach. “Cardinal Cabin” was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Christmas; a chance to escape to the woods of Connecticut for a few minutes with a guarantee of a happy ending.
Profile Image for Margie Shaw.
540 reviews50 followers
September 22, 2017
If ever there was a story to put you in the Christmas spirit, it's Joanne Demaio's new book, Cardinal Cabin. It takes place in Addison, which is a small town located in Connecticut. The story centers around Frank Lombardo and Penny Hart, and is a holiday romance. Penny works for a travel agency and as part of her job, is hiding away in a cabin at Snowflake Lake. Frank, being a bachelor, works part-time at the lake cutting wood and doing other odd jobs to fill his hours of lonliness. That's until Penny Hart falls into his life. Now everyone enjoys a little romance, but what I liked the most about reading this is the way the author describes in such detail all the ways the entire town and community decorates and celebrates for the holidays. It instantly put me in a festive mood. I really enjoyed reading this, as I do all of Joanne's novels, and am quite sure I'll even reread it again closer to Christmas. It's a story that's both merry and bright, it's a Christmas Star!
Profile Image for Kate.
688 reviews18 followers
December 23, 2019
Cardinal Cabin by Joanne DeMaio is a sweet, wonderful story that takes place during the month of December with all the magic of Christmas. It is about finding love when it is least expected. Frank has a part time job as a caretaker looking after a small group of cabins. Penny is a local TV personality who is also a travel agent working in a promotion that will raise donations for toys as people try to guess her location.

This story will fill you with joy and get you into the Christmas spirit. It is full of twists and turns that will have you wondering if Frank and Penny will ever realize that they are in love with each other and if they will ever get together and acknowledge their love. I read this book as part of a B&N serial read where a few chapters are delivered each day until the book is complete. It is a great way to meet new authors. I always review every book that I read and I highly recommend this sweet, clean romance.
Profile Image for Pam Barton.
160 reviews3 followers
October 1, 2017
I have loved every book by Joanne DeMaio and this was no exception. It brings us back to Addison Connecticut where we catch up with some old friends, in this magical holiday novel. Penny is a travel agent that is on a mystery trip where people in Addison check out her daily clue to try to figure out where she is staying. Frank a handy man for the cabins at Snowflake Lake keeps bumping into Penny. Frank has lots of things going on, being a handy man for the cabins, helping his sister Gina with parties and weddings at the Boathouse, his sister tells him to take more chances. I recommend reading this to find out what happens.

I read this book when it was 85 degrees out in New England but I wanted to grab all my Christmas decorations and start decorating. I love holiday books and this was one of the best Christmas books I have read. I want to visit Cardinal Cabin.

I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. Highly recommend this book.
70 reviews1 follower
October 18, 2018
Cardinal Cabin is a wonderful Christmas story that takes place in Addison, Connecticut. This story is about Penny, who is a local travel agent that hates to travel and Frank who is the owner of the boathouse which a very busy waterfront venue. Penny’s boss has her go on a trip. She sends back hints of where she is, to get the people in town guessing where she could be staying. Since she doesn’t like to travel, Penny stays in a local cabin in a waterfront community. There she meets Frank who is also a part time handyman for the cabin community. .Their relationship continues to grow throughout the story, with the help of Gus, a kind of modern day Santa Claus..
This is the perfect holiday story. The cardinals, throughout the story, just make is a more special story. I love Joanne DeMaio’s books and can’t wait to read even more.
Profile Image for meghann.
1,061 reviews1 follower
December 23, 2019
This was the Barnes and Noble Nook Serial Read for November. It's interesting as this is the third book by this author I have read through Serial Reads. This was a cute story set in a town I would love to visit. I thought Penny and Gus were a lot of fun. I liked Frank up until the end. I know the story needs conflict and then resolution, but Frank honestly acted like a toddler having a temper tantrum when he would not talk to Penny and let her explain. And then hiding in the woods to try to read Penny for signs she wants him there instead of just going up and talking to her.. Communication was an issue for him, and I don't think a relationship with him would be easy for anyone. His behavior at the end honestly kind of ruined him and the story for me, which is a shame as it was cute up until that point. Penny deserves better.
Profile Image for Sheri.
1,712 reviews24 followers
November 1, 2017
I absolutely loved Cardinal Cabin. Joanne has a way of pulling her readers into this beautiful, quaint little town and making you want to stay. I wish it was real! I loved everything about it.

The characters are always so well-written, very well developed, they seem real. The theme was so sweet and the time of year - winter time, snow, New England, Christmas - you can't go wrong.

Her books are a treat to me. I always love to curl up with a warm beverage and her books with a kitty or my puppy on my lap. They feel like coming home and always leave me feeling warm and fuzzy.

I can never recommend her books enough. I tell all my friends about them. Do yourself a favor and get this book, it's the perfect time of year and a wonderful story.
Profile Image for Mary.
1,377 reviews
December 19, 2017
In her new novel Joanne DeMaio takes readers back to Addison, Connecticut – the setting for a few of her previous novels. It’s a quaint and charming town that always makes me wish I lived there. With this visit to Addison we meet Penny, a reluctant travel agent. Reluctant in that she really doesn’t want to travel but she loves to help arrange trips for other people. Her boss has assigned a publicity campaign for the weeks leading up to Christmas. She’ll stay at an unidentified location and post a daily photo and clue for residents to guess where in New England Penny is staying. The promotion will end when someone guesses correctly or on Christmas Eve when Penny discloses her whereabouts.

Although Penny wasn’t sure leaving the creature comforts of her apartment in town was a good idea her mind is changed when she meets Frank. Frank, part-time handyman at the lake cabins where Penny is staying, is kind of awkward but Penny can immediately see he’s a really nice guy with mannerisms that make him seem like he’s from another era. I loved how their romance unfolded as they had such a unique experience of getting to know each other in secret (Penny couldn’t be seen in public during the contest). Frank also is co-owner of The Boathouse, an event location in Addison. He’s a busy guy but soon wants to spend what little free time he has with Penny. Sounds idyllic, right? Well it is until there’s a misunderstanding that could have a lasting effect. Will they figure things out and set things right? You’ll have to read to find out. If you like a contemporary romance with an old-fashioned vibe I think you’ll like Cardinal Cabin. I enjoyed it.
570 reviews2 followers
December 23, 2019
This is a story about a woman named Penny who falls in love with Frank. He’s a lumberjack and he’s okay. He sleeps all night and works all day. He cuts down trees and eats his lunch. He goes to the lavatory. On Wednesdays he goes shopping and has buttered scones for tea.....
That’s not entirely true which is sad because it would have made for a much better plot.
Penny is a travel agent who dislikes traveling who meets Frank and there is never a moment of doubt that they will end up together. They live in a Martha Stewart fantasy world. Everything glimmers, shines, or twinkles . This is third book by this “author” that the Nook app has pushed on us in the past two years. Why?
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