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The Present
This book can also be read with The Present by DS Devlin. Two books, one unforgettable Christmas…
12 magical gifts, one love that lasts a lifetime…
When helping to clear out her beloved grandmother’s home, Lucy Jackson discovers twelve beautiful Christmas decorations hidden in the loft. As she discovers their heartbreaking story, a touching romance develops with the handsome gardener next door.
12 magical gifts, one love that lasts a lifetime…
When helping to clear out her beloved grandmother’s home, Lucy Jackson discovers twelve beautiful Christmas decorations hidden in the loft. As she discovers their heartbreaking story, a touching romance develops with the handsome gardener next door.
- GenresRomance
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
9 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Phillips
62 books54 followersAllentown, PA is where it all started for me. I get my love of books from teachers (especially Ms. Weaver) and my aunt Diane. My love of writing and storytelling comes from somewhere deep inside. It is something I need to do.
From Allentown, I traveled to Melbourne, FL for college and El Segundo, CA for my first real job. My current home is in Houston, TX where I write mysteries with my brilliant husband, Mark Phillips.
I love to read - all kinds of books. My home is full of books I intend to read, the stacks keep growing. When I encounter a book I love, I devour it, and then regret that it is finished so soon.
I only review or comment on books that I enjoyed and wish to recommend to others. So if you see stars, or any sort of comment from, I enjoyed the book and believe you will too.
From Allentown, I traveled to Melbourne, FL for college and El Segundo, CA for my first real job. My current home is in Houston, TX where I write mysteries with my brilliant husband, Mark Phillips.
I love to read - all kinds of books. My home is full of books I intend to read, the stacks keep growing. When I encounter a book I love, I devour it, and then regret that it is finished so soon.
I only review or comment on books that I enjoyed and wish to recommend to others. So if you see stars, or any sort of comment from, I enjoyed the book and believe you will too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 28, 2017
I always look forward to a really good romance story over Christmas, and this one really lived up to The Present tag. It was packed full of love, surprises and more than enough ‘will that girl ever come to her senses’ to keep me reading.
The idea of the box of old decorations from the loft being the key to Olive’s history was such a beautiful idea, it really shone a light on her past in a different way. I enjoyed Lucy’s journey trying to discover where the old baubles came from, and what they had meant to her grandmother. I loved discovering the secrets of Olive’s past, and her life back in 1944, before she became a mother and a grandmother.
The characters in this novel did exactly what they were meant to do, I loved and disliked in equal measure. Olive was a complete darling, Lucy did a lot of things I would have done, so I found her utterly relatable. But I absolutely could not stand Rod, what an utter bore! I found myself wanting to shake Lucy until she came to her senses – how could she have lived her life like that for so long? It takes a well written character to give you such strong emotions, so bravo to Charlotte for that.
I found myself still awake and reading this novel until way past 2am, I just had to know whether all the secrets would finally be revealed and whether Lucy would finally come to her senses, dump Rod and be with the delightful Jack.
Let’s be honest, if I could create my own leading man I think he might be a little like Jack – he rescues you and looks like Tom Hardy! What’s not to love?
A great winter warmer of a novel, full of secrets and romances old and new.
The idea of the box of old decorations from the loft being the key to Olive’s history was such a beautiful idea, it really shone a light on her past in a different way. I enjoyed Lucy’s journey trying to discover where the old baubles came from, and what they had meant to her grandmother. I loved discovering the secrets of Olive’s past, and her life back in 1944, before she became a mother and a grandmother.
The characters in this novel did exactly what they were meant to do, I loved and disliked in equal measure. Olive was a complete darling, Lucy did a lot of things I would have done, so I found her utterly relatable. But I absolutely could not stand Rod, what an utter bore! I found myself wanting to shake Lucy until she came to her senses – how could she have lived her life like that for so long? It takes a well written character to give you such strong emotions, so bravo to Charlotte for that.
I found myself still awake and reading this novel until way past 2am, I just had to know whether all the secrets would finally be revealed and whether Lucy would finally come to her senses, dump Rod and be with the delightful Jack.
Let’s be honest, if I could create my own leading man I think he might be a little like Jack – he rescues you and looks like Tom Hardy! What’s not to love?
A great winter warmer of a novel, full of secrets and romances old and new.
December 10, 2017
This was a really sweet engaging read and I was thoroughly drawn into the storyline. I was intrigued and enchanted by it.
Lucy finds a box full of antique christmas decorations based on the 12 days of Christmas and a mystery surrounds them. She is clearing her nan's house as she is going to need looking after , following a spell in hospital.
We have a intolerant boyfriend and a hunky diy male doing up her nan's house- which provides the romance for the story and the sparks. Lucy is pulled into the mystery and romance of the decorations box. Joe is keen to help her and we learn more about his past as we get further into their friendship.
I really enjoyed this book and will look out further books by this author.
Lucy finds a box full of antique christmas decorations based on the 12 days of Christmas and a mystery surrounds them. She is clearing her nan's house as she is going to need looking after , following a spell in hospital.
We have a intolerant boyfriend and a hunky diy male doing up her nan's house- which provides the romance for the story and the sparks. Lucy is pulled into the mystery and romance of the decorations box. Joe is keen to help her and we learn more about his past as we get further into their friendship.
I really enjoyed this book and will look out further books by this author.
December 3, 2017
The Present is a release that almost escaped my notice completely, and if this is the first you've heard of the book then I urge you to read on, as this is a little gem of a book.
This is the story of a set of 12 Christmas decorations that are found in the loft of Lucy's grandmother's house, as she was clearing it, while her gran Olive was in hospital. Now despite Lucy being rather accident prone in her way to find the box these decorations were stored in, once she was safely in the rest of the house, these gifts are uncovered and spark a huge interest in Lucy.
She is determined to find out the story behind them, and to hopefully return some good memories to Olive, to aid her recovery. Just one small thing Lucy isn't someone who tends to be spontaneous and her boyfriend Rod isn't exactly a flexible person either, and Lucy has a million and one other things on her to-do list for Rod and to get Christmas ready for his family.
She does find an unlikely ally though in Joe, Olive's handyman/gardener and between them they slowly unravel the story. Joe is the complete opposite to Rod, and is pretty much biding time with work until he can go on holiday again.
As we learn about both of their pasts, we can see and understand just what made these characters behave how they do, and also a lot more about Olive's past. Despite Olive not being the main character she is present without being present as such in most scenes, as the story revolves around her.
I loved discovering all the stands of this story and seeing how it would all come together. I recall enjoying some novellas by the author a few years ago, so we really curious to see what a full length book from her would be like.
Well the answer is incredibly good, fabulous infact, I was hooked on the story the whole way through and very interested in the outcomes. It is one of very few books that I have concentrated on enough to shut out the world and ready relatively quickly recently for which I can applaud it!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HarperCollins for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
This is the story of a set of 12 Christmas decorations that are found in the loft of Lucy's grandmother's house, as she was clearing it, while her gran Olive was in hospital. Now despite Lucy being rather accident prone in her way to find the box these decorations were stored in, once she was safely in the rest of the house, these gifts are uncovered and spark a huge interest in Lucy.
She is determined to find out the story behind them, and to hopefully return some good memories to Olive, to aid her recovery. Just one small thing Lucy isn't someone who tends to be spontaneous and her boyfriend Rod isn't exactly a flexible person either, and Lucy has a million and one other things on her to-do list for Rod and to get Christmas ready for his family.
She does find an unlikely ally though in Joe, Olive's handyman/gardener and between them they slowly unravel the story. Joe is the complete opposite to Rod, and is pretty much biding time with work until he can go on holiday again.
As we learn about both of their pasts, we can see and understand just what made these characters behave how they do, and also a lot more about Olive's past. Despite Olive not being the main character she is present without being present as such in most scenes, as the story revolves around her.
I loved discovering all the stands of this story and seeing how it would all come together. I recall enjoying some novellas by the author a few years ago, so we really curious to see what a full length book from her would be like.
Well the answer is incredibly good, fabulous infact, I was hooked on the story the whole way through and very interested in the outcomes. It is one of very few books that I have concentrated on enough to shut out the world and ready relatively quickly recently for which I can applaud it!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HarperCollins for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 5, 2020
My three-word description of
The Present
by
Charlotte Phillips
is sweet, exciting and heartwarming.
Book Synopsis:
12 magical gifts, one love that lasts a lifetime…
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me … one romantic Christmas you won’t forget.
When helping to clear out her beloved grandmother’s home, Lucy Jackson discovers twelve beautiful Christmas decorations hidden in the loft. As she discovers their heartbreaking story, a touching romance develops with the handsome gardener next door. The one he loves most, is the one he knows least.
My Musings:
I found this a compelling and very sweet story. Lucy is in the process of sorting through her Gran, Olive's knick-knacks and finds a box full of antique decorations themed around the twelve days of Christmas, but with a mystery surrounding them. Stir into this mix an intolerant boyfriend and a sexy joiner/repair guy, and the result is a spicy blend of fun and romance.
I enjoyed travelling in Lucy's pocket as her journey led to her various discoveries, and what they meant to her much-loved grandmother. Charlotte Phillips delivered some strong characters in this novel, and I grew rather fond of Lucy with whom I had a connection, as she did many things I might have done in the same circumstances. Lucy was good-natured, kindhearted and determined, though she could also be quite needy. Charlotte Phillips' mesmerising tale relates some wise lessons on life and love, whilst exploring themes of family and friendship.
Verdict:
Overall, I had no issues with The Present but it didn't bedazzle me.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from HarperCollins via NetGalley at my request, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
Book Synopsis:
12 magical gifts, one love that lasts a lifetime…
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me … one romantic Christmas you won’t forget.
When helping to clear out her beloved grandmother’s home, Lucy Jackson discovers twelve beautiful Christmas decorations hidden in the loft. As she discovers their heartbreaking story, a touching romance develops with the handsome gardener next door. The one he loves most, is the one he knows least.
My Musings:
I found this a compelling and very sweet story. Lucy is in the process of sorting through her Gran, Olive's knick-knacks and finds a box full of antique decorations themed around the twelve days of Christmas, but with a mystery surrounding them. Stir into this mix an intolerant boyfriend and a sexy joiner/repair guy, and the result is a spicy blend of fun and romance.
I enjoyed travelling in Lucy's pocket as her journey led to her various discoveries, and what they meant to her much-loved grandmother. Charlotte Phillips delivered some strong characters in this novel, and I grew rather fond of Lucy with whom I had a connection, as she did many things I might have done in the same circumstances. Lucy was good-natured, kindhearted and determined, though she could also be quite needy. Charlotte Phillips' mesmerising tale relates some wise lessons on life and love, whilst exploring themes of family and friendship.
Verdict:
Overall, I had no issues with The Present but it didn't bedazzle me.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from HarperCollins via NetGalley at my request, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
August 29, 2019
3,5 SterneLucys grandmother is in hospital after an accident, and it is questionable if she can ever return to her own home and live by herself again. Thus Lucy makes use of her month-long vacation and clears out gran's house. That's the plan, anyway. But when she finds a box with 12 (or rather 11, because one is missing) beautiful small Christmas tree ornaments she gets side-tracked. The accompanying letter sounds soo romantic that Lucy is dying to find out who gave them to her grandmother 70 years ago - and if this someone is still alive.
I know what it's like to clear out your family home. There are so many things where it just doesn't feel right to simply trash them, for various reasons. But on the other hand, you cannot keep all the stuff!! Lucy is normally a very organized person. At least that's the feeling I got, what with all the To-Do-Lists she writes herself. But sorting through her grandmothers stuff is obviously a different matter. (But why did she have to go through every single thing right there and then on the spot. Why didn't she take a quick look - decide if it goes in the skip or keep it to look at it more closely later on? Would probably be a lot more efficient). Although I also have to say: she shouldn't let herself rush so much by her boyfriend Rod. Luckily, gardener Jake totally supports Lucy search for and in the past.
A book about old loves lost and new loves found that I enjoyed reading. Most of all I liked that there is no black and white in there all around. Rod for example seems quite unlikeable in the beginning, but he also shows understanding towards Lucy. He is not a bad guy, he just is set in a certain way and can't/won't change. That's just the way he is. Same goes for Lucys mother I think.
So while they are searching for a Christmas Past, the Christmas Present is slowly creeping up, and who knows what will await them in a Christmas Future.
July 27, 2019
This is a warm love story, which takes us to young love in the world war II period, as well as a blossoming love in the contemporary age. It's beautiful and very unforgettable! The main characters are poles apart, and their bickering- while annoying for the reader- makes the book quite passionate. As does their eagerness to solve the long buried love mystery. Wise lessons on love and life, are explored which make this an especially touching read, as well as themes of family and friendship. I do recommend as it's a distracting, and heart-felt read but I couldn't comprehend one of the main plots of the book.
Lucy, a journalist, and Jack, a gardener/handyman, unite on a mission to unravel the mystery behind a set of thoughtful presents- Christmas ornaments- found in Lucy's grandmother's loft. While working together, they learn a lot about each other. Lucy is a planner, she loves to-do lists and stability. She bickers with Jack on this, she doesn't agree with his spontaneous, risky and adventurous lifestyle. It wasn't a big deal, I couldn't understand the bickering. Particularly because it was serious and not always said in a funny manner.
Lucy- You don't have to agree with his lifestyle, you're not being forced to live it! And vice-versa. Though it was mainly Lucy vs. Jack. If anything, I'd rather- and thought it more plausible- that she'd admire his crazy, fun and wild life. That they'd bond over his risky adventures. I didn't like the unnecessary back and forth, it was tedious and kept going on and on... I didn't understand the need for it, why did they have to be so extremely different anyway? They could have clashed over something that mattered more, for their inevitable and final compromise to actually matter to the reader or even themselves. Nonetheless, I digress.
Other than that, the book was light and thoughtful. I loved the characters and their shared enthusiasm for such a project. It was a realistic ending too. The attitude toward the elderly individuals was not pleasant to read, especially since all the characters seemed to share the exact same attitude. But for a book with such a central mission, it was well rounded and perfectly concluded.
I received this book for review consideration. All opinions are honest and completely my own.
Lucy, a journalist, and Jack, a gardener/handyman, unite on a mission to unravel the mystery behind a set of thoughtful presents- Christmas ornaments- found in Lucy's grandmother's loft. While working together, they learn a lot about each other. Lucy is a planner, she loves to-do lists and stability. She bickers with Jack on this, she doesn't agree with his spontaneous, risky and adventurous lifestyle. It wasn't a big deal, I couldn't understand the bickering. Particularly because it was serious and not always said in a funny manner.
Lucy- You don't have to agree with his lifestyle, you're not being forced to live it! And vice-versa. Though it was mainly Lucy vs. Jack. If anything, I'd rather- and thought it more plausible- that she'd admire his crazy, fun and wild life. That they'd bond over his risky adventures. I didn't like the unnecessary back and forth, it was tedious and kept going on and on... I didn't understand the need for it, why did they have to be so extremely different anyway? They could have clashed over something that mattered more, for their inevitable and final compromise to actually matter to the reader or even themselves. Nonetheless, I digress.
Other than that, the book was light and thoughtful. I loved the characters and their shared enthusiasm for such a project. It was a realistic ending too. The attitude toward the elderly individuals was not pleasant to read, especially since all the characters seemed to share the exact same attitude. But for a book with such a central mission, it was well rounded and perfectly concluded.
I received this book for review consideration. All opinions are honest and completely my own.
December 23, 2018
The Present is about Lucy, who is in the middle of trying to clear her beloved Grandmother Olive’s house to ready it for sale. Olive has had a fall and is in hospital so Lucy wants to move her in with her and her partner. It’s close to Christmas and Lucy is busy with planning for the holidays and really struggling with going through Olive’s belongings as it’s bringing up so many memories of her own childhood.
This novel is everything I want in a Christmas story, it really is a beautiful read. I felt so moved by Lucy having to sort her Gran’s things out, and not having support from her partner. I know what it’s like to have to clear out a loved one’s home and it’s so hard to let their things go. The antique Christmas ornaments that she finds in a dark corner of the attic are described in such a way that I could really envisage them and was excited to follow Lucy’s journey to work out what meaning they held for her Gran.
Olive’s handyman Jack is busy fixing up the house and he ends up helping Lucy empty the attic and gets drawn into the mystery of the ornaments. It was so lovely that Lucy found someone who wanted to help her and took an interest in what she’d found as her boyfriend just seemed so cold and disinterested. I was rooting for Lucy to find happiness throughout this novel and really hoping she would find a way to hold on to her Gran’s house.
Both Jack and Lucy begin to feel more reflective about their own lives as they discover more about Olive’s past. They each carry sadness about the people they’ve lost and gradually seem to help each other by sharing memories as the novel goes on. I loved this aspect of the novel because it is how grief is, it catches up with you eventually and when you find someone who really understands it eventually helps ease some of the pain you carry. There is a real message in this book about remembering and finding a way to carry lost loved ones with you, it’s so beautiful.
This is a gorgeous novel is set in the lead up to Christmas and all the nostalgia of the ornaments and then the back story of Olive’s life makes for a lovely, heart-warming read at this time of year. I definitely recommend this book!
This review was originally posted on my blog https://rathertoofondofbooks.com
This novel is everything I want in a Christmas story, it really is a beautiful read. I felt so moved by Lucy having to sort her Gran’s things out, and not having support from her partner. I know what it’s like to have to clear out a loved one’s home and it’s so hard to let their things go. The antique Christmas ornaments that she finds in a dark corner of the attic are described in such a way that I could really envisage them and was excited to follow Lucy’s journey to work out what meaning they held for her Gran.
Olive’s handyman Jack is busy fixing up the house and he ends up helping Lucy empty the attic and gets drawn into the mystery of the ornaments. It was so lovely that Lucy found someone who wanted to help her and took an interest in what she’d found as her boyfriend just seemed so cold and disinterested. I was rooting for Lucy to find happiness throughout this novel and really hoping she would find a way to hold on to her Gran’s house.
Both Jack and Lucy begin to feel more reflective about their own lives as they discover more about Olive’s past. They each carry sadness about the people they’ve lost and gradually seem to help each other by sharing memories as the novel goes on. I loved this aspect of the novel because it is how grief is, it catches up with you eventually and when you find someone who really understands it eventually helps ease some of the pain you carry. There is a real message in this book about remembering and finding a way to carry lost loved ones with you, it’s so beautiful.
This is a gorgeous novel is set in the lead up to Christmas and all the nostalgia of the ornaments and then the back story of Olive’s life makes for a lovely, heart-warming read at this time of year. I definitely recommend this book!
This review was originally posted on my blog https://rathertoofondofbooks.com
December 4, 2017
I have to admit I actually got this book by mistake as Harper Collins have another book out by DS Devlin called The Present with an identical cover apart from the colourway. Even Amazon have reviews mixed up for each book and the profile for Charlotte Phillips on the book page for Devlin! Also I see on Goodreads both authors are given against the crime novel one. It doesn't help that both books centre on the 12 days of Christmas and a journalist. So - choose carefully, one is a romance - this one - the other a crime novel.
After starting to read the book and wondering when the crime was going to happen I decided I actually wanted to read this book too. The print length is given as 400 pages but I have to say that flew by and I read it in a day or so.
The story centres around Lucy and the discovery of some beautiful Christmas decorations covering the 12 days of Christmas, except one of them is missing and this is what hooked me in. Why was it missing?
The decorations belong to Olive, Lucy's Gran and she is at present in the hospital and so cannot help Lucy uncover the mystery. However, Olive's gardener and handyman Joe, comes to her rescue. At first I did feel this was a little contrived, but as I got slowly sucked in and some depth to the characters of Joe and Lucy evolved I needed to find closure with this book.
Maybe it's the time of year, but with such a seasonal setting and pictures painted of a snowy landscape I just settled down with this book and went with it. The little mystery got solved and I ended up loving it all.
I'm giving this book four out of 5 stars. My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book to review.
I'm off to read the "other" The Present now!
After starting to read the book and wondering when the crime was going to happen I decided I actually wanted to read this book too. The print length is given as 400 pages but I have to say that flew by and I read it in a day or so.
The story centres around Lucy and the discovery of some beautiful Christmas decorations covering the 12 days of Christmas, except one of them is missing and this is what hooked me in. Why was it missing?
The decorations belong to Olive, Lucy's Gran and she is at present in the hospital and so cannot help Lucy uncover the mystery. However, Olive's gardener and handyman Joe, comes to her rescue. At first I did feel this was a little contrived, but as I got slowly sucked in and some depth to the characters of Joe and Lucy evolved I needed to find closure with this book.
Maybe it's the time of year, but with such a seasonal setting and pictures painted of a snowy landscape I just settled down with this book and went with it. The little mystery got solved and I ended up loving it all.
I'm giving this book four out of 5 stars. My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book to review.
I'm off to read the "other" The Present now!
December 18, 2017
The present is a sweet read that was a delight to read especially as I read in the twelve days of Christmas.
Lucy Jackson has her life mapped out for her, she knows what will be happening and when in the years to come and does not ever do unorganised. Her boyfriend is totally like her and was a character I didn't warm to at all in this story. Lucys life becomes more adventurous after finding some old Christmas tree decorations in her grandmothers attic whilst trying to clear it, so her grandmother who is ill and in hospital can sell up and live with Lucy and her boyfriend. Lucy is more clumsy than me and she did make me giggle with her calamities throughout the book. Jack is Lucys grandmothers gardener and maintenance man who helps Lucy find out how her grandmother acquired the 12 Christmas tree decorations yers ago.
This was a sweet read and interesting too as well as making me laugh at times too, a great Christmas read.
I would like to thank netgalley and HarperCollins UK for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
Lucy Jackson has her life mapped out for her, she knows what will be happening and when in the years to come and does not ever do unorganised. Her boyfriend is totally like her and was a character I didn't warm to at all in this story. Lucys life becomes more adventurous after finding some old Christmas tree decorations in her grandmothers attic whilst trying to clear it, so her grandmother who is ill and in hospital can sell up and live with Lucy and her boyfriend. Lucy is more clumsy than me and she did make me giggle with her calamities throughout the book. Jack is Lucys grandmothers gardener and maintenance man who helps Lucy find out how her grandmother acquired the 12 Christmas tree decorations yers ago.
This was a sweet read and interesting too as well as making me laugh at times too, a great Christmas read.
I would like to thank netgalley and HarperCollins UK for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2018
When Olive, Lucy's grandmother is in hospital, she starts to clear out her house for her and while in the loft she discovers a box of Christmas decorations one each for the twelve days of Christmas, but the twelfth one is missing, they are exquisite glass decorations so why are they hidden away and why had she never seen them before?
Lucy is determined to find out the story behind these decorations and enlists the help of Joe the gardener, but her boyfriend Rod isn't best pleased, especially as Lucy is supposed to be getting ready for Christmas and his family coming down! Will she get to the bottom of the mystery and pacify Rod?
A lovely feel good Christmas story, with a bit of intrigue and some great characters.. I loved Joe but couldn't stand Rod. Predictable but an enjoyable easy read.
Lucy is determined to find out the story behind these decorations and enlists the help of Joe the gardener, but her boyfriend Rod isn't best pleased, especially as Lucy is supposed to be getting ready for Christmas and his family coming down! Will she get to the bottom of the mystery and pacify Rod?
A lovely feel good Christmas story, with a bit of intrigue and some great characters.. I loved Joe but couldn't stand Rod. Predictable but an enjoyable easy read.
December 18, 2017
A charming, unashamedly romantic tale, with a funny, vulnerable heroine and a sexy hero who falls in love despite it being the last thing he wants to happen.
A serendipitous discovery in her Grandmother's loft leads Lucy on a tale of discovery back to 1940s England, where she uncovers her Grandmother's secret and realises that having a life plan doesn't necessarily guarantee happiness.
Lots of comical and poignant moments and an easy to read story, perfect for an afternoon in front of the fire with the Christmas tree lights on.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Collins UK Harper Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
A serendipitous discovery in her Grandmother's loft leads Lucy on a tale of discovery back to 1940s England, where she uncovers her Grandmother's secret and realises that having a life plan doesn't necessarily guarantee happiness.
Lots of comical and poignant moments and an easy to read story, perfect for an afternoon in front of the fire with the Christmas tree lights on.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Collins UK Harper Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
April 30, 2020
A nice novel, but that’s all to say about it.
The present is a nice novel to read, with a story based on a box of Christmas ornaments found in the attic of gran. The story of gran is great. It would be great to read in a second timeline of the history of gran as a land lady. Now the story is all about Lucy, Rod and Jack and a little long-winded. Lucy dealing with problems of her mother who’s never be around, and Jack with the loss of his brother.
It was a nice read, but it was hard to get to the end. A Christmas novel needs more sprinkling, something I really missed.
The present is a nice novel to read, with a story based on a box of Christmas ornaments found in the attic of gran. The story of gran is great. It would be great to read in a second timeline of the history of gran as a land lady. Now the story is all about Lucy, Rod and Jack and a little long-winded. Lucy dealing with problems of her mother who’s never be around, and Jack with the loss of his brother.
It was a nice read, but it was hard to get to the end. A Christmas novel needs more sprinkling, something I really missed.
June 25, 2020
This book is an easy light read, somewhat reminiscent of woman's magazine fiction at Christmas. A tale of entwined relationships both past and present. No real surprises in the storyline. I feel Rob was cast as a bit like the 'bad prince' in a fairy tale but infact I felt sorry for him. His situation and career track is a realistic picture of what life really is like out there for these guys ....he deserved more support in my opinion! Having said that it was a sweet modern day romance with rather predictable outcomes. What we all need from time to time.
December 19, 2017
A heartwarming story about the true meaning of Christmas and how when you find love, even in the most unlikely of places, you should grab it and cherish it for as long as it lasts. A most enjoyable Christmas read. Thank you to the publishers for providing me with a copy via Netgalley, in return for an honest review.
April 10, 2020
I don't usually read romance, but I was intrigued with this book as it goes hand in hand with a book of the same title but by a different author, which I am yet to read.
This story had a bit of mystery to it, and the characters were all likeable (except for one). I did find it was a bit repetitive towards the end but overall I really enjoyed reading it.
This story had a bit of mystery to it, and the characters were all likeable (except for one). I did find it was a bit repetitive towards the end but overall I really enjoyed reading it.
October 16, 2020
This book was really sweet. Lucy has been tasked with the job of clearing her grandmother’s attic in preparation for a house sale as she is in hospital. She finds a box of Christmas decorations which leads her into a wonderful discovery of love in times. Amongst the discovery, she also discovers what she wants for her own life. What a wonderful book to read as the temperature drops...
June 18, 2019
Lovely cover, well thought out characters, a storyline that is written with detail & depth. A good book that is definitely worth a read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for my arc.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for my arc.
April 1, 2020
Quick, sweet, cute, intriguing, lovely and heartfelt. This book is more than just a Christmas romance is about discovering an old love while building a new one. The mysterious twelve presents keep the story entertaining while motivating a quest to discover a love story back in World War II.
July 3, 2020
The Present is a heartwarming story about finding family treasures in Gran's loft.It has a good storyline and enjoyable read.
Thank You Netgalley ,the publisher and the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review the book.
Thank You Netgalley ,the publisher and the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review the book.
December 21, 2017
Nice heartwarming read but bit too predictable. Did enjoy the two stories interminged throughout the days leading up to Christmas.
December 26, 2017
A lovely story just right for Christmas.
January 31, 2020
This was a delightful love story. You get to experience a cozy mystery that has Lucy working hard to solve. She is in the middle of helping her grandmother who is recovering from a nasty fall, and realizing she needs to decide what she wants in life. The characters are well developed and you will develop definite opinions about them.
Personally, I fell in love with Jack and although he was dealing with his own emotional trauma, he is a good hearted soul.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Personally, I fell in love with Jack and although he was dealing with his own emotional trauma, he is a good hearted soul.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 15, 2022
A heartwarming story about finding family treasures in Gran's loft. It has a good storyline and enjoyable read.
December 26, 2020
This book could have been nice, but I disliked it a lot. I like a nice, easy read, especially a festive one, but this was too formulaic and too predictable (which says a lot for an easy read romcom)! The love interest that Lucy Jackson doesn’t know about, is introduced with a subtly akin to a brick in the face. The gifts she has found are clearly from her grandmother’s true love (and I guessed how that ended right at the start of the book), rather than her grandfather.
Lucy’s obnoxious partner, Rod, who just comes across as a selfish, self-obsessed, controlling and coercive **** (I’m too polite to swear in reviews)!
The premise should have been enjoyable - a mystery of the gifts received by her grandmother, a budding relationship growing alongside the main character’s growth as a person, however, it just didn’t fit together for me and it was a hard slog to finish this book.
However, I am clearly in the minority, having seen the other reviews for this book. I guess it just wasn’t for me.
Lucy’s obnoxious partner, Rod, who just comes across as a selfish, self-obsessed, controlling and coercive **** (I’m too polite to swear in reviews)!
The premise should have been enjoyable - a mystery of the gifts received by her grandmother, a budding relationship growing alongside the main character’s growth as a person, however, it just didn’t fit together for me and it was a hard slog to finish this book.
However, I am clearly in the minority, having seen the other reviews for this book. I guess it just wasn’t for me.
March 31, 2023
Lucy Jackson's life is going perfectly according to plan before her grandmother is hospitalized. Her perfectly stable boyfriend Rod is up for a promotion at work - after which she's sure he's going to propose - and they'll live happily ever after taking 2 vacations a year and retiring at 65.
While cleaning out her grandmothers attic, Lucy comes across a mysterious box of ornaments representing the 12 days of Christmas wrapped with sentimental love letters addressed to her grandmother. Only one ornament is missing and the letters are not from Lucy's grandfather.
The mystery of it piques her interest and in the pursuit of answers her perfectly scheduled life begins to destabilize - all with the help of her gran's hot handyman Joe.
this was a heartwarming, quick read I really enjoyed.
Joe was a nicely fleshed out love interest and even though there were some predicable tropes it didn't detract from the story.
While cleaning out her grandmothers attic, Lucy comes across a mysterious box of ornaments representing the 12 days of Christmas wrapped with sentimental love letters addressed to her grandmother. Only one ornament is missing and the letters are not from Lucy's grandfather.
The mystery of it piques her interest and in the pursuit of answers her perfectly scheduled life begins to destabilize - all with the help of her gran's hot handyman Joe.
this was a heartwarming, quick read I really enjoyed.
Joe was a nicely fleshed out love interest and even though there were some predicable tropes it didn't detract from the story.
January 2, 2024
Another book I missed out on during a (no) reading funk.
Lucy is clearing out her Grandmother's house to prepare for her to move in with Lucy. She finds a beautiful Christmas decoration in the loft and tries to uncover the story of a war-torn romance with the help of gardener Jack.
Personalities clash, romance blossoms against snow and a countdown to Christmas.
If you like Hallmark Christmas movies then read this! It's the book version of a quiet romance, miscommunication and finding love closer to home than you expect.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lucy is clearing out her Grandmother's house to prepare for her to move in with Lucy. She finds a beautiful Christmas decoration in the loft and tries to uncover the story of a war-torn romance with the help of gardener Jack.
Personalities clash, romance blossoms against snow and a countdown to Christmas.
If you like Hallmark Christmas movies then read this! It's the book version of a quiet romance, miscommunication and finding love closer to home than you expect.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2019
Just finished this book and absolutely loved it! I loved the relationship between Lucy and olive. The fact that making sure that her gran was happy and that nothing in lucys life that was all that mattered before, mattered anymore.
All the stress of her life and all the plans and life steps didn't matter anymore and the journey was a big wake up call for her, It spoke volumes . So many woman think they want Mr dependable and certain but do they! When you get down to the heart of it what they want is the fire and the feeling that this is true love. I think the author has written this perfectly. And who doesn't love a happy ending.
Jack's journey was also written beautifully, how he had to keep busy and moving to not focus on the grief. And together they both helped each other what life and love was truly about.
Look forward to more from This author
All the stress of her life and all the plans and life steps didn't matter anymore and the journey was a big wake up call for her, It spoke volumes . So many woman think they want Mr dependable and certain but do they! When you get down to the heart of it what they want is the fire and the feeling that this is true love. I think the author has written this perfectly. And who doesn't love a happy ending.
Jack's journey was also written beautifully, how he had to keep busy and moving to not focus on the grief. And together they both helped each other what life and love was truly about.
Look forward to more from This author
January 14, 2019
A beautiful heartwarming Christmas read full of characters to love and loath and some great little surprises.
May 6, 2019
Lovely romantic tale. It’s another book that gave me warm squishy, happy feelings. Unashamedly romantic and so atmospheric , wonderfully tale
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
May 24, 2019
Digging in the loft you find twelve beautiful Christmas ornaments. We each with their own unique storyline. Each with a beautiful story about love, life and family and friendship. From years ago. A lovely Christmas book. That will have you smiling from ear to ear.
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