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Another Backwards Christmas
Rob Joleigh has been burned by Christmas too many times. He takes his freelance writing career seriously and his claim to fame happens to be de-bunking Christmas festivities in towns across America. When he lands in South Pole, Alaska, he has one plan in mind...to get to the bottom of the whole 'Backwards Christmas' idea and spoil the holiday for as many people as possible.
Holly Howard knows there's more to life than leading Backwards Christmas tours in South Pole, but she's happy with her job, town, and friends. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with, but in a small town, it's hard to meet new people. When a handsome writer comes into town, she's intrigued, and hopeful that he could be that person. But she has no idea he's the famous "Jolly Robber."
It's not just any Backwards Christmas in South Pole, Alaska as the backwards celebrations rage and the town comes together to show their spirit in full force!
Holly Howard knows there's more to life than leading Backwards Christmas tours in South Pole, but she's happy with her job, town, and friends. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with, but in a small town, it's hard to meet new people. When a handsome writer comes into town, she's intrigued, and hopeful that he could be that person. But she has no idea he's the famous "Jolly Robber."
It's not just any Backwards Christmas in South Pole, Alaska as the backwards celebrations rage and the town comes together to show their spirit in full force!
93 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 29, 2017
46 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 18, 2017
A touching Christmas story
A writer that goes around making Christmas towns loses their jollies comes to Backwards Christmas where he meets a gal and town that change his heart.
A writer that goes around making Christmas towns loses their jollies comes to Backwards Christmas where he meets a gal and town that change his heart.
December 15, 2017
5 Stars
Another Backward Christmas is a charming story by Brooke Williams. It is a sweet holiday romance, full of the wonder, spirit and true meaning of Christmas. It is a Hallmark movie worthy story that kept me engaged from beginning to end. It is a very short story, and was a quick, easy read. I loved Ms. Williams book “The Leftover” and hoped that this book would be just as good- I quickly found that it was every bit as good.
Rob Joleigh is a jaded, Christmas hating author. He is known for his Jolly Robber articles, where he exposes and debunks Christmas beliefs and practices. His latest target is the Backward Christmas festivities in South Pole, Alaska. He only intends to stay a very short time, to get what he needs and then leave. But when he arrives he finds that things are quite different from what he expecting, anything he’s seen before.
Holly Howard conducts the Backward Christmas tours and is a firm believer in everything Christmas and all the Backward Christmas traditions. When she meets Rob, she hopes he’s the ‘one’ she’s been looking for. There is a definite spark between them, but with him passing through town she’s unsure if there would be a chance of having more. But as they spend time together, Holly’s enthusiasm and South Pole’s charm begin to work their magic on Rob. But what happens when Holly discovers who he really is, and exactly why he is in town? Will their budding romance survive the fallout? Will Holly and South Pole manage to change his opinion of Christmas? Regardless of what happens, this will definitely be a Christmas that they will never forget!
The story is told from several POV’s, has a great pace and a smooth flow.
A fun, Light-hearted and uplifting read!
Thank you, Ms. Williams!
Another Backward Christmas is a charming story by Brooke Williams. It is a sweet holiday romance, full of the wonder, spirit and true meaning of Christmas. It is a Hallmark movie worthy story that kept me engaged from beginning to end. It is a very short story, and was a quick, easy read. I loved Ms. Williams book “The Leftover” and hoped that this book would be just as good- I quickly found that it was every bit as good.
Rob Joleigh is a jaded, Christmas hating author. He is known for his Jolly Robber articles, where he exposes and debunks Christmas beliefs and practices. His latest target is the Backward Christmas festivities in South Pole, Alaska. He only intends to stay a very short time, to get what he needs and then leave. But when he arrives he finds that things are quite different from what he expecting, anything he’s seen before.
Holly Howard conducts the Backward Christmas tours and is a firm believer in everything Christmas and all the Backward Christmas traditions. When she meets Rob, she hopes he’s the ‘one’ she’s been looking for. There is a definite spark between them, but with him passing through town she’s unsure if there would be a chance of having more. But as they spend time together, Holly’s enthusiasm and South Pole’s charm begin to work their magic on Rob. But what happens when Holly discovers who he really is, and exactly why he is in town? Will their budding romance survive the fallout? Will Holly and South Pole manage to change his opinion of Christmas? Regardless of what happens, this will definitely be a Christmas that they will never forget!
The story is told from several POV’s, has a great pace and a smooth flow.
A fun, Light-hearted and uplifting read!
Thank you, Ms. Williams!
Read
December 21, 2017DNF at 43%
It didn't start well when I came across this at 8%:
Chris turned away from God and Christmas entirely when his parents died in a plane crash on Christmas Eve.
Oh crap, I thought. Another 'religious and inspirational' story. However, God didn't make any further appearances so I read on.
And then this: Rob buys two 'inside out' hot chocolate drinks and is handed two strange looking white mugs.
Rob threaded two fingers through the handle of one cup and frowned as it squished beneath his touch. "What is this thing anyway?" He set the cup on the table and sat across from Holly.
"What did you think 'inside out' meant? The mugs are made of marshmallows." Holly began sipping her drink with earnest.
"I get it." Rob took a sip."The marshmallows are on the outside instead of on the inside."
Holly nodded. "It's really quite delicious. You get the taste of the marshmallows the whole way through." She took another drink. "And, at the end, you get to eat the cup."
You've got to be kidding me, right? Seriously??
Nah. No one would do that. Would they??
?? Really????????
I'll hold off rating this for now - simply because I am now researching 'mugs made from marshmallow' (and trying not to fall off my chair laughing.......)
It didn't start well when I came across this at 8%:
Chris turned away from God and Christmas entirely when his parents died in a plane crash on Christmas Eve.
Oh crap, I thought. Another 'religious and inspirational' story. However, God didn't make any further appearances so I read on.
And then this: Rob buys two 'inside out' hot chocolate drinks and is handed two strange looking white mugs.
Rob threaded two fingers through the handle of one cup and frowned as it squished beneath his touch. "What is this thing anyway?" He set the cup on the table and sat across from Holly.
"What did you think 'inside out' meant? The mugs are made of marshmallows." Holly began sipping her drink with earnest.
"I get it." Rob took a sip."The marshmallows are on the outside instead of on the inside."
Holly nodded. "It's really quite delicious. You get the taste of the marshmallows the whole way through." She took another drink. "And, at the end, you get to eat the cup."
You've got to be kidding me, right? Seriously??
Nah. No one would do that. Would they??
?? Really????????
I'll hold off rating this for now - simply because I am now researching 'mugs made from marshmallow' (and trying not to fall off my chair laughing.......)
December 12, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams is a fun holiday story. Southpole, Alaska is a fun, small town that celebrates Christmas with a twist. Rob Joleigh is a writer with a Scrooge attitude concerning the holidays. Holly Howard is a tour guide in town. What will happen when the two meet on a snowy night? The setting is charming and the town has a quirky group of residents. This is the type of place that makes the holidays fun and meaningful.
The characters are fun and charming. I really enjoyed this story and read this at record speed. This story helped to put me in the Christmas spirit and I had to get my tree up immediately. This is a fun, enjoyable quick read that can be enjoyed by all. The unspirited are challenged as well as the spirited and a town comes together to help one another. I look forward to reading more from Brooke Williams.
The characters are fun and charming. I really enjoyed this story and read this at record speed. This story helped to put me in the Christmas spirit and I had to get my tree up immediately. This is a fun, enjoyable quick read that can be enjoyed by all. The unspirited are challenged as well as the spirited and a town comes together to help one another. I look forward to reading more from Brooke Williams.
December 1, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
This is a whimsical holiday story that is a super-fast read. It takes place in South Pole, Alaska (and yes I do admit Googling it to see if it was a real place) where Christmas traditions are upside down and backwards. Mistletoe on the ground, presents given TO Santa, etc. This book proves that Christmas isn’t a season, it’s a feeling.
This isn't the first book I’ve read by Brooke Williams and I enjoy her writing style. She gets right into the nitty gritty of the story. Another Backwards Christmas is a sweet romance that I would absolutely recommend to my mother and her book club.
This is a whimsical holiday story that is a super-fast read. It takes place in South Pole, Alaska (and yes I do admit Googling it to see if it was a real place) where Christmas traditions are upside down and backwards. Mistletoe on the ground, presents given TO Santa, etc. This book proves that Christmas isn’t a season, it’s a feeling.
This isn't the first book I’ve read by Brooke Williams and I enjoy her writing style. She gets right into the nitty gritty of the story. Another Backwards Christmas is a sweet romance that I would absolutely recommend to my mother and her book club.
December 1, 2017
For a short story I loved it! I'm surprised there weren't any Grinch references but Jolly Robber works too. Take a man like Rob who's seen the worst of Christmas for years and tries to tear apart traditions and show him a truly selfless town. South Pole does everything backward and it might just be enough to thaw his heart. This book gave me hope for Christmas. I felt the jog and magic as I turned the pages of this book. Plus I really want to try some of that hot chocolate. You can keep the gel'd fish though.
November 26, 2017
I received this ARC from Red Coat Publishing and the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have a feeling that this is going to be a very unpopular opinion, but this story wasn’t for me in every possible way.
The characters, specifically the female protagonist, were extremely naive and had unrealistic romantic views that make the reading experience rather less than joyful. I could understand the male romantic interest's motivation slightly better, but with the focus placed on the female character, the reader does not get much of a chance to fully appreciate the character.
The plot is a typical and traditional one for Christmas stories, with the quirky twist of creating Christmas traditions in a backwards way, hence the title.
The writing left a few things to be desired. As this was a short story, I was surprised to find a lot of repetition in the narration and much time was spent on internal contemplation done by the female protagonist. The repeated use of the word “giggled” gave the character an image of a silly school girl and took away from the potential of being more realistically romantic.
Overall, this wasn’t for me. I puzzled throughout reading this story why the author chose to write most of the story from the female character's point of view instead of the male character's, which would have possibly provided the story with more of a Christmas spirit. I would give this one a pass.
I have a feeling that this is going to be a very unpopular opinion, but this story wasn’t for me in every possible way.
The characters, specifically the female protagonist, were extremely naive and had unrealistic romantic views that make the reading experience rather less than joyful. I could understand the male romantic interest's motivation slightly better, but with the focus placed on the female character, the reader does not get much of a chance to fully appreciate the character.
The plot is a typical and traditional one for Christmas stories, with the quirky twist of creating Christmas traditions in a backwards way, hence the title.
The writing left a few things to be desired. As this was a short story, I was surprised to find a lot of repetition in the narration and much time was spent on internal contemplation done by the female protagonist. The repeated use of the word “giggled” gave the character an image of a silly school girl and took away from the potential of being more realistically romantic.
Overall, this wasn’t for me. I puzzled throughout reading this story why the author chose to write most of the story from the female character's point of view instead of the male character's, which would have possibly provided the story with more of a Christmas spirit. I would give this one a pass.
January 13, 2018
http://openbooksociety.com/article/an...
Another Backwards Christmas
By Brooke Williams
ASIN: B076HBMH38
Author’s Website: www(.)goodreads(.)com(/)brookewilliams
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary
Rob Joleigh has been burned by Christmas too many times. He takes his freelance writing career seriously and his claim to fame happens to be de-bunking Christmas festivities in towns across America. When he lands in South Pole, Alaska, he has one plan in mind…to get to the bottom of the whole ‘Backwards Christmas’ idea and spoil the holiday for as many people as possible.
Holly Howard knows there’s more to life than leading Backwards Christmas tours in South Pole, but she’s happy with her job, town, and friends. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with, but in a small town, it’s hard to meet new people. When a handsome writer comes into town, she’s intrigued, and hopeful that he could be that person. But she has no idea he’s the famous “Jolly Robber.”
It’s not just any Backwards Christmas in South Pole, Alaska as the backwards celebrations rage and the town comes together to show their spirit in full force!
Review
When I came across Another Backwards Christmas I was intrigued. With a title like that, why wouldn’t I be? So after reading the summary I knew this would be a Christmas themed romance and right up my alley for pure entertainment during the holiday season. My propensity is not for short stories as I am usually left wanting more, so I did start reading with a bit of trepidation. By the end of the book, that trepidation was dispelled.
Right off the bat I was hooked. The cover art was perfect – a beautiful Christmas tree – upside down. Brilliant is all I have to say because it definitely caught my eye!
“They called him “The Jolly Robber.” And the moniker was fitting, really. Rob Joleigh bumped along beside dozens of other tourists making their way to the small town of South Pole, Alaska. He sighed. Spontaneous Christmas caroling had broken out. Hadn’t he endured enough on the long, delayed flight from Chicago to Anchorage?”
So the male protagonist is a curmudgeon with respect to Christmas…that is to be expected. The female protagonist is named ‘Holly’… that also is not a big surprise ☺ …and a town tour guide. What was a surprise was that this short novella had some depth along with the humor (which was a wonderful addition to the love story).
I was totally intrigued by one oddity in this town – ‘inside out’ hot chocolate drinks. Now I really need to try that! Other Christmas traditions are upside down and backwards – for example the mistletoe is on the ground as opposed to hanging from above and one tradition I could get behind – presents are given to Santa.
I just may need to add a few more books by Brooke Williams on to my to be read pile. If you are looking for a quick read with a feel good ending, love and romance and of course Christmas…then this just may be your book.
Another Backwards Christmas
By Brooke Williams
ASIN: B076HBMH38
Author’s Website: www(.)goodreads(.)com(/)brookewilliams
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary
Rob Joleigh has been burned by Christmas too many times. He takes his freelance writing career seriously and his claim to fame happens to be de-bunking Christmas festivities in towns across America. When he lands in South Pole, Alaska, he has one plan in mind…to get to the bottom of the whole ‘Backwards Christmas’ idea and spoil the holiday for as many people as possible.
Holly Howard knows there’s more to life than leading Backwards Christmas tours in South Pole, but she’s happy with her job, town, and friends. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with, but in a small town, it’s hard to meet new people. When a handsome writer comes into town, she’s intrigued, and hopeful that he could be that person. But she has no idea he’s the famous “Jolly Robber.”
It’s not just any Backwards Christmas in South Pole, Alaska as the backwards celebrations rage and the town comes together to show their spirit in full force!
Review
When I came across Another Backwards Christmas I was intrigued. With a title like that, why wouldn’t I be? So after reading the summary I knew this would be a Christmas themed romance and right up my alley for pure entertainment during the holiday season. My propensity is not for short stories as I am usually left wanting more, so I did start reading with a bit of trepidation. By the end of the book, that trepidation was dispelled.
Right off the bat I was hooked. The cover art was perfect – a beautiful Christmas tree – upside down. Brilliant is all I have to say because it definitely caught my eye!
“They called him “The Jolly Robber.” And the moniker was fitting, really. Rob Joleigh bumped along beside dozens of other tourists making their way to the small town of South Pole, Alaska. He sighed. Spontaneous Christmas caroling had broken out. Hadn’t he endured enough on the long, delayed flight from Chicago to Anchorage?”
So the male protagonist is a curmudgeon with respect to Christmas…that is to be expected. The female protagonist is named ‘Holly’… that also is not a big surprise ☺ …and a town tour guide. What was a surprise was that this short novella had some depth along with the humor (which was a wonderful addition to the love story).
I was totally intrigued by one oddity in this town – ‘inside out’ hot chocolate drinks. Now I really need to try that! Other Christmas traditions are upside down and backwards – for example the mistletoe is on the ground as opposed to hanging from above and one tradition I could get behind – presents are given to Santa.
I just may need to add a few more books by Brooke Williams on to my to be read pile. If you are looking for a quick read with a feel good ending, love and romance and of course Christmas…then this just may be your book.
November 30, 2017
An excellent read about doing things differently. Rob Joleigh is a successful freelance writer who hates Christmas. When he arrives in South Pole, Alaska, he expects it to be the same commercialised event it always is. However, on arrival, he bumps into Holly who he rescues fro a strange tradition of kissing on painted mistletoe. The next day he goes on a tour of the town and meets her again. On a date, she shows him how things are different as they celebrate it upside down with upside side down Christmas trees and inside out hot chocolates. A friend Noelle discovers that his job is to criticise towns that celebrate Christmas but Holly knows he has changed. Rob himself finds his heart warming to the idea, until a present idea goes wrong. As an elf, he finds his happiness of giving presents to be given away to villages. Noelle gives birth to a girl and Rob realises what Christmas really means.
An excellent read. Well written plot. Well developed characters. Some fantastic ideas of upside down trees and inside out hot chocolates which I thought were creative and spectacular. I also adored the play on names like Noelle and Holly which added more to the festive feel of the place. Also the carol singers on the plane was hilarious. Rob was excellently written and loved his character development. The setting of Alaska and the cold weather was beautifully described. in particular, I loved the presents scene with Santa which was heartfelt and emotive. The only issue i would raise is at the beginning it felt like too much information about Robs past which could have been cut down. Overall, a delightful read and I would give it four stars.
An excellent read. Well written plot. Well developed characters. Some fantastic ideas of upside down trees and inside out hot chocolates which I thought were creative and spectacular. I also adored the play on names like Noelle and Holly which added more to the festive feel of the place. Also the carol singers on the plane was hilarious. Rob was excellently written and loved his character development. The setting of Alaska and the cold weather was beautifully described. in particular, I loved the presents scene with Santa which was heartfelt and emotive. The only issue i would raise is at the beginning it felt like too much information about Robs past which could have been cut down. Overall, a delightful read and I would give it four stars.
December 2, 2017
“Christmas isn’t a season. It’s a feeling.” ~ Edna Ferber
Another Backwards Christmas, is a super cute short love story, set in the idyllic town of South Pole, Alaska. Brooke Williams weaves a funny story of a modern-day Scrooge character “The Jolly Robber”, Rob Joleigh, set out to debunk the Christmas spirit that the small-town embraces. And the connection that is spurred between him and one of the town’s tourist guides, Holly Howard.
Each year Rob finds a new town to expose the hidden, and often corrupt, behind the scenes of a festive town that believes to embody the spirit of Christmas every day of the year. This year South Pole, Alaska is the latest victim. What he didn’t expect was to have a little bit of mistletoe magic spur some new feelings for the season and a cute sweet Holly.
“He need some peace and quiet to mentally prepare for what Backwards Christmas at South Pole, Alaska had in store for him. Surely, it was another picture-perfect community that went over the town with decorations, events and festivities.”
Will the town and Holly pull off a holiday miracle and sell the spirit of Christmas to Rob? Will it spark a love and partnership that Holly has spent years looking for in her little town with no luck?
This was a sweet quick read, perfect to curl up with your favorite Christmas carols on and a warm cup of coffee on a cold December day. I loved the descriptive scenes and words that Brooke Williams uses to bring to life the town in your mind like a realistic movie that is playing out before you as you read. I definitely recommend this to get you in the spirit for the holiday season!
Another Backwards Christmas, is a super cute short love story, set in the idyllic town of South Pole, Alaska. Brooke Williams weaves a funny story of a modern-day Scrooge character “The Jolly Robber”, Rob Joleigh, set out to debunk the Christmas spirit that the small-town embraces. And the connection that is spurred between him and one of the town’s tourist guides, Holly Howard.
Each year Rob finds a new town to expose the hidden, and often corrupt, behind the scenes of a festive town that believes to embody the spirit of Christmas every day of the year. This year South Pole, Alaska is the latest victim. What he didn’t expect was to have a little bit of mistletoe magic spur some new feelings for the season and a cute sweet Holly.
“He need some peace and quiet to mentally prepare for what Backwards Christmas at South Pole, Alaska had in store for him. Surely, it was another picture-perfect community that went over the town with decorations, events and festivities.”
Will the town and Holly pull off a holiday miracle and sell the spirit of Christmas to Rob? Will it spark a love and partnership that Holly has spent years looking for in her little town with no luck?
This was a sweet quick read, perfect to curl up with your favorite Christmas carols on and a warm cup of coffee on a cold December day. I loved the descriptive scenes and words that Brooke Williams uses to bring to life the town in your mind like a realistic movie that is playing out before you as you read. I definitely recommend this to get you in the spirit for the holiday season!
December 5, 2018
This is a sweet, feel good type Christmas story. It has a little religious belief thrown in but not a lot. It is light-hearted and intends to leave the reader feeling warm and fuzzy.
The concept of having everything backwards at Christmas was interesting and unique. I'm not convinced that many people would be willing to stand on the sidewalk in frigid weather for hours waiting to be kissed when they happened to stand on the mistletoe but it added some fun to this story. And it cracked me up that the shop owner was willing to go get her husband to kiss people instead of just letting people go on their way. I loved the idea of bringing Santa gifts instead of asking for gifts. What a wonderful idea that is.
Holly was a sweet leading lady. Maybe I missed it but what was her job the rest of the year? Rob might has well have been called The Grinch. I've never understood people who would purposely try to rob people of joy. If you don't like a holiday-fine. Do you have to ruin it for everyone else? Jerk. For that reason I had a harder time liking him. I'm mean he seemed like he was okay for a while when he spent time with Holly but then we find out that he is still only seeing the negatives of everything so yeah, still a jerk. I just have to believe that he had a real turn around in the end so it really is a true happily ever after. I kind of expected the author to say that his heart grew three sizes that day so I could be convinced of the change.
This was a fun quick read that will put you in the Christmas spirit.
The concept of having everything backwards at Christmas was interesting and unique. I'm not convinced that many people would be willing to stand on the sidewalk in frigid weather for hours waiting to be kissed when they happened to stand on the mistletoe but it added some fun to this story. And it cracked me up that the shop owner was willing to go get her husband to kiss people instead of just letting people go on their way. I loved the idea of bringing Santa gifts instead of asking for gifts. What a wonderful idea that is.
Holly was a sweet leading lady. Maybe I missed it but what was her job the rest of the year? Rob might has well have been called The Grinch. I've never understood people who would purposely try to rob people of joy. If you don't like a holiday-fine. Do you have to ruin it for everyone else? Jerk. For that reason I had a harder time liking him. I'm mean he seemed like he was okay for a while when he spent time with Holly but then we find out that he is still only seeing the negatives of everything so yeah, still a jerk. I just have to believe that he had a real turn around in the end so it really is a true happily ever after. I kind of expected the author to say that his heart grew three sizes that day so I could be convinced of the change.
This was a fun quick read that will put you in the Christmas spirit.
December 6, 2017
5 Star
Another Backwards Christmas By Brooke Williams
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams is an amazing and sweet Christmas romance story.I love this time of year anyways but what could make it even better? A Christmas romance book that's what.I loved this story.ive read other books by this author and I absolutely love this one it's one of my favorites. I couldn't put it down once I started reading. I enjoy the authors writing style and her ability to draw you in from the beginning and keep your attention till the end.This story is about a town in South Pole,Alaska that has decided to bring Christmas Backwards to town.Holly and her partner run a tour business that gives tours around the city to visitors. Certain traditions are honored and this is how she meets Rob.Holly is happy in her life she just doesn't have anyone to share it with until knowhow can one Kiss change everything? Rob is a freelance writer that is also known as "Jolly Robber".He's been known to expose Christmas Frauds in towns. What happens when he comes to South Pole,Alaska? Can meeting Holly change his Scrooge ways?She has no clue who he is but what happens when she finds out? I loved these characters and loved this story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you want to know how it ends.i look forward to reading more from this author.
Another Backwards Christmas By Brooke Williams
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams is an amazing and sweet Christmas romance story.I love this time of year anyways but what could make it even better? A Christmas romance book that's what.I loved this story.ive read other books by this author and I absolutely love this one it's one of my favorites. I couldn't put it down once I started reading. I enjoy the authors writing style and her ability to draw you in from the beginning and keep your attention till the end.This story is about a town in South Pole,Alaska that has decided to bring Christmas Backwards to town.Holly and her partner run a tour business that gives tours around the city to visitors. Certain traditions are honored and this is how she meets Rob.Holly is happy in her life she just doesn't have anyone to share it with until knowhow can one Kiss change everything? Rob is a freelance writer that is also known as "Jolly Robber".He's been known to expose Christmas Frauds in towns. What happens when he comes to South Pole,Alaska? Can meeting Holly change his Scrooge ways?She has no clue who he is but what happens when she finds out? I loved these characters and loved this story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you want to know how it ends.i look forward to reading more from this author.
December 16, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams is a fun, festive romantic comedy. It tells the story of a journalist, Rob, who sets out to uncover the secrets and flaws of the popular Backwards Christmas celebrations in South Pole, Alaska, and a young woman, Holly, who leads tours as part of the Backwards Christmas celebrations. Despite contrasting attitudes towards extravagant Christmas celebrations, the pair find themselves thrust together (mistletoe may have had something to do with it!) and are soon sharing backwards hot chocolate.
This book is full of Christmas cliches, including many festive names (Holly, Noelle, Chris…) and a Scrooge/Grinch-esque character. There’s also lots of snow and mistletoe. But that's to be expected of a Christmas story and all in all it adds to the charm. Some of the “backwards” aspects of the Christmas celebrations are quite clever, if a little ridiculous!
It's a classic rom com - comfortably familiar but not without the traditional awkward misunderstandings, hilarious mishaps and general obstacles.
I give this book four out of five stars - it's a sweet and entertaining read that will quickly get you in the festive spirit. A little bit too silly at times, perhaps, and rather predictable, but enjoyable nonetheless!
This book is full of Christmas cliches, including many festive names (Holly, Noelle, Chris…) and a Scrooge/Grinch-esque character. There’s also lots of snow and mistletoe. But that's to be expected of a Christmas story and all in all it adds to the charm. Some of the “backwards” aspects of the Christmas celebrations are quite clever, if a little ridiculous!
It's a classic rom com - comfortably familiar but not without the traditional awkward misunderstandings, hilarious mishaps and general obstacles.
I give this book four out of five stars - it's a sweet and entertaining read that will quickly get you in the festive spirit. A little bit too silly at times, perhaps, and rather predictable, but enjoyable nonetheless!
November 29, 2017
A Backwards Christmas
By Brooke Williams
4 stars
This was a really nice Christmas read and sounds like a place I would love!! Who wouldn’t love hot chocolate in a marshmallow mug!! Heaven!! I loved the descriptive writing by the author, I really felt like I was in this beautiful Christmassy town experiencing Holly’s backwards Christmas tour with the characters.
Whilst I didn’t particularly connect with the characters I did like them and it’s definitely made me want to read the books before this so I can read more about some of the secondary characters. I can see what Holly was looking for in a man, she wanted exactly what her friend had and I really felt for her. I wasn’t too sure about Rob, his character took a bit of warming up to me for. I actually would have loved this story to be a little longer as maybe that would have given the author an opportunity to develop these characters a little more.
The plot was good and the pace was great – I just wanted a little bit more but I still enjoyed reading it and would definitely recommend it as a nice Christmas time romance story.
By Brooke Williams
4 stars
This was a really nice Christmas read and sounds like a place I would love!! Who wouldn’t love hot chocolate in a marshmallow mug!! Heaven!! I loved the descriptive writing by the author, I really felt like I was in this beautiful Christmassy town experiencing Holly’s backwards Christmas tour with the characters.
Whilst I didn’t particularly connect with the characters I did like them and it’s definitely made me want to read the books before this so I can read more about some of the secondary characters. I can see what Holly was looking for in a man, she wanted exactly what her friend had and I really felt for her. I wasn’t too sure about Rob, his character took a bit of warming up to me for. I actually would have loved this story to be a little longer as maybe that would have given the author an opportunity to develop these characters a little more.
The plot was good and the pace was great – I just wanted a little bit more but I still enjoyed reading it and would definitely recommend it as a nice Christmas time romance story.
November 29, 2017
Another Backward Christmas by Brooke Williams is a lighthearted, fun, festival story that will leave you happy that you had read it.
Holly loves living in the South Pole. Even more so she loves everything about Backwards Christmas. The sense of belonging and fulfilment is more than she can describe. The only thing missing is someone that she can share it all with.
Rob has made his fortune off of debunking Christmas traditions. Each year he picks another town to find the truth out about. When he finds himself in the middle of a backwards Christmas he starts to wonder if he has found the one place that could change his mind.
This short story is everything you could want to help you get into the festive spirit. I loved how warm and happy the story made me feel, reading about the connection between the two characters. I loved that the author also focused on the more selfless side of Christmas. A great read.
Holly loves living in the South Pole. Even more so she loves everything about Backwards Christmas. The sense of belonging and fulfilment is more than she can describe. The only thing missing is someone that she can share it all with.
Rob has made his fortune off of debunking Christmas traditions. Each year he picks another town to find the truth out about. When he finds himself in the middle of a backwards Christmas he starts to wonder if he has found the one place that could change his mind.
This short story is everything you could want to help you get into the festive spirit. I loved how warm and happy the story made me feel, reading about the connection between the two characters. I loved that the author also focused on the more selfless side of Christmas. A great read.
December 6, 2017
Book Review: Another Backwards Christmas
Author: Brooke Williams
Four Stars
A very very fast read, I really enjoyed the descriptions of the town and its people. The way they celebrate Christmas and the traditions they have incorporated into their small town of South Pole Alaska.
Rob Joleigh started out in this story as the Jolly Robber and I truly didn't like him for trying to ruin Christmas for people by destroying their Christmas traditions. This of course changed when he got to South Pole Alaska.
Holly Howard is a tour guide who stands firm in all traditions of South Pole Alaska. Especially during the Backwards Christmas season when things are all backwards.
Some of my favorite things about this story are the hot chocolate, the mistletoe, and the Christmas Eve gathering at the gazebo in the center of town.
Things sure weren't what Rob was expecting.
Good fast read. Will give you the happy feelings of Christmas again.
Kelli Harper
Author: Brooke Williams
Four Stars
A very very fast read, I really enjoyed the descriptions of the town and its people. The way they celebrate Christmas and the traditions they have incorporated into their small town of South Pole Alaska.
Rob Joleigh started out in this story as the Jolly Robber and I truly didn't like him for trying to ruin Christmas for people by destroying their Christmas traditions. This of course changed when he got to South Pole Alaska.
Holly Howard is a tour guide who stands firm in all traditions of South Pole Alaska. Especially during the Backwards Christmas season when things are all backwards.
Some of my favorite things about this story are the hot chocolate, the mistletoe, and the Christmas Eve gathering at the gazebo in the center of town.
Things sure weren't what Rob was expecting.
Good fast read. Will give you the happy feelings of Christmas again.
Kelli Harper
December 15, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
5 Stars
I absolutely loved this story, the only negative I have is that it ended. I have fallen in love with this town, the people in it, and their traditions. I want to move there!
This is not my first book by this author, I love all of her stories, and still have more of hers to read and can't wait to get on that.
The way this storyline played out is everything Christmas is all about, taking those that have little faith and turning them into true believers, it's heartwarming. I had a LOL moment when at a very important event the chosen song is a Christmas song I'll never listen to again without thinking of this story. It was perfect. I also really loved the mistletoe tradition, I envision people yelling “your busted, stand still” LOL
If your having a bit of trouble getting into the spirit, this is the story you need to read, it was amazing.
5 Stars
I absolutely loved this story, the only negative I have is that it ended. I have fallen in love with this town, the people in it, and their traditions. I want to move there!
This is not my first book by this author, I love all of her stories, and still have more of hers to read and can't wait to get on that.
The way this storyline played out is everything Christmas is all about, taking those that have little faith and turning them into true believers, it's heartwarming. I had a LOL moment when at a very important event the chosen song is a Christmas song I'll never listen to again without thinking of this story. It was perfect. I also really loved the mistletoe tradition, I envision people yelling “your busted, stand still” LOL
If your having a bit of trouble getting into the spirit, this is the story you need to read, it was amazing.
June 10, 2019
What I liked most about this town's "backwards" approach to Christmas? Children bringing gifts to Santa, to be delivered to others who wouldn't be privileged to go Christmas shopping.
And next is the fact that the hero in this story is physically short. I've nothing against tall men, but there are already so many of them in romances. I like it when romantic characters are at least somewhat outside of the norm in some way.
As for the romance itself, the emotion and trust felt rushed after the couple had only known each other a relatively few hours. Yes, there are people who do fall hard and fast for each other in real life, but it's a challenge to make it convincing in a quick read, particularly without resorting to clichéd descriptions.
Also, with the amount of errors compared to this book's length, it could use another round of proofreading.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the read overall, especially all of the backward Christmas tidbits.
And next is the fact that the hero in this story is physically short. I've nothing against tall men, but there are already so many of them in romances. I like it when romantic characters are at least somewhat outside of the norm in some way.
As for the romance itself, the emotion and trust felt rushed after the couple had only known each other a relatively few hours. Yes, there are people who do fall hard and fast for each other in real life, but it's a challenge to make it convincing in a quick read, particularly without resorting to clichéd descriptions.
Also, with the amount of errors compared to this book's length, it could use another round of proofreading.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the read overall, especially all of the backward Christmas tidbits.
November 29, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams was a sweet, light hearted read that had me smiling throughout. Okay, okay, I liked the ending so much I may have had a little tear, but overall the story was a lot of fun and put me in the holiday spirit.
I appreciated how Brooke kept the story upbeat, despite Rob’s insistence that Christmas is not all it’s cracked up to be and Holly’s sweet, lovable nature was endearing! I like the idea of a small, close knit town, the characters were painted well, I definitely felt the love and caring nature the town had to offer, and found the quirky, backward ways of South Pole to be fun and adorable.
If you’re looking for a fun, quick read to get you in the holiday spirit while staying true to the meaning of the season of giving, I think this story is for you.
I appreciated how Brooke kept the story upbeat, despite Rob’s insistence that Christmas is not all it’s cracked up to be and Holly’s sweet, lovable nature was endearing! I like the idea of a small, close knit town, the characters were painted well, I definitely felt the love and caring nature the town had to offer, and found the quirky, backward ways of South Pole to be fun and adorable.
If you’re looking for a fun, quick read to get you in the holiday spirit while staying true to the meaning of the season of giving, I think this story is for you.
November 29, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams was just a fantastic read and I am so glad that I took a chance and picked this one up. I really enjoyed how upbeat this story was, especially when one of the main characters lives to take away the Christmas spirit from as many people as possible. When he meets Holly for the first time in South Pole, Alaska he sees nothing than someone else who needs to know just how unhappy Christmas really is, but what he learns is that there is enough Christmas spirit to go around in South Pole, and they will do just about anything to turn any none believer. This is my first experience of Williams’ writing, I loved every minute of this book. It kept me laughing, and even shedding a few tears toward the end. I am now a Williams fan and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
November 30, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams is a fun short story set in South Pole, Alaska. They call Rob the "Jolly Robber" for going around exposing Christmas as a fraud in different towns. And he thinks South Pole, Alaska will be the same, until he meets Holly. Holly runs a tour business with her best friend that's all about Christmas. These two spark right from the start. This book had a very "Hallmark" movie feel to it which I absolutely loved. Even as a short story it's well paced and thought out. It's a cute Christmas book and great for a lazy day quick and light read. There's humor, romance and tons of Christmas spirit, what more could you ask for. The only drawl back is just not wanting it to end. I give it five stars because even though it's on the short side it's a well rounded story that hits the heart.
December 13, 2017
I give Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams, 4 stars.
This is a short novel that could easily play on the Hallmark channel. First, you have Rob, a man who hates Christmas and all that it stands for. Then you have Holly, who loves her town and everything it has to offer at Christmas time. There is romance, but is he what he seems to be, or just an imposter trying to have a shot at Holly?
Then there is the town itself. All of the wonderful people with crazy names. And their backwards traditions are quite funny. There are some events in this book that literally made me laugh out loud.
This is a fun, sweet, quick Christmas read that I highly recommend to anyone who loves or wants to get into the Christmas spirit! It does not take itself too seriously, but that is the best part! Sometimes you just have drink a little inside out hot chocolate and have fun!
This is a short novel that could easily play on the Hallmark channel. First, you have Rob, a man who hates Christmas and all that it stands for. Then you have Holly, who loves her town and everything it has to offer at Christmas time. There is romance, but is he what he seems to be, or just an imposter trying to have a shot at Holly?
Then there is the town itself. All of the wonderful people with crazy names. And their backwards traditions are quite funny. There are some events in this book that literally made me laugh out loud.
This is a fun, sweet, quick Christmas read that I highly recommend to anyone who loves or wants to get into the Christmas spirit! It does not take itself too seriously, but that is the best part! Sometimes you just have drink a little inside out hot chocolate and have fun!
December 13, 2017
****4 stars****
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
If you want a light hearted quick holiday story, you will love Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams. This short story is a nice 4 Star Christmas tale. The author did a wonderful job describing the small town of South Pole and it’s holiday traditions. The characters were likable and the storyline was a cute concept. I would’ve liked for this to have been a full length novel as with the story as it is it didn’t allow for real connections to be made with the characters and made the story seem more cheesy as the ending got closer. The focus of being selfless and giving for the holidays was nice and there was a sweetness and romance in this story. I’d recommend this to people who find themselves watching marathons of Christmas movies that give you warm and fuzzy feelings.
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
If you want a light hearted quick holiday story, you will love Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams. This short story is a nice 4 Star Christmas tale. The author did a wonderful job describing the small town of South Pole and it’s holiday traditions. The characters were likable and the storyline was a cute concept. I would’ve liked for this to have been a full length novel as with the story as it is it didn’t allow for real connections to be made with the characters and made the story seem more cheesy as the ending got closer. The focus of being selfless and giving for the holidays was nice and there was a sweetness and romance in this story. I’d recommend this to people who find themselves watching marathons of Christmas movies that give you warm and fuzzy feelings.
December 14, 2017
I wanted a good Holiday read, and this delivered. This is a short novel, I do wish it was a full length novel but Williams ended it in a way that it was okay.
The story is very unique, I think it is a unique take on the scrooge, not necessarily The Christmas Carol but the Scrooge or grinch like character.
The setting of this story is interesting, makes me want to visit South Pole Alaska.
I usually use shorter novels just as a time killer, or for a quick escape from reality, and usually don't get too invested in it because more often than not the story and the characters are not well developed, this is not the case. I was 100% invested and not only was the story well developed Williams worked her magic and managed great character development.
I give Brooke William's Another Backwards Christmas 5 out of 5 stars. An amazing holiday read!
The story is very unique, I think it is a unique take on the scrooge, not necessarily The Christmas Carol but the Scrooge or grinch like character.
The setting of this story is interesting, makes me want to visit South Pole Alaska.
I usually use shorter novels just as a time killer, or for a quick escape from reality, and usually don't get too invested in it because more often than not the story and the characters are not well developed, this is not the case. I was 100% invested and not only was the story well developed Williams worked her magic and managed great character development.
I give Brooke William's Another Backwards Christmas 5 out of 5 stars. An amazing holiday read!
December 15, 2017
Wow!!!! A book with a great Christmas message, Another Backwards Christmas, by Brooke Williams is truly fantastic. Fabulous Five Star fantastic. Brook Williams has really hit this one out of the park. I love this book so much, I cried happy tears. Another Backwards Christmas is a charming must read.
Ms. Williams has shown herself to be a truly gifted writer. She has struck just the right chords and managed to combine whimsy and conflict in just the right measurements. Her plot is strong, her world in amazing and the characters play very well together.
In fact, the only problems I could see with the book were, one, it was too short. This is one book I really didn’t want to see end. And two, I want a detailed map of how to find South Pole Alaska. I want to go there for Christmas some day. How do I get there???
Love, love, love this book. What a gem!!!!
Ms. Williams has shown herself to be a truly gifted writer. She has struck just the right chords and managed to combine whimsy and conflict in just the right measurements. Her plot is strong, her world in amazing and the characters play very well together.
In fact, the only problems I could see with the book were, one, it was too short. This is one book I really didn’t want to see end. And two, I want a detailed map of how to find South Pole Alaska. I want to go there for Christmas some day. How do I get there???
Love, love, love this book. What a gem!!!!
December 15, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas
by: Brooke Williams
4 Stars
Rob Joleigh is a freelance writer traveling across America looking for towns to expose them for the Christmas frauds they are. In his mind no town could really be behind so much Christmas. He is labeled as "The Jolly Robber", or as I would call him "The Grinch". This year he has his sights set on South Pole, Alaska to be his latest victim.
Holly Howard and her partner run a tour guide business and the visitors that come to their town they show them around. This is where she meets Rob. Holly is basically happy in her life, but she wishes she has someone to share it with. When Rob and Holly kiss, will it change everything for them. Will being in a mystical town change his heart and outlook on life. This was my first book from this author and I was pleasantly surprised.
by: Brooke Williams
4 Stars
Rob Joleigh is a freelance writer traveling across America looking for towns to expose them for the Christmas frauds they are. In his mind no town could really be behind so much Christmas. He is labeled as "The Jolly Robber", or as I would call him "The Grinch". This year he has his sights set on South Pole, Alaska to be his latest victim.
Holly Howard and her partner run a tour guide business and the visitors that come to their town they show them around. This is where she meets Rob. Holly is basically happy in her life, but she wishes she has someone to share it with. When Rob and Holly kiss, will it change everything for them. Will being in a mystical town change his heart and outlook on life. This was my first book from this author and I was pleasantly surprised.
December 6, 2017
Fun Holiday Read!!
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke WIlliams is a fun read that shows how it would be if everything Christmas was backwards.
Rob is a freelance writer who goes from town to town finding ways to dispel Christmas. His journey has led him to South Pole Alaska. Where he quickly discovers that here Christmas is truly backwards. When he meet the city tour guide, Holly. His world is turned upside down. He can’t figure out why or how she could do this to him so quickly but it happens. I love discovering all the different backward things that South Pole Alaska did but did it really change Christmas?
Brooke Williams has written a delightful read that I would recommend to anyone.
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke WIlliams is a fun read that shows how it would be if everything Christmas was backwards.
Rob is a freelance writer who goes from town to town finding ways to dispel Christmas. His journey has led him to South Pole Alaska. Where he quickly discovers that here Christmas is truly backwards. When he meet the city tour guide, Holly. His world is turned upside down. He can’t figure out why or how she could do this to him so quickly but it happens. I love discovering all the different backward things that South Pole Alaska did but did it really change Christmas?
Brooke Williams has written a delightful read that I would recommend to anyone.
December 12, 2017
I’m not going to lie I totally read Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams well sitting on my couch next to my lit Christmas tree. I have now concluded that that is the only way to read a Christmas book, especially one as fun and magical as Another Backwards Christmas. I loved Holly and Rob! There is nothing more satisfying then a good “grinch” or “Scrooge” story, watching Rob change and the roll Holly played in that change was entertaining and fun to be a part of. Sometimes we get lost in the hustle and bustle of Christmas and Brooke Williams did an amazing job reminding us what Christmas is really about.
So please go pickup Another Backwards Christmas and enjoy this entertaining Christmas read.
So please go pickup Another Backwards Christmas and enjoy this entertaining Christmas read.
December 14, 2017
The one thing I love about this time of year is the fun holiday reads. They are perfect to cuddle up on the couch when it's too cold to go outside.
Rob is a freelance writer and absolutely hates Christmas so he travels all over and debunk other town's holiday traditions. This journey has landed him in South Pole, Alaska where they literally do Christmas backwards. He meets the town's tour guide and his world flips on him.
I loved everything about this book. The creativity behind it and the magic that warms your heart around this time of year. This book reminds you about what this holiday season is all about. It was a great fast read with very well developed characters. A definite must read for the holidays!
Rob is a freelance writer and absolutely hates Christmas so he travels all over and debunk other town's holiday traditions. This journey has landed him in South Pole, Alaska where they literally do Christmas backwards. He meets the town's tour guide and his world flips on him.
I loved everything about this book. The creativity behind it and the magic that warms your heart around this time of year. This book reminds you about what this holiday season is all about. It was a great fast read with very well developed characters. A definite must read for the holidays!
December 15, 2017
Another Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams is a fun romantic holiday story. This is the first book I read by this author and will not be my last. Holly lives in South Pole, Alaska is a town that does things in a bit different. Rob is a writer who is not a big fan of the Christmas holiday. Holly is a tour guide in town and Rob is a writer. What will happen if they meet up? Holly is lonely and looking for a mate.
Brooke Williams had me feeling ready for the holidays reading Another Backwards Christmas. It is a fun, feel good story that I read in one sitting. The characters were all well developed, very real and relatable. The writing flowed and was very descriptive that made you feel like you were there in South Pole, Alaska. I highly recommend Another Backwards Christmas.
Brooke Williams had me feeling ready for the holidays reading Another Backwards Christmas. It is a fun, feel good story that I read in one sitting. The characters were all well developed, very real and relatable. The writing flowed and was very descriptive that made you feel like you were there in South Pole, Alaska. I highly recommend Another Backwards Christmas.
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