Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove

Michaelmas Bay #1

by Emily Harvale

Christmas is a time for family and friends, miracles and magic, falling snow and roaring fires, fun, laughter and festive feasts. In Snowflake Cove, it’s also a time for secrets to be revealed…
Evie Starr is hoping for more than a sprinkling of magic this Christmas. The family-run Snowflake Inn is virtually empty and the Starr’s financial future isn’t looking bright. But Evie’s gran, Jessie has a secret that might help.
Enigmatic, Zachary Thorn is every woman’s dream. He’s also ex-SAS, so his secrets are classified. The Christmas Special of his feel-good, TV show is set in Michaelmas Bay – until a phone call means he’s spending Christmas in nearby Snowflake Cove.
Evie’s best friend, Juniper thinks boyfriend Darren has a secret. Evie knows he does. And Evie’s niece, Raven is hiding feelings for Juniper’s brother – who has a secret crush of his own.
But the biggest secret in Snowflake Cove is the identity of Raven’s dad. With snow falling thick and fast and secrets being revealed one after another, will everyone be snuggling up by the fire on Christmas Eve, or are some secrets best kept hidden…?

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Fiction, Chick Lit

257 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2017

About the author

Emily writes novels, novellas and short stories about friendship, family and falling in love. She believes in love at first sight and she loves a happy ending but knows that life doesn't always go to plan. Her stories are sure to bring a smile to your face and a warmth to your heart.

Emily loves to connect with her readers. In addition to her newsletter, she has a readers' group on Facebook, where she shares all her latest news and even gets readers involved in choosing titles, book covers and more. To catch up with Emily, find out about the group, or connect with her on social media, go to her website at https://www.emilyharvale.com

Having lived and worked in London for several years, Emily returned to her home town of Hastings where she writes full-time. She’s a member of the SoA, an Amazon bestseller and a Kindle All Star. When not writing, Emily says she can be found enjoying the stunning East Sussex coast and countryside, but she’s more likely to be found with friends, enjoying a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, and definitely some cake. Emily has two mischievous rescue cats, Beatrix and Portia, who like to sprawl across her keyboard, regardless of whether Emily is typing on it, or not.

Catch up with Emily on her website https://www.emilyharvale.com or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/emilyharvalew... or Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/emilyharvale

Reviews

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5☆ A Beautiful Heart Warming Christmas Read

Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove is a beautiful read full of festive charm and the magic that Christmas Brings! A true gem!
I devoured this book and really didn't want it to end!

When Evie Starr's family come up against money troubles and the threat to lose Snowflake inn they know the Inn is falling apart, but they will stop at nothing to keep Snowflake Inn.

So when Evie's Gran Jessie tells Evie the famous Zachery Thorn is bringing his live TV Show 'Thorn on Your Side' to Snowflake Cove, Evie knows she must get in on the action!!
If she can just persuade Zachery to visit Snowflake Cove she knows it could put them back on the map and succeed in making money!

However what she didn't quiet bank on.... was the Thorn family staying at the Snowflake Cove over Christmas!

I mean what could possibly go wrong!
With the Inn falling apart and Jessie being very secretive, expect the unexpected!
Will Zachery Turn up? Is he really the answer to their prayers?
You will have to read it to find out!

My favourite character was Jessie, she is one fiesty 88year old lady, with a quirky yet endearing nature, she made me laugh and I felt like she became my friend!
Just what is she hiding?

There are alot of characters, but don't let that put you off. Once you have worked out who is who it all just slots into place.
You will fall in love with them!

Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove is a story of Family, friendship, Romance, New Beginnings, Christmas Sparkle, community spirit, Secrets, a heart warming Poignant read with laugh out loud moments, leaving you feeling warm inside!

One you won't want to miss!! The Perfect Christmas read!

I received this book from the Publisher in which I voluntarily reviewed.

My Review is also on my blog website
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/1...

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

My overwhelming initial reaction to having finished this book is to crave more, I need more Michaelmas Bay and I definitely need more from the Starr and Thorne families. I was enjoying the book so much that I really didn't want it to end.

There is what could be considered an overwhelming amount of characters in this story but once you work out who is who and how they are related, it just adds to the fun of the book - with so many sub plots and secrets everywhere. Although Evie is the focal point you learn loads about her friends, family and business too.

The Starr family run The Snowflake Inn, on Snowflake Isle off Snowflake Cove - yes the setting is that picturesque and aptly named - and they have an unexpectedly large booking from Zachary Thorn's team who are making a Christmas special in the bay.

I loved all the characters in this book and they really are what made the story special. It is another fabulous book from Emily Harvale, I love the writing style, the sense of humour and just how vivid some of the scenes were. This is a gem of a book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Thank you to Emily Harvale for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just love love love the sweet, happy, sassy holiday vibes that this book brings. And of course, all the dirty little secrets that suddenly came out of the closet, and on Christmas Day, of all days!

Evie Starr and her family owns Snowflake Inn, and they need all the help they can get to make Snowflake up and running, especially this holiday. Extremely busy and her mind always preoccupied with everything that the Inn needs, the possibility of Zachary Thorn coming to Michaelmas Bay and to Snowflake Cove makes Evie frantic and ecstatic at the same time. Zachary is a big star, TV presenter, with gorgeous looks and hot bod. Surely his presence will help promote Snowflake Inn and garner more guests, right? But would he be willing to stay at their secluded place with squeaky door hinges and falling doorknobs?

And what's with all the secrets that her family seems to be keeping? Her sister Severine suddenly eloping to Las Vegas to marry, a call from a harpy with two names informing her about the arrival of one of the richest man in UK, her niece Raven's infatuation with her bestfriend's brother, and Juniper's boyfriend being seen with another woman? Whoa! Those are already intense and hardcore. And what about the 1 million pounds secret Jessie had been hiding?? 

This has been a really exciting read. I love how the story wasn't rushed, and it all had the wonderful trimmings of Christmas spirits and surprises. I've been reading holiday stories lately and I don't have complaints, I am having a festive time reading them because it makes me feel exuberant and cheerful. Though there was quite a number supporting characters, you wouldn't get lost with the plot because each has distinct personality and has a story to tell. Let me just say, I adored Gran Jessie here! Everyone needs a Jessie in their life. Even Raven who was quite annoying and selfish at the beginning had me rooting for her and cheering her up in the end. 

I love that this wasn't solely focused on one's romance. It has been a story about love, family, hope, acceptance and forgiveness. Truly, this has been a magical festive book and a highly recommended holiday read! 

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect festive read. This novella is a great afternoon well spent, especially with a hot chocolate and an open fire. It’ll leave you feeling SO ready for the holiday season.
The characters are adorable and very likeable people with hearts of gold. A lovely read.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

I adored the cover of this book, it is just so lovely and festive and its a scene I'd love to be in myself!  I really enjoyed the whole story and I am delighted that this is the first in a brand new series - I am certainly going to be looking forward to reading! as I definitely need to read more about the gorgeous Michaelmas Bay!

The book was a complete treat and I enjoyed it so much that I didn't want it to end, I was completely wrapped up in the story and the characters were excellent, there are a lot of them and plenty of different storylines but they all work so well and that is not always an easy feat to accomplish!  

I have given the book 5 stars and it will definitely be up there when I pick my favourite festive reads from this year!  You can grab your copy on the link below! 

[Melisa Broadbent · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have already started on my Christmas reading and this was another perfect example of what a Christmas book is all about.

I have read quite a few of Emily Harvale’s books now and this is probably my favourite. It is the first in the series set in the idyllic Snowflake Cove and as soon as we were introduced to fiesty Evie, I knew I would enjoy this book immensely!

The setting is perfect, an old Inn, charmingly named Snowflake Inn, set off on its own little island run by a family of completely different characters. Although not in the best shape with a constant multiplying DIY list, it sounds perfect! I could picture everything so clearly in my mind. Emily Harvale had described everything so vividly!

We are introduced to the Starr and Thorn families, who I immediately warmed to. Zachary Thorn, ex-SSAS and now documentary maker is the perfect foil for Evie and I found myself laughing at their sparring! Evie is hoping that having Zach around filming a documentary will help turn around the fortunes of the family Inn.

There is plenty in this book to keep you occupied with all the different stories running alongside each other. There are plenty of twists along the way that kept me completely absorbed and I thoroughly enjoyed reading every page!

I was sad to finish this beautiful warm hearted and often hilarious story and am eagerly awaiting the next installment!

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Evie

I enjoyed this book. Although it was not predictable, it was light hearted and a simple fun read. Rice and her family run an inn and a famous tv man comes to visit.

[Kaisha (The Writing Garnet) · Rating 4 out of 5]

All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

With only one month until Christmas Day, festivities and traditions are starting to appear amongst the throes of everyday life. If by chance you're one of those people who 'don't do' Christmas until advent, or consider yourself a Scrooge, then let's be brutally honest - this book probably isn't for you. Although, if there is a slight chance of you coming over to the bright side of Christmas city with a little gentle persuasion, then by all means grab that blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and be prepared for Christmas to come to you.....in November.

The Starr's family run business, Snowflake Inn, is in a little bit of trouble this Christmas. Financial burden is turning the festive season from jolly to stressful, especially given the fact that Snowflake Inn isn't exactly bursting at the seams with paying guests. Yet. Evie's gran, Jessie, seems to have a little trick up her sleeve but due to the breakdown in communication, for Evie to understand that trick, she has to dig herself a humongous hole and put her foot in her mouth at the same time. Figuratively speaking...obviously. Can you imagine?! We all know that Christmas is a time for bringing people closer together. Maybe the Starr's may find themselves being the brightly shining star they so desperately need to follow after all?

I do like Christmas, however I struggle to get into the swing of things whilst there are still Halloween decorations covering the shelves in Tesco. Seeing Christmas in November is better, but I still approach with caution....ish. Well, that was until several Christmas books caught my eye and made me think that singing 'Jingle Bells' at the top of my voice, in November, was completely and utterly acceptable. Trust me - after reading Emily Harvale's novel, you'll be dusting off the Christmas cd's quicker than you can sing 'deck the halls'.

Evie's gran, Jessie, had me in absolute hysterics. She was the type of character who wasn't afraid to speak her mind, even if the circumstances would have preferred her to keep her mouth zipped. Jessie didn't care and that's what I loved about her. Well, she did care but she made her point known and didn't care who knew about it. Her one liners were brilliant. Think of the gran from Catherine Tate and you have a likeness of Jessie!

For me, the overall premise of this novel was beautifully constructed, full of enough festivities to keep Mr and Mrs Claus content, and had the warmth just like fire on a cosy winters night. The only thing about this book I struggled with was the relationship/friendship between Evie and Zachary - I found it a little farfetched and a bit unbelievable, especially after such a short space of time. If the two characters had known each other a little bit longer than the storyline described, I would have gone with the flow and enjoyed their blossoming friendship. But, because it seemed to be crammed into such a short space of time, I couldn't appreciate what was between the two of them as I didn't believe it. However, on their own Evie and Zachary, were brilliant. Even when they were together in situations with other characters, just being themselves and not trying to find cupid, I warmed to them. It was just what extended from that. Of course that is my own personal opinion!

Apart from that, 'Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove' was a truly lovely and enjoyable read, perfect for getting anyone and everyone in the Christmas spirit. I even think a Scrooge may be convinced after reading this book!

Thanks Rararesources.

[Marjorie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an okay read, I never really managed to get absorbed in to the place or the people if I'm being honest. I was conscious of reading the story all the way through rather than becoming immersed in it and eagerly turning the (virtual) pages to get to the next happening in the lives of the Starrs. Things did settle down towards the latter half of the book and I did start to enjoy myself a bit more - but I still couldn't work up the wherewithal to worry about what Darren was up to or what was going between Jessie and Mr Joshua(?) Thorn.

The setting is well described and you could smell that ozone and feel the sting of salt in the air. Even Michelmas Bay sounded like an enchanting medium sized town that was strangely full of independent shops without a chain to be seen. Got to love that about fictional places, they still have a non-homogenised High Street, or evena High Street at all.

I never really felt as though I knew any of the characters on the page though. This book may have been about Evie but apart from her best friend's younger brother, Roland, having a major crush on her, her not really getting on with her sister Severine I never really felt like she was more than words on a page. Her grandmother Jessie, whilst being a mainly peripheral character, was far more interesting and I think I would have preferred to hear more from her than Evie.

The book is undoubtedly festive and taps right in to the collective nostalgia for a Christmas I think few of us have experienced - roaring log fires, snowball fights and lashings of hot chocolate. It is almost filmic in its Christmas tropes which is no bad thing when you are curled up on the couch waiting for your belated Christmas celebrations to begin (I worked Christmas Day and in to Boxing Day so we had a later than the calendar family celebration).

Not a bad book really just not an immersive read and it didn't make me interested enough to get the second in the series.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for my review. This does not change or influence my opinion in any way.

I requested to be part of this tour as it is a Christmas-themed book, and it is getting to be so close to Christmas, I thought that this would help me to get into the Christmas spirit. It did just that.

This book was all about family struggles and triumph, hard work, dedication, and of course, love and romance.
Evie and her family run the Snowflake Inn at Snowflake cove. They are struggling financially and there is a lot of work to be done on the Inn before the guests of honor arrive to stay. The guests being none other than a T.V star and ex-SAS soldier Zachary Thorn.

Character-wise I really enjoyed this book. Evie was very relatable and real. She had regular stresses like real people and her family were down-to-earth lovely people who would do anything for one another. Zachary Thorn was..where do I start? He was funny, sexy, kind and loving. Plus he was fighting some inner demons..what isn’t there to love? I fell for this character, hard. I cannot wait to see what happens for him and Evie in the next book.

Overall, I rated this one four out of a possible 5 stars. I enjoyed the plot, the characters and the writing style. The setting sounded so amazing and romantic, I just wish I could holiday there myself!
As I mentioned, there is a second book, and I am slightly (very) excited to read it! As soon as I get wind of it being released it is being added to my TBR pile 🙂

Thank you to Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources for sending me a copy of this book for me to read and review I really enjoyed it!
Thank you for popping in to read this review, I hope you have found your next holiday romance!
Until next time, happy reading!

Kim x

[Carole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab yourself a plate of delicious hot mince pies and a glass of mulled wine and settle down in your comfiest armchair and I guarantee you won't want to move until you've discovered the secrets in Snowflake Cove.

I absolutely loved it!

Four hundred year old Snowflake Inn sits on Snowflake Isle which is connected to the mainland by an old wooden bridge. Evie Starr's family own the Inn but they have money worries this Christmas. Evie's dad is optimistic and thinks everything will be all right, though Evie doesn't know how.

There are so many secrets this Christmas ....... from gorgeous TV star Zachary Thorn, filming his Christmas Special nearby, with his mysterious past ....... to Evie's moody 15 year old niece who would rather be anywhere else but Snowflake Cove but who also wonders just who her father really is.

I enjoyed being with the Starr family, 34 year old Evie is such a worrier with an over-active imagination, her mum cooks delicious shortbread and sausage rolls in the cosy kitchen, gran is a little bit cantankerous and how does she know Zachary Thorn's grandfather? Another secret in the Cove!

Oh so many secrets in this lovely feel good story with lots of easy to like characters, set in a romantic cove, with snow falling and lots of delicious food to savour, this is a warm and wonderful winter read.

Just don't expect to leave your armchair!

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Christmas romance is crammed full of seasonal goodies. I lost count of the batches of mince pies, shortbread and glasses of mulled wine which were served throughout the story. If you are looking for a light, seasonal read, this is ideal for you. Snowflake Cove sounds so appealing and the local community couldn't be friendlier.

I found the secondary characters the most amusing, especially Evie's grandmother, Jessie, and her recalcitrant, niece, Raven. There is plenty of humour to be found in the Snowflake Inn's christmas guests, and there are several strands of storylines on the go, which all found a resolution. I was surprised when I was suddenly at the end of the book, so quick was the pace.

In short: a festive tale of love and romance.

Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one of a two book series and what a joy and entertaining story it has been. I’ve thoroughly loved every second of it. I’m relatively new to Emily Harvale books but she is fast becoming a favourite, to the point that I want to read all of her books.

It’s been a fun story, plenty of drama, entertainment, laugh out loud moments, oh and a couple of shocks revelations at the end. The characters have all been a delight to get to know, lovely to see the chemistry between some of the characters, oh and teenage Roland crush on older woman did make me giggle. There was so much I enjoyed about this story, so much so that I could write an essay, but I ain’t going to do that as I want to get on with reading book two to this series.

So all I will say, is I can recommend you read this book.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, a brand new series for Christmas!

This story isn't too long, but has a lot of characters in it and at times I did feel a little confused, however if you invest some time in it at the beginning then you won't need to worry as you will quickly be transported to Snowflake Inn.

This story has a few twists and turns that will keep you guessing and it will definitely get you into the holiday mood.

This is a book I will be recommending to others this Christmas as you will not be disappointed with it.

I would like to thank the author for sending this in exchange for an honest review.

[Misfits farm · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming season fun read to lift your heart and make you smile. Evie works at the family run business of Snowflake Inn, a business that is struggling and so is her social and love life. Zachery Thorn, ex SAS, is now a television presenter and is setting his Christmas show nearby. When Evie's grandmother says she has a link to Zachery but refuses to speak about it, Evie can't help but wonder what went on in the past.I really enjoyed reading this. The seasonal names (Merry's Christmas tree farm) and the relationships we all know can be difficult especially at this time of year. A wonderful read by an open fire with a glass of something warming.

[Michaela Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a way to start my 2017 Christmas reading. Emily Harvale has a way of writing that lets my imagination take me into the books. I'm right there with Evie and her family and makes me want to stay at Snowflake Cove Inn for Christmas. I always seem to end up crying at the end of her books not sure if its because I am sad that I have finished it or that I am happy at the outcome of her characters. Any Christmas book I read now has got a hell of a job competing for the title of my best christmas book 2017 "Christmas secrets at Snowflake Cove" is a fabulous must read!

[Jane Willis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect cosy Christmas read. That's all I really need to say - it's what everyone who chooses a book with a snow scene on the cover is looking for, isn't it? Crammed with glorious festive clichés, snow, sparkle and mistletoe, and with a storyline that makes you want to keep reading. Nothing challenging about it - but who needs challenging when there are mince pies to bake, turkey roasting times to calculate and presents to wrap?

[Dianne Bolza · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice Christmas season story with several secrets not all revealed I suspect. One never crossed my mind. Several scenes made me laugh and mostly gave me that wish to recapture those Christmas memories with family and friends. I could picture the trees and lights. The snowball fights and sleigh rides. Christmas cookies and shopping and stopping in at our favorite bar for a drink with my best friend.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Snow globes and mistletoe

Evie and her family own and run an old fashioned holiday Inn. However money is tight and Christmas is looking bad. Suddenly everything changes when Zachary - a TV heart throb aand is film crew come to make an episode of his show at Snowflake Cove.
A great story with all sorts of characters winding through the lead up to Christmas.
I liked this book a lot and for this time of the year - I think everyon will also enjoy it.

[F R Clifford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

It’s amazing that, I a proper bloke who loves murder mysteries, spy novels and the like would not only read a love story but give it 5 stars. I loved it although the ending was obvious from an early stage.
I was so relaxed as I read it almost without putting it down. I
Would recommend this book to anyone who has a heart for people as love is in every page.
Im a convert to this author.

[Hannah Symonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven’t read one of Emily’s books before why not? They are utterly brilliant. They have romance, friends, family and hot guys, what’s more great is this one is set around Christmas. I loved getting to know the characters and I liked the sound of Zach quite a lot. A brilliant Christmas read that will get you in the Christmas spirit.

[Roberta · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this, though I didn’t really feel like we knew anything about the male lead, and it seemed totally false that the female lead just jumped into bed with him at the end of the book. If it had ended with the kiss, then a second book where we got to know him more first... But up until that point, I would have given it 4 stars.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, if only this book came with pictures - I would LOVE to see Snowflake Cove during the winter, especially the bridge! The characters were well-developed and the story flowed smoothly. I cannot wait until the next book in this series! An enchanting holiday read to get you into the holiday spirit!

[Caroline Goldsworthy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a romantic person and I admire anyone who can write romance without making it cheesy. This Emily Harvale achieves with aplomb - a lovely new setting with delightful characters. A delightful escape from the murder and mayhem I usually read. x

[Joyce A. Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy endings abound!

Realistically, some of the endings are a little too amazing. I still enjoyed the touch of mystery and romantic banter portrayed by the characters throughout the story.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas is magical in Snowflake Cove!

Evie lives on a fairy tale island with the Ocean all around. And when the snow falls it's a picture postcard! A heartfelt tale that is a pleasure to read, I enjoyed this book.

[Elizabeth Pringle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart warming!

That’s the first Emily Harvale book I’ve read and it definitely wouldn’t be the last. It was my kind to story although it’s only the end of September I’ll be reading it again at Christmas, I do love. Happy ending!!

[Stasybg · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read! I got around to reading it in the height of summer, but that made it doubly enjoyable. A traditional white English Christmas read on the beach :-) It was fun and enjoyable, and I am looking forward to the sequel, so I can find what happened to the characters.

[Mrs Jacqueline Simpson-Tyda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Warm, cosy, Christmas story - with intrigue

I found I could lose myself in this book, imagining I was at the cove enjoying the festivities like one of the guests, and was sorry when I got to the end as I’d like to know what they all did next!

[Maria ruskin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read

This book was awesome, not that I expected anything less than awesome. As always Emily Harvale has captured a fantastic story onto the pages of her book. Off to get book 2 xxx