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Enchanted Christmas #3
One Enchanted Noël
Winner of the 2018 ACFW Carol Award
Secrets, Sparks and Second Chances...a Heartwarming Holiday Romance
Seb Pierce isn't exactly a cowboy, but after fifteen years on a ranch in Texas, he might as well be. And he'd do just about anything to keep the rancher who took him in so many years ago from losing his land...including returning to the wealthy roots he's long since abandoned. Seb agrees to work for his stern grandfather for one year in return for an early draw on his inheritance. But he never expected the agreement to land him in a quirky small town in Iowa at Christmas-time, renovating a dilapidated theater...and running into a woman he never thought he'd see again. She might not remember him, but he remembers her.
After too many years away from her hometown--and too many failures to count--Leigh Renwycke is finally back in Maple Valley and living the stable life she used to wish for. If only she could shake the old restlessness that used to get her into trouble. When Seb Pierce waltzes into her world and begs for her help planning the theater's holiday reopening, it could be the solution to her discontent. If she pulls it off, it might be enough to jumpstart a new career...and to prove once and for all that the new-and-improved Leigh is here to stay.
But between old secrets and new sparks, restoring a town treasure in time for Christmas may not be as easy as it seems...especially once Leigh learns the truth about Seb.
Secrets, Sparks and Second Chances...a Heartwarming Holiday Romance
Seb Pierce isn't exactly a cowboy, but after fifteen years on a ranch in Texas, he might as well be. And he'd do just about anything to keep the rancher who took him in so many years ago from losing his land...including returning to the wealthy roots he's long since abandoned. Seb agrees to work for his stern grandfather for one year in return for an early draw on his inheritance. But he never expected the agreement to land him in a quirky small town in Iowa at Christmas-time, renovating a dilapidated theater...and running into a woman he never thought he'd see again. She might not remember him, but he remembers her.
After too many years away from her hometown--and too many failures to count--Leigh Renwycke is finally back in Maple Valley and living the stable life she used to wish for. If only she could shake the old restlessness that used to get her into trouble. When Seb Pierce waltzes into her world and begs for her help planning the theater's holiday reopening, it could be the solution to her discontent. If she pulls it off, it might be enough to jumpstart a new career...and to prove once and for all that the new-and-improved Leigh is here to stay.
But between old secrets and new sparks, restoring a town treasure in time for Christmas may not be as easy as it seems...especially once Leigh learns the truth about Seb.
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2017
76 people are currently reading
330 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Tagg
25 books1,674 followersMelissa Tagg is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and Carol Award-winning author of swoony and hope-filled small-town contemporary romances. She’s also a former reporter, current nonprofit marketing strategist, and total Iowa girl.
Melissa has taught at multiple national writing conferences, as well as workshops and women’s retreats. When she’s not happily lost in someone else’s book or plugging away her own, she can be found spoiling her nieces and nephews, watching old movies, and daydreaming about her next fictional hero. Connect with Melissa at melissatagg.com.
Melissa has taught at multiple national writing conferences, as well as workshops and women’s retreats. When she’s not happily lost in someone else’s book or plugging away her own, she can be found spoiling her nieces and nephews, watching old movies, and daydreaming about her next fictional hero. Connect with Melissa at melissatagg.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
November 22, 2017
Christmas novella perfection!
Whenever I think I'm going to get tired of a romantic Christmas novella, all I need is Melissa Tagg to prove me wrong. One Enchanted Noel strikes the perfect balance between character growth, romance, and cozy Christmas-y feelings, without being cheesy or unrealistic. Leigh Renwycke's character especially tugged my heart strings, and I applaud Tagg for creating a character that had a tough past. Leigh's resiliency is admirable, and the realism in her character makes her relatable to anyone who has ever struggled to let go of their past. Maple Valley is back in all it's charming, quirky, small-town glory. Seb Pierce brings an outsider perspective to the story, so that was neat to "see" my favorite fictional town through his eyes.
Although you can read this as a standalone, I do recommend checking out the first two novellas in the series - the Renwycke's are a fun bunch and have stories as endearing as those of the Walker's - and that's saying a lot! You can now get all three novellas in one paperback collection, which I am heartily tempted to add to my shelves, even though I already own all three novellas on my Kindle. Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance and Christmas-themed reads.
Whenever I think I'm going to get tired of a romantic Christmas novella, all I need is Melissa Tagg to prove me wrong. One Enchanted Noel strikes the perfect balance between character growth, romance, and cozy Christmas-y feelings, without being cheesy or unrealistic. Leigh Renwycke's character especially tugged my heart strings, and I applaud Tagg for creating a character that had a tough past. Leigh's resiliency is admirable, and the realism in her character makes her relatable to anyone who has ever struggled to let go of their past. Maple Valley is back in all it's charming, quirky, small-town glory. Seb Pierce brings an outsider perspective to the story, so that was neat to "see" my favorite fictional town through his eyes.
Although you can read this as a standalone, I do recommend checking out the first two novellas in the series - the Renwycke's are a fun bunch and have stories as endearing as those of the Walker's - and that's saying a lot! You can now get all three novellas in one paperback collection, which I am heartily tempted to add to my shelves, even though I already own all three novellas on my Kindle. Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance and Christmas-themed reads.
December 21, 2017
Such a cute Christmas novella and a lovely conclusion to the Enchanted Christmas Collection. I especially loved the sprinkle of humor and the binders. I could relate to Leigh's love for organizing and planning.
November 27, 2017
The perfect ending to a spectacular trilogy of Christmas stories!!
Oh, after reading and loving Melissa Tagg's first two Christmas novellas, I knew this would be a fabulous story. But I was unprepared for the way it would speak to my heart. I love this town, and Tagg's prose is so completely charming as usual. More, Seb, the cowboy hero is soooo swoonworthy. But the message, the transformation of Leigh, and the grace filled truths were exactly perfect, and with this story, Tagg definitely saved the best for last. Your heart will be full after reading this story..the perfect way to spend a snowy Christmas evening. As the title says...enchanting!
Oh, after reading and loving Melissa Tagg's first two Christmas novellas, I knew this would be a fabulous story. But I was unprepared for the way it would speak to my heart. I love this town, and Tagg's prose is so completely charming as usual. More, Seb, the cowboy hero is soooo swoonworthy. But the message, the transformation of Leigh, and the grace filled truths were exactly perfect, and with this story, Tagg definitely saved the best for last. Your heart will be full after reading this story..the perfect way to spend a snowy Christmas evening. As the title says...enchanting!
December 18, 2017
I just... I needed more... I'm not ready for it to end yet...
December 17, 2021
I'm pretty sure this was my favourite book of the entire series (and that's saying something)! I really liked both Seb and Leigh as characters, flawed as they were, and somehow the romance didn't feel as rushed as some do.
This series has earned a place on my 'favourites' shelf, and I will be returning to visit Maple Valley and the Renwycke siblings from time to time over the years.
This series has earned a place on my 'favourites' shelf, and I will be returning to visit Maple Valley and the Renwycke siblings from time to time over the years.
November 29, 2017
This sweet novella is the perfect ending to the Enchanted Christmas series. It stands alone for those who haven’t read the other stories. However, each one is so enjoyable that I would recommend reading them all!
These characters, Leigh and Seb, kept me cheering for them throughout the novel. Leigh has had a rough time of it in her life, mostly due to bad choices that she made in the past. This story examines what she overcame, how she has been living her life for the past few years, and the perceptions of those around her. Seb has pain from his past as well and was a character that I really liked. It was fun to watch him navigate Leigh’s family, including her brothers and her daughter, especially the couple of scenes where they grilled him on his intentions!
The setting of Maple Valley at Christmas never fails to propel me into the spirit of the holidays! I definitely recommend it to those who enjoy romances set at Christmastime.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
These characters, Leigh and Seb, kept me cheering for them throughout the novel. Leigh has had a rough time of it in her life, mostly due to bad choices that she made in the past. This story examines what she overcame, how she has been living her life for the past few years, and the perceptions of those around her. Seb has pain from his past as well and was a character that I really liked. It was fun to watch him navigate Leigh’s family, including her brothers and her daughter, especially the couple of scenes where they grilled him on his intentions!
The setting of Maple Valley at Christmas never fails to propel me into the spirit of the holidays! I definitely recommend it to those who enjoy romances set at Christmastime.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
December 23, 2017
One Enchanted Noël by Melissa Tagg - Festive Novella Sure to Enchant
It’s the most wonderful time of year and with its arrival comes the most magical stories that are Christmas novellas. Only a few years ago, I never read anything by these fictional parameters. That was before favorite authors begin (by droves) writing adorable stories a normal reader (I am not one of those) can read in an afternoon. Then Melissa Tagg came along with her expressive brand of wit and romance, and released a trio of delightful Christmas stories. ‘Noël’ is the third in the trilogy. Read the entire
It’s the most wonderful time of year and with its arrival comes the most magical stories that are Christmas novellas. Only a few years ago, I never read anything by these fictional parameters. That was before favorite authors begin (by droves) writing adorable stories a normal reader (I am not one of those) can read in an afternoon. Then Melissa Tagg came along with her expressive brand of wit and romance, and released a trio of delightful Christmas stories. ‘Noël’ is the third in the trilogy. Read the entire
December 28, 2017
One Enchanted Noel by Melissa Tagg was truly that: enchanting!
If fell in love with this series from the first novella and am so sad to see it end with this third installment! It's also a great way to get "back" to Maple Valley, a town I have certainly fallen in love with!
In this book, we get to follow the third sibling in the Renwycke family, Leigh. Finally getting a behind-the-scenes look into Leigh's life was definitely eye-opening! I won't say much here but I really loved how real Melissa crafted her to be. Her backstory isn't pretty, but it creates a whole character when pulled together with where she is today. And her quirks and love or organization got me right in the feels! You go girl!
And Seb Pierce...oh Seb. Yet another charming and snarky hero to fall in love with, *sigh*. And a cowboy to boot (pun totally intended!). He's charming but with a realness to his story as well that gives proof that no matter what we've said or done in the past, there is always a way for redemption.
Enter in some holiday magic, a twist of fate (aka: God's hand), and a whole lot of laughs and romantic tension and you're in for a serious treat with this amazing novella!
I highly recommend it (and all of Melissa's books) and would suggest if you don't have the whole novella collection you really do need it for your Christmas reading shelf (don't we all have one of those?).
If fell in love with this series from the first novella and am so sad to see it end with this third installment! It's also a great way to get "back" to Maple Valley, a town I have certainly fallen in love with!
In this book, we get to follow the third sibling in the Renwycke family, Leigh. Finally getting a behind-the-scenes look into Leigh's life was definitely eye-opening! I won't say much here but I really loved how real Melissa crafted her to be. Her backstory isn't pretty, but it creates a whole character when pulled together with where she is today. And her quirks and love or organization got me right in the feels! You go girl!
And Seb Pierce...oh Seb. Yet another charming and snarky hero to fall in love with, *sigh*. And a cowboy to boot (pun totally intended!). He's charming but with a realness to his story as well that gives proof that no matter what we've said or done in the past, there is always a way for redemption.
Enter in some holiday magic, a twist of fate (aka: God's hand), and a whole lot of laughs and romantic tension and you're in for a serious treat with this amazing novella!
I highly recommend it (and all of Melissa's books) and would suggest if you don't have the whole novella collection you really do need it for your Christmas reading shelf (don't we all have one of those?).
December 17, 2017
Just when I think I couldn't love Melissa Tagg's storytelling more, she goes and does something surprising like this and writes two new, compelling lead characters - one of which is a COWBOY! A gentleman complete with a Texas drawl and plaid shirts, even if he does originally hale from California. I can't see his name in print without pronouncing it in my head just like Leigh always calls him: Sebastian Parker Pierce III. He's a catch! :)
And then there's Leigh. The last of the Renwycke siblings to befriend. My heart just wants to hug her and tell her she is loved for who she IS and who she is daily choosing to BE. Thankfully, a host of family and a few friends, most notably Seb and his knowing care, encourage her along the way. She learns an important lesson of dreaming and reaching and trusting God to have insanely awesome plans for her life.
My movie-nerd self LOVED the fact that Sebastian is renovating a MOVIE THEATER!!! Speaking from personal experience in that setting, Melissa got her facts very straight except for one teeny, tiny detail that is totally forgivable for the sake of artistic license and the resulting cute scene ;) . I could virtually hear the projectors whirring and smell the popcorn as I read.
One Enchanted Noel has the signature humor and pop culture I've come to expect from Melissa, set in the "enchanting" world of Maple Valley with its quirkiness. Among many other things, I LOVED getting to see the humor of Mayor Milt again and a "peek behind the curtain" of his attitude in one little scene. But at the heart of it all is a message of hope and dreams within grasp, of supporting family and embracing new beginnings.
And then there's Leigh. The last of the Renwycke siblings to befriend. My heart just wants to hug her and tell her she is loved for who she IS and who she is daily choosing to BE. Thankfully, a host of family and a few friends, most notably Seb and his knowing care, encourage her along the way. She learns an important lesson of dreaming and reaching and trusting God to have insanely awesome plans for her life.
My movie-nerd self LOVED the fact that Sebastian is renovating a MOVIE THEATER!!! Speaking from personal experience in that setting, Melissa got her facts very straight except for one teeny, tiny detail that is totally forgivable for the sake of artistic license and the resulting cute scene ;) . I could virtually hear the projectors whirring and smell the popcorn as I read.
One Enchanted Noel has the signature humor and pop culture I've come to expect from Melissa, set in the "enchanting" world of Maple Valley with its quirkiness. Among many other things, I LOVED getting to see the humor of Mayor Milt again and a "peek behind the curtain" of his attitude in one little scene. But at the heart of it all is a message of hope and dreams within grasp, of supporting family and embracing new beginnings.
December 10, 2017
Leigh's life is the most stable it's ever been. She's the assistant manager for The Red Door, she's living in an adorable townhome with her daughter, Winnie and she's been drug-free for 4 years now. But she's restless. And being restless has always gotten her in trouble in the past. She's come too far to fall back into old habits. She needs to prove to everyone, including herself, that she is strong enough to stand on her own two feet without anyone's help.
Seb has been estranged from his grandfather for years. He couldn't handle his grandfather controlling every aspect of his life. He boarded a Greyhound bus years ago and never looked back. That is until Thad, the man who has been more of a father to him than his grandfather ever was, needed help saving his land. One phone call to his grandfather asking for financial help has Seb travelling all over the U.S. renovating old debilitated theaters and restoring them to their former glory. He has one final theater before he can claim his early inheritance and return home to the ranch in Texas.
But one look at Leigh has him wondering if he was sent to this small, quirky town to renovate the theater or to make up for the one regret he has in his life. He knows he should tell her that they have met before but he just can't. He's drawn to her in a way that he's never been drawn to anyone before. He can't risk her finding out and losing the chance at a possible future together.
The more time they spend together, the more their feelings grow. But what happens when the past comes back to haunt them? Will the secret Seb's been keeping from Leigh tear them apart? Or can she find it in herself to not only forgive him for keeping it from her but also forgive herself for her past mistakes? Can Seb help her to realize that she is no longer weak and helpless? Can he help her to see the strong, beautiful woman he sees who has overcome her past and is better because of it?
I'm sad to see this series end! I have definitely enjoyed my time in Maple Valley, IA. It was such a fun getaway. I fell in love with the setting and the people. I wish I could say that I absolutely loved Leigh's book but sadly I just liked it. For me, Leigh's happily ever after felt more like a hopefully ever after. There were things that happened throughout the book that I feel didn't get resolved. With this being the ending of the series, I would've loved to see more closure. An epilogue of where the family is, say a year from now, would've been perfect in my opinion.
But don't let my thoughts or personal preferences discourage you from reading this series. It really is a fun series and I have enjoyed reading it! It has helped put me in the Christmas spirit. The love that this family has for each other, the sacrifices they are willing to make, the forgiveness they so freely give are only a few reasons why I will definitely be rereading this series again and again.
Ms. Tagg definitely knows how to suck me in and keep my attention throughout each book of hers I have read. As I said before, I will definitely be checking out more of her books.
And of course we can't forget my casting!
Seb has been estranged from his grandfather for years. He couldn't handle his grandfather controlling every aspect of his life. He boarded a Greyhound bus years ago and never looked back. That is until Thad, the man who has been more of a father to him than his grandfather ever was, needed help saving his land. One phone call to his grandfather asking for financial help has Seb travelling all over the U.S. renovating old debilitated theaters and restoring them to their former glory. He has one final theater before he can claim his early inheritance and return home to the ranch in Texas.
But one look at Leigh has him wondering if he was sent to this small, quirky town to renovate the theater or to make up for the one regret he has in his life. He knows he should tell her that they have met before but he just can't. He's drawn to her in a way that he's never been drawn to anyone before. He can't risk her finding out and losing the chance at a possible future together.
The more time they spend together, the more their feelings grow. But what happens when the past comes back to haunt them? Will the secret Seb's been keeping from Leigh tear them apart? Or can she find it in herself to not only forgive him for keeping it from her but also forgive herself for her past mistakes? Can Seb help her to realize that she is no longer weak and helpless? Can he help her to see the strong, beautiful woman he sees who has overcome her past and is better because of it?
I'm sad to see this series end! I have definitely enjoyed my time in Maple Valley, IA. It was such a fun getaway. I fell in love with the setting and the people. I wish I could say that I absolutely loved Leigh's book but sadly I just liked it. For me, Leigh's happily ever after felt more like a hopefully ever after. There were things that happened throughout the book that I feel didn't get resolved. With this being the ending of the series, I would've loved to see more closure. An epilogue of where the family is, say a year from now, would've been perfect in my opinion.
But don't let my thoughts or personal preferences discourage you from reading this series. It really is a fun series and I have enjoyed reading it! It has helped put me in the Christmas spirit. The love that this family has for each other, the sacrifices they are willing to make, the forgiveness they so freely give are only a few reasons why I will definitely be rereading this series again and again.
Ms. Tagg definitely knows how to suck me in and keep my attention throughout each book of hers I have read. As I said before, I will definitely be checking out more of her books.
And of course we can't forget my casting!
December 19, 2022
While I will still say that I am not a huge romance reader (nobody tripped over a body or found a body in the family library), I did enjoy the ending of this collection quite a bit. There was a little bit of a cutoff with a family member I wanted to see closed, but other than that, it was so good. 4/5 stars.
November 25, 2017
It's nice to see Leigh make progress in her life. After so many self-inflicted problems, she's finally on the right path. If only people would trust her to keep on it. I can understand her frustration that every time some little thing goes wrong, everyone--especially her own family--assumes she's on the verge of a relapse. In spite of the heavy details about Leigh's past, I'm impressed by the author's ability to maintain her characteristic humor, while not lessening the impact of Leigh's choices.
I enjoy how the author ties together these stories with her Walker Family ones--not that the Walkers play much a role, but if a new thing appears in a Walker book, it frequently makes an appearance here--such as the horse ranch that is being revitalized in All This Time, just in time for some Maple Valley Christmas shenanigans in this one.
With the conclusion of the Enchanted Christmas Collection, could this be the very last Maple Valley story? I hope not! The quirky town has easily become one of my favorite fictional places.
I enjoy how the author ties together these stories with her Walker Family ones--not that the Walkers play much a role, but if a new thing appears in a Walker book, it frequently makes an appearance here--such as the horse ranch that is being revitalized in All This Time, just in time for some Maple Valley Christmas shenanigans in this one.
With the conclusion of the Enchanted Christmas Collection, could this be the very last Maple Valley story? I hope not! The quirky town has easily become one of my favorite fictional places.
December 25, 2018
By far my least favorite of the collection. I just wasn't a fan of the main couple, especially Seb. He felt Rather Pushy and Annoying (and not endearingly annoying like Colin :P) Also, there was a little TOO much kissing/physical contact. Not a fan, friends. Not a fan. *cough*
Despite the fact that I didn't care about the romance much, the writing and character development were still spot-on! And of course, who can ever say no to a trip to Maple Valley at Christmastime??
Overall, not bad but still a disappointment considering how amazing the last two were. The other novellas were so lovely that it's worth buying the entire collection even if this one wasn't great. <3
3 stars
Despite the fact that I didn't care about the romance much, the writing and character development were still spot-on! And of course, who can ever say no to a trip to Maple Valley at Christmastime??
Overall, not bad but still a disappointment considering how amazing the last two were. The other novellas were so lovely that it's worth buying the entire collection even if this one wasn't great. <3
3 stars
December 10, 2017
Marvelous! This novella is my favorite in the Enchanted Christmas Collection. I laughed and cried as I read Leigh and Sebastien's story. Ms. Tagg has created a town that I would love to call home and has populated it with characters I would love to claim as friends.
December 31, 2024
How can I not give 5 stars to a book that made me cry in public?? 😭❤️
December 18, 2017
One Enchanted Noël is the perfect conclusion to Melissa Tagg's Enchanted Christmas novella collection. If you haven't read One Enchanted Christmas and One Enchanted Eve, you can still completely enjoy One Enchanted Noël ... though I have to say, what are you waiting for? (Tagg has even made it super easy and cheap for you to catch up: the collection is available for both e-book and paperback, and it's free with Kindle Unlimited.)
One Enchanted Noël is Leigh Renwycke's story. Leigh, a former addict who turned her life around after hitting rock bottom, still lives with the shame of who she was while desperately desiring to be seen for who she is now—a capable, talented woman who has overcome her demons. Though some in Maple Valley are hesitant to give Leigh another chance, when Seb Pierce comes to town, he encourages Leigh's talents and helps her reach for her dreams ... which soon come to include Seb.
Sebastian Parker Pierce III might just be the most pretentious name for a hero ever, and it's funny because that's so not Seb. I loved Seb and understood his reluctance to confess his secret to Leigh, and the way the secret was revealed was perfect and unexpected.
Leigh and Seb have a sweet romance, complete with a hilarious "meet cute" in a run-down theater and a date at an ice maze. (Seriously, an ice maze? It's like Maple Valley was created in Hallmark land.) Though the novella takes place over just a few weeks, the romance didn't feel rushed at all, and the aftermath of their first kiss was simply adorable. (Because Seb is adorable. Amen.)
While I didn't love One Enchanted Noël quite as much as I loved the first two Enchanted Christmas novellas, it's still a wonderful story—perfect for a cold winter's night!
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this novella from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
One Enchanted Noël is Leigh Renwycke's story. Leigh, a former addict who turned her life around after hitting rock bottom, still lives with the shame of who she was while desperately desiring to be seen for who she is now—a capable, talented woman who has overcome her demons. Though some in Maple Valley are hesitant to give Leigh another chance, when Seb Pierce comes to town, he encourages Leigh's talents and helps her reach for her dreams ... which soon come to include Seb.
Sebastian Parker Pierce III might just be the most pretentious name for a hero ever, and it's funny because that's so not Seb. I loved Seb and understood his reluctance to confess his secret to Leigh, and the way the secret was revealed was perfect and unexpected.
Leigh and Seb have a sweet romance, complete with a hilarious "meet cute" in a run-down theater and a date at an ice maze. (Seriously, an ice maze? It's like Maple Valley was created in Hallmark land.) Though the novella takes place over just a few weeks, the romance didn't feel rushed at all, and the aftermath of their first kiss was simply adorable. (Because Seb is adorable. Amen.)
While I didn't love One Enchanted Noël quite as much as I loved the first two Enchanted Christmas novellas, it's still a wonderful story—perfect for a cold winter's night!
Disclosure of material connection: I received a copy of this novella from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
November 24, 2017
Oh, how I wish I could give more than just 5 stars. From the start, which, by the way, is the title of one of Melissa Tagg's books, I have loved her work. I will never stop reading her books. Never.
This third novella in her Enchanted Christmas collection tells the story of the last Renwycke sibling, Leigh. This character has always seemed to me the one most in need of a story, most in need of God's redeeming grace. She somehow just spoke to my heart when I first met her in an earlier novella. Leigh is not proud of the things she's done in her life and wants so desperately to matter to people. But she just can't seem to let her own feelings about her past go. Well, in this story, she's challenged by one Sebastion Pierce III, who shows up in an old abandoned movie theater in Maple Valley one cold, snowy night. And Leigh's heart suddenly begins to warm again.
Melissa Tagg writes with her heart. Every single time I open the pages of one of her books, I'm just swallowed up in the goodness therein. I feel the characters' hearts, pains and joys. I want to actually BE there with them! She has a definite way with words. This books was a pure delight to read, almost magical in its content, a heart soaring few hours of reading that blessed me down to my toes. Don't miss this one, folks, and if you haven't read the first two in the series, grab them now. Highly recommended.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.
This third novella in her Enchanted Christmas collection tells the story of the last Renwycke sibling, Leigh. This character has always seemed to me the one most in need of a story, most in need of God's redeeming grace. She somehow just spoke to my heart when I first met her in an earlier novella. Leigh is not proud of the things she's done in her life and wants so desperately to matter to people. But she just can't seem to let her own feelings about her past go. Well, in this story, she's challenged by one Sebastion Pierce III, who shows up in an old abandoned movie theater in Maple Valley one cold, snowy night. And Leigh's heart suddenly begins to warm again.
Melissa Tagg writes with her heart. Every single time I open the pages of one of her books, I'm just swallowed up in the goodness therein. I feel the characters' hearts, pains and joys. I want to actually BE there with them! She has a definite way with words. This books was a pure delight to read, almost magical in its content, a heart soaring few hours of reading that blessed me down to my toes. Don't miss this one, folks, and if you haven't read the first two in the series, grab them now. Highly recommended.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.
November 24, 2017
"Five years . . .. . . . since that stranger in the cowboy hat."
Leigh Renwycke has worked extremely hard to put the broken pieces of her life back together. Working as an assistant manager for Maple Valley's popular Red Door restaurant, she and her teen-age daughter have settled into a comfortable routine. When she stumbles upon what appears to be a stranger breaking and entering the old downtown theater one snowy evening, Leigh's axis tilts to a precarious angle when Sebastian Parker Pierce III shows up again on the same night, as a house guest at her brother's farm.
Seb Pierce is on a tight schedule to renovate Maple Valley's dilapidated old theater in just a matter of weeks. Commissioned by his grandfather's foundation, he is determined to earn enough money to save his Texas mentor's ranch from foreclosure. Quite distracted by Leigh's presence, Seb can scarcely believe that he is standing face-to-face with a totally different version of the woman who has haunted his dreams.
Delight in Melissa Tagg's ability to tell a story filled with the magic of small towns, winter wonderlands and hearts made whole.
Leigh Renwycke has worked extremely hard to put the broken pieces of her life back together. Working as an assistant manager for Maple Valley's popular Red Door restaurant, she and her teen-age daughter have settled into a comfortable routine. When she stumbles upon what appears to be a stranger breaking and entering the old downtown theater one snowy evening, Leigh's axis tilts to a precarious angle when Sebastian Parker Pierce III shows up again on the same night, as a house guest at her brother's farm.
Seb Pierce is on a tight schedule to renovate Maple Valley's dilapidated old theater in just a matter of weeks. Commissioned by his grandfather's foundation, he is determined to earn enough money to save his Texas mentor's ranch from foreclosure. Quite distracted by Leigh's presence, Seb can scarcely believe that he is standing face-to-face with a totally different version of the woman who has haunted his dreams.
Delight in Melissa Tagg's ability to tell a story filled with the magic of small towns, winter wonderlands and hearts made whole.
December 10, 2017
Enchanted Christmas Collection Book 3
Life hasn't been easy for Leigh Wenwycke. Sister of Drew and Colin Renwycke and single mother to Winnie . At an early age she got hooked on prescription pain pills and found herself pregnant with Winnie.
Leigh has been sober for over four years but deals with the temptation always to give in to taking drugs again. Winny has a chip on her shoulders about her mother's past. Leigh suffers from shame over what she put her young daughter through those years they both lived away from the Renwyeke family. Then Seb Pierce enters her life in the most unusual way.
Melissa Tag ends the Enchanted Christmas series with One Enchanted Noel. Can she bring happiness to Leigh and Winnie and help them both to forget the things in their past. Can Seb play a part in helping Leigh forgive herself. Seb is in town to fix up an old theater that his grandfather bought as an investment. His job is to renovate it in two weeks and get it open for business.
If you read the first two books of this series it would be nice to catch up with One Enchanted Noel. I enjoyed the book and hope you will too.
Life hasn't been easy for Leigh Wenwycke. Sister of Drew and Colin Renwycke and single mother to Winnie . At an early age she got hooked on prescription pain pills and found herself pregnant with Winnie.
Leigh has been sober for over four years but deals with the temptation always to give in to taking drugs again. Winny has a chip on her shoulders about her mother's past. Leigh suffers from shame over what she put her young daughter through those years they both lived away from the Renwyeke family. Then Seb Pierce enters her life in the most unusual way.
Melissa Tag ends the Enchanted Christmas series with One Enchanted Noel. Can she bring happiness to Leigh and Winnie and help them both to forget the things in their past. Can Seb play a part in helping Leigh forgive herself. Seb is in town to fix up an old theater that his grandfather bought as an investment. His job is to renovate it in two weeks and get it open for business.
If you read the first two books of this series it would be nice to catch up with One Enchanted Noel. I enjoyed the book and hope you will too.
November 26, 2017
Yay! A great way to end the series.
December 6, 2021
Leigh Renwycke is the youngest of the Renwyke adult children. She is haunted by a past where she made so many mistakes and wrong choices. Now she is working at a restaurant and raising her 13 year old daughter. When Seb Pierce comes to town to reopen the old theater, Leigh wonders if perhaps there is a new path in life that will lead to forgiving herself and moving on to a happy future.
This was my favorite of the three novellas in this series as I watched Leigh find out that she had strengths that she didn't know existed and that she could forgive herself for her past mistakes and choices and find happiness in her life. She grew as a person, she strengthened her faith, and she became a better mother as she learned to trust God.
This was my favorite of the three novellas in this series as I watched Leigh find out that she had strengths that she didn't know existed and that she could forgive herself for her past mistakes and choices and find happiness in her life. She grew as a person, she strengthened her faith, and she became a better mother as she learned to trust God.
September 6, 2018
A predictable sweet romance where sparks fly and romance bloom across the pages. If you have read Melissa Tagg's previous Novella's in this Enchanted Christmas Collection, then you won't be surprised at the story and the format. The characters are enduring, and I love any novel that features Christmas and snow. Highly recommend for fans of Tagg's other writings or if you are a fan of contemporary romance in general.
December 13, 2017
This is the third in the Enchanted Christmas Collection and is just as good as the other two set in Maple Valley, Iowa. It is a great way to end the series with Leigh's story. Leigh has had a tough life with her addictions and teenage pregnancy. She is trying to turn her life around for herself and Winnie, her teenage daughter. She works hard at the Red Door diner but has an interest in other work. She would like to work as an event planner and gets her chance when handsome Texan, Sebastian Pierce, comes to town to redo the old theater. His distant and wealthy grandfather lives in California and raised him after his parents died but Seb rebelled when his grandfather wanted him to go to law school. He wound up in Texas living and working on a cattle ranch for a man whom he would grow to look at and love as his father. Now, the elder Pierce has a foundation that is restoring the old theater and Seb is in charge of the restoration. In exchange, his grandfather is giving him some of his inheritance. Seb just has to get through this restoration quickly. He only has a few weeks. He met Leigh's brother, Colin, in town and was invited to stay at the family's farm. At her brother, Drew's suggestion, Seb offered Leigh a job to plan the grand opening of the theater. Sparks fly at first but the two get to know each other and maybe more will come from their acquaintance. There is a secret that Seb is keeping from Leigh. Will it kill any chance for them getting closer? This is a sweet Christmas story of faith, forgiveness and seeing ourselves as God sees us--as worthy of His love. Melissa Tagg has a way of drawing you into her stories and characters that gives them depth and enjoyable reading. I enjoyed going back to Maple Valley.
November 28, 2017
Melissa has done it again! She writes the most charming Christmas novellas set in Maple Valley, a town I love and wish was a real place!! This 3rd story about the last Renwycke sibling, Leigh was a wonderful story about love and redemption and finally being able to see yourself as an overcomer and not a failure anymore. I loved the characters of Leigh and Seb and was sorry the story was so short! (curse of a novella :) ) A sweet Christmas read that you shouldn't pass up!
November 27, 2022
I will always love Melissa’s writing, whether in Maple Valley or anywhere!
November 22, 2017
What a fabulous conclusion to three delightful Christmas novellas. I love the Renwycke family as much as I do the Walkers (from the author's full length novel series set in the same Iowa town of Maple Valley). Each of the three siblings bring something special to the family dynamic and I especially loved reading about Leigh's story, maybe because she is the sister. With her we get an alternate way of thinking. The reader is given a very real dilemma to comprehend. How well do we release ourselves of the mistakes of our past, despite valiant efforts to change. Forgiveness from others, the overprotective behaviour of those around us - always ready to intervene and save. This is exactly how Leigh finds the realities of her life to be. She's found purpose as assistant manager of The Red Door restaurant in town. She has dreams of getting into event planning. She just wants to make a better life for her and her 15 year old daughter Winnie, after her years of fight and struggle with drug addiction. She's been clean for 5 years and has no intention of going back.
Seb is no stranger to the hard life. He left his home with his grandfather, to find something more than the strained family relationship he has shared with him since toddlerhood. By chance he found Thad, a Texan ranch owner and has been accepted and loved like he always dreamed a family should. With hard work he's developed a strong work ethic and is no stranger to getting his hands dirty. But Thad's ranch has hit financial crisis, and in efforts to save it, Seb has promised to work for his wealthy grandfather's foundation for one year. That work has brought him to Maple Valley. It's a dark night and as he negotiates his way around the dark interior of the old movie theater in town, he's met by a feisty Leigh, determined to protect a town treasure from criminal activity. But Seb takes one look at her and recognition dawns. He's seen her before, 5 years earlier. Another dark night. A child left alone in a car. And Leigh. But will she recognize him as the rough looking cowboy who threatened to call the police, potentially turning her world on its end.
This romance is unhurried and full of natural dialogue between our two main characters. You'll feel that smile on your face grow, the humour, the sarcasm, the gentleness, flirtations & the sweetness of longing for new starts. Leigh feels grateful for an opportunity to be who she really wants to be with Seb, because he's the one person who didn't know her at her worst. Or is he?
I'm so excited that now the final novella is published, the entire collection has been made available in paperback. It's right at the top of my Christmas list!
Thank you to Melissa Tagg for the complimentary copy of this novella. This is my honest review.
Seb is no stranger to the hard life. He left his home with his grandfather, to find something more than the strained family relationship he has shared with him since toddlerhood. By chance he found Thad, a Texan ranch owner and has been accepted and loved like he always dreamed a family should. With hard work he's developed a strong work ethic and is no stranger to getting his hands dirty. But Thad's ranch has hit financial crisis, and in efforts to save it, Seb has promised to work for his wealthy grandfather's foundation for one year. That work has brought him to Maple Valley. It's a dark night and as he negotiates his way around the dark interior of the old movie theater in town, he's met by a feisty Leigh, determined to protect a town treasure from criminal activity. But Seb takes one look at her and recognition dawns. He's seen her before, 5 years earlier. Another dark night. A child left alone in a car. And Leigh. But will she recognize him as the rough looking cowboy who threatened to call the police, potentially turning her world on its end.
This romance is unhurried and full of natural dialogue between our two main characters. You'll feel that smile on your face grow, the humour, the sarcasm, the gentleness, flirtations & the sweetness of longing for new starts. Leigh feels grateful for an opportunity to be who she really wants to be with Seb, because he's the one person who didn't know her at her worst. Or is he?
I'm so excited that now the final novella is published, the entire collection has been made available in paperback. It's right at the top of my Christmas list!
Thank you to Melissa Tagg for the complimentary copy of this novella. This is my honest review.
November 25, 2017
This is the third in a series of Christmas novellas based around the Renwycke family of Maple Valley, a small town in Iowa. I loved the other two but this one tops the lot. It's everything you want in a Christmas novella and more.
Leigh Renwycke is trying hard to get her life back on track. She's been back in Maple Valley for a year or so now, got a stable job and Winnie her daughter is doing well at school. They've got big brothers Drew and Colin nearby and life is looking up. But Leigh is feeling restless for something more. She's felt this restlessness before. Often. But in the past she made some poor decisions which led to her life spiralling out of control caught up in the cycle of prescription drug addiction.
Sebastian Pierce has just arrived in town. He's got a big project to complete in an impossibly short timeframe: refurbish the town's cinema and get movies playing again. He's got a story too. 35, single, raised by a wealthy grandfather who has Seb doing all these projects to 'earn' himself his inheritance.
Every re-opening needs a celebratory opening night. Especially in the tight knit Maple Valley community who love a celebration. Who better to organise it than a budding event planner, Leigh?
Tagg is fabulous at creating flawed characters who are easy to fall in love with. Characters who don't hide behind their pasts and are able to make themselves vulnerable to the future, to risk having their hearts broken, so they can become more of who the Lord has made them to be. Leigh and Seb are two marvellous creations.
The support cast are wonderful too. Leigh's two brothers: Drew and Colin. Oh how I like them. And Winnie, so like her mom, in appearance and personality. She is surprisingly wise for someone so young.
Bravo, Melissa Tagg. Simply a wonderful story. One that I didn't want to finish.
Leigh Renwycke is trying hard to get her life back on track. She's been back in Maple Valley for a year or so now, got a stable job and Winnie her daughter is doing well at school. They've got big brothers Drew and Colin nearby and life is looking up. But Leigh is feeling restless for something more. She's felt this restlessness before. Often. But in the past she made some poor decisions which led to her life spiralling out of control caught up in the cycle of prescription drug addiction.
Sebastian Pierce has just arrived in town. He's got a big project to complete in an impossibly short timeframe: refurbish the town's cinema and get movies playing again. He's got a story too. 35, single, raised by a wealthy grandfather who has Seb doing all these projects to 'earn' himself his inheritance.
Every re-opening needs a celebratory opening night. Especially in the tight knit Maple Valley community who love a celebration. Who better to organise it than a budding event planner, Leigh?
Tagg is fabulous at creating flawed characters who are easy to fall in love with. Characters who don't hide behind their pasts and are able to make themselves vulnerable to the future, to risk having their hearts broken, so they can become more of who the Lord has made them to be. Leigh and Seb are two marvellous creations.
The support cast are wonderful too. Leigh's two brothers: Drew and Colin. Oh how I like them. And Winnie, so like her mom, in appearance and personality. She is surprisingly wise for someone so young.
Bravo, Melissa Tagg. Simply a wonderful story. One that I didn't want to finish.
November 21, 2017
One Enchanted Noel: A Novella ( Enchanted Christmas Collection-Book 3 )
By: Melisa Tagg
One Enchanted Noel is novella three in Enchanted Christmas Collection Series. I have loved all these novellas that takes us back to Maple Valley. This is a short story and well written. The characters are well developed. This is Leigh’s story and she has been in all of the stories. After being away from Maple Valley she is back. She is known for getting in trouble. Can she stay out of trouble in this story? Melissa Tagg has did a fantastic job on this series. I think each one is the best and then I read One Enchanted Noel. Melissa Tagg did not disappoint.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review.
By: Melisa Tagg
One Enchanted Noel is novella three in Enchanted Christmas Collection Series. I have loved all these novellas that takes us back to Maple Valley. This is a short story and well written. The characters are well developed. This is Leigh’s story and she has been in all of the stories. After being away from Maple Valley she is back. She is known for getting in trouble. Can she stay out of trouble in this story? Melissa Tagg has did a fantastic job on this series. I think each one is the best and then I read One Enchanted Noel. Melissa Tagg did not disappoint.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review.
December 9, 2017
I really think this one is the best of the three Christmas novellas making up the Enchanted Christmas Collection. I really enjoyed Leigh’s story of how she overcame the odds of addiction recovery to become a great mom, friend, employee, etc. And Seb is a swoon worthy hero. 5 stars!
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December 2, 2018I enjoyed this series very much! I love to read Christmas stories filled with hope and a bit of romance. I will read more books that Melissa Tagg has written.
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