One Christmas In Winter

Winter, Montana #1

by Bell Renshaw, E.A. Hendryx

Reba Farwell is finally getting a chance to live out her dreams. Sent to Winter, Montana to direct filming for a crucial, on-location shoot, she knows the next two weeks will make or break her career. And she could definitely use a break. As if that isn’t enough, she’s got a secret that none of her crew knows. All she’s asking for is two weeks of small town, Christmas beauty and a little bit of on-camera sizzle.

Five years ago, Hoyt Bradley’s heart and future shattered in one fell swoop that landed him back in Winter. Thankfully, making lemonade—or his father’s famous lemon meringue pie— out of lemons is what he does best. Running Bentley’s Diner has filled the gaps left in the wake of his heartbreak, even if it hasn’t healed him completely. Not wanting to relive memories of his rocky start in the film industry, Hoyt does his best to steer clear of the dreaded film crew, but Winter has a way of bringing people together.

After one fateful delivery and a score of icy bad luck, Reba finds herself in a bind and at the mercy of what Winter can offer. Will she pull the film together in time to salvage her name as a director? Or will the sparks flying off-camera create more of a distraction than she knows how to handle?

Come visit Winter, Montana in this Christmas Novella where the Christmas lights are always on and the snow falls most frequently when loved ones share a kiss.

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Holiday, Novella

152 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2017

About the author

Bell Renshaw is a pen name for Emilie Haney who grew up in the Pacific Northwest and has a love for the outdoors that matches her love for the written word. She turned her passion for stories toward writing at an early age, finding entertainment and adventure in made-up worlds fed by the books her parents read to her as a child. Now, she's still getting lost in those worlds but they are of her own making.

You'll find sweet romance under the Bell pen name and romantic suspense under Emilie Haney.

Reviews

[E.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this novella! The story is set in the charming (but sadly fictional) small town of Winter, Montana and I so want to visit there! Hoyt runs his family’s diner and Reba is there filming a movie worthy of the Hallmark channel. Their story is fraught with twists and turns, a bit of spilled coffee, and some hilarious parts.

This novella will leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling as well as a big smile on your face (and quite a few Christmas stars in your eyes)!

Looking forward to book 2!

[Bell Renshaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes...I did write this novella but I am so proud of it and love these characters. I hope you will love them as much too!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter, Montana is a fictional place, but happily for readers, we can go there in Bell Renshaw's One Christmas in Winter. This novella is an adorable Christmas treat with just the right amount of sweetness. It's been compared to a Hallmark movie, but in my opinion, the story here is better and more heartfelt than any movie. The main characters are endearing and the romance is sweet yet realistic. The cast of secondary characters are lovely as well and add so much to this story. The cold, snowy setting comes to life within the pages of the story, and there is an overall Christmasy feeling to everything that made this story the perfect one to read curled up by the Christmas tree.

I'm pleased to know that reading a Winter, Montana novella can be a tradition for at least the next couple of Christmases. I'll definitely be adding book two to my list and can't wait to see these characters again. If you like contemporary romances, and yes, Hallmark movies, One Christmas in Winter is one to add to your Christmas reading for sure!

I received a complimentary copy of this novella. I was not required to post a review, and all opinions are my own.

[Ashley Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely charmed by this Christmas novella! One Christmas in Winter is like stepping into a Hallmark Movie at Christmas time! The perfect read for the Holiday season!

[Rissi · Rating 5 out of 5]

One Christmas in Winter by Bell Renshaw – Hallmark-Esque Christmas Charmer from Debut Author

Where to begin and what to say about One Christmas in Winter? Penned by author Bell Renshaw, this novella marks her debut, and oh what a story it is. The joy of the character's, and charm of its setting drips off the pages. With its Christmas time setting, the ambiance sparkles and the witty dialogue keeps us flipping the pages. Read entire review on Finding Wonderland.

[Courtney Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

One Christmas in Winter is the debut novella from author Bell Renshaw. If it is any indication of what her work will be like, I know I will LOVE it all! #Iwanttoreadallthebooks

It is the perfect little Christmas story, full of small-town charm, Christmassy things like fuzzy sweaters, fun things like sledding, and a sweet romance. Saying this story is just like a Hallmark movie is very accurate and a high compliment--- specifically, a Hallmark movie I hope it becomes one day because it has a fresh and realistic slant some of that network's productions lack. With equal parts humor and romantic depth, it explores family relationships and a feeling of belonging most keen this time of year, whether it be belonging on a career path or a homey place with the people you love.

More little things I loved about this story:

•fictitious setting of Winter, Montana as a vivid and idyllic backdrop
•the "Christmas movie" production! Dear Hallmark, this would be perfect to turn into a movie because IT WOULD BE LOW BUDGET! JUST FILM YOUR OWN CREW
•secondary characters I LOVED! Troy, Beau, Ansley, Mama Bradley, Mariah, Lloyd, etc!
•to be a novella, it was a fully developed and complex story
•Beau's coffee shop. I want to visit.
•the fill-in takeout delivery guy ;)
•the NEXT novella (12/2018) hinted at near the end! 

 

Thank you to the author for the review copy. This is my honest review.

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in a cute fictional town, Winter, Montana, this was such a quick cute, hallmark movie style Christmas novella! I’m so glad I read this! SO SWEET AND ADORABLE! Reba is the director of a Christmas movie in Winter when her leading actor has an accident and is temporarily out of acting commission. Luckily, she runs into Hoyt Bradley, a previous actor, now the owner of Bentley’s diner, and Hoyt agrees to help her out as a fill in actor. The rest goes on from there as Hoyt and Reba start getting to know each other and the sparks begin to fly!

I really liked this! Some parts were cheese and super cliche, but I still enjoyed this novella. This would put anyone in the mood for the Christmas season!

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Christmas in Winter is a short novella by debut author, Bell Renshaw. The novel takes place in a made-up town called Winter, Montana. It is a magical Christmas town where a movie is being made by Reba Farwell, the heroine. Reba struggles with doubts that she can actually create a realistic movie. A movie that will make a difference in the movie world. While struggling with a heroine who keeps her on her toes, Reba meets another struggle when her hero gets in an accident and can't act anymore. Luck for her, she runs into Hoyt Bradley and sparks fly. Amid the conflict and the movie making, Reba and Hoyt have sparks fly across the page. The writing is clear and crisp. I had no problem imagining the scenery. I also enjoy how Renshaw gets realistic internal dialogue for Reba and Hoyt as they struggle if they like each other or not. If you are a fan of Christmas Hallmark movies, then this story is right up your alley. Romance starts in the opening chapter, and chemistry happens between Reba and Hoyt through the whole novella. There are moments of sigh worthy magical moments that make it easy for Reba and Hoyt to fall in love even among all the conflict with movie. Since it is a novella, the story moves pretty quickly. I enjoy the novel and can't wait to read the next novella coming out in December 2018. Fans of Melissa Tagg and Becky Wade should pick up this novella and read it with the Christmas lights on and something warm in their hands.

I received a complimentary copy of One Christmas in Winter by Bell Renshaw, but the opinions stated are all my own.

[Steffani Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I begin?? This novella is just everything you hope for in a Christmas read!! Hoyt and Reba (along with the other cast of characters) are completely endearing and I found myself cheering for them many times. This is a beautiful story that transports you into a swoon worthy town with characters you laugh with, sigh with, and just all around love!! If you love watching Hallmark movies and reading sweet romance, this book is for you! I can’t wait for Book 2!!

[Renae | Redhair_and_Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet, clean romance had lots of suspense and cute moments. As someone whose dream used to 100% be Hollywood, I really enjoyed these characters and their backstories! There were several typos throughout the ebook and I still don’t know who the mysterious email came from (Quinn? Erika? The LifeWorks exec?), but it was still enjoyable and perfectly Christmassy!

[Caitlyn Santi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an absolute joy to read! I loved Hoyt and Reba, they were both fantastic characters!
I adore Winter, Montana and I’m loving this series so much!
This book made me smile and I loved every minute I spent reading it! Be sure to check out Bell Renshaw’s books, they are fantastic!

[Alysha (For The Love of Christian Fiction) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I found out what this book was about I literally squealed! Finally a Hallmark movie in BOOK form. (We all know it's normally the other way around)

I am now in love with Winter, Montana and wish with my whole heart is was a real town.

For a novella this story did not feel rushed to me. Everything played out and flowed beautifully. Her writing style is so easy and light.
The characters were so lovable and cute. No one felt under built, they all fit in like a perfectly constructed jigsaw puzzle. They each had their place and they did their job. There were secondary characters that I loved and cannot wait to learn more about. (Ugh December 2018 come quick)

Reba and Hoyt both had to overcome terrible hurts from previous relationships, they both had hesitation about being together, but with those hesitations came time to think and not rush into anything. They weren't led by their overwhelming attraction to each other, instead they were drawn by each other's REAL selves, their real qualities.

The plot was so cute, though a little cliché. Not that I'm complaining, I love anything Christmas and anything romance!

I did NOT want this story to end, I took my sweet precious time reading it. I wanted to absorb all things Winter, Montana. All things Hoyt Bradley (yes please!) All things cozy. All things romance, and all things Christmas.

This book made me giggle, it made me sigh happy sighs, it made me want to curl up next to crackling fire, and it made me want to visit this beautiful town.

There were a few typos, hey it happens, but that did not take away from the story at all.

I give this book a 5/5 stars. I think everyone should read this book, and I will forever recommend it to people!

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A CHARMING NOVELLA.

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This is one of the few novellas I can think of in recent memory that I truly had a good time reading. It was sweet and I was easily smitten with Hoyt and the entire town of Winter, Montana.

I think this book was able to get a lot fit into a small amount of pages. I felt the characters were well developed and the plot worked well to provide a charming meet-cute and other meetings. The plot focuses around acting/movie making and what I loved was that there wasn’t any actual scenes from the movie depicted. I feel like that always takes up unnecessary space so it was a nice breather to focus on the characters rather than the movie filling up the plot.

The romance between Reba and Hoyt was simple and sweet. There wasn’t a ton of nonsensical drama and they actually had some really cute moments together. The Christmas/winter vibes really added a cozy touch to them. Going sledding, walking through a tiny town down Main street. So precious.

If you’re looking for something holiday related, clean and sweet, definitely a good pick.

Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary romance novella + holiday
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: falling from a ladder
- Trigger warnings: cyber-bullying used to manipulate someone

[Abigail McKenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, review for real this time. I loved this story. I didn't finish it until after Christmas, but honestly I'm okay with that because it kept the Christmas spirit going. Which is something I love.

This was so fluffy and wonderful. I was told that it would feel like a Hallmark movie, and that's exactly what was delivered.

This book follows Reba, a film director, and Hoyt, who lives in the town in which the film is being shot. Through a series of unfortunate circumstances, Reba needs a stand-in for her leading man, and Hoyt is the perfect candidate. The two actually start out acutely disliking each other (which is a trope that I always melt for), but come to have mutual crushes on each other when they get to see the personality of the other. It was adorable.

My only problem with this was the same problem I have with most Hallmark movies. Just. TALK TO EACH OTHER. PLEASE. Which I understand can be used as a plot device but it irks me.

Other than that, I loved this story. I want to visit Winter but probably not in winter because I freeze in 50 degree weather so I would probably die.

I can't wait for book 2.

**I was sent a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review**

[Melissa Tagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, it took me way too long to sit down and write this review, but my slowness in no way reflects how much I loved this book! Such a sweet and delightful Christmas romance...charming, witty and heartwarming. Relatable characters, a picture-perfect setting and a plot that moves at just the right pace. The perfect book to read by a fire with a mug of hot chocolate. Well done, Bell Renshaw! Can't wait to see what you have in store for us next.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Christmas in Winter takes the reader behind the scenes of a Christmas movie on location in Montana, just as the meticulously scheduled filming plans begin to hit snags. With everything on the line, as the director - and, secretly, the writer - Reba can't afford to let anything get in the way of filming. Not the weather, not mishaps with the cast, and not the attraction she feels for the local diner owner who keeps coming to her rescue. And on his part, Hoyt knows the dangers and the pain of dealing with the movie industry, and he has no desire to become involved with it again, but he slowly becomes more and more involved.

This is a novella that feels as though it matches the scale of a novel in terms of character development and plotting. And it is one that I didn't want to put down, as I became more invested in this story filled with the fits and starts of a relationship between two characters with very different lives, and having to deal with past hurts and present betrayals.

While I'm slightly acquainted online with Emilie Haney, who writes as Bell Renshaw, I hadn't been aware of her pen name and published works until recently. So I grabbed up an e-book of One Christmas in Winter as soon as I started a Kindle Unlimited trial. And whatever expectations I may have had, they were exceeded.

If you enjoy a well written Contemporary Christian Romance set around Christmas, this is a novella you should give a try. I suspect that, like me, it will leave you wanting to return to Winter, Montana. Highly recommended.

[Jocelyn M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay full transparency: I'm starting to get burned out on holiday books this month BUT I just finished this one, and I can honestly say I enjoyed it! The main characters were a film director and an actor, and movie sets aren't usually something I'd be interested in; but I liked this one a lot, especially for contemporary! It's like a typical Christmas movie, except it really wasn't cheesy. It was a sweet story, with a great MMC. I loved that it was set in Montana, so it was giving all the wintry feels. There was decent character development, too. I really liked some of the side characters, and plan to read the next book in the series next holiday season.

My only critique is that I think the writing could use one more quick round of editing for typos etc.; but it is an indie book, and those details didn't take away from my enjoyment too much. And I think this may have been the author's debut (not certain), so given that fact, I'm quite impressed with this novella!

I recommend this one if you want to squeeze in another short, sweet romance this holiday season.

Content: No spice, no language. Brief recollection of the passing of a parent, and accompanying grief.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

One Christmas in Winter by Bell Renshaw is a wonderful Christmas novella. It delivers on all fronts. There is a sweet and caring, considerate, and handsome leading man. There is a super-stressed, type-A, heart-of-gold, beautiful leading lady the reader roots for the whole read. There is swoony chemistry that builds perfectly and believably. And, there is engaging conflict that kept this reader voraciously turning pages because I just had to get to the happily ever after! There is even an excellent reminder subtly weaved throughout the narrative to be careful about the dreams we are chasing. Some dreams are selfish and self-focused. We rush into these dreams carelessly because we want them, and then we are shocked when they blow up in our faces. But our real dreams — the ones God desires for us to achieve — take time, patience, introspection. and prayer before they can be fully realized. What a punch to pack in only 152 pages! One Christmas in Winter is a perfect holiday story to escape into this holiday season that I just cannot recommend enough.

I purchased an eBook copy of this book from Amazon.com on December 10, 2018, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Cathy Cermele · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title of the book caught my attention, making me curious to read it and I'm so glad that I did! The town of Winter sounds like the kind of town that I'd like to visit, with the local coffee shop, the local diner and the locals, themselves. I liked the Bradley family so much because they reminded me of my family, close-knit and being there for each other.

Reba was a character that was interesting to me although it took me awhile to warm up to her. I gradually started to like her and understood her need for secrecy. When things go awry from the beginning of her film, I felt so bad for her, making me see that she wasn't such a bad person. She's ambitious which is a trait that I like.

This novella reminded me of Hallmark Christmas movies that I normally don't watch, but I honestly could see myself watching one based on this book. If you're looking for a fast and fun read, I recommend this one.
I received a free ecopy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Autumn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hallmark who???

Oh my gosh what a super cute story. I read it in just a few hours and it was perfect.

I kinda want to move to the town of Winter, timon's take on a cheese steak sandwich intrigues me. What can I say I love food. But seriously the town sounds charming and I'm super excited to get back to it with the next novella.

The characters of Reba and Hoyt could not be more perfect for this story and each other. I loved that Reba was the person in charge, I love seeing strong women in positions of power. Hoyt just seemed like such a good guy.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Christmas in Winter appear about a girl and her dream to want to director of holiday films. Will she get her dream job. There appear problems though out with her cast. When her led man falls it put her in a spot, that she got to find a stand in for him.

Holt Bradley has his own dream. He walked away from it and Hollywood for a reason. He has come back to his hometown where his father owns a diner and once his father passes Holt is owner and run the place. Things get a bit confusion when he delivers Chinese food to the movie crew that come to winter to film on location.

What on from there is anyone guess. Will Holt and director be the stars or the holiday film or will it be a repeat of the past. Find out by reading the story to see. This book and story is centered around the holiday season of Christmas. Looking for the spirit of Christmas and it magic. This one will not disappoint.

The author does well with having take place in Winter, Montana. The title says it all. Will Christmas bring true love together or will it just be another Christmas in Winter, Montana.

[Kara Peck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Loved this book. I am all about the Christmas reading right now, and this was perfect. Hallmark classic, sweet romance, and beautiful setting. Novellas can be rushed and this was not, the pacing was perfect. This was just so cute and I can't stop talking about it to all my friends. being a debut author I was a little nervous but this was written so well. No complaints! Buy this book!!

[Just Commonly · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Probably not what you thought you were getting yourself into when you dumped your coffee on me."

You would not have imagined what to expect when you check out Bell Renshaw's One Christmas in Winter novella. The first in the Winter, Montana Novella Collection, it brings to mind the image of a snow covered small town met with the atmosphere of Christmas cheer. It reminds me of the sweet holiday Hallmark movies, but add in a bit anticipation for what comes next.

"Hoyt was nothing more than a stand-in on her set and in her life. That was all he could be."

In every romance, one can expect a hero, and boy, Hoyt is one hero you'll just fall in love with. First, the name. So cool! Add in rugged good looks and man enough to drink a "girly drink," our heroine, Reba don't know what hit her.

"You can't control everything. and you certainly can't blame yourself for bad things that happen to those you love. Just be there when you can."

Don't expect just the frou-frou stuff, there's also a message of trust and God's plan that round out a novella with substance. One Christmas in Winter will warm you like a cup of hot cocoa while the chill of the air refreshes you. Not to miss!


This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice quick read for the holidays. I enjoyed this book.

[Natalie Walters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this sweet Christmas story set in the quaint town of Winter, Montana (I'm still sad this place doesn't exist in real life). Fans of Hallmark Christmas movies will love the story of Hoyt and Reba and their serendipitious meet-cute!! Full of humor, whimsy, and the perfect amount of romantic tension this story demands repeat readings...especially beneath the twinkling lights of the closest Christmas tree, warm blanket, and hot cup of tea.

[Dominique · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to start off by saying this book is like a hallmark movie, and me and hallmark movies have a like dislike relationship. I usually either enjoy the movie or I don't. Sometimes they are just to cheesy for me, so I just don't finish watching the movie XD
But if One Christmas in Winter was actually a hallmark movie, I would finish watching it. It can be cheesy at times, but sometimes even the characters realize what they are doing is slightly cheesy.
I'm looking forward to continuing this series and seeing more of the town of Winter and the Bradley family!
If you're in the mood for a short, cute, Christmas book, I would recommended this one! :)
If you've read One Christmas in Winter, what did you think of it?

Keep reading, & keep exploring galaxies!
byeeeeee

[Mikal Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a cute, fun Christmas story! It was a Hallmark movie (my favorite!) through and through. <3

[The Lexington Bookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won a copy of Renshaw’s novella, One Christmas in Winter, and since it was so time appropriate, I let it cut my TBR line. It starts out with a little legend about how it only takes a Christmas in Winter, MT to fall in love. Then, the reader is introduced to Reba Farwell, writer and director of a current movie production called "First Christmas Kiss". She's got a bit of an uptight reputation, but she really just wants the movie to be successful. As it is, she's extremely nervous about shooting on location in such a freezing atmosphere- especially since she's used to filming in a Los Angeles studio. Things haven't been going her way, with a bad break-up and a missed opportunity already, so a lot is riding on her film going smoothly.
Enter Hoyt Bradley, ex-actor turned diner owner. He's hiding out in Winter with his mother and brothers, and not too keen on the movie business being in his neck of the woods. He's decided to put his acting career in the past, but the production crew seems to be everywhere he turns, including this admittedly cute redhead that he keeps bumping into.
When Reba and Hoyt are finally officially introduced, Reba is in a bit of a tight spot- her lead actor won't be in commission for at least six weeks, and she needs a fill-in, stat. With his charm and good looks, Hoyt seems to be the perfect fit- but he refuses.
In a very cute, Hallmark-style fashion, the two end up working together and spending a lot of time together, each eyeing the other and trying to decipher (and deny) their attraction.
Renshaw creates quick, witty dialogue that'll have the reader eating up her novella with a smile, and leaving them with the warm fuzzy feelings of a winter romance. If you get the chance, give it a read this holiday season!


[Marylin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun story to read. I loved picturing all the winter wonderland of Montana and the crazy life of movie making.
I think if I ever got to live in a fictitious town, I think I’d love to live here. The community, the people, and the whole quaint feel of it. It’s like one of those places you want to grow up in and raise your children in, where everyone knows you and cares about you.
The characters were fun to get to know, and I could truly understand what was happening in their lives. With all their emotions and struggles. The author does a wonderful job of drawing the reader into their lives with relatable situations and feelings.
Bell Ranshaw is a new-to-me author, and I truly enjoyed her writing. The dialogue and scene settings really helped to move the story along. She did a sweet job of bringing all the emotions of the characters to life.
I truly believe I’ll read more of her books in the future.
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Diana Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this Christmas story by Bell Renshaw. Such a sweet inspirational romance. Loved the characters they was well developed. I sure hope there is a place called Winter. Love to visit their festival days. Reba is getting her big chance as a director of a Christmas film. She has great actress and actors to play the parts. That until the lead actor gets hurt. Now what is she to do everything rides on this film for her future as a director. Out here middle of no where and who can she get to stand in for the lead part? Hoyt Bradley has come back to town swearing off ever acting again. Due to something very personal that happened. Both Hoyt and Reba have personal issues can they work them out? Will sparks fly? Looking forward to more books from Bell. This one kept me flipping the pages.