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Harmony Harbor #7
The Corner of Holly and Ivy
Sometimes love is just around the corner . . .
With her dreams of being a wedding dress designer suddenly over, Arianna Bell isn't expecting a holly jolly Christmas. Instead, her heart feels about three sizes too small. That is until her high school sweetheart Connor Gallagher returns to town and she finds his mere presence still makes her pulse race. But just when she starts dreaming of kissing under the mistletoe, he announces that he will be her opponent in the upcoming mayoral race....
Hot-shot attorney Connor Gallagher has something to prove. He's tired of playing runner-up to his high-achieving brothers. So when the opportunity to enter the campaign comes up, he takes it. Even if it means running against the only woman he's ever loved. But with a little help from Harmony Harbor's local matchmakers and a lot of holiday cheer, Connor and Arianna may just get the happy ever after they both deserve.
With her dreams of being a wedding dress designer suddenly over, Arianna Bell isn't expecting a holly jolly Christmas. Instead, her heart feels about three sizes too small. That is until her high school sweetheart Connor Gallagher returns to town and she finds his mere presence still makes her pulse race. But just when she starts dreaming of kissing under the mistletoe, he announces that he will be her opponent in the upcoming mayoral race....
Hot-shot attorney Connor Gallagher has something to prove. He's tired of playing runner-up to his high-achieving brothers. So when the opportunity to enter the campaign comes up, he takes it. Even if it means running against the only woman he's ever loved. But with a little help from Harmony Harbor's local matchmakers and a lot of holiday cheer, Connor and Arianna may just get the happy ever after they both deserve.
380 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 30, 2018
284 people are currently reading
640 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Mason
38 books1,698 followersDebbie Mason is the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series and the Harmony Harbor series. The first book in her Christmas, Colorado series, “The Trouble with Christmas,” was the inspiration for Hallmark’s “Welcome to Christmas.” Her books have been praised by RT Book Reviews for their “likable characters, clever dialogue, and juicy plots.” When Debbie isn’t writing, she enjoys spending time with her family in Ottawa, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
October 28, 2018
The Corner of Holly and Ivy by Debbie Mason is the seventh book in the contemporary romance Harmony Harbor series. The series not only takes place in Harmony Harbor but features a different single Gallagher male falling in love. With each book in the series having a different main couple they could be read as a standalone if choosing to do so.
The Corner of Holly and Ivy is Connor Gallagher and Arianna Bell’s second chance love story. Conner and Arianna had been high school sweethearts but had split apart although their feelings have never gone away. Conner realizes the depth of his feelings when Arianna is injured in a fire in her shop and knows he doesn’t want to live without her.
However, as Arianna recovers from her burns she finds herself helping her grandmother in the campaign for town mayor and when her grandmother needs to pull out of the race Arianna takes her place. And just as Arianna is thrust into the race Connor ends up having to replace his uncle pitting the two against one another giving them another obstacle at their second chance at love.
I joined the Harmony Harbor series later on so I’m never quite sure if previous characters appear or not but even with the late start I’ve found myself enjoying each new book. The one thing about Debbie Mason is she takes her romances to a whole new level with plenty of content to make for a more action packed romance than just two people falling in love. In this one both characters are dealing with family, a political campaign and then the outcome of the campaign and their own ups and downs together. So again this was another fun trip to Harmony Harbor that I’m sure romance readers will enjoy.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The Corner of Holly and Ivy is Connor Gallagher and Arianna Bell’s second chance love story. Conner and Arianna had been high school sweethearts but had split apart although their feelings have never gone away. Conner realizes the depth of his feelings when Arianna is injured in a fire in her shop and knows he doesn’t want to live without her.
However, as Arianna recovers from her burns she finds herself helping her grandmother in the campaign for town mayor and when her grandmother needs to pull out of the race Arianna takes her place. And just as Arianna is thrust into the race Connor ends up having to replace his uncle pitting the two against one another giving them another obstacle at their second chance at love.
I joined the Harmony Harbor series later on so I’m never quite sure if previous characters appear or not but even with the late start I’ve found myself enjoying each new book. The one thing about Debbie Mason is she takes her romances to a whole new level with plenty of content to make for a more action packed romance than just two people falling in love. In this one both characters are dealing with family, a political campaign and then the outcome of the campaign and their own ups and downs together. So again this was another fun trip to Harmony Harbor that I’m sure romance readers will enjoy.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 24, 2020
Many thanks to Estelle at Forever Romance for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review
3.5 stars
I read this Christmas themed book on Good Friday which is both hilarious, fitting and kind of dark. It's like me reading a book about someone's birthday party at their funeral.
I sped through this pretty quickly. It's a very sweet, fluffy and enjoyable novel that read a bit like a Christmas Hallmark movie.
I loved the Hallmark-ness so much because Hallmark movies always remind me of being curled up on my couch at my grandma's house with a warm poptart watching cheesy romance movies.
Overall, this Christmas romance was cutesy, fluffy, and sweet! Give this a try!
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yay! just in time for the holiday season!
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December 7, 2018
3.5 stars
This was such a cute and heartwarming holiday read for the Christmas season.
Initially, prior to picking this book up, I was a little apprehensive about the fact that it was an installment in Debbie Mason's "Harmony Harbour" series. However, after hearing that each book in this series features a different main character and that each book could be read as a standalone, I felt much better. After reading this book, I can definitely attest to the fact that this book can be read individually without reading any of the other books in the series (even though I now want to pick up more of the books).
This was such an enjoyable book to read. Although it was cute, romantic, and gave me all the happy Christmas "feels", there also was so much more to the story. The story wasn't filled with a cast of perfect characters living in a perfect world. Each of the characters had their own struggles, their own insecurities, and their own flaws which made them relatable.
I also found that as much as this book is being promoted for Christmas, it actually featured multiple holidays and seasons (such as Halloween) so could really be read and enjoyed year round.
It definitely was a read that was cute and fun to read but also had some depth to it.
***Thank you to Forever Publishing and Hachette Book Group for sending me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review***
This was such a cute and heartwarming holiday read for the Christmas season.
Initially, prior to picking this book up, I was a little apprehensive about the fact that it was an installment in Debbie Mason's "Harmony Harbour" series. However, after hearing that each book in this series features a different main character and that each book could be read as a standalone, I felt much better. After reading this book, I can definitely attest to the fact that this book can be read individually without reading any of the other books in the series (even though I now want to pick up more of the books).
This was such an enjoyable book to read. Although it was cute, romantic, and gave me all the happy Christmas "feels", there also was so much more to the story. The story wasn't filled with a cast of perfect characters living in a perfect world. Each of the characters had their own struggles, their own insecurities, and their own flaws which made them relatable.
I also found that as much as this book is being promoted for Christmas, it actually featured multiple holidays and seasons (such as Halloween) so could really be read and enjoyed year round.
It definitely was a read that was cute and fun to read but also had some depth to it.
***Thank you to Forever Publishing and Hachette Book Group for sending me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review***
November 27, 2018
Arianna has shut herself in her bedroom after losing everything in a fire and being injured. Then she runs into her ex Connor, from high school, who also was her ex husband's attorney in their divorce and she was left penniless. Arianna lives with her grandmother and has nothing to do with her mom. Her grandma is running for mayor against Connor's uncle. But then something changes and Connor ends up running against Arianna. This turns them against each other just when they found love again but Connor isn't about to give up on her. Then he finds out a secret from her past that may ruin anything between them. Meanwhile Arianna is trying to build her confidence again and using therapy to strengthen her arm. This was such a great storyline. I love Gramma, Connor and Arianna. But Connir's parents and his uncle are very selfish people and I really wanted to slap them.
I received this from NetGalley for an honest review.
I received this from NetGalley for an honest review.
December 12, 2018
With Christmas slowly approaching, I was excited to dive into this book. I felt like this book was a cute read but not my kind of "perfect" Christmas story. Dont get me wrong, I enjoyed it but there were times where I felt like I was getting bored with the storyline. The writing was really good but still took me a few days to finish it which is way too long for the way I read.
December 22, 2018
The Corner of Holly and Ivy: A feel-good Christmas romance is the last book in the Harmony Harbor Series. This is the story of Connor Gallagher and Arianna Bell. I haven't yet read the previous books, so for me this was a standalone book.
Arianna wanted to be a wedding dress designer but her store was lost in a fire that also damaged her arm. Trying to stay somewhat isolated to heal her feelings she ends up getting involved in a race to be Mayor since her grandmother can't run after all. Connor is back in town looking to show that he is more than what they think and works to run for Mayor also when his Uncle drops out. Now it looks to be him running against the only women that has touched his heart but can either give into the feelings that are happening? Well the town matchmakers are on the loose working to get a happy ending here.
Great second chance at love story.
Arianna wanted to be a wedding dress designer but her store was lost in a fire that also damaged her arm. Trying to stay somewhat isolated to heal her feelings she ends up getting involved in a race to be Mayor since her grandmother can't run after all. Connor is back in town looking to show that he is more than what they think and works to run for Mayor also when his Uncle drops out. Now it looks to be him running against the only women that has touched his heart but can either give into the feelings that are happening? Well the town matchmakers are on the loose working to get a happy ending here.
Great second chance at love story.
December 13, 2025
3.5 Stars!
From my updates it may have seemed like I hated this book. I didn't...I hated Connor.
I loved Ariana our main character, she had been through it. She nearly died and was struggling to heal. I loved her grandma...I'm sorry Glamma. I loved the town of Harmony Harbor. The vibes were immaculate.
Connor on the other hand...I hate him. I hate him. He's selfish and creepy. He doesn't love Ariana, he wants to control her. He thinks he can make all her decisions for her, because he "wants the best for her". He gave me the ick non stop. I would have preferred it if Ariana ended up with Connor's dad, because at least he wasn't a controlling creep.
Overall I enjoyed everything about this book except the romance and I would read more from this author in the future. This book is apart of a series and it seems like something i want to explore more of.
I would still recommend this book because, Ariana is my girl.
From my updates it may have seemed like I hated this book. I didn't...I hated Connor.
I loved Ariana our main character, she had been through it. She nearly died and was struggling to heal. I loved her grandma...I'm sorry Glamma. I loved the town of Harmony Harbor. The vibes were immaculate.
Connor on the other hand...I hate him. I hate him. He's selfish and creepy. He doesn't love Ariana, he wants to control her. He thinks he can make all her decisions for her, because he "wants the best for her". He gave me the ick non stop. I would have preferred it if Ariana ended up with Connor's dad, because at least he wasn't a controlling creep.
Overall I enjoyed everything about this book except the romance and I would read more from this author in the future. This book is apart of a series and it seems like something i want to explore more of.
I would still recommend this book because, Ariana is my girl.
October 22, 2018
Reviewed by Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I'm always in my happy place when I get to read a book by Debbie Mason. I'm not really sure why since when I read them my emotions run from happy to plain pissed off within the same chapter. But with even saying that I can tell you I just love her books.
She creates charcters that you want to yell at but still can't stop reading about. Crazy, I know, but that's how I feel reading her books. It's a roller coaster of feelings. And just when I think that she couldn't possibly give me a character that would make me love/hate again, she hits with a new one.
You meet Arianna in Sandpiper Shore and you really don't like her. See this is why it's always good to read a series in order. It helps build the character for you. As much as you didn't like her in that book you saw touches of a human being. I just wasn't sure if she could be human enough for her own story.
So here's a shocker for you, right from the beginning I liked her but wasn't a fan of Connor's. Okay, maybe that's a little harsh, he ended up pissing me off way more than her. First you have what happened in their past when you was her ex's lawyer, then the move to what him and his family do to her ...I'm sorry, I don't know if I'd have given into him so quickly. It would have taken a little longer for us to have our happy ending. So much begging on his part.
He was wrong and really only thought of himself even if he wanted to play it off as thinking about her. I'm telling you I spent a ton of time yelling at this book. IT WAS SO GOOD! Of course Arianna didn't help by being all whisy-washy and almost giving up on life.
This book is so good to read. All your emotions will be at play with it. Like the ups and downs in real life you'll feel that with this story. Like I mentioned above it's best to read this series in order. Each character becomes more real as they develop from book to book. Plus there is a ongoing plot that moves from book to book. Yes, each book has it's own ending but those who read series will understand how I feel.
Follow me on:
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ARC received for a honest review
I'm always in my happy place when I get to read a book by Debbie Mason. I'm not really sure why since when I read them my emotions run from happy to plain pissed off within the same chapter. But with even saying that I can tell you I just love her books.
She creates charcters that you want to yell at but still can't stop reading about. Crazy, I know, but that's how I feel reading her books. It's a roller coaster of feelings. And just when I think that she couldn't possibly give me a character that would make me love/hate again, she hits with a new one.
You meet Arianna in Sandpiper Shore and you really don't like her. See this is why it's always good to read a series in order. It helps build the character for you. As much as you didn't like her in that book you saw touches of a human being. I just wasn't sure if she could be human enough for her own story.
So here's a shocker for you, right from the beginning I liked her but wasn't a fan of Connor's. Okay, maybe that's a little harsh, he ended up pissing me off way more than her. First you have what happened in their past when you was her ex's lawyer, then the move to what him and his family do to her ...I'm sorry, I don't know if I'd have given into him so quickly. It would have taken a little longer for us to have our happy ending. So much begging on his part.
He was wrong and really only thought of himself even if he wanted to play it off as thinking about her. I'm telling you I spent a ton of time yelling at this book. IT WAS SO GOOD! Of course Arianna didn't help by being all whisy-washy and almost giving up on life.
This book is so good to read. All your emotions will be at play with it. Like the ups and downs in real life you'll feel that with this story. Like I mentioned above it's best to read this series in order. Each character becomes more real as they develop from book to book. Plus there is a ongoing plot that moves from book to book. Yes, each book has it's own ending but those who read series will understand how I feel.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
November 12, 2019
What a story! Truly an outstanding story of second chances, love, heartbreak and strength. This story touched my heart and made me teary eyed. The plot was impeccable and unforgettable. This book should be a Hallmark's Christmas countdown movie. Arianna and Connor were great for each other. The love between them had them stick together in good times and bad. A story with an adorable pup, a ghost and a super hero grandmother, what more can you want in a book? Arianna was a strong character. She went through some horrible times but she fought through them. My favorite part was grandma Helen wanting to run for mayor. She was sassy, spontaneous, argumentative and determine. Highly recommend this book.
October 24, 2018
Copy received via Netgalley for an honest review
You will need to have read at least some of the Harmony Harbor books before diving into The Corner Of Holly and Ivy, as I feel that you will be confuzzled a bit if you don't.
I loved going back to Harmony Harbor, getting back to the nitty gritty with the Gallagher family - some good, some not so good.
Ms Mason creates characters that I just want to be friends with. She has created a wonderful world that makes me want to visit. I go from laughter to tears in the space of a few lines.
Arianna and Connor's story had me running the whole gamut of emotions. I wanted, no I needed them to find their way back to each other.
I hate, hate hated Arianna's mother, what a spoiled cow she was! I adored her grandmother Helen thought - what a feisty, wonderful old woman she is!
I mostly loved Connor, however there were moments when I wanted to hit him over the head with my kindle lol.
Second chances, Christmas - some of my favourite tropes. It is helping me get right int the spirit of the season.
I can't wait to see what Ms Mason brings us next.
You will need to have read at least some of the Harmony Harbor books before diving into The Corner Of Holly and Ivy, as I feel that you will be confuzzled a bit if you don't.
I loved going back to Harmony Harbor, getting back to the nitty gritty with the Gallagher family - some good, some not so good.
Ms Mason creates characters that I just want to be friends with. She has created a wonderful world that makes me want to visit. I go from laughter to tears in the space of a few lines.
Arianna and Connor's story had me running the whole gamut of emotions. I wanted, no I needed them to find their way back to each other.
I hate, hate hated Arianna's mother, what a spoiled cow she was! I adored her grandmother Helen thought - what a feisty, wonderful old woman she is!
I mostly loved Connor, however there were moments when I wanted to hit him over the head with my kindle lol.
Second chances, Christmas - some of my favourite tropes. It is helping me get right int the spirit of the season.
I can't wait to see what Ms Mason brings us next.
October 30, 2018
I’m going to be honest here, and if you’ve read previous reviews of mine of Debbie Mason’s books, this shouldn’t come as any surprise but, the hero of this book pissed me off numerous times. I’m so not a fan of his parents, like at all. I haven’t been throughout this series and I don’t ever see myself liking them or even cheering for them. Honestly, I think their relationship is a real problem if they need to have a politician in the family in order for their marriage to survive. But that’s an issue for another day. I can’t say that I didn’t understand Connor’s reasoning for the decision to run against Arianna but I don’t understand why he seemed to be so cruel when it came to campaigning against her. Despite his belief that he knew her true feelings about being Mayor and his need/want to protect her, it seemed that he went out of his way to embarrass her and make her look incompetent.
“Sorry. That’s all the time I’ve got. I have a meeting with the town’s planning committee in ten minutes. And I’m sure Ms. Bell and her friends would like to get back to their shopping.”
I get it, there is reasoning behind his behavior but frankly his way of “protecting” Arianna seemed more harmful than helpful.
This series has really left me feeling a strange case of whiplash. Throughout one book I fall in love with the close-knit community and the way they help each other and then in the very next I wish they would all mind their business.
I just feel like Arianna was too forgiving to Connor and his behavior and the kind of arrogance he had about them falling back into a relationship. With each of his “mistakes” she forgave him pretty easily and for some reason I just wanted her to put up more of a fight.
When Arianna’s secret came to light that’s when I really just decided that I pretty much can’t stand the matriarch’s of Harmony Harbor. Their actions and behavior is blatantly selfish and unforgivable yet it’s constantly presented to us that we should feel sorry for them because they were just trying to do what was best for the children they loved. Yet somehow the only thing I see is them being awful parents and selfish people.
Somehow, despite all of this, I can’t seem to get enough of this series and I actually end up liking the couples by the end of each book. Yes, even Connor, though I honestly think he might be the one brother that I didn’t completely fall for in the end.
“Sorry. That’s all the time I’ve got. I have a meeting with the town’s planning committee in ten minutes. And I’m sure Ms. Bell and her friends would like to get back to their shopping.”
I get it, there is reasoning behind his behavior but frankly his way of “protecting” Arianna seemed more harmful than helpful.
This series has really left me feeling a strange case of whiplash. Throughout one book I fall in love with the close-knit community and the way they help each other and then in the very next I wish they would all mind their business.
I just feel like Arianna was too forgiving to Connor and his behavior and the kind of arrogance he had about them falling back into a relationship. With each of his “mistakes” she forgave him pretty easily and for some reason I just wanted her to put up more of a fight.
When Arianna’s secret came to light that’s when I really just decided that I pretty much can’t stand the matriarch’s of Harmony Harbor. Their actions and behavior is blatantly selfish and unforgivable yet it’s constantly presented to us that we should feel sorry for them because they were just trying to do what was best for the children they loved. Yet somehow the only thing I see is them being awful parents and selfish people.
Somehow, despite all of this, I can’t seem to get enough of this series and I actually end up liking the couples by the end of each book. Yes, even Connor, though I honestly think he might be the one brother that I didn’t completely fall for in the end.
December 20, 2018
ARC REVIEW TO COME
Harmony Harbour #8, Each book of the Harmony Harbour series is a standalone, each focus on a different family member of the Greystone legacy. The only continuing theme throughout the series is that someone is trying to get the Gallaghers to sell Greystone Manor by any means necessary and that the former matriarch of the family Colleen "GG" still haunts the Manor and that all the secrets she kept keep coming out and sometimes for the best.
Arianna and Connor were high school sweethearts but Connor hasn't quite let go even after all these years he still cares about her. Arianna lost everything in a fire it not only burned down her bridal boutique but also damaged her arm so she may never draw again and designing wedding dress is what she always dreamed of doing now that dream is gone. Arianna's self isolation comes to an end when her grandmother throws in her hat for the mayoral race against Connor's uncle.When it comes out that her grandma's health isn't well enough Arianna takes her place. Soon she finds herself not in the running with Connor's uncle but Connor himself and just when the romance between them was starting to rekindle.
Connor's not going to let the election get in the way of his feelings for Arianna and as the elections spill over into the holidays everyone in town is willing to help the two love birds that they are a perfect match. But not everything is perfect as yet again someone is out to mess things up with the Gallaghers and Greystone Manor but now the fate of Main Street hangs in the balance too. It's quite the emotional journey for Arianna not only is she dealing with the lost of her dream and maybe the use of her arm but also the health of her Grandmother and the complications that go with that and the fact that Connor has come back into her life and wants to be apart of it confuses her she's happy and she loves him but she has a secret she's been hiding for so long and now it's about to come out.
Overall it was a good read. The election and everything else overshadows the holiday feel of the book, which only comes up toward the end of the book but otherwise I love the characters and I love the town. I can't wait for more.
Harmony Harbour #8, Each book of the Harmony Harbour series is a standalone, each focus on a different family member of the Greystone legacy. The only continuing theme throughout the series is that someone is trying to get the Gallaghers to sell Greystone Manor by any means necessary and that the former matriarch of the family Colleen "GG" still haunts the Manor and that all the secrets she kept keep coming out and sometimes for the best.
Arianna and Connor were high school sweethearts but Connor hasn't quite let go even after all these years he still cares about her. Arianna lost everything in a fire it not only burned down her bridal boutique but also damaged her arm so she may never draw again and designing wedding dress is what she always dreamed of doing now that dream is gone. Arianna's self isolation comes to an end when her grandmother throws in her hat for the mayoral race against Connor's uncle.When it comes out that her grandma's health isn't well enough Arianna takes her place. Soon she finds herself not in the running with Connor's uncle but Connor himself and just when the romance between them was starting to rekindle.
Connor's not going to let the election get in the way of his feelings for Arianna and as the elections spill over into the holidays everyone in town is willing to help the two love birds that they are a perfect match. But not everything is perfect as yet again someone is out to mess things up with the Gallaghers and Greystone Manor but now the fate of Main Street hangs in the balance too. It's quite the emotional journey for Arianna not only is she dealing with the lost of her dream and maybe the use of her arm but also the health of her Grandmother and the complications that go with that and the fact that Connor has come back into her life and wants to be apart of it confuses her she's happy and she loves him but she has a secret she's been hiding for so long and now it's about to come out.
Overall it was a good read. The election and everything else overshadows the holiday feel of the book, which only comes up toward the end of the book but otherwise I love the characters and I love the town. I can't wait for more.
November 17, 2018
Full review soon......
December 22, 2018
Arianna was burned in a fire and has lost her dream of being a wedding dress designer. Conner her high school boyfriend comes back to town and makes her heart race until she finds that he will be running against her in the race for mayor. A nice Christmas story.
January 18, 2019
This is not a "feel-good Christmas romance" as the title would like you to believe. There is a man trying to steal his brother's wife, corrupt politics, a horrible mother, and lots more. I also felt like I missed half the story. The way this one starts, there is a whole set of events that are just kind of glossed over. The whole first half of the book Connor tries to help Arianna get elected mayor, and then because he wants his family's praise, he runs against her. He should have stood up for himself and acted like the grown man that he is. His parents had really sucky moments when all they cared about were themselves, and all the stuff that Connor being mayor would do for them. Arianna has problems of her own with her crappy mom, and I HATE when a baby is kept a secret from the father. Unless you're running from an abusive man, you'll never convince me of a good reason to do so. Her mom also keeps her grandma away from her since she has power of attorney. There is even a little paranormal thrown in with the ghost of Connor's great grandma. The ending was sweet, but it wasn't enough to make this a feel good story in my opinion.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
November 18, 2020
I was disappointed with this book - the name and cover art with a sleigh carrying Christmas packages led me to believe this was a Christmas-themed book. It is not, in fact not until the last couple of chapters is Christmas even mentioned. Early on I felt confused by all the characters- not realizing this was part of a series. The romance was okay, with a few twists thrown in. Then all of a sudden there was a ghost that really did not play into the story at all. I felt like the writing was all over the place. I won’t be reading any more of Ms. Mason’s books, unfortunately.
February 6, 2020
***4 1/2 stars
>>>>> My Synopsis (Review follows): <<<<<
Arianna Bell was on the fast track to living her dream of becoming the next Vera Wang and having her bridal store, Tie the Knot, become the next Kleinfeld Bridal when tragedy struck. The night she would forever more dub as 'The Nightmare on Main Street' was the night her bridal shop and all her dreams had gone, literally, up in smoke. Her right hand, which she had used to do intricate needle work, had been burned and injured that night to the point she could no longer use it. While the doctor's and therapists have said they believe she may regain use of it, so far that hasn't happened. Since the fire, Aianna has spent most days self confined to her grandmother's house suffering from depression and pain. She's lost her way and is desperately in need of a new one.
Connor Gallagher fell in love with Arianna years ago, and when she'd broken off the relationship she'd broken his heart. He's since gotten over her, but she still holds a soft spot in his heart. Seeing how much she's suffered how she's been struggling since the fire along with feeling more than a little guilty for being the lawyer to represent her ex during her divorce, he feels a compelled to help her get back on her feet. When he finds out the insurance company still has paid for the claim Arianna filed, he offers to help. He feels it's the least he can do. That decision will change everything.
>>>>> My Review: <<<<<
This is the seventh book of the Harmony Harbor series and, I have to confess, I felt a little lost. The world, as Arianna and her sisters knew it, exploded into utter chaos and mayhem seven months ago. It all revolved around an ex-fiance, a princess, a kidnapping, and a fire which resulted in Arianna losing almost everything. Her business is gone. Her ability to work is also gone. Her spirit is in need of a major overhaul as she's pretty much lost her purpose. Something the previously vibrant, smart, young woman had always had and known before. The contrast between who she was and is now is startling. I HIGHLY recommend you read 'Sandpiper Shore,' the sixth book in the Harmony Harbor series, before you read this one. It reveals a lot of family secrets and delves into the the inner workings and family dynamics of both the Bells and Gallaghers which you'll find useful. Without that knowledge, I felt a bit disengaged from the story. I ended up reading 'Sandpiper Shore' and then rereading 'The Corner of Holly and Ivy.' I enjoyed the novel a lot more when I read it for the second time. So make sure to read 'Sandpiper Shore' first!
I waffled a bit in my feelings for and opinion of Connor. It was obvious he had strong feelings for Arianna, but a little more than half way through something he did didn't sit well with me. Granted, things were complicated by his family pushing him into something, but I felt he handled the situation incorrectly and that irritated me to no end. I could totally understand Arianna's conflicting feelings for him.
Some of the sparks and sexual tension flying between the two was reminiscent of those found in Sally Thorne's novel 'The Hating Game.' I loved seeing Arianna regain her spirit and get that spark of life back in her eyes that had previously been missing. It's why I and Arianna were ultimately won over by Connor. He had a lot to do with her finding herself again, and coming out of the depression she found herself immersed in. He knew how to push her buttons and infuriate her in a way to coax her out of the dark place she found herself in.
Overall, I gave this one 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. I love a story where a character crawls out from what appears to be the depths of despair and comes out stronger for it. While Connor had a hand in helping Arianna find herself again, he made sure he wasn't the center of her world. He wanted the strong, vibrant, and self sufficient woman he once knew back. She just needed a little push in the right direction. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one earned a FAN rating--the temperature in the room seems to have suddenly gone up a couple of degrees and a fan would be nice. I definitely recommend this one, but I cannot stress enough that you need to read 'Sandpiper Shore (Harmony Harbor Book 6)' first.
>>>>> My Synopsis (Review follows): <<<<<
Arianna Bell was on the fast track to living her dream of becoming the next Vera Wang and having her bridal store, Tie the Knot, become the next Kleinfeld Bridal when tragedy struck. The night she would forever more dub as 'The Nightmare on Main Street' was the night her bridal shop and all her dreams had gone, literally, up in smoke. Her right hand, which she had used to do intricate needle work, had been burned and injured that night to the point she could no longer use it. While the doctor's and therapists have said they believe she may regain use of it, so far that hasn't happened. Since the fire, Aianna has spent most days self confined to her grandmother's house suffering from depression and pain. She's lost her way and is desperately in need of a new one.
Connor Gallagher fell in love with Arianna years ago, and when she'd broken off the relationship she'd broken his heart. He's since gotten over her, but she still holds a soft spot in his heart. Seeing how much she's suffered how she's been struggling since the fire along with feeling more than a little guilty for being the lawyer to represent her ex during her divorce, he feels a compelled to help her get back on her feet. When he finds out the insurance company still has paid for the claim Arianna filed, he offers to help. He feels it's the least he can do. That decision will change everything.
>>>>> My Review: <<<<<
This is the seventh book of the Harmony Harbor series and, I have to confess, I felt a little lost. The world, as Arianna and her sisters knew it, exploded into utter chaos and mayhem seven months ago. It all revolved around an ex-fiance, a princess, a kidnapping, and a fire which resulted in Arianna losing almost everything. Her business is gone. Her ability to work is also gone. Her spirit is in need of a major overhaul as she's pretty much lost her purpose. Something the previously vibrant, smart, young woman had always had and known before. The contrast between who she was and is now is startling. I HIGHLY recommend you read 'Sandpiper Shore,' the sixth book in the Harmony Harbor series, before you read this one. It reveals a lot of family secrets and delves into the the inner workings and family dynamics of both the Bells and Gallaghers which you'll find useful. Without that knowledge, I felt a bit disengaged from the story. I ended up reading 'Sandpiper Shore' and then rereading 'The Corner of Holly and Ivy.' I enjoyed the novel a lot more when I read it for the second time. So make sure to read 'Sandpiper Shore' first!
I waffled a bit in my feelings for and opinion of Connor. It was obvious he had strong feelings for Arianna, but a little more than half way through something he did didn't sit well with me. Granted, things were complicated by his family pushing him into something, but I felt he handled the situation incorrectly and that irritated me to no end. I could totally understand Arianna's conflicting feelings for him.
Some of the sparks and sexual tension flying between the two was reminiscent of those found in Sally Thorne's novel 'The Hating Game.' I loved seeing Arianna regain her spirit and get that spark of life back in her eyes that had previously been missing. It's why I and Arianna were ultimately won over by Connor. He had a lot to do with her finding herself again, and coming out of the depression she found herself immersed in. He knew how to push her buttons and infuriate her in a way to coax her out of the dark place she found herself in.
Overall, I gave this one 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. I love a story where a character crawls out from what appears to be the depths of despair and comes out stronger for it. While Connor had a hand in helping Arianna find herself again, he made sure he wasn't the center of her world. He wanted the strong, vibrant, and self sufficient woman he once knew back. She just needed a little push in the right direction. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one earned a FAN rating--the temperature in the room seems to have suddenly gone up a couple of degrees and a fan would be nice. I definitely recommend this one, but I cannot stress enough that you need to read 'Sandpiper Shore (Harmony Harbor Book 6)' first.
October 31, 2018
What do you do when your life has been turned upside down? That is a question that goes through Arianna's head on a daily basis. She is still recovering from the fire that destroyed not only her business but also her livelihood. She is so emotionally broken from the thought of never being able to create again that getting out of bed has become harder and harder to do. Connor watched Arianna die and be brought back, he doesn't know what he would have done if she hadn’t made it. His feelings for her have never changed and he realizes that he wants her in his life. When Arianna's grandmother decides to run for mayor and needs her granddaughters help Connor jumps at the chance to insert himself into the mix. Things are looking great and their relationship starts to move forward but Arianna has a deep dark secret that she knows will pull Connor and her apart. Follow along as these two take two steps forward and one step back in a dance called love. This was such an emotional roller coaster of a read it had me laughing, crying, and in the end rooting for love to be conquered. I look forward to seeing what happens next with this wonderful cast of characters!
October 28, 2018
In my opinion Debbie Mason is the queen of second chance romances and she does not disappoint with this one! She has a way of creating characters that you want to have as your friends. The writing is exceptional and I just adore all the zany characters of the small town of Harmony Harbor.
Arianna Bell has had one heck of a year. First the business and career she loved is gone and now she has to see the former love of her life Connor Gallagher everywhere she turns. The Harmony Harbor matchmakers are determined to see these two reunited. Throw in a little holiday magic and you have one entertaining story.
Everyone should have this on their holiday must read list. I highly recommend it.
Arianna Bell has had one heck of a year. First the business and career she loved is gone and now she has to see the former love of her life Connor Gallagher everywhere she turns. The Harmony Harbor matchmakers are determined to see these two reunited. Throw in a little holiday magic and you have one entertaining story.
Everyone should have this on their holiday must read list. I highly recommend it.
October 21, 2018
Arianna is at her grandmothers house, recovering from a near fatal accident that has left her permanently scarred and unable to work in the job that she loved. All she wants to do is hide away, feel sorry for herself and be left alone. Conner was Arianna’s high school sweetheart and he realizes that she is the woman he has always loved and is ready to jump at the chance to rekindle their relationship. Toss in a meddling Grandmother and a "ghostly" great-Grandmother and you have a romantically funny Christmas love story.
This was a delightful Christmas read. The characters were intriguing with just the right blend of serious and funny to keep me interested. This is my very first Debbie Mason book and she's a very talented writer. The Corner of Holly and Ivy was written with the right mix of lovable characters, family drama and suspense to lead up to the happy ending we all want in a feel good Christmas novel.
This was a delightful Christmas read. The characters were intriguing with just the right blend of serious and funny to keep me interested. This is my very first Debbie Mason book and she's a very talented writer. The Corner of Holly and Ivy was written with the right mix of lovable characters, family drama and suspense to lead up to the happy ending we all want in a feel good Christmas novel.
November 23, 2019
Will say, it took me a bit to get into this one, mostly because I didn’t initially like the heroine. She’s one of those characters that you have to give time and things will unravel and make sense. I understood she was going through things but is also translated a bit into being unlikeable..but i ended up really enjoying it. It is a story more so worth events that lead up to Christmas rather than being a straight up holiday romance. Still, really good.
November 2, 2018
The Corner of Holly and ivy
Was a truly sweet read, but I haven't ever picked up one book.of Debbie Mason's and not fallen in love. Living in a small town, were everyone knows every one, you cant really do much with out running into, your ex boyfriend. Which can go either way.. when things dont go the right way. You End up Running against connor for mayor. things seem to be going well. Till things heat up. There's so many fabulous things in this story. You wont want to miss this Book Grab a Copy. See what Turns Connor and Arianna. Run into.one Fantastic story but all Debbie's Books are Great.
Was a truly sweet read, but I haven't ever picked up one book.of Debbie Mason's and not fallen in love. Living in a small town, were everyone knows every one, you cant really do much with out running into, your ex boyfriend. Which can go either way.. when things dont go the right way. You End up Running against connor for mayor. things seem to be going well. Till things heat up. There's so many fabulous things in this story. You wont want to miss this Book Grab a Copy. See what Turns Connor and Arianna. Run into.one Fantastic story but all Debbie's Books are Great.
November 19, 2020
3.5 stars ❄️
This was a fun and pretty light and easy read to start off the season of Christmas books. I feel like the story was a little more dragged out than it needed to be, but I enjoyed the characters and their points of view, and the holiday feels towards the end. 🎄
This was a fun and pretty light and easy read to start off the season of Christmas books. I feel like the story was a little more dragged out than it needed to be, but I enjoyed the characters and their points of view, and the holiday feels towards the end. 🎄
January 31, 2024
Pretty predictable. I started reading before Christmas as I thought it was a Christmas book, but it wasn't Christmas related until around the last 100 pages. Cute story.
September 24, 2025
A good read.
December 2, 2019
Fun, simple, sweet. Not as much of a christmas novel as it is marketed as.
October 25, 2018
The Corner of Holly and Ivy is the newest of the Harmony Harbor series. This wonderful Christmas story puts you right in the mood for the holidays.
Arianna is recovering from her injuries and the loss of her business to a fire. Through all of this she gets a second chance at love with her high school sweetheart, Conner. Misunderstanding and family secrets threaten to get in the way of that relationship .
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher for my honest review of this book.
Arianna is recovering from her injuries and the loss of her business to a fire. Through all of this she gets a second chance at love with her high school sweetheart, Conner. Misunderstanding and family secrets threaten to get in the way of that relationship .
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher for my honest review of this book.
November 30, 2018
SOOOOO....I finished it very quickly, like usual with these kinds of books. I loved our main couple, Arianna and Connor, but there was some...heaviness to the story that took away some of my holiday enjoyment. The heavier topics were handled fine, I suppose, and the effects on our female protagonist make sense, but it's a bit much for what is a short and sweet romance. What she goes through is incredibly difficult, and it's hard to look at it as passing as smoothly as the tale suggests. Despite all that though, there were a lot of cute moments and thoughts from both our characters, and they fit together very well. I did enjoy this book, and it was good for a one time read.
November 11, 2018
Thank you @foreverromance books for my free copy of On the Corner of Holly and Ivy by @authordebmason in exchange for my honest review.
After a devastating setback, Arianna Belle’s dreams of being a wedding dress designer no longer seem feasible, so she decides to take a different career path and help her grandmother in her campaign running for town mayor. When Arianna’s high school sweetheart comes back into town they are willing to give their relationship a second chance but secrets might pull them apart again.
This was a cute second chance romance, but at times I wanted to 🥜 punch Connor lol. I read the book before this one a few months ago and thought it was all over the place. I got the same feel from this one so it was a bit hard to stay engaged. I did enjoy some of the antics of the characters. I think this series just isn’t my favorite from Debbie Mason. Granted I’ve only read two out of the seven books in this series.
If you are a Debbie Mason fan, or want to give this book a try for yourself, pick it up, it released today!
After a devastating setback, Arianna Belle’s dreams of being a wedding dress designer no longer seem feasible, so she decides to take a different career path and help her grandmother in her campaign running for town mayor. When Arianna’s high school sweetheart comes back into town they are willing to give their relationship a second chance but secrets might pull them apart again.
This was a cute second chance romance, but at times I wanted to 🥜 punch Connor lol. I read the book before this one a few months ago and thought it was all over the place. I got the same feel from this one so it was a bit hard to stay engaged. I did enjoy some of the antics of the characters. I think this series just isn’t my favorite from Debbie Mason. Granted I’ve only read two out of the seven books in this series.
If you are a Debbie Mason fan, or want to give this book a try for yourself, pick it up, it released today!
April 19, 2019
I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
The Corner of Holly and Ivy by Debbie Mason is the 7th installment of Harmony Harbor and perhaps my favorite so far. I love second chance love stories and this is that. Arianna Bell and Connor Gallagher were high school sweethearts who were forced apart by their respective family members. When Arianna was severely burned and nearly died in the store fire at the end of Sandpiper Shore, Connor realizes his feelings for Arianna never went away. Now he is determined to prove that he still loves her and wants her back.
I’ll admit that when I started this book I was more than a little hesitant. I didn’t like Arianna. She was terrible to Jenna in Sandpiper Shore, and I wasn’t sure how Debbie Mason could redeem her character. BUT she does that in the very first chapter. Arianna lives with her grandmother, taking care of her. The two are very close and Arianna’s near brush with death has made them closer. Her grandmother has dementia. Y’all mine does too, so I almost immediately connected with Arianna. Arianna is struggling with her own demons, her new scars both physically and mentally, all while taking care of her grandmother who isn’t slowing down and refuses to recognize she has a problem. My heart broke for Arianna and I cheered her on as much as I could.
Connor is my new favorite Gallagher. He basically gives up everything to show Arianna he loves her and is going no where. I promise I’m spoiling nothing in saying that because it is clear from the first chapter what his intentions are. I found myself swooning for him and yelling at Arianna to look past her hurt and see the man who loves her.
The Corner of Holly and Ivy is different from its predecessors as it deals with heavier subject matter. While it is still a light, easy read, it comes with heavy emotional baggage. Set aside some tissues when you read y’all….consider yourselves warned. If you enjoy contemporary romance, I highly recommend it.
The Corner of Holly and Ivy by Debbie Mason is the 7th installment of Harmony Harbor and perhaps my favorite so far. I love second chance love stories and this is that. Arianna Bell and Connor Gallagher were high school sweethearts who were forced apart by their respective family members. When Arianna was severely burned and nearly died in the store fire at the end of Sandpiper Shore, Connor realizes his feelings for Arianna never went away. Now he is determined to prove that he still loves her and wants her back.
I’ll admit that when I started this book I was more than a little hesitant. I didn’t like Arianna. She was terrible to Jenna in Sandpiper Shore, and I wasn’t sure how Debbie Mason could redeem her character. BUT she does that in the very first chapter. Arianna lives with her grandmother, taking care of her. The two are very close and Arianna’s near brush with death has made them closer. Her grandmother has dementia. Y’all mine does too, so I almost immediately connected with Arianna. Arianna is struggling with her own demons, her new scars both physically and mentally, all while taking care of her grandmother who isn’t slowing down and refuses to recognize she has a problem. My heart broke for Arianna and I cheered her on as much as I could.
Connor is my new favorite Gallagher. He basically gives up everything to show Arianna he loves her and is going no where. I promise I’m spoiling nothing in saying that because it is clear from the first chapter what his intentions are. I found myself swooning for him and yelling at Arianna to look past her hurt and see the man who loves her.
The Corner of Holly and Ivy is different from its predecessors as it deals with heavier subject matter. While it is still a light, easy read, it comes with heavy emotional baggage. Set aside some tissues when you read y’all….consider yourselves warned. If you enjoy contemporary romance, I highly recommend it.
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