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Wynbridge #6
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland
After calling off her engagement, Hayley, the Wynthorpe Hall housekeeper, wants nothing more than to return to her no-strings fun-loving self, avoiding any chance of future heartbreak. Little does she know, Wynbridge’s latest arrival is about to throw her plan entirely off course . . .
Moving into Wynthorpe Hall to escape the town’s gossip, Hayley finds herself immersed in the eccentric Connelly family’s festive activities as they plan to host their first ever Winter Wonderland. But Hayley isn’t the only new resident at the hall. Gabe, a friend of the Connelly’s son Jamie, has also taken up residence, moving into Gatekeeper’s Cottage, and he quickly makes an impression on Wynbridge’s reformed good-girl.
As preparations commence for the biggest event of the season, the pair find themselves drawn ever closer to one another, but unbeknownst to Hayley, Gabe, too, has a reason for turning his back on love, one that seems intent on keeping them apart.
Under the starry winter skies, will Gabe convince Hayley to open her heart again once more? And in doing so, will he convince himself?
Moving into Wynthorpe Hall to escape the town’s gossip, Hayley finds herself immersed in the eccentric Connelly family’s festive activities as they plan to host their first ever Winter Wonderland. But Hayley isn’t the only new resident at the hall. Gabe, a friend of the Connelly’s son Jamie, has also taken up residence, moving into Gatekeeper’s Cottage, and he quickly makes an impression on Wynbridge’s reformed good-girl.
As preparations commence for the biggest event of the season, the pair find themselves drawn ever closer to one another, but unbeknownst to Hayley, Gabe, too, has a reason for turning his back on love, one that seems intent on keeping them apart.
Under the starry winter skies, will Gabe convince Hayley to open her heart again once more? And in doing so, will he convince himself?
416 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2018
123 people are currently reading
1489 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Swain
31 books1,212 followersAlthough passionate about writing from an early age, Heidi Swain gained a degree in Literature, flirted briefly with a newspaper career, married and had two children before she finally plucked up the courage to join a creative writing class and take her literary ambitions seriously.
A lover of Galaxy bars, vintage paraphernalia and the odd bottle of fizz, she now writes contemporary fiction and enjoys the company of a whole host of feisty female characters.
Heidi can be found at the keyboard at all hours of the day and night and quite often scribbling longhand in her car during her lunch break. She lives in stunning south Norfolk with her wonderful son and daughter and a mischievous cat called Storm.
A lover of Galaxy bars, vintage paraphernalia and the odd bottle of fizz, she now writes contemporary fiction and enjoys the company of a whole host of feisty female characters.
Heidi can be found at the keyboard at all hours of the day and night and quite often scribbling longhand in her car during her lunch break. She lives in stunning south Norfolk with her wonderful son and daughter and a mischievous cat called Storm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
December 29, 2018
5☆ A Heartwarming, rich tale that has absolutely stolen my heart.
If I could give Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland
10☆ I would!! I devoured it in two nights I couldn't put it down.
I know Christmas is technically over now, but this book has so much warmth it's the perfect read to snuggle up with on a cold winters day.
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland is a heart warming story full of loveable characters, the story has so much depth, juicy lil twists and secrets I didn't see coming, romance, humour, wit, loveable fur babies, all wrapped up in a stunning location and a family so welcoming I truly felt part of it.
Hayley isn't having much luck with the men in her life. Her Father has a gambling addiction and treats her like dirt.
She works at Wynthorpe Hall as a house keeper for Caroline and Angus, whom I adored!
So when things go disastrously wrong at her engagement party, she retreats to Wynthorpe Hall to lick her wounds.
But ends up moving in, when her parents kick her out.
It's here she meets the devilishly handsome Gabe (the New Outdoor Activities manager), who is mysterious, clearly haunted by his past, a lil bit cheeky, yet he can't help being drawn to Hayley he says she is an enigma, he can't stay away from.
I'm fact it's fair to say she calls him her Guardian Angel.
Hayley declares she's sworn off men and Gabe says he can't allow himself to be happy. So between the two of them the sexual chemistry literally sparks.
I adored watching their budding friendship and flirty banter develop.
Gabe's character stole me heart. I was so eager to uncover the mystery of his past, that when I did find out and I truly wasn't expecting it, it broke my heart. His character is one that you want to give a hug to and reassure him.
Heidi always writes such memorable characters you will treasure for a long time. They are always strong, loveable, relatable, you just can't help routing for them to suceed, especially with Hayley and Gabe.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but I know I can't as I don't want to give anything away.
There is so much to this story, heartbreak, love, starting over, secrets, learning to move on, learning to let go, family drama, passion, tender emotional moments, giggling out loud moments, friendships, relationships, drama. It literally has a lil dash of everything.
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland is a vivid rich tale has absolutely stolen my heart.
It's an absorbing read that's beautifully written I couldn't put down, and I certainly didn't want to finish.
If you are looking for a beautifully compelling read, that will have you falling in love with the characters so much so you don't want to leave them, then I urge you to read Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland.
It really is a must read!
So grab a blanket, cosy up and prepare to be charmed by this utterly enchanting tale.
I would like to thank Netgalley & Simon & Schuster UK for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
If I could give Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland
10☆ I would!! I devoured it in two nights I couldn't put it down.
I know Christmas is technically over now, but this book has so much warmth it's the perfect read to snuggle up with on a cold winters day.
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland is a heart warming story full of loveable characters, the story has so much depth, juicy lil twists and secrets I didn't see coming, romance, humour, wit, loveable fur babies, all wrapped up in a stunning location and a family so welcoming I truly felt part of it.
Hayley isn't having much luck with the men in her life. Her Father has a gambling addiction and treats her like dirt.
She works at Wynthorpe Hall as a house keeper for Caroline and Angus, whom I adored!
So when things go disastrously wrong at her engagement party, she retreats to Wynthorpe Hall to lick her wounds.
But ends up moving in, when her parents kick her out.
It's here she meets the devilishly handsome Gabe (the New Outdoor Activities manager), who is mysterious, clearly haunted by his past, a lil bit cheeky, yet he can't help being drawn to Hayley he says she is an enigma, he can't stay away from.
I'm fact it's fair to say she calls him her Guardian Angel.
Hayley declares she's sworn off men and Gabe says he can't allow himself to be happy. So between the two of them the sexual chemistry literally sparks.
I adored watching their budding friendship and flirty banter develop.
Gabe's character stole me heart. I was so eager to uncover the mystery of his past, that when I did find out and I truly wasn't expecting it, it broke my heart. His character is one that you want to give a hug to and reassure him.
Heidi always writes such memorable characters you will treasure for a long time. They are always strong, loveable, relatable, you just can't help routing for them to suceed, especially with Hayley and Gabe.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but I know I can't as I don't want to give anything away.
There is so much to this story, heartbreak, love, starting over, secrets, learning to move on, learning to let go, family drama, passion, tender emotional moments, giggling out loud moments, friendships, relationships, drama. It literally has a lil dash of everything.
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland is a vivid rich tale has absolutely stolen my heart.
It's an absorbing read that's beautifully written I couldn't put down, and I certainly didn't want to finish.
If you are looking for a beautifully compelling read, that will have you falling in love with the characters so much so you don't want to leave them, then I urge you to read Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland.
It really is a must read!
So grab a blanket, cosy up and prepare to be charmed by this utterly enchanting tale.
I would like to thank Netgalley & Simon & Schuster UK for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
January 5, 2024
*Secrets*
This is book #6 in the standalone books based in Wynbridge. It is definitely worth reading in order to avoid some spoilers.
This instalment concentrates on Hayley. She is the housekeeper at Wynthorpe Hall and after a mistake when she was younger meant the Connelly Family took her under their wing after her parents cutting ties with her. The Connelly family headed up by Angus a larger than life character who is always up to mischief.
Everyone that works there seems to become part of the family and Hayley is no exception. She craves to be part of a family but her father is a nightmare good for nothing so and so, while her mum tries to keep the peace. Hayley thinks she has turned things around after meeting Gavin who is now her fiancé. They have an engagement party and she finds him literally with his pants down with another woman at the party.
So, with her head down she runs into Gabe a huge lumberjack. He is on his way to Wynthorpe Hall and is their latest recruit with his trusty huge dog Bram.
Gabe is their new woodsman and he arrives with secrets a foot. With Hayley sworn off men and Gabe keeping everyone at arms length, is there the possibility of kindred spirits finding common ground?
With Heidi Swain’s usual mix of colourful characters and the gossip of being in a close community, including misunderstandings and assumptions and comical moments it is a cosy Christmassy book.
This is book #6 in the standalone books based in Wynbridge. It is definitely worth reading in order to avoid some spoilers.
This instalment concentrates on Hayley. She is the housekeeper at Wynthorpe Hall and after a mistake when she was younger meant the Connelly Family took her under their wing after her parents cutting ties with her. The Connelly family headed up by Angus a larger than life character who is always up to mischief.
Everyone that works there seems to become part of the family and Hayley is no exception. She craves to be part of a family but her father is a nightmare good for nothing so and so, while her mum tries to keep the peace. Hayley thinks she has turned things around after meeting Gavin who is now her fiancé. They have an engagement party and she finds him literally with his pants down with another woman at the party.
So, with her head down she runs into Gabe a huge lumberjack. He is on his way to Wynthorpe Hall and is their latest recruit with his trusty huge dog Bram.
Gabe is their new woodsman and he arrives with secrets a foot. With Hayley sworn off men and Gabe keeping everyone at arms length, is there the possibility of kindred spirits finding common ground?
With Heidi Swain’s usual mix of colourful characters and the gossip of being in a close community, including misunderstandings and assumptions and comical moments it is a cosy Christmassy book.
October 18, 2018
It was a sheer joy to be back at Wynthorpe Hall amongst friends, from last years Christmas book. And if I thought last years was amazing then this one may just be better.
I was all for Angus' idea for a winter wonderland to be held at The Hall, and was enchanted with how the team pulled together to put on such a magnificent event.
Gabe is the new woodsman, and its clear he has some baggage but I hadn't guessed just what he is hiding. At some points I absolutely loved him but he was blowing so hot and cold that it was hard to full embrace him.
Whereas Hayley I really enjoyed getting to know. She has so many layers to her personality and history, that you are continually learning new things about her, and how she would deal with situations. I loved seeing her true personality shine through as the story continued, and she definitely has some personal growth too.
Although this does feature a whole host of familiar characters, for fans of Heidi Swain, I do believe the book can be read as a standalone too. There are enough references to past occurrences to give you a good idea of what happened, plus the main focus of this book are different people.
There are a large number of characters to keep track of, but once you have worked out who is who, it feels as though you really are another part of the family at Wynthorpe Hall where everyone feels welcome.
There is just something special about Heidi Swain's writing that keeps me reading, and going back to the book continually and at no points did I want to tear myself away from this really lovely book. Whether you are a long time fan of the author, or new to her, this is definitely a festive feast of a book to read this season.
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I was all for Angus' idea for a winter wonderland to be held at The Hall, and was enchanted with how the team pulled together to put on such a magnificent event.
Gabe is the new woodsman, and its clear he has some baggage but I hadn't guessed just what he is hiding. At some points I absolutely loved him but he was blowing so hot and cold that it was hard to full embrace him.
Whereas Hayley I really enjoyed getting to know. She has so many layers to her personality and history, that you are continually learning new things about her, and how she would deal with situations. I loved seeing her true personality shine through as the story continued, and she definitely has some personal growth too.
Although this does feature a whole host of familiar characters, for fans of Heidi Swain, I do believe the book can be read as a standalone too. There are enough references to past occurrences to give you a good idea of what happened, plus the main focus of this book are different people.
There are a large number of characters to keep track of, but once you have worked out who is who, it feels as though you really are another part of the family at Wynthorpe Hall where everyone feels welcome.
There is just something special about Heidi Swain's writing that keeps me reading, and going back to the book continually and at no points did I want to tear myself away from this really lovely book. Whether you are a long time fan of the author, or new to her, this is definitely a festive feast of a book to read this season.
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 25, 2025
Very cute, very cozy! Love the found family trope going on, I think it was so well-done and I actually regret not being a part of the Wynthorpe clan. 😭 I did not expect the characters to have such heavy backstories, but that's what made me rate this book higher. I love it when I see two people who've been through enough finally find solace and happiness in each other's company and love. The book seemed more focused on Hayley's development and not so much on her romance with Gabe, which I also enjoyed seeing, but this is what also prevented me from rating it 5 ⭐. I simply did not see that much chemistry between them. They're lovely taken separately, but the scenes between them seemed to lack something. At least for me. However, that's minor and I overall enjoyed the experience of reading this book in the days leading up to Christmas. I'll definitely check out more titles by Heidi Swain! 😊
October 1, 2018
I have loved all of Heidi's books so far and she certainly hasn't let me down this time it's simply fantastic you are hooked from the first page and just don't want to put it down. The characters are great and you just want to keep reading to see what happens. The setting is amazing and a perfect Christmas read to curl up to on a cold day. Full of heartbreak, romance and secrets and moving forward so you are happy. Also very heartwarming to read and he story plot is just amazing well written.
Hayley is engaged and while out at her engagement party she discovers he's been cheating on her and she really doesn't want to go home. She moves into Wynthorpe hall where she has been a house keep all her working life after an upset of loosing a baby early on in pregnancy and they treat her like family and ask her to move on after her split. Her home life has been very difficult and she thought she was doing her mum a favour by staying but she hasn't. She wants to forget her past and just concentrate on work but when new heartthrob Gabe turns up at Wynthorpe hall to work can they keep away from each other. They are all organising a winter wonderland up at the hall with lovely snowflakes and animals but can Gabe and Hayley keep away from each other and can they both move forward from their past or not Gabe has a very difficult past to over come and he really doesn't think he can or should be happy again but does Hayley help him with this. Can the winter wonderland be a success and romance blossom or not.
A simply brilliant read didn't want it to end at all.
Hayley is engaged and while out at her engagement party she discovers he's been cheating on her and she really doesn't want to go home. She moves into Wynthorpe hall where she has been a house keep all her working life after an upset of loosing a baby early on in pregnancy and they treat her like family and ask her to move on after her split. Her home life has been very difficult and she thought she was doing her mum a favour by staying but she hasn't. She wants to forget her past and just concentrate on work but when new heartthrob Gabe turns up at Wynthorpe hall to work can they keep away from each other. They are all organising a winter wonderland up at the hall with lovely snowflakes and animals but can Gabe and Hayley keep away from each other and can they both move forward from their past or not Gabe has a very difficult past to over come and he really doesn't think he can or should be happy again but does Hayley help him with this. Can the winter wonderland be a success and romance blossom or not.
A simply brilliant read didn't want it to end at all.
November 12, 2021
Hayley has just got engaged when she finds out her fiancé is a cheating scumbag, but seeing as she’s an irritating character, I couldn’t feel too sorry for her. As she’s leaving her own engagement party, she runs into Gabe, a handsome gent with abs for days. Unfortunately for him, he has more abs than personality. They then spend the rest of the book doing an annoying will they, won’t they dance that bored me to the end.
I disliked this book. I disliked the characters. Hayley got on my last nerve. There was only one thing that I felt sympathy for her in the entire book and that turned out to be a lie so fuck her. Gabe was so dull that even his tragic backstory couldn’t make me feel anything for this charmless Mr. Perfect. The supporting characters were all an irritating bunch of busybodies who kept interfering in Hayley’s love life to the extent I just wanted her to snap and tell them all to fuck off and Swain tried far too hard to make the ex-fiancé unlikable so you have no choice but to root for Miss annoying and Mr. Perfect. Yawn.
The book was an absolute slog to get through. What a waste of my time.
I disliked this book. I disliked the characters. Hayley got on my last nerve. There was only one thing that I felt sympathy for her in the entire book and that turned out to be a lie so fuck her. Gabe was so dull that even his tragic backstory couldn’t make me feel anything for this charmless Mr. Perfect. The supporting characters were all an irritating bunch of busybodies who kept interfering in Hayley’s love life to the extent I just wanted her to snap and tell them all to fuck off and Swain tried far too hard to make the ex-fiancé unlikable so you have no choice but to root for Miss annoying and Mr. Perfect. Yawn.
The book was an absolute slog to get through. What a waste of my time.
September 1, 2024
I have read few other Heidi Swain Wynbridge books and it always feels great to visit with her characters. It's like catching up with an extended family where you might have your fall outs, ups and downs but regardless of anything that life throws at you, you know they all have your back.
There's such warmth and comfort in reading those books, there's fun and laughter and heartbreak and hope. There's always hope.
Those books are like hugs, book hugs, just perfect and I'm looking forward to reading more of Wynbridge books.
There's such warmth and comfort in reading those books, there's fun and laughter and heartbreak and hope. There's always hope.
Those books are like hugs, book hugs, just perfect and I'm looking forward to reading more of Wynbridge books.
December 14, 2021
De tanto ver críticas excelentes aos livros de Heidi Swain, queria ficar a conhecer esta autora e criei expetativas muito altas. Infelizmente não correu bem.
Hayley, a protagonista, começa por ser uma jovem mulher simpática e real – fez asneiras na adolescência e ainda vive com a vergonha e a culpa do que fez. Mas seus desentendimentos com Gabe por dá cá aquela palha rapidamente me fartaram.
Há clichés e clichés e os usados neste livro, sinceramente, estão mais que ultrapassados.
Resumindo: é um livro longo demais para nada de especial. As coisas boas acabaram por se perder com tantas páginas e tolices.
Hayley, a protagonista, começa por ser uma jovem mulher simpática e real – fez asneiras na adolescência e ainda vive com a vergonha e a culpa do que fez. Mas seus desentendimentos com Gabe por dá cá aquela palha rapidamente me fartaram.
Há clichés e clichés e os usados neste livro, sinceramente, estão mais que ultrapassados.
Resumindo: é um livro longo demais para nada de especial. As coisas boas acabaram por se perder com tantas páginas e tolices.
October 5, 2018
A very welcome return to Wynbridge to find out more about Hayley.
Following a mortifying incident involving her fiance, Hayley ends up taking refuge in Wynthorpe Hall with some old friends of ours! Anna and Jamie play a big part in this book, along with Jemma and Lizzie. Will and Lottie, Jake and Amber and even Ruby and Steven get a mention!
Hayley, a spikey and feisty character in a good sense, is assisting with making Wynthorpe Hall's 'Winter Wonderland' a roaring success and throws herself into a hidden passion in doing so. The very swoon-worthy Gabe is a newcomer and settling into the Gatekeepers Cottage and assisting with estate maintenance.
Gabe is hiding a secret and Hayley nursing a broken heart but they are drawn together like 2 kindred spirits. I really enjoy it when the lead female isn't a 'damsel in distress' and can hold her own and Hayley certainly can! I laughed out loud at many of her sarcastic comments!
In any other book I would likely have got bored with the will they/won't they and all the opportunities Hayley and Gabe had but not at all with this book. It was meant to be about taking a chance and the hardship relationships can bring - Gabe's tale was desperately sad and unexpected and made perfect sense as to his confused character.
Heidi brings her characters and Wynbridge to life but also the story as a whole - the concept of the wistful and whimsical 'Winter Wonderland' was simply magical and Hayley's drawings really were vivid in my mind.
I can't get enough of Heidi's books, when I read them I want to meet and make friends with the characters, visit the places they live and join in with the merry business ideas they create! More of the same please Heidi - you are one of my absolute favourite authors; an easy 5 stars for this stunning page-turner!
My thanks to Simon & Schuster via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Following a mortifying incident involving her fiance, Hayley ends up taking refuge in Wynthorpe Hall with some old friends of ours! Anna and Jamie play a big part in this book, along with Jemma and Lizzie. Will and Lottie, Jake and Amber and even Ruby and Steven get a mention!
Hayley, a spikey and feisty character in a good sense, is assisting with making Wynthorpe Hall's 'Winter Wonderland' a roaring success and throws herself into a hidden passion in doing so. The very swoon-worthy Gabe is a newcomer and settling into the Gatekeepers Cottage and assisting with estate maintenance.
Gabe is hiding a secret and Hayley nursing a broken heart but they are drawn together like 2 kindred spirits. I really enjoy it when the lead female isn't a 'damsel in distress' and can hold her own and Hayley certainly can! I laughed out loud at many of her sarcastic comments!
In any other book I would likely have got bored with the will they/won't they and all the opportunities Hayley and Gabe had but not at all with this book. It was meant to be about taking a chance and the hardship relationships can bring - Gabe's tale was desperately sad and unexpected and made perfect sense as to his confused character.
Heidi brings her characters and Wynbridge to life but also the story as a whole - the concept of the wistful and whimsical 'Winter Wonderland' was simply magical and Hayley's drawings really were vivid in my mind.
I can't get enough of Heidi's books, when I read them I want to meet and make friends with the characters, visit the places they live and join in with the merry business ideas they create! More of the same please Heidi - you are one of my absolute favourite authors; an easy 5 stars for this stunning page-turner!
My thanks to Simon & Schuster via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2018
Oh my gods, Heidi has done it yet again, another amazing delightful and heartfelt story that I just fell in love with and completely got lost in. She has such a way with words that her style of writing is truly magical which draws you in from the very first page.
It literally melted my heart from start to finish. I enjoyed every little moment, the characters were a delight and I loved getting to know them all.
I thoroughly enjoyed returning to the location of Wynthorpe Hall, becoming involved and reacquainting myself
with all of the wonderful characters again, not to mention the Christmas festivities and traditions. I fell in love with the new addition of Bram, the dog, he sounded like such a character and so adorable. I also loved getting to know his owner Gabe, who sounded truly handsome with a sensitive nature to him.
As always, I loved experiencing all of the going on's at Wynthorpe Hall whilst they prepared for Christmas and the ever expanding Winter Wonderland event. I just wanted to be there myself to enjoy it all for real.
I really didn't want the story to end or to say bye to the characters and I'm already looking forward to reading Heidi's other books so as I can indulge myself her wonderful stories and delightful characters again.
It literally melted my heart from start to finish. I enjoyed every little moment, the characters were a delight and I loved getting to know them all.
I thoroughly enjoyed returning to the location of Wynthorpe Hall, becoming involved and reacquainting myself
with all of the wonderful characters again, not to mention the Christmas festivities and traditions. I fell in love with the new addition of Bram, the dog, he sounded like such a character and so adorable. I also loved getting to know his owner Gabe, who sounded truly handsome with a sensitive nature to him.
As always, I loved experiencing all of the going on's at Wynthorpe Hall whilst they prepared for Christmas and the ever expanding Winter Wonderland event. I just wanted to be there myself to enjoy it all for real.
I really didn't want the story to end or to say bye to the characters and I'm already looking forward to reading Heidi's other books so as I can indulge myself her wonderful stories and delightful characters again.
November 12, 2018
Hayley is engaged and to be married soon, but at her engagement party she discovers that her boyfriend hasn't been faithful to her. As things are also not at the nicest at home, she decides to take an offer of moving into Wynthorpe Hall, a place that she's been working in for a long time already and that she loves. She just wants to forget and move on. But, as is turns out, she's not to be the only one new resident to the Hall. Jamie's friend Gabe is joining the family too. They're both not interested in a relationship but they feel comfortable in each other's company - however, can it be that fate has other plans for them?
I have a confession to make. Even though I have some of Heidi Swain's book, this one, "Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland" is the first novel by this author that I've read. I've heard such great things about Ms Swain's books and I thought, well, it's highest time to read it. I was a little afraid, to be honest, as the novels are part of series, set in the charming Wynthorpe Hall and the surrounding village, afraid that I'd missed too much and won't be able to keep on track. But no worries, guys, it really felt as reading a stand - alone book. There were enough background info to deduce what's happened in the past to understand the whys and whats of the characters.
Our main character Hayley was a quirky, fierce girl who knew what she wanted. I'm sure it was properly explained in one of the previous books, the whole situation with her family and especially father but I was just thinking, oh boy, what must have happened for him to be so cruel towards his daughter, to be so cool, rejecting and not interested. The relationship between Hayley and her mother was also a bit enigmatic for me, it didn't seem to be lots of love there, and it made me really sad. I definitely have to read the other book to get into the heart of their story. Hayley was hard on the outside, she had a big mouth but let's be honest, she was really soft inside and she had a heart in the right place. And it was not a wonder that she was like this, what with her past that made her so out of reach and also short - tempered but if you get your time to get to know her, you'll understand her motives. She may not be the easiest character to immediately like but this feeling comes really quickly, and I truly fell for her.
Gabe's background history was incredibly sad and it made my heart break. He was an interesting character, what with him blowing hot and cold all the time, and yes, it started to be irritating, but then came the moment when he explained what has happened in the past and well, it changed my feelings a lot. There were many layers to him, as well as to Hayley, and I liked that their characters were not so straight - forward.
But, after reading so many brilliant things I was expecting something really brilliant. For me, however, it was just a normal story - it was nice, yes, but it didn't wow me, I'm really sorry. It's probably my fault, as I went into this book with very high expectations. Please don't get me wrong, it was a cosy, lovely, Christmassy read, of course it was but I didn't find there anything that would make me feel like so many other reviewers felt about it. I loved the idea of the Winter Wonderland and would love to read much more about it. I was also in awe how, short and sweet, they were able to organize it. OK, to be honest, I think I'd rather have many more chapters about it because it seemed a truly magnificent, fabulous and festive event. It was simply the best part of the book, enchanting and amazing. The rest - simply - didn't wow me as much as I think it would.
The writing style was light and not too complex, and there was warmth to it. The story was lovely and lovingly interspersing few threads and the author touches upon some very sensible and poignant issues, though she isn't going too deep into them. I really liked and appreciated the way the author has decided to write the romance here, the ongoing will they/won't they - yes, it was there, but it was not too overwhelming, not too long and the characters didn't make you feel desperate to bang their heads together. There was some romance in it, heartbreak and secrets, and the setting was simply gorgeous. I'm really happy that I still have other Heidi Swain's books to dive into.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 18, 2022
Although Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland is the 6th book in the Wynbridge series, I read it as a standalone and enjoyed the story just fine. This is the story of Hayley and Gabe. Hayley is the housekeeper at Wynthrope Hall. She has called off her engagement after her fiancé fooled around with another woman in the washroom at their engagement party. She wants to get away from all the gossip, so when Angus offers her the opportunity to move into Wynthorpe, she agrees. At the same time, there is another new arrival. Gabe is a friend of the Connelly’s son Jamie, and has taken up residence in the Gatekeeper’s Cottage, as the new Outdoor Activities manager. It doesn't take long for everyone to be caught up in Angus' new plan. He wants to host their first ever Winter Wonderland as part of the festive activities in Wynbridge. It doesn't take long for some chemistry to develop between Hayley and Gabe, but Gabe is hiding something and Hayley can't get through the wall he has built around himself. With Christmas Magic, and Starry Skies, will Gabe and Hayley open themselves up to love again?
This is my first visit to Wynbridge and I loved the characters, the way they are like a huge family, caring for one another. Hayley's situation broke my heart. How someone could do that to someone they supposedly loved is hard to fathom. I was happy that her friends step up to take care of things. Hayley is also treated poorly by her parents, to it was great to see Caroline and Angus step up to help her out and embrace her as part of their family. Gabe is the newest addition to Wynthorpe and he is a handsome devil, a hard worker, Jamie's friends and a man with secrets. We do find out what it is and I felt terrible for him. My emotions were all over the place when reading this story. The characters are wonderful and very well developed. I couldn't help but root for Hayley and Gabe to get together. There is much more to this story then romance. It has heartbreak, new beginnings, moving on, friendship, family issues, drama and angst, laughs and a huge dose of Christmas Cheer. I will definitely be reading more in the Wynbridge series. Karen Cass narrates this story and besides me having to get used to her accent, I enjoyed her performance.
This is my first visit to Wynbridge and I loved the characters, the way they are like a huge family, caring for one another. Hayley's situation broke my heart. How someone could do that to someone they supposedly loved is hard to fathom. I was happy that her friends step up to take care of things. Hayley is also treated poorly by her parents, to it was great to see Caroline and Angus step up to help her out and embrace her as part of their family. Gabe is the newest addition to Wynthorpe and he is a handsome devil, a hard worker, Jamie's friends and a man with secrets. We do find out what it is and I felt terrible for him. My emotions were all over the place when reading this story. The characters are wonderful and very well developed. I couldn't help but root for Hayley and Gabe to get together. There is much more to this story then romance. It has heartbreak, new beginnings, moving on, friendship, family issues, drama and angst, laughs and a huge dose of Christmas Cheer. I will definitely be reading more in the Wynbridge series. Karen Cass narrates this story and besides me having to get used to her accent, I enjoyed her performance.
December 3, 2023
I just love reading Heidi Swain’s books and I couldn’t wait to read Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at The Winter Wonderland. I love her Christmas books, if you need something to put you in the festive Christmas mood, then you simply just need to reach for one of her books. Settle down with a cup of hot chocolate, a warm soft blanket in front of a warm fire and you are all ready to enter the wonderful world that Heidi creates.
This book follows the story of Hayley, a character we have previously met in Heidi’s stories about Wynthorpe Hall and Wynbridge. Don’t worry if you haven’t read any of the other books before, this can be read as a stand-alone book and will not in any way spoil your enjoyment. I promise you. Hayley is such an interesting character and just as you think you understand her something else happens. I do like Heidi’s characters they are interesting and complex and not annoying at all. I do so hate annoying characters in books.
After calling off her engagement, Hayley moves into Wynthorpe Hall and gets caught up in the magic and organisation of The Winter Wonderland. After a disastrous relationship she has sworn off men, that is till newcomer Gabe comes to her rescue. This book follows Hayley’s transformation and how she blossoms under the right circumstances and with the right person.
A great read, which I loved. I read this in a few days as I simply couldn’t put it down. Great characters, storyline, setting, lots of Christmas, just a wonderful read. I really need to reread all Heid’s other books again, as they are so good.
This book follows the story of Hayley, a character we have previously met in Heidi’s stories about Wynthorpe Hall and Wynbridge. Don’t worry if you haven’t read any of the other books before, this can be read as a stand-alone book and will not in any way spoil your enjoyment. I promise you. Hayley is such an interesting character and just as you think you understand her something else happens. I do like Heidi’s characters they are interesting and complex and not annoying at all. I do so hate annoying characters in books.
After calling off her engagement, Hayley moves into Wynthorpe Hall and gets caught up in the magic and organisation of The Winter Wonderland. After a disastrous relationship she has sworn off men, that is till newcomer Gabe comes to her rescue. This book follows Hayley’s transformation and how she blossoms under the right circumstances and with the right person.
A great read, which I loved. I read this in a few days as I simply couldn’t put it down. Great characters, storyline, setting, lots of Christmas, just a wonderful read. I really need to reread all Heid’s other books again, as they are so good.
January 2, 2024
How is it, when you come across a book and author you love, do you find the words to boast about it?!
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at The Winter Wonderland really is the only book you need on your TBR this Christmas. It has everything you could want from a novel: the most gorgeous characters (minus a few!), hidden talents, a setting that sets the motion for the story, heartache and the feeling of joy. Can it be Christmas all year round? This is the kind of book you can read over and over and never get bored.
Hayley and Gabe, I especially loved throughout my reading journey. They’ve had their fair share of heartache but is it something they can move on from? Can they open their hearts to love?
Heidi has a way with words that will grip you from the very first page right through to the end. When I wasn’t reading (life gets in the way too much!), I was thinking about the book and the characters and just how I’d feel if I were Hayley.
I know it’s only November, but this book has left me wanting to put up my Christmas tree and decorations. It really does get you in the spirit of Christmas.
A heartbreaking but heartwarming novel that I can really recommend.
Want to find out what it is that I loved so much about this book? You can purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Snowflakes-C...
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at The Winter Wonderland really is the only book you need on your TBR this Christmas. It has everything you could want from a novel: the most gorgeous characters (minus a few!), hidden talents, a setting that sets the motion for the story, heartache and the feeling of joy. Can it be Christmas all year round? This is the kind of book you can read over and over and never get bored.
Hayley and Gabe, I especially loved throughout my reading journey. They’ve had their fair share of heartache but is it something they can move on from? Can they open their hearts to love?
Heidi has a way with words that will grip you from the very first page right through to the end. When I wasn’t reading (life gets in the way too much!), I was thinking about the book and the characters and just how I’d feel if I were Hayley.
I know it’s only November, but this book has left me wanting to put up my Christmas tree and decorations. It really does get you in the spirit of Christmas.
A heartbreaking but heartwarming novel that I can really recommend.
Want to find out what it is that I loved so much about this book? You can purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Snowflakes-C...
December 14, 2021
A cute, warm and entertaining Christmas story that had a lot of good characters at its heart.
I liked the dry and at times sarcastic tone of our main character a lot. Some troubles in h r past gave the book a bit more depth, which rounded the coziness up nicely.
I love the idea of the winter wonderland and was happy to see plans being worked out and all the preparations coming together slowly.
The romance was a good read, not too sweet, but also not overly dramatic. Indeed it's pretty perfectly balanced.
While the characters (besides a few side characters) might have been just a tad *too* good to be true, I still liked them and was hooked to find out what would happen to them!
Definitely a good read that gets you into the Christmas mood!
I liked the dry and at times sarcastic tone of our main character a lot. Some troubles in h r past gave the book a bit more depth, which rounded the coziness up nicely.
I love the idea of the winter wonderland and was happy to see plans being worked out and all the preparations coming together slowly.
The romance was a good read, not too sweet, but also not overly dramatic. Indeed it's pretty perfectly balanced.
While the characters (besides a few side characters) might have been just a tad *too* good to be true, I still liked them and was hooked to find out what would happen to them!
Definitely a good read that gets you into the Christmas mood!
January 2, 2019
Such a disappointment. I was hoping to get a cosy, snuggle fest if a book for over the festive period but what I got was an inconsistent mess of a book.
The main character was not someone I could warm to, she came across as arrogant and slightly obnoxious.
None of the characters were given enough of a platform for you to fall in love with. Which is a shame because there were some potential corkers!
The main character was not someone I could warm to, she came across as arrogant and slightly obnoxious.
None of the characters were given enough of a platform for you to fall in love with. Which is a shame because there were some potential corkers!
November 1, 2023
I’m busy reading many Christmas themed books leading up to Christmas as a reading challenge. I had already read two other books by this author, and I was excited to read her latest one. I wasn’t disappointed at all. Filled with lots of Christmas cheer. I loved finding out more about Hayley and meeting the mysterious Gabe.
Very emotional at times, it also has the usual sweet homely feel about it. I so want to spend Christmas with all these characters.
Very emotional at times, it also has the usual sweet homely feel about it. I so want to spend Christmas with all these characters.
December 5, 2018
I have read and enjoyed several books by Heidi Swain, but I didn't read Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair (her first book set in Wynthorpe Hall) last Christmas. So for me, all the characters in Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls were completely new.
At the beginning, I struggled a bit with so many of them. But Heidi Swain made a great job of explaining who was who and pretty quickly, I was completely immersed in their story. Wynthorpe Hall is quite a pretty special setting and I completely understand now why so many people fell in love with this place with the last book. And its inhabitants are just as special.
This story focuses in the housekeeper of the Hall, Hayley. Inspired by the love of her friends Anna and Jamie, she has fallen in love herself and is about to celebrate her engagement party. But she (and we) soon realize that her Prince Charming is a bit too charming with other girls...
I loved getting to know Hayley. She wanted to present herself as this tough girl who doesn't care about love and is not hurt by the actions or the comments of other people. But under this façade, she has a huge heart and is ready to help her friends with everything she's got. She was a really complex characters that felt very real.
Then we had Gabe, who arrived at Wynthorpe Hall with a suitcase full of secrets. I was really curious about him and he surprised me more than once. I think the story evolved at the right pace, keeping us readers in our toes, always doubting what would happen to them next.
But Hayley and Gabe's story was not the only thing going on... the Hall was getting ready for the perfect Winter Wonderland, which sounded just magical. And all the secondary characters had their role to play in it. Readers of Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair will be happy to catch up with their old favourites too!
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls is a heart-warming story with a good dash of Christmas magic. With interesting characters and a beautiful setting, it's the perfect read to get into the festive spirit!
At the beginning, I struggled a bit with so many of them. But Heidi Swain made a great job of explaining who was who and pretty quickly, I was completely immersed in their story. Wynthorpe Hall is quite a pretty special setting and I completely understand now why so many people fell in love with this place with the last book. And its inhabitants are just as special.
This story focuses in the housekeeper of the Hall, Hayley. Inspired by the love of her friends Anna and Jamie, she has fallen in love herself and is about to celebrate her engagement party. But she (and we) soon realize that her Prince Charming is a bit too charming with other girls...
I loved getting to know Hayley. She wanted to present herself as this tough girl who doesn't care about love and is not hurt by the actions or the comments of other people. But under this façade, she has a huge heart and is ready to help her friends with everything she's got. She was a really complex characters that felt very real.
Then we had Gabe, who arrived at Wynthorpe Hall with a suitcase full of secrets. I was really curious about him and he surprised me more than once. I think the story evolved at the right pace, keeping us readers in our toes, always doubting what would happen to them next.
But Hayley and Gabe's story was not the only thing going on... the Hall was getting ready for the perfect Winter Wonderland, which sounded just magical. And all the secondary characters had their role to play in it. Readers of Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair will be happy to catch up with their old favourites too!
Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls is a heart-warming story with a good dash of Christmas magic. With interesting characters and a beautiful setting, it's the perfect read to get into the festive spirit!
December 6, 2019
I read this as a stand alone & thoroughly enjoyed it. Full of festive fun. I'm now looking forward to reading mpre of Heidi's books & getting to know the residents of Wynthorpe Hall more 🎄 🎁
December 16, 2023
They’d is nothing more Christmassy than a Heidi Swain holiday novel. This book is filled with the spirit of Christmas and all that entails—love, family, hope, and joy! I was charmed by the characters,especially the endearing, spirited duo of Gabe and Hayley!
January 31, 2023
This was a bit of a let down after the previous book I’d read. Molly is at her own engagement party when she finds her fiancé cheating on her in the toilets. The rest is very predictable, she’s upset of course but it doesn’t take her long to be goggle eyed at the new guy helping at the manor. I felt this was more of a young adult book rather than a nice Christmassy one I was expecting like recent books I’ve read. Just a bit disappointed but ends well for her as these books generally do.
The end of my Christmas genre until Christmas in July here in South Australia 📚
The end of my Christmas genre until Christmas in July here in South Australia 📚
December 11, 2021
This was such a lovely read, for this time of year. All the way through all I wanted was the two main characters to get together. Would definitely recommend this book. Especially in the festive season.
December 17, 2022
This is the fourth year in a row where I’ve read a Heidi Swain Christmas book, and they really are lovely festive reads. This like the other ones I’ve read is set in the fictional villiage of Wynthorpe. The main story of this was fine, fairly predictable, and hallmarky. But the Christmassy atmosphere is spot on & I like seeing returning characters, locations that reappear in all her stories. Like a hug in a book - a cute Christmas read!
December 13, 2024
4,5 Sterne
Read
September 12, 2018loved it...more to follow when published
October 5, 2019
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to Simon and Schuester for my copies of this book. I was so very excited when the paperback of this book landed on my doorstep a few weeks ago. I have read quite a few of Heidi's books now and if there is one thing she excels at it's writing a Christmas story!
Firstly I am SO excited to return to Wynthorpe Hall! Last Christmas we ventured here for Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair and it is truly a magical place. Not only did we meet new characters we also got to catch up with some well-known names too.
Hayley has been working at Wynthorpe Hall since she finished school. Hayley has had her share of scandals in life and after the latest one, she moves into Wynthorpe Hall at the instance of all the residents! Hayley is very much like a creme egg. She's hard on the outside but, soft and gooey on the inside. Her past has made her put up all these barriers because she can't face getting hurt again. Hayley is an easy character to root for. I could easily see myself want to be friends with her.
Hayley wasn't the only new resident at Wynthorpe Hall. Jamie's friend Gabe is joining the family too. Gabe is a strong silent type. He's not into sharing his feelings and he's got a secret that he definitely doesn't want to share. He's also mighty fine. With his lumberjack physic, it's all too easy to get hot under the collar when he's around.
For me, it was really great to catch up with some familiar faces but don't fret if you haven't read one of Heidi's books before because this can definitely be read as a standalone. If you are anything like me though you will be seeking out all of Heidi's previous books so that you can enjoy more of her enchanting world.
Angus is my favourite character. He embraces everything Christmas and he's so infectious he has everyone joining in! The Winter Wonderland was magnificent and I was so wrapped up in it that I forgot that it's actually still October!
If it hasn't become apparent yet I loved this story! Heidi had me laughing and crying throughout this book. There were sad tears and there were very happy tears! I particularly enjoyed the last chapter at the party.
So go grab yourself a drink, a slice of cake and plonk yourself on the sofa with this book! I guarantee you won't want to move for hours!
Firstly I am SO excited to return to Wynthorpe Hall! Last Christmas we ventured here for Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair and it is truly a magical place. Not only did we meet new characters we also got to catch up with some well-known names too.
Hayley has been working at Wynthorpe Hall since she finished school. Hayley has had her share of scandals in life and after the latest one, she moves into Wynthorpe Hall at the instance of all the residents! Hayley is very much like a creme egg. She's hard on the outside but, soft and gooey on the inside. Her past has made her put up all these barriers because she can't face getting hurt again. Hayley is an easy character to root for. I could easily see myself want to be friends with her.
Hayley wasn't the only new resident at Wynthorpe Hall. Jamie's friend Gabe is joining the family too. Gabe is a strong silent type. He's not into sharing his feelings and he's got a secret that he definitely doesn't want to share. He's also mighty fine. With his lumberjack physic, it's all too easy to get hot under the collar when he's around.
For me, it was really great to catch up with some familiar faces but don't fret if you haven't read one of Heidi's books before because this can definitely be read as a standalone. If you are anything like me though you will be seeking out all of Heidi's previous books so that you can enjoy more of her enchanting world.
Angus is my favourite character. He embraces everything Christmas and he's so infectious he has everyone joining in! The Winter Wonderland was magnificent and I was so wrapped up in it that I forgot that it's actually still October!
If it hasn't become apparent yet I loved this story! Heidi had me laughing and crying throughout this book. There were sad tears and there were very happy tears! I particularly enjoyed the last chapter at the party.
So go grab yourself a drink, a slice of cake and plonk yourself on the sofa with this book! I guarantee you won't want to move for hours!
December 29, 2019
The story of the book started quite quickly, diving right into the drama. Hayley moves into the big Wynthorpe Hall after she breaks off the engagment to this jerk (sorry, have no nice words to say about him) Gavin. She meets handsome stranger Gabe, who starts working at the Hall and has a story of his own.
As expected these two start to like eachother and cliché upon cliché should make you feel their chemistry (chopping wood is apparently something you do shirtless. Gabe does it, Hayley observes from a distance). I know I'm being sarcastic, but for some reason this relationship felt a bit unnatural for me. I just couldn't feel their chemistry and this back-and-forth between them during the book got annoying after about 2/3 of the book.
Also, I couldn't understand the main character Hayley. After her engagement ends she is presistent she's gone too soft during her relationship with Gavin and she wants to be the old Hayley again. This jabbering about old Hayley vs. new Hayley got annoying pretty quickly and for me it didn't really add something to the story or made me understand the character more. It also took me about 80 pages or so for me the like her. I'm not sure that's because I haven't read the other books in this series, could be.
Speaking about the horrible ex-fiancée Gavin. I felt he got off quite easily. I would've been pissed and so angry for his betrayal that I wouldn't talk to him for months (but maybe that's just me and probably far easier to do in a big city than a small village). But I wouldn't have talk to him or let him into my life again in the same way Hayley did.
But to leave this review on a positive note, it wasn't a bad read. There is enough going on to make you read the book all the way to the end. Hence the two star rating.
As expected these two start to like eachother and cliché upon cliché should make you feel their chemistry (chopping wood is apparently something you do shirtless. Gabe does it, Hayley observes from a distance). I know I'm being sarcastic, but for some reason this relationship felt a bit unnatural for me. I just couldn't feel their chemistry and this back-and-forth between them during the book got annoying after about 2/3 of the book.
Also, I couldn't understand the main character Hayley. After her engagement ends she is presistent she's gone too soft during her relationship with Gavin and she wants to be the old Hayley again. This jabbering about old Hayley vs. new Hayley got annoying pretty quickly and for me it didn't really add something to the story or made me understand the character more. It also took me about 80 pages or so for me the like her. I'm not sure that's because I haven't read the other books in this series, could be.
Speaking about the horrible ex-fiancée Gavin. I felt he got off quite easily. I would've been pissed and so angry for his betrayal that I wouldn't talk to him for months (but maybe that's just me and probably far easier to do in a big city than a small village). But I wouldn't have talk to him or let him into my life again in the same way Hayley did.
But to leave this review on a positive note, it wasn't a bad read. There is enough going on to make you read the book all the way to the end. Hence the two star rating.
December 14, 2021
I think this is my favourite Heidi read so far… and yes I know that’s a big statement but I loved this and absolutely flew through it! We are back at Wynbridge Hall (the same place that Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair is set at) but this book is focused on Hayley’s story. I liked her in the previous book but she bustled around in the background whereas in this she was front and centre and she shone! I absolutely loved her in this and then mix in Gabe to and 😮💨 that is a match made in heaven!
Gavin is such a **** (fill that with whatever word you desire) and although he starts off looking like butter wouldn’t melt we soon start to see his true colours! I found myself almost grimacing every time he was mentioned as I just wanted him to stay away from Hayley and leave her be. She really does deserve better than him!
As always with Heidi’s books we hear a lot about previous characters and I was really excited to hear all of the updates and news - there was a lot! But my favourite was Ed (who we first met in Coming Home to Cuckoo Cottage) and his owls, it just made me smile remembering how attentive he is with all the animals - maybe another vet to work alongside Will in the future? Then there’s Molly’s and Jemma’s news - which I am super excited about by the way! I’m not going to spoil anything but read it! I am so excited to read the next book now!
Gavin is such a **** (fill that with whatever word you desire) and although he starts off looking like butter wouldn’t melt we soon start to see his true colours! I found myself almost grimacing every time he was mentioned as I just wanted him to stay away from Hayley and leave her be. She really does deserve better than him!
As always with Heidi’s books we hear a lot about previous characters and I was really excited to hear all of the updates and news - there was a lot! But my favourite was Ed (who we first met in Coming Home to Cuckoo Cottage) and his owls, it just made me smile remembering how attentive he is with all the animals - maybe another vet to work alongside Will in the future? Then there’s Molly’s and Jemma’s news - which I am super excited about by the way! I’m not going to spoil anything but read it! I am so excited to read the next book now!
January 5, 2020
I was enjoying this as a Christmas read aside from the constant blocks between hero and heroine, but the reveal a few pages towards the end of the book made me mark this hella low. It made me really go off the heroine and abruptly not give a shit about the couple getting together or the characters as a whole. The two stars are for writing style, but the “plot twist” was insensitive and not treated as seriously as it should have been.
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