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Christmas Wishes #5
The Magic of Gingerbread
Sometimes the only way to gauge the depth of a man’s regard is with the magic of gingerbread.
In 1888 London, Miss Eleanor Redding, possessed of a beastly, grouchy attitude, works for Western Union Telegraph Company. It gives her a certain independence and a place to hide from her disappointing past in America. When she accidentally intercepts a Morse-coded message alluding to clandestine and nefarious activity, she accepts the challenge with alacrity. It will take her mind off the fact she’s once more alone for the Christmas holidays. Why couldn’t a man look past her prickles and scars to fight for her?
Mr. Cameron Hallewell, grandson of the Earl of Albemarle, is employed by the Home Office in the matters of foreign interests. He takes his occupation of protecting British interests seriously, but he longs for a woman to surprise him in unexpected ways, to want him instead of his social standing. When there’s news of a foreign operative lurking about Victoria Station planning something vile, he intends to track them down... only to find an attractive woman tailing various strangers on the platform and looking for all the world like a spy herself.
They get on together like oil and water, but despite Eleanor’s prickles and Cameron’s bruised heart as well as his secrets, a spark catches between them. As the unlikely pair work together to capture a spy and prevent harm from befalling London, they come to care for and rely on each other. Throw in the intriguing prospect of an unexpected Christmas courtship, and they could have a romance that spans the ages... if they’ll only let themselves give into granted wishes and a passion that’s been there all along.
In 1888 London, Miss Eleanor Redding, possessed of a beastly, grouchy attitude, works for Western Union Telegraph Company. It gives her a certain independence and a place to hide from her disappointing past in America. When she accidentally intercepts a Morse-coded message alluding to clandestine and nefarious activity, she accepts the challenge with alacrity. It will take her mind off the fact she’s once more alone for the Christmas holidays. Why couldn’t a man look past her prickles and scars to fight for her?
Mr. Cameron Hallewell, grandson of the Earl of Albemarle, is employed by the Home Office in the matters of foreign interests. He takes his occupation of protecting British interests seriously, but he longs for a woman to surprise him in unexpected ways, to want him instead of his social standing. When there’s news of a foreign operative lurking about Victoria Station planning something vile, he intends to track them down... only to find an attractive woman tailing various strangers on the platform and looking for all the world like a spy herself.
They get on together like oil and water, but despite Eleanor’s prickles and Cameron’s bruised heart as well as his secrets, a spark catches between them. As the unlikely pair work together to capture a spy and prevent harm from befalling London, they come to care for and rely on each other. Throw in the intriguing prospect of an unexpected Christmas courtship, and they could have a romance that spans the ages... if they’ll only let themselves give into granted wishes and a passion that’s been there all along.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2018
54 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Sandra Sookoo
337 books273 followersSandra Sookoo is a bestselling author who firmly believes every person deserves acceptance and a happy ending. Most days you can find her creating scandal and mischief in the Regency-era, serendipity and happenstance in Victorian America or snarky humor in the contemporary world. Reading romance is a lot like eating fine chocolates—you can’t just have one. Good thing books don’t have calories!
When she’s not wearing out computer keyboards, Sandra spends time with her real life Prince Charming in central Indiana where she’s been known to goof off and make moments count because the key to life is laughter. A Disney fan since the age of ten, when her soul gets bogged down and her imagination flags, a trip to Walt Disney World is in order. Nothing fuels her dreams more than the land of eternal happy endings, hope and love stories.
When she’s not wearing out computer keyboards, Sandra spends time with her real life Prince Charming in central Indiana where she’s been known to goof off and make moments count because the key to life is laughter. A Disney fan since the age of ten, when her soul gets bogged down and her imagination flags, a trip to Walt Disney World is in order. Nothing fuels her dreams more than the land of eternal happy endings, hope and love stories.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 16, 2022
I thought this was a regency, I was in the mood for a regency - so it took me a month to complete. The premise was possible, but I didn't enjoy it as much as possible because, it was after all, not a regency.
December 4, 2018
A truly magical story that brings two people together in an unexpected way. When I finished this story early this morning, all I could do was sigh at a wonderful ending and know this will be on my keeper shelf.
Cameron, agent for the crown, is use to spending most of his time finding out information to protect Britain. But deep down he longs for a woman who would keep him engaged with his mind and senses. "If I had one wish, it would be for a woman to need me for me, not for what I might give her or to improve her social standing." There are more beautiful words to this but I will not spoil it. Of yes, just melt my heart.
Eleanor had come to London from America, trying to start anew and hide from the world after her terrible relationships. She guarded herself with invisible armor, avoiding men and working at her job with Western Union. She had her own wishes to find someone to make her whole again and want her despite all of her past.
The two meet when Eleanor intercepts a Morse coded message that makes her think something big and terrible may be happening, so she goes to track the person down at Victorian Station. Cameron is there also but on the real mission of finding people who are truly a possible threat.
Of course they meet and the adventure begins!! I saved so many quotes and written parts of this book in my notebook on my kindle app it took up two pages! There is a lot packed into this tale with mystery, intrigue, a building affection and a wonderful Gingerbread man that was the most imaginative idea by this author! Just a wonderful page turner that brings the spirit of Christmas alive!! Just beautiful.
Cameron, agent for the crown, is use to spending most of his time finding out information to protect Britain. But deep down he longs for a woman who would keep him engaged with his mind and senses. "If I had one wish, it would be for a woman to need me for me, not for what I might give her or to improve her social standing." There are more beautiful words to this but I will not spoil it. Of yes, just melt my heart.
Eleanor had come to London from America, trying to start anew and hide from the world after her terrible relationships. She guarded herself with invisible armor, avoiding men and working at her job with Western Union. She had her own wishes to find someone to make her whole again and want her despite all of her past.
The two meet when Eleanor intercepts a Morse coded message that makes her think something big and terrible may be happening, so she goes to track the person down at Victorian Station. Cameron is there also but on the real mission of finding people who are truly a possible threat.
Of course they meet and the adventure begins!! I saved so many quotes and written parts of this book in my notebook on my kindle app it took up two pages! There is a lot packed into this tale with mystery, intrigue, a building affection and a wonderful Gingerbread man that was the most imaginative idea by this author! Just a wonderful page turner that brings the spirit of Christmas alive!! Just beautiful.
December 7, 2018
Oh how I loved this holiday story! The Magic of Gingerbread by Sandra Sookoo is book 5 in the Christmas Wishes series. Though in a series this regency book can be read in a standalone. This is one of the most romantic stories that I have ever read and a big mystery also! Sandra has such a creative mind and this story is truly an original that I could not put it down. You fall in love with the hero and heroine and really hate the villains. Her descriptions are clear and true to the regency era. I loved her comparison to Gingerbread and the meaning behind it. You will just have to read this book to find out what I am talking about. This story has spies, cruelty, broken hearts, an evil plan, persistence, caring, fears, abuse, Morse Code, scandal, kindness, a sister’s love, betrayal, friendship, understanding and yes, love and Gingerbread. I highly recommend this story and any of Sandra Sookoo’s books… You won’t be disappointed!
January 17, 2019
This was a great Victorian Christmastime story with heartfelt emotion, intrigue, and romance. The widowed Eleanor has walled off her heart behind some rather sturdy defenses. She's been hurt before, both physically and emotionally, and she's not going to let it happen again. When she intercepts a cryptic message at her job in the Western Union telegraph office in London, she just wants to see if she can find the person the message is intended for. She doesn't expect to run into a handsome and slightly exasperating man who might have a chance of breaking down her barriers. While Cameron should be concentrating on finding enemy spies, he's distracted by the fiery woman who charges into the spy game with nothing more than her wits and a rather pointy umbrella.
Eleanor and Cameron make a great team, and I enjoyed seeing how they were able to help each other open up, let go of the past, and find the possibility of love again.
Eleanor and Cameron make a great team, and I enjoyed seeing how they were able to help each other open up, let go of the past, and find the possibility of love again.
January 30, 2021
My review originally posted at Audible.
I don't often read books that are set in the late 1800s, but this was a nice change of pace. Set around Christmas time in Victorian London, I was pulled into the world Sandra Sookoo created. The book was part mystery (although not terribly complicated, since that wasn't the focus) and part romance. I enjoyed the touch of mystery that ultimately brought together Eleanor and Cameron and the development of their romance was sweet. I was happy with the story and feel that it easily could have been expanded upon.
The narration of Anneliese Rennie and Greg Patmore worked for me. They both had good pacing and injected emotion into their performances. I haven't listened to a book narrated by either of them before, but I wouldn't hesitate to do so.
I don't often read books that are set in the late 1800s, but this was a nice change of pace. Set around Christmas time in Victorian London, I was pulled into the world Sandra Sookoo created. The book was part mystery (although not terribly complicated, since that wasn't the focus) and part romance. I enjoyed the touch of mystery that ultimately brought together Eleanor and Cameron and the development of their romance was sweet. I was happy with the story and feel that it easily could have been expanded upon.
The narration of Anneliese Rennie and Greg Patmore worked for me. They both had good pacing and injected emotion into their performances. I haven't listened to a book narrated by either of them before, but I wouldn't hesitate to do so.
December 23, 2020
The Magic of Gingerbread
Christmas Wishes, Book 5
By: Sandra Sookoo
Narrated by: Anneliese Rennie, Greg Patmore
Who would ever think there would be magic in gingerbread? This beautiful historical romance will show you exactly how it works! Cameron is an agent of the crown, always looking out for Britain. But who is looking out for Cameron? Wanting more than a person who wants him for his stature, he would love to meet a woman who will challenge him and keep him on his toes. And this Christmas, his desires may just come true. Eleanor, widowed and unhappy in American moves to London working for Western Union. When she catches an unusual Morse code message, she finds herself intrigued and wanting to know more. Little does she know it will lead her to the help of Cameron! These two are like magic together. Eleanor's character is fantastic. She is smart, yet lonely and wishes to find someone to fill that void for her. Will Cameron and gingerbread do just that? Cameron too is lonely, but when this mission comes up, will he keep Britain safe or will Eleanor be too big of a distraction? and It's a fun, flirty and intelligent listen, all the things make a story exciting. I loved their romance and their adventure!
Narration of this story is fabulous. Anneliese Rennie as Eleanor brings out all the her colors. She is a complex character and Rennie lets us understand personality and feel her emotions as she gets to know Cameron. She has some amazing British accents for secondary characters too! Greg Patmore is new to me, and I loved him. He creates Cameron, larger than life and uses his voice to take us through his journey. This team gave Sandra Sookoo's story that gingerbread spice!
Christmas Wishes, Book 5
By: Sandra Sookoo
Narrated by: Anneliese Rennie, Greg Patmore
Who would ever think there would be magic in gingerbread? This beautiful historical romance will show you exactly how it works! Cameron is an agent of the crown, always looking out for Britain. But who is looking out for Cameron? Wanting more than a person who wants him for his stature, he would love to meet a woman who will challenge him and keep him on his toes. And this Christmas, his desires may just come true. Eleanor, widowed and unhappy in American moves to London working for Western Union. When she catches an unusual Morse code message, she finds herself intrigued and wanting to know more. Little does she know it will lead her to the help of Cameron! These two are like magic together. Eleanor's character is fantastic. She is smart, yet lonely and wishes to find someone to fill that void for her. Will Cameron and gingerbread do just that? Cameron too is lonely, but when this mission comes up, will he keep Britain safe or will Eleanor be too big of a distraction? and It's a fun, flirty and intelligent listen, all the things make a story exciting. I loved their romance and their adventure!
Narration of this story is fabulous. Anneliese Rennie as Eleanor brings out all the her colors. She is a complex character and Rennie lets us understand personality and feel her emotions as she gets to know Cameron. She has some amazing British accents for secondary characters too! Greg Patmore is new to me, and I loved him. He creates Cameron, larger than life and uses his voice to take us through his journey. This team gave Sandra Sookoo's story that gingerbread spice!
December 19, 2025
Aw, man! I was really hoping to love this one! It's my first Sandra Sookoo, and the premise sounded so fun. The problem, was, and it's something that's been really driving me crazy lately, is that we have a holiday bait-and-switch. Honestly, even the summary isn't really accurate in terms of what you're getting for the most part. I was going to give this book zero stars, quite frankly, but the ending saved it. The actual spy plot was barely there until the end, and there's a twist involving Cameron's late wife (or fiance?) that was interesting, and then became far-fetched.
Most of this plot revolves around Eleanor, who has endured infertility, miscarriages, emotional abuse, cheating, and physical abuse from her two previous husbands. It's a LOT for a Christmas story that's also supposed to be a cloak and dagger tale. (They ice skate, though, so that's something. And there's a bit about gingerbread, which also largely goes over the heroine's head.) We spend the vast majority of our time suffering alongside Cameron and Eleanor. She's cynical, bitter, and takes her hostility out on every man in her path. Cameron happens to be the most frequent recipient of her abuse, and is somehow falling in love with her anyway. I saw no chemistry, and can't fathom their connection at all. Cameron is a spy, yet does no spying, as he's completely obsessed with Eleanor and her moods.
Trigger warnings: infertility (before story begins), miscarriages (before story begins), cheating (before story begins), death of fiance/wife (before story begins), emotional/physical spousal abuse (before story begins), peril, beating of someone with a bat, fighting (physical)
Most of this plot revolves around Eleanor, who has endured infertility, miscarriages, emotional abuse, cheating, and physical abuse from her two previous husbands. It's a LOT for a Christmas story that's also supposed to be a cloak and dagger tale. (They ice skate, though, so that's something. And there's a bit about gingerbread, which also largely goes over the heroine's head.) We spend the vast majority of our time suffering alongside Cameron and Eleanor. She's cynical, bitter, and takes her hostility out on every man in her path. Cameron happens to be the most frequent recipient of her abuse, and is somehow falling in love with her anyway. I saw no chemistry, and can't fathom their connection at all. Cameron is a spy, yet does no spying, as he's completely obsessed with Eleanor and her moods.
Trigger warnings: infertility (before story begins), miscarriages (before story begins), cheating (before story begins), death of fiance/wife (before story begins), emotional/physical spousal abuse (before story begins), peril, beating of someone with a bat, fighting (physical)
December 23, 2020
Romantic
It's romantic but a little bit slow. The character of the hero in the story appears to get so caught up in his infatuation with the Morse code operator that he seems to forget that he's supposed to be after a spy. I found that part of the story a bit hard to accept, when she seems to actually take it more seriously than he. Had me shaking my head, but the romance was the story not the intrigue, so I just accepted that it's not a suspense. The story is a little corny with the gingerbread, but its a good simple romantic story that would be good for even young readers, though she does have some sexual references but no actual sex during the story. If you're a fan of the Hallmark channel, this will fit your style. Simply Christmas miracle style.
It's romantic but a little bit slow. The character of the hero in the story appears to get so caught up in his infatuation with the Morse code operator that he seems to forget that he's supposed to be after a spy. I found that part of the story a bit hard to accept, when she seems to actually take it more seriously than he. Had me shaking my head, but the romance was the story not the intrigue, so I just accepted that it's not a suspense. The story is a little corny with the gingerbread, but its a good simple romantic story that would be good for even young readers, though she does have some sexual references but no actual sex during the story. If you're a fan of the Hallmark channel, this will fit your style. Simply Christmas miracle style.
December 17, 2020
The Magic of Gingerbread (Christmas Wishes Book 5)
This is a six book series but you don't have to read all the books or in order. Each book stand along. The love story of Eleanor and Cameron. Eleanor is an American who live in England. She has hard her heart against all men because of the way she has been treated. She accidentally get a message mint for a spy.
Cameron works for the Home Office. He is at the train station looking for a spy working against England where he met Eleanor, who is also looking for the spy. Will they find the spy or find love and their heart? Great Christmas story.
This is a six book series but you don't have to read all the books or in order. Each book stand along. The love story of Eleanor and Cameron. Eleanor is an American who live in England. She has hard her heart against all men because of the way she has been treated. She accidentally get a message mint for a spy.
Cameron works for the Home Office. He is at the train station looking for a spy working against England where he met Eleanor, who is also looking for the spy. Will they find the spy or find love and their heart? Great Christmas story.
December 25, 2023
Outstanding holiday romance
Oh my goodness! Where do I start? We have Elanor, an emotionally wounded but spirited, strong, intelligent woman who works in a message office. There is Cameron who works for the Home Office, a strong man who is not afraid of a strong, intelligent woman. They meet while trying to apprehend a spy. Their love for each other slowly blooms as they work together to find the spy intent on destroying England. Tension, laughter, tenderness, and a gingerbread man are sprinkled throughout this feel-good holiday romance. Be sure to snap it up and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying romance.
Oh my goodness! Where do I start? We have Elanor, an emotionally wounded but spirited, strong, intelligent woman who works in a message office. There is Cameron who works for the Home Office, a strong man who is not afraid of a strong, intelligent woman. They meet while trying to apprehend a spy. Their love for each other slowly blooms as they work together to find the spy intent on destroying England. Tension, laughter, tenderness, and a gingerbread man are sprinkled throughout this feel-good holiday romance. Be sure to snap it up and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying romance.
December 5, 2018
Everyone deserves to be loved, even a broken gingerbread man! I just finished reading this book and I must say, it's now become one of my favourites. I love this author's style of writing and the whole story kept me intrigued from start to finish. My heart went out to Eleanor and Cameron....just two souls wanting only to be loved for themselves. This book contains intrigue, mystery, angst, romance, twists and turns, heartwarming quotes, etc. When next I make gingerbread, I will smile and think of this story:)
January 15, 2024
Magical Christmastime story!
Eleanor and Cameron are forces to be reckoned with. Eleanor is jaded from previous relationships and scandals and Cameron is the one who can rescue her from her past. Cameron is suave, handsome, and sexy. He works for the Home Office, but has a pedestrian mission this time - to woo the prickly Eleanor. There is so much in this novella, it has the feel of a full - length novel. Little do Eleanor and Cameron know that their story will be -plagued by espionage and treason. An incredible tale, it showcases the magic of the Christmas season.
Eleanor and Cameron are forces to be reckoned with. Eleanor is jaded from previous relationships and scandals and Cameron is the one who can rescue her from her past. Cameron is suave, handsome, and sexy. He works for the Home Office, but has a pedestrian mission this time - to woo the prickly Eleanor. There is so much in this novella, it has the feel of a full - length novel. Little do Eleanor and Cameron know that their story will be -plagued by espionage and treason. An incredible tale, it showcases the magic of the Christmas season.
December 8, 2018
Magic indeed!
A woman broken by life, a man determined to put her back together. Cameron and Eleanor 's story is a work of art. Mrs. Sookoo delivers complex characters, delightful humor and intrigue that pulls you in from the very first paragraph. What a gift!
A woman broken by life, a man determined to put her back together. Cameron and Eleanor 's story is a work of art. Mrs. Sookoo delivers complex characters, delightful humor and intrigue that pulls you in from the very first paragraph. What a gift!
December 11, 2018
4 Stars
A delightful regency based story that while doesn't strictly follow the time period it does follow the spirit of the timeframe. The story moves right along with a quaint feel to the characters. Truly worth your time to enjoy this book.
A delightful regency based story that while doesn't strictly follow the time period it does follow the spirit of the timeframe. The story moves right along with a quaint feel to the characters. Truly worth your time to enjoy this book.
April 22, 2021
This is the fifth book in the Christmas Wishes Series, a Historical Romance. Eleanor And Cameron’s story is beautifully written, fun, magical, and sweet. Anneliese Rennie and Greg Patmore did a great job with the narration.
December 1, 2021
Cute holiday story
Plot is given away a bit too much in middle of book and there were numerous instances of awkward wording, but the developing relationship between these two is quite sweet to read.
Plot is given away a bit too much in middle of book and there were numerous instances of awkward wording, but the developing relationship between these two is quite sweet to read.
December 19, 2023
Wonderful
I couldn't put this book down because the characters drew me to them and the plot kept me turning page after page. Great story. Will look forward to more from Sandra Sookoo.
I couldn't put this book down because the characters drew me to them and the plot kept me turning page after page. Great story. Will look forward to more from Sandra Sookoo.
August 19, 2020
Cute story
December 10, 2020
Simple romance
Nice gentle romance with a mystery to solve. The mystery was very obvious from the start. Still, a pleasing Christmas story.
Nice gentle romance with a mystery to solve. The mystery was very obvious from the start. Still, a pleasing Christmas story.
October 20, 2021
Very good book, I enjoyed the story, I listened to this book on audio books
December 16, 2023
loved it
What a great short story. It had enough romance and adventure to keep me hooked. Lots of twists and things I didn’t expect. I was glad that Ellie found her HEA!
What a great short story. It had enough romance and adventure to keep me hooked. Lots of twists and things I didn’t expect. I was glad that Ellie found her HEA!
November 26, 2024
Sweet romance
December 19, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this historical Christmas romance. The characters were fun, and there was a mystery as well.
September 10, 2022
I eagerly await each year when Sandra Sookoo gives us a sneak peek into what she's writing/releasing for the Christmas season and I was BEYOND excited a few years ago to get my hands on this book.
Who wouldn't?!
A woman whose heart has been shattered and broken due to marriages to two horrible men, a family who sent her off to another country instead of helping her to heal.
Eleanor has a spine of steel, a tongue that is exquisitely barbed when needed, and the thorns she has around her to keep people at bay are apropos. But underneath her armor is a passionate, intelligent, adventurous woman who craves love with someone who can see past all of her boundaries and still want her, figurative scars and all. Someone who can match her wit for wit, and push past the prickly thorns, and love her defense mechanisms.
Enter Cameron. Dashing agent for the Home Office. Adoring, albeit sometimes absentee father, to an adorably precocious little girl (Ada). Grandson of an Earl. Intelligent, though he admittedly missed out on something that was a hint obvious. He takes being an Agent seriously, and takes getting to know the wary Mrs. Redding just as seriously.
He is everything a woman wants in a partner. He doesn't treat her as if she's stupid simply because she's a woman. He treats her with respect, is cautious when he can tell that her thorns are closing in once again, and is always very honest with her about how he sees them progressing. He treats her like an equal.
Sandra Sookoo doesn't write cookie cutter romances and her characters are not cookie cutter, either. There are no cliches, there's never a boring moment. I loved this romantic mystery and
I highly, highly recommend.
Who wouldn't?!
A woman whose heart has been shattered and broken due to marriages to two horrible men, a family who sent her off to another country instead of helping her to heal.
Eleanor has a spine of steel, a tongue that is exquisitely barbed when needed, and the thorns she has around her to keep people at bay are apropos. But underneath her armor is a passionate, intelligent, adventurous woman who craves love with someone who can see past all of her boundaries and still want her, figurative scars and all. Someone who can match her wit for wit, and push past the prickly thorns, and love her defense mechanisms.
Enter Cameron. Dashing agent for the Home Office. Adoring, albeit sometimes absentee father, to an adorably precocious little girl (Ada). Grandson of an Earl. Intelligent, though he admittedly missed out on something that was a hint obvious. He takes being an Agent seriously, and takes getting to know the wary Mrs. Redding just as seriously.
He is everything a woman wants in a partner. He doesn't treat her as if she's stupid simply because she's a woman. He treats her with respect, is cautious when he can tell that her thorns are closing in once again, and is always very honest with her about how he sees them progressing. He treats her like an equal.
Sandra Sookoo doesn't write cookie cutter romances and her characters are not cookie cutter, either. There are no cliches, there's never a boring moment. I loved this romantic mystery and
I highly, highly recommend.
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews