Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Shadow Creek, Montana #6

A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor

Rate this book

Fall in love this holiday season with this heartwarming story about finding romance, the magic of Christmas, and the importance of family...

Children's bookstore owner Addie Mayberry believes in the magic of Christmas. Or at least, she used to. So when a young customer needs some seasonal optimism, Addie sets out to give the vulnerable, heartbroken little girl the best Christmas ever. Which means helping the hottest man in Shadow Creek, Bella's surgeon father, find his holiday spirit. Addie's up to the challenge, but between tree decorating and late night talks, she realizes she's starting to fall hard for the one man she definitely shouldn't.

Drew Barrett drastically changed his fast-paced life when he moved back to Shadow Creek, but it was all worth it to give his daughter a better life. He wasn't exactly winning dad-of-the-year awards before, so he's determined to make it up to Bella. And with Addie's help, he's slowly repairing his relationship with his daughter. The last thing he wants is to fall in love, since that road only leads to pain, but he can't stop thinking about Addie. Not only is she gorgeous, sweet, and great with Bella, she fills something in him he never knew was missing. But Addie wants forever, which is more than Drew can offer...

Each book in the Shadow Creek, Montana series is
* Christmas with the Sheriff
* The Baby Bombshell
* The Doctor's Redemption
* Baby on the Bad Boy’s Doorstep
* The Firefighter's Pretend Fiance
* A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor

141 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 12, 2018

111 people are currently reading
266 people want to read

About the author

Victoria James

30 books1,025 followers
Victoria James is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance.

She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
167 (51%)
4 stars
115 (35%)
3 stars
31 (9%)
2 stars
9 (2%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for Nicola.
1,390 reviews287 followers
November 7, 2018
4.25 stars.

Crack out the mulled wine and mince pies fellow bookworms, Victoria James has arrived with her festive offering, taking us back to Shadow Creek for quiet bookstore owner, Addie and single dad and doctor, Drew’s romance.

description

For me, a holiday read should have that curl-up-by-the-fire feel and A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor has exactly that as you settle in and quickly realise you’re going to lose your heart to the cutest, most insightful little girl, her babysitter and new best friend, and her dad—determined to be the parent she so deserves.

description We’re going to be fine, just you and I.”

And lose my heart I did as Drew and Addie lose theirs with a few little inadvertent nudges from Isabella along the way. As is always the case when I pick up a book by Victoria James, I literally read the whole thing in one sitting and whilst A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor may not have socked quite the emotional punch and depth others in the series have, it’s the perfect read for the season, filled with heart, humour and charm, once again highlighting why she remains a firm favourite.

description I’ve never met someone like you…you make me believe in everything good...”

Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.

description
Profile Image for Claire.
2,324 reviews738 followers
November 5, 2018
4.5 - "Make a Christmas wish..." Stars!

We return to Shadow Creek, Montana for the sixth book in Victoria James series of the same name. A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor gives us Addie Mayberry’s happily ever after, and with newcomer to town Dr. Drew Barrett and his adorable daughter Isabella.

How time had passed so quickly, how she’d gone from a baby to a little girl. How many firsts he’d missed, he’d taken for granted…

Drew has returned to Shadow Creek to concentrate on family. Being sole guardian for his daughter after her mother decides she wants an unencumbered life opens his eyes to just how little time he has had for her in the past. What with his high flying job as a city surgeon and active social life, Bella has grown up mostly in the care of nannies and babysitters. Being abandoned by her mother as well opens Drew’s eyes to just how much he has failed her so far as a parent.

"I’ll never put anything above my daughters happiness again."

Earning her trust again and being the best father he can be are going to be his main focus for the foreseeable, so meeting and falling in love with another woman are definitely things he is not looking for. That is until he meets shy, bookshop owner Addie, and his daughter turns into her biggest cheerleader, especially as they spend more time together when she becomes her after-school babysitter.

They were everything she had ever wanted in a family… except for the fact that they were off limits.

Low on the drama scale, I pretty much read this book in a sitting. It’s one of the less emotional reads from the series, but it offered up everything I want in an easy-going romantic Christmas read. Likeable characters, and a cute little girl, add an attraction that won’t quit it was the perfect read for an afternoon snuggled in a chair with your favorite hot beverage to hand.

"The minute I saw you I knew I was in trouble."

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Profile Image for Jonetta.
2,616 reviews1,338 followers
November 28, 2018
Addie Mayberry left her job as a head librarian to open a children’s bookstore and she’s turned it into something magical. When 8-year old Bella Barrett wanders into the store, she and Addie develop an immediate bond. Her father, Drew Barrett, a highly successful surgeon, recently relocated to Shadow Creek, returning to his hometown to try and salvage his daughter’s childhood, which had been devoid of any meaningful parental attention. His marriage ended miserably with his ex-wife not even wanting shared custody of their child.

Don’t be fooled by the light-hearted cover as this story is steeped in serious issues. Drew’s neglect of his daughter was real and he’s working hard to turnaround that relationship. Addie had an extremely difficult childhood, the subject of cruel bullying for years and the target of a hypercritical and insensitive mother. That damage left indelible scars to her self esteem but not to her wonderful spirit. Her relationship with Bella is just heartwarming and goes a long way in guiding Drew’s sincere intentions in the right direction. Of course, it was inevitable that they’d be drawn to each other but theirs was an uneasy road.

I really loved this story as it dealt with some very tough issues not easily resolved. Bella was adorable and I liked how her innocence provided Drew a light towards a path to forgive himself and Addie a sense of self worth. Every story in this series deals with meaty issues and this was no different. I didn’t want this one to end.

(I received an advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review)
Profile Image for Esther .
971 reviews197 followers
October 29, 2018
ARC provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

Rating 4.5

This was a sweet and emotional Christmas romance.

Drew is a successful surgeon and his Diva ex is a beauty/health blogger that is only interested in herself. We open with Drew and his ex having a discussion about their daughter, she is letting Drew know she doesn't want custody of their daughter or visitation rights either. It's too much for her and too time consuming. Drew is shocked, as he contemplates the bomb shell she just dropped, his mind races with the past and what not great parents they have been. After she leaves he turns and realizes his sweet Bella was standing there the entire time listening. He's hit hard with the realization things need to change and drastically, as parents the two failed miserably. He's a top surgeon in a big city, but this is not where he wants to raise his daughter. So after consoling her and promising her big changes will take place, one being he's going to be a better and more involved Father. He was moving home to a small town he grew up in.

Shadow Creek is where Drew and Bella move to. Drew's nanny quits and he's in a dilemma. But Addie a bookstore owner has befriended Bella as she loves to spend time there. She steps up and offers to watch Addie when she hears of Drews problem. Drew and Addie are attracted to one another but of course keep it well hidden. Drew made the decision that Bella was his top and only priority and he won't get involved with a woman again and deprive Bella of his time and love. Addie has dealt with some cruel and terrible experience in High School as well a Mother dearest (I could just slap that woman) that have kept her walls up high to not be hurt again.

I loved these two. Such emotion and character depth, and Bella was fantastic. This had so much heart and feeling to it. Drew dealing with his guilt and trying desperately to make it up to his daughter. But also seeing such warmth, love and happiness in Addie that he was very drawn and attracted to her. He was wrestling with some major attraction. Addie, was so sweet, genuine and warm. Her past hurt breaks your heart but yet it didn't make her bitter but even more determined to love people and care for them. And Bella stole her heart and she was determined that little girl was going to have a wonderful Christmas. The relationship between the three was beautifully done and very heartwarming.
I also enjoyed the sisters, relationship as well as the other secondary characters. The mother, Addie's, was just horrible. The small town feel leaped from the pages and Christmas theme was prevalent and real throughout the story.

The reason for the 4.5 rating is that not much steam. Now I don't need a lot at times but this did need just a tab bit more. The chemistry was evident as well as the attraction, but just a sprinkle more of steam would have been nice. 😊

Profile Image for Beth C..
648 reviews62 followers
November 19, 2018
I was so taken by this book—by Addie and Bella, in particular—that I totally failed to highlight anything! That is SO unlike me. Anyway, here are a few brief thoughts:

I adore this series, and this holiday-themed installment is up there with my favorites. It was exactly the right book for me today—incredibly easy to sink into and enjoy, but still with Victoria James’ signature feels. Drew’s regrets, coupled with Addie’s Insecurities and Bella’s general sweetness, made this reviewer quite emotional. Especially when Addie did the motherly thing toward Bella—that defintely tweaked my maternal instinct in the best way.

I’d definitely recommend not just this book but this entire series for lovers of sweet, small town romance. It’s charming, cozy and well-written. It’s chock full of likable characters and those cute little quirks that make places like Shadow Creek, Montana unique.

And it always guarantees a warm smile and a happy heart at the end.
Profile Image for Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews).
1,480 reviews142 followers
January 25, 2019
4.5 stars

A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor is the sixth book in Victoria James’s Shadow Creek, Montana series. This is a standalone read, with characters from previous books making appearances.

Victoria is one of my favorite authors. I’ve read all of her books and my reviews tend to all sound the same at this point. When I read Victoria’s books, I expect to have my heartstrings tugged. I expect to possibly cry or come pretty close. I expect to fall in love with the characters. And I expect to have a happy ever after and a story I don’t want to end. A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor did not disappoint. From the beginning, Victoria tugged at my heartstrings. “Mommy doesn’t want me anymore?”

Bella Barrett appears to be a happy, healthy, secure and thoroughly loved eight-year-old. But something very important is missing. Her parents. Bella is the only child of Dr. Drew Barrett a surgeon and Jill Barrett a stylist and social media personality. The two have been divorced for a year and are so busy with their jobs that Bella is raised mostly by nannies. But that all changes when Jill dumps Bella on Drew’s doorstep telling him that she doesn’t want to do the parent thing anymore. Realizing how badly he’s failed his daughter and the memory of his parents, Drew moves back to his hometown of Shadow Creek, Montana. He has a lot to make up for and he wants Bella to be his priority.

Bella is a really sweet kid. She just wants love and attention from her parents. She befriends bookstore owner Addie Mayberry, who knows a thing or two about wanting a parent’s love. When Drew needs someone to watch Bella, Addie volunteers. As Addie and Bella grow closer, Drew starts to realize he’s more attracted to Addie than he thought.

Addie’s mother makes the wicked witch look like a saint. I loved that Addie gained confidence in herself and stood up to her mother’s brutal comments. I was quite surprised that A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor wasn’t a predictable story. Bella really stole this story. For an eight-year-old, she is wise beyond her years.

Drew, Addie, and Bella are all wonderful characters. I loved watching them interact with one another and form a family bond. This was a truly wonderful story that tugged at my heartstrings.

**Received a copy of the book courtesy of Entangled Publishing and voluntarily reviewed.**
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,892 reviews136 followers
November 21, 2018
Rating 4.5/5*

This is a brilliant festive read starring Bella, a delightful young lady coping with hearing her Mum not wanting her and her Dad being a workaholic surgeon who hasn't previously made much time for her either. Drew realises he has missed out on so much in his young daughter's life that he decides to move back to the place he grew up in and to make Bella the most important person in his life. He's determined she'll never feel rejected or abandoned again, even if that means he'll be celibate for the foreseeable future. However, his daughter has other plans, ones that he'll find hard to resist!

This highly talented author has done it again! She's written a beautiful festive read with great characters and an intriguing plot together with a somewhat precocious matchmaker, too! This is a festive read to put a smile on your face and joy in your heart - I loved escaping into it!

I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after reading it.
Profile Image for Linda Quick.
1,330 reviews30 followers
October 24, 2018
Loved this book! Addie is a book store owner that steps in to help Drew, the new doctor in town, with watching his daughter after school. Bella, the daughter, quickly wins Addie's heart. Drew is also smitten, but has promised himself that he will not get involved with another woman so he can devote his time and energy to Bella to make up for all the time his missed in the past and build a strong relationship with her. Addie respects this, but is equally and, with her poor self image, doesn't feel worthy of him anyway.

I loved the relationships in this novel and how the story unfolded. The characters drew me in and made me feel like I was experiencing their tale along with them. This is a sweet and poignant tale that fans of the genre will love. The story seemed to come alive on the pages and I was sorry when it ended. This one is a must read and should be on the top of your TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list.
Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews41 followers
November 12, 2018
Now this book is an example of why I love holiday stories. All that magic and romance of the holidays wrapped up in a beautiful family story. Addie and Drew are amazing characters and Drew's daughter Isabella is such a cutie. Small town life is new for Drew and his daughter. Drew had to admit he wasn't giving his daughter the life she deserved when her mother decides to completely leave both their lives so he packs them up and takes a job in Shadow Creek. His plan is to focus fully on Isabella. That is until the shy unassuming bookstore owner, Addie Mayberry, comes into their lives. If Addie has her way this will be the best Christmas any of them have ever had.

Fantastic story that is wonderfully written with characters that will steal your heart. I highly recommend this one.
Profile Image for Ayekah.
1,123 reviews
October 31, 2018
I absolutely loved this story! I'm loving the Shadow Creek series! Addie owns the children's bookstore in Shadow Creek, she loves kids and really has a heart for all of them. Especially one little girl who comes to visit and at first is hard to engage, but Addie has a way to open up the world to little Bella. Addie is a wonderful nurturer. Her father who is a famous doctor has moved back to Shadow Creek after his ex dumps her on him, he realizes that he can't devote himself to Bella or his job he makes the move. Sadly, Drew doesn't know what to do with Bella. He was never around the first 5 years of her life, Bella had nannies and two parents who were never there. Drew is getting his feet wet with her, he's happy that Bella has someone and something to make her happy and that's Addie and the bookstore. When Addie's after school sitter quits, Drew is stuck with trying to find someone/place and Bella pops up with staying with Addie. Addie is open anyway and so she offers after a discussion takes place between she and Drew. Drew is attracted to Addie but his new hard rule is Bella is first and only. He's not having any part of another woman walking out on his daughter. Addie is attracted to Drew as well but he makes it clear that she's only there to serve a purpose, that is until he crosses a line then quickly redraws it. Addie has grown up in that town. She's got sisters who care, a mother from Hades
and Addie was bullied throughout high school. The backstory is well written and you get to read it, woven into the plot very well. Moving ahead these two push and pull along with little Bella. I really loved this one, the highs and lows and all the in betweens were perfectly written, I loved Addie what a great character she was and her love for children, watching her finally shut her mother down was a treat! Drew was a tough one, of course you love him but you also want to club him over the head at times and tell him to get in the game! Another great read to the series and a must read. I loved it.
Take me to Montana!

arc from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review.
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,421 reviews6 followers
November 8, 2018
After realizing his fast paced city life wasn't conducive to raising a child on his own, Drew Barrett decided it might be time to take a step back from that lifestyle, for something a little calmer. And he knew returning to Shadow Creek would give them just what they needed, a quieter life, one where he could still do what he loved, but also give Bella the good, wholesome life she deserved. What he never wanted or expected to find there was love, the moment his daughter befriends a local shop owner and they bond over their love of Christmas everything changes. This change isn't easily received, at first, it takes a persistent little girl and the magic of Christmas to turn it into a miracle they all needed!

A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor is a beautifully crafted tale that will give a nice little tug on the heartstrings and leave you heart full of joy! I am a sucker for heartwarming single parent stories and this book definitely had all of feels and then some. These well crafted characters wandered onto the page, lured me into their world, and made me feel right at home, as if I were meant to be there all along. Early on I developed quite an attachment to them, Drew had a lot of old hurt to work through, and was quite adamant love wasn't part of his life plan, but love had other plans for him. I enjoyed watching him maneuver through all the unexpected changes in his life, and find the courage to open his heart to love again, Addie and him were a perfect pairing. If you are looking for a wholesome, feel good Christmas story, I highly recommend you pick this one up, it's certain to warm your heart and bring on some holiday spirit!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest opinion.
Profile Image for Teresa.
1,395 reviews3 followers
October 29, 2018
**I received a copy of A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor from Entangled Publishing and Net Galley in exchange for a voluntary and honest review**

A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor by Victoria James is the sixth book in the authors Shadow Creek, MT series. I've read a few of the books in the series and I have to tell you this one was fantastic and well worth all five stars. Oh and can I keep Bella?? She's a awesome match maker for both Addie and Drew plus some of her quips will have you laughing out loud. Bella's mom wants nothing to do with her and Drew has been busy building his practice. But she will learn that she is loved and is determined to heal her dad's heart and find a new mom too.

Addie Mayberry is the owner of the local bookstore and has begun a friendship with Isabella Barrett who's love for books equals her own. Her father Drew is the brand new surgeon in Shadow Creek and hasn't found a sitter for Bella. Little does he know that Bella has chosen Addie to watch her after school. But Addie carries emotional scars from being bullied by her mother and classmates from high school because she was overweight. Bella has made a Christmas Wish but the two adults in her life don't realize that are included. There will be some bumps in the road but can two adults who want to find the perfect person will finally realize that they have been right there all along.

Drew Barrett wants to build a new life with his daughter Bella after his ex decides that having a daughter cramped her life. He's decided to put Bella front and center even if it means he won't fall in love again. But when he moves back home to Shadow Creek where he grew up he'll soon find out that not only is his daughter in love with Addie but he is too. Can they come to a comprise and become a family for Isabella?
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
November 16, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

I happen to love coming back to the Shadow Creek, Montana series. A place where I always know I’m going to find an interesting, believable romance, and especially at Christmas time I know I”m going to find some special Christmas magic as well. A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor proved that impression to be correct once again.

Drew and his daughter, Bella have return to his hometown to live a quieter, more personally engaged life. Drew had been a top level surgeon, and his busy schedule had stolen many of Bella’s early years from them both. Now, after a divorce and a change in child custody, Drew has the chance to be a better father… and nothing, not even falling in love is going to change his top priority. Addie owns a bookstore where she’s been in contact with Bella. Once Addie loved everything about Christmas but let those feeling fade recently. Being around the lonely, sad little girl has prodded Addie to make this a good Christmas for Bella. Taking on the job of after school babysitter will also draw them even closer. No one, except maybe Bella and Santa, knew that this was a family in the making… if only the adults could get it right.

It was so easy to get caught up in the lives of Addie, Drew and Bella. Watching them discover their feelings, celebrate Christmas and forge into a family unit was an enjoyable, emotional journey. A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor is a good solid romance with interesting characters, the magic of Christmas and a small town that welcomes the reader right in. If you love a romance that shows two people that love is possible no matter what else is gong on, then I believe you’ll enjoy this newest addition to the Shadow Creek, Montana series. I loved it, and I’m already looking forward to a return visit soon.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
413 reviews2 followers
November 13, 2018
This book has no cursing and no on page sex. If those things bother you there's nothing to worry about here.

A Christmas Miracle For The Doctor starts with a prologue that is incredibly emotional. It made me tear up (something Ms. James is great at!) but don't let the prologue fool you – this book is about hope and love and about learning to re-learn how to live your best life despite whatever happened in your past. Both Addie and Drew were a little damaged, but they were learning how to function as the people that they had grown into, and I loved watching them figure it all out. Bella was the absolute sweetest kid. Ms. James has a knack not only for making me cry, but for writing children who are very realistic and so wonderful. Bella's solution for dealing with bullies made me laugh so hard. She might not have had a great first few years of her life, but she was a dynamo in Shadow Creek.


If you've read the other Shadow Creek books, this one is a great addition to a wonderful series. If you haven't, you can read this book without needing to read the others because it totally stands alone. That said, this series is excellent and I highly recommend all of the books in it.
1,611 reviews9 followers
November 1, 2018
Victoria James has done it again. I loved being back in Shadow Creek and reading about all the towns people. This book was about Addie and Drew. Drew was such a lost soul. He felt like he had failed his daughter Bella so he moves back to his home town with her because that is the last place he can remember truly being happy. He hopes to be able to repair his relationship with his daughter and have them become a family. Addie is still living in the past. She is having a hard time letting go of past things that happened to her and because of that she has shaped her life into this safe bubble. Addie and Drew meet because Bella wanders into her book store. Addie instantly falls in love with her. Bella is such a sweet girl. She makes the book funny, and sweet. This is such a sweet romantic story about 3 people learning to trust again. With this trust they gain so much more. I cannot wait to see whose book will be next in this series. Thanks Net Galley. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
3,575 reviews40 followers
October 28, 2018
This is the first book I have by this author and now I am a fan.
The story of Addie Mayberry and Doctor Drew Barrett will touch your hearts. At times heartbreaking , it is also heartwarming.
Addie is a children’s bookstore owner whose childhood was rather tough and a mother who constantly criticized her. She feels she will never be enough. Her new customer is a seven year old girl whose parents are divorced and feels she is not enough , as well. Drew, her Dad, has changed his life and returned to his hometown in order to give his daughter a safe place and a place to feel loved. Watching the three of them interact was touching and poignant.
This is a story about overcoming mistakes, failures, self-esteem and doubts, in order to find love, hope, and a new beginning. Be forewarn that tissues might be in order.
I was entrusted this copy by Netgalley and Entangled Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Ebony.
476 reviews4 followers
November 9, 2018
Addie Mayberry (the sister of the Heroine from the previous Shadow Creek novel) has just opened her dream children’s bookstore back in her hometown of Shadow Creek. She isn’t looking for love, but the father of her new favourite little customer makes her think of Christmas wishes.
Drew Barrett has decided to move back to Montana with his daughter Bella in order to change both their lives for the better. He definitely isn’t looking for love, instead wanting to give all his attention to building his relationship with his daughter. But Christmas, snow and holiday festivities all mix together to bring Addie and Drew together.
This is a cute, clean romance with an adorable 8 year old little girl that totally melts your heart. A great, quick Christmas read to enjoy.
** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ARC provided by NetGalley**
Profile Image for Lori.
1,113 reviews2 followers
November 5, 2018
Oh my goodness, Addie may very well be my new favorite female character. I loved her from the beginning of the story only to admire her more by the end. What she does for Bella just stole my heart. She is selfless, supportive, protective, and loving. And her chemistry with Drew is beautiful. I hated that he was so torn, but loved Drew for wanting to be a better dad to Bella. They were so cute together. Bella almost stole the story with her cuteness and very forgiving, loving attitude. She made her family come together. How I loved this story and reading it only made me want to go back and reread the previous books in the series again.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
1,006 reviews1 follower
November 19, 2018

I love stories about small towns and this one does not disappoint.
Addie a bookstore owner has had a rough time especially with her mother and when she met a young girl upset over her parents split she jumps in a helps her by babysitting and being her friend. I really felt for Bella her mother no longer wanted her. Her father is a workaholic and a top surgeon.

Drew the father moves back to his hometown it’s exactly what he needs to start over with his daughter. He is through with love and only wants to concentrate on building a relationship with his daughter and his work. When he meets Addie she is too much of a sweet lady for him and he doesn’t really want another long term relationship.


With her helping with his daughter, decorating for Christmas and all he has no choice but to see her frequently. Addie brings Christmas cheer to both him and his daughter. If only they are both willing to take a chance on each other.

This is a sweet Christmas story of two people and a little girl whom all need each other. This story was a really good read for me.
Profile Image for Ramona.
856 reviews4 followers
November 9, 2018
Incredible Christmas Miracle book by Victoria James. The story of Dr, Drew Barrett, single father to adorable Bella - struggling to come to grips with being an absentee father for the first 6 years of his daughters life. Especially after his ex - wife decided she no longer wanted to be a mother to the little girl, and Addie a book store owner - who has her own demons of being bullied and feeling inadequate.
The story that progresses between the two of them is honest, romantic and uplifting Christmas story that brought tears to my eyes on a occasion. Kudos to Victoria James on such an excellent book.
Profile Image for Melenareads .
3,313 reviews79 followers
November 6, 2018
I have enjoyed reading Victoria James' Shadow Creek series, and Addie and Drew's story might be my favorite yet!

Drew has moved back to his hometown of Shadow Creek with his daughter Bella. She immediately takes a liking to bookstore owner Addie. It was really nice to see Addie form a friendship with Bella and growing just as close to her as she did Drew.

The romance is sweet and just the right length to read over a weekend. I loved the holiday setting and getting to see some favorite characters from past books.

I hope there are more Shadow Creek books to come!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Profile Image for TSN ☮.
1,584 reviews28 followers
November 11, 2018
Victoria James writes some of the most delightfully heartwarming romances, and this was no exception. It was almost unbelievably sweet. Just what you need as a Christmas read.

This slowly built romance is like the epitome of all that's Hallmark'ish.



☛ I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and I'm voluntarily making this review.
Profile Image for Sarah.
969 reviews8 followers
November 14, 2018
Thank you NetGalley for the copy of A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor by Victoria James that I read and reviewed.
This was a very sweet romance book. If you are looking for a sweet romance book that will make you feel good about the holiday season this is the book for you. I enjoyed the characters and the story. I also thought the author dealt with the topic of bullying with an intresting twist.
I am giving this book four out of five stars.
Profile Image for Becky Burciaga.
1,532 reviews18 followers
October 30, 2018
A touching Christmas story filled with heart and warmth. The characters have defined personalities, the scenarios realistic and with mind capturing vivid imagery. Drew and Addie are a couple who you’ll lose your heart to...no more than Bella tough, she’s a scene stealer and a heart stopper!

This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Profile Image for Mags.
3,055 reviews37 followers
November 5, 2018
A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor was a cute, super sweet, engaging, festive, and enjoyable read. With great characters in particular Drew's daughter Bella. Who for me completely stole this story. As she was so fun, sassy, adorable, and cute. And I loved the friendship/relationship that developed between her and Addie.

As for Drew and Addie I really liked them both, and enjoyed their romance. Which easily held my interest and had plenty of sweetness and just a hint of emotion. And this story was easy to follow, even though its book six in a series I've not read before. But it's certainly one I would go back and read more off, and I would happily recommend it to others. Especially if you're in the mood for a cute and festive read.

**I was kindly provided with an ARC by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review**
1,396 reviews11 followers
October 29, 2018
A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor, would make the perfect Hallmark movie. I was actually seeing it play out while I was reading it.
Profile Image for Becky.
3,442 reviews142 followers
November 12, 2018
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 11/12/18.

A sweet, holiday-themed romance :)

Addie, the younger sister of the heroine from the last book in the series (Molly of The Firefighter's Pretend Fiancee ) is the one who's often borne the brunt of her mother's "we need to be perfect and you're in the way of that" wrath. Addie's always been on the plump side, and though she did very well in her first career as a children's librarian, now she's back in her hometown in her dream job--owner of a children's bookstore. (Even that's not quite up to mom's standards, since Addie's two sisters are doctors and mom herself is the mayor of the town.) Addie hasn't had much of a dating history, thanks in large part to a disastrous high school experience, and has pretty much decided that she'll probably live her life alone and that's (mostly) okay. But that's before Bella Barrett bursts into her shop, her overwhelmed father in tow...

Drew knows that his last relationship--with Bella's mother--was an unmitigated disaster, and he's determined to repair his relationship with his young daughter; a crucial part of that project, he is sure, is not getting involved with another woman again. But he didn't count on Addie Mayberry, who tempts him like no one has before...

It was fun watching Drew and Addie fall in love, and seeing the part Bella played in it all, though at times things did feel a bit simplistic and easy. For example, even with their mother pushing them academically, how does a 26-year-old accomplish as much as Addie apparently has? Librarianship requires both undergraduate and graduate degrees, plus she won an award in the field, plus she started a business from scratch (which is already well established at the book's start)? (Though maybe the store ownership was shortcutted somehow and I missed it or forgot the details?) Also, does a busy business owner really have time to babysit someone else's kid every afternoon? Drew didn't even try to find another sitter--I mean, that was a cute part of the story, seeing Addie and Bella spending so much time together, but it did't seem realistic. And what does Drew do for childcare when he's called into the hospital those times that Addie doesn't happen to be already at his house, decorating for Christmas? That one time we see in the story can't have been the only time he had an emergency...

I mean, it's a cute story, and I really like the characters and the setting and will definitely be picking up the next book in the series. It just seemed as if a few things here were almost too convenient at times.

Though this book is the sixth in the series, it worked fairly well as a standalone--though Mayor Mayberry plays a large (and largely negative) role in her daughters' lives, reading Molly's book first might help you to understand the dynamic between the sisters and their mothers a bit better than is obvious in this book alone.

One more sister to go... ;)

Rating: 3 1/2 stars / B-

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Bec.
1,660 reviews42 followers
November 14, 2018

Drew Barrett moved back to Shadow Creek to make a better life for him and his daughter after the child's mother decided she wanted out of their lives. Determined to concentrate on his daughter, he's decided he doesn't have time for a relationship. However, spending time with Addie -- a woman his daughter adores -- he begins to find it harder and harder to keep his distance. Will he take a chance on happy ever after again or will he break Addie's heart?

I have loved this series from book one, but I found this story taking me a while to fully get into, even though I absolutely adored the hero's daughter. Really, there was something about the heroine that made her feel a little too good to be true, especially with the hero's daughter, Isabella, having grown so attached to Addie. Yet, the more I read about the heroine, her flaws and her back story the more I warmed up to her. Life hasn't been easy and I could understand why she's so protective of Isabella when it comes to what the young girl is facing at school. However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine come face-to-face for the first time where this story really takes off, as it's palpable the heroine really likes the hero. Will the hero give another relationship a chance?

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories, what's happening with the hero's daughter that gets Addie so worked up and everything these two go through on their journey to happy ever after that had me wondering whether the hero would take a chance. Moreover, there were moments where the heroine's insecurities frustrated me and I wanted to shout 'listen-to-your-sisters'. Yet, I've got to admit that I could understand why she has them after what happened to her back in school and what makes her fight so hard for the hero's daughter.

While the hero, he was fantastic. I loved the bond between him and his daughter as well as the bond between the heroine and the little girl. They each are willing to do whatever it takes to make the hero's daughter's life a happy one. I also liked the hero's determination not to hurt the heroine. He's so considerate of Addie's feelings, especially with all that she's been through. Not only with high school jerks, but knowing she's not good enough in her mother's eyes too. Really, her mother is a piece of work that doesn't deserve to have such wonderful daughters in Addie and her two sisters.

Overall, Ms. James has a delivered a really good read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance was sweet; and the ending had me loving the hero's determination to win the heroine's heart. Really, Addie has become important to him and he can't let her get away. I would recommend A Christmas Miracle for the Doctor by Victoria James, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope, Christmas themed stories with happy endings, or books by authors Sonya Weiss, Jennifer Hoopes, Jennifer Shirk and Joann Sky.
Profile Image for Leah.
211 reviews
November 9, 2018
I loved this story about finding love at Christmas time. It is the perfect story for the holiday season. There is so much to like about this tale of redemption in an unexpected way.
Drew Barrett doesn’t know what to think when his ex-wife drops off their daughter and says she wants nothing to do with parenting. He doesn’t know if he is going to be able to step up. Drew is a successful surgeon at a large hospital and hasn’t had time for his daughter in years. He wants things to change and knows that he has to be the one that she relies on now. So Drew decides to move back to his hometown and the life that he remembers having as a child. He doesn’t expect to have his interest so completely captivated by the local bookstore owner.
Addie Mayberry has returned to her hometown to run a local bookstore. She may love being with her sisters, but her mother’s constant criticism makes it hard. Addie was bullied throughout high school and although she knows that she is a phenomenal person, the self-doubt is hard to completely eliminate. Addie loves meeting Drew’s daughter, Bella, and getting to know her. The fact that she also finds Drew attractive doesn’t hurt. She isn’t sure he feels the same way.
Both Addie and Drew have baggage, but their attraction is palpable. We can feel it whenever they are together. Drew has vowed to stay away from relationships while he works to fix the damaged one with his daughter. Addie is still fighting the scars of her high school years and isn’t sure she is up for more heartbreak. Both of them fight their feelings, but love has a way with a little help from an adorable 7 year old and some Christmas magic.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
November 15, 2018
Addie Mayberry is a children's bookstore owner who completely believes in the magic of Christmas, so when she meets tiny human Bella with her broken heart, she's determined to make it her best Christmas ever. And that means helping Bella's hot, surgeon father, find his holiday spirit. However, the more time they spend together, the more Addie finds herself falling for the one man she knows she shouldn't, as her low self esteem tells her that she isn't good enough for him. Dr. Drew Barrett finally wakes up one day and knows that he must make his daughter's life better, so he moves from the fast paced city back to Shadow Creek in order to repair their relationship. And with Addie's help, slowly they're getting better. However, he finds himself attracted to Addie, but he refuses to ever fall for another woman, so can't offer Addie anything. And this story as sweet as it was, was also highly frustrating at the same time. I so wanted to hurt Drew so much because of his push & pull, like badly wanted to hurt him. Addie was a wonderful woman would do anything for anyone, and she loved the precious Bella so much, so even when Drew would hurt her feelings, she never stopped helping Bella. And Bella straight up stole the show for me completely. There were more secondaries who added to this story in great ways, but Bella was my favorite. I really loved the theme of Christmas, which usually I don't, and yes, I know that makes me a scrooge, but Victoria James made me love the Christmas magic. Anyway, it was a sweet story, with a side of Drew making me mad, so I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.