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Blue Hollow Falls #3.5
Lavender & Mistletoe
This Christmas, small-town Blue Hollow Falls will work big holiday magic for two people who have researched everything but love . . .
Avery Kent needs a project. The busy brain that earned her two PhDs before the age of eighteen is fascinated by the home she’s created with her three friends in Blue Hollow Falls, but the farm and the tearoom are running like clockwork now. As the holiday season approaches, it’s time for Avery to dive into one of her last uncharted research topics: love. Not for herself, of course; for her friend, Chey! But a closer look at the handsome young veterinarian Avery has chosen for this romantic equation has her wishing for gifts she never thought she wanted . . .
Another former child prodigy, Ben Chandler is more like Avery than she ever imagined. His intellect is a perfect match for hers—and everything else about him attracts her in ways that send delicious tingles down her spine. But a relationship? That’s something Avery will need to analyze—unless her friends can help Ben convince her that romance is more magic than science, and that a good old-fashioned kiss under the mistletoe is the perfect way to open her heart to the possibility of the greatest gift of all . . .
Praise for Donna Kauffman
“Charming characters, emotion galore, a small town—you’re going to love Donna Kauffman!” —Lori Foster
“We all know where there's Donna Kauffman, there's a rollicking, sexy read chock‑full of charm and sparkle.” —USAToday.com
Avery Kent needs a project. The busy brain that earned her two PhDs before the age of eighteen is fascinated by the home she’s created with her three friends in Blue Hollow Falls, but the farm and the tearoom are running like clockwork now. As the holiday season approaches, it’s time for Avery to dive into one of her last uncharted research topics: love. Not for herself, of course; for her friend, Chey! But a closer look at the handsome young veterinarian Avery has chosen for this romantic equation has her wishing for gifts she never thought she wanted . . .
Another former child prodigy, Ben Chandler is more like Avery than she ever imagined. His intellect is a perfect match for hers—and everything else about him attracts her in ways that send delicious tingles down her spine. But a relationship? That’s something Avery will need to analyze—unless her friends can help Ben convince her that romance is more magic than science, and that a good old-fashioned kiss under the mistletoe is the perfect way to open her heart to the possibility of the greatest gift of all . . .
Praise for Donna Kauffman
“Charming characters, emotion galore, a small town—you’re going to love Donna Kauffman!” —Lori Foster
“We all know where there's Donna Kauffman, there's a rollicking, sexy read chock‑full of charm and sparkle.” —USAToday.com
144 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2019
332 people are currently reading
1617 people want to read
About the author
Donna Kauffman
147 books1,799 followersUSA Today bestseller and award winning author of the Cupcake Club series and the Blueberry Cove series, DONNA KAUFFMAN has been gratified to see her books get rave reviews in venues ranging from Kirkus Reviews and Library Journal to Entertainment Weekly and Cosmopolitan. She lives in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in southwestern Virginia, where she is happily working on the next book in her brand new Blue Hollow Falls series, set right in her mountain home area. When she's not writing, she can be found recapping the popular tv show NCIS for USA Today, or escaping into her garden to play in the dirt. Donna also works as a volunteer wildlife transporter for two local sanctuaries, giving orphaned and injured wildlife a second chance at survival. You can catch up on all of her adventures via her author page on Facebook, or on Twitter, or Instagram @writerchick. Donna loves to hear from readers!
Donna Kauffman passed away on April 9, 2020 of pancreatic cancer.
Donna Kauffman passed away on April 9, 2020 of pancreatic cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
September 16, 2019
4.5 - "The Vet, The Goat, and The Brain." Stars!
It’s becoming a bit of a tradition that Donna Kauffman starts off my seasonal reading each year, and 2019 is no exception. Lavender & Mistletoe is a triple joy for me though because not only is it full of snowy goodness, we return to Blue Hollow Falls and this novella gives us Avery Kent’s story.
She was so completely and perfectly off centre and unique…
I have been intrigued by Avery since we were introduced to her, the youngest of the four women who turned up and took over the running and restoration of Lavender Blue. Her high intelligence and analytical thought process leaves her feeling a little to the left of everyone else a lot of the time, there is no doubt her circle of friends, who are also her family, love her quirks and all, but since relocating to the Falls they have all found their ‘thing’, and she’s still struggling to find something that fits, rather than just ‘fitting in’.
"Are you curious about me because I’m a curiosity..? Or because you want to know me better?"
That is until a chance meeting with locum Veterinarian; Ben Campbell and their subsequent bonding over a pygmy goat shows a kindred spirit, someone who understands her, and knows what it is like to live in the world of high IQ’s and photographic memories. Their chemistry is instant, attraction mutual, and what better time than at Christmas to explore their blossoming feelings for each other. Only problem being that Ben is a wanderer, and Avery has found the place where she wants to settle for good.
"It’s about chemistry… not method."
It’s no secret I love Donna’s books, particularly in the places she creates and the people she introduces me to, the added bonus of Christmas just makes them all the more special to me, they may only be fictional characters but in reading their stories I get to enjoy the season over and over again, and through some pretty awesome people’s eyes.
"My days are better now, because you’re in them."
Another winner, I hope Chey is due for her story to be told at some point soon because as a secondary character in this one, she leaves you as the reader interested in finding out more about her, and I’d love to see her get her HEA as well.
ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
It’s becoming a bit of a tradition that Donna Kauffman starts off my seasonal reading each year, and 2019 is no exception. Lavender & Mistletoe is a triple joy for me though because not only is it full of snowy goodness, we return to Blue Hollow Falls and this novella gives us Avery Kent’s story.
She was so completely and perfectly off centre and unique…
I have been intrigued by Avery since we were introduced to her, the youngest of the four women who turned up and took over the running and restoration of Lavender Blue. Her high intelligence and analytical thought process leaves her feeling a little to the left of everyone else a lot of the time, there is no doubt her circle of friends, who are also her family, love her quirks and all, but since relocating to the Falls they have all found their ‘thing’, and she’s still struggling to find something that fits, rather than just ‘fitting in’.
"Are you curious about me because I’m a curiosity..? Or because you want to know me better?"
That is until a chance meeting with locum Veterinarian; Ben Campbell and their subsequent bonding over a pygmy goat shows a kindred spirit, someone who understands her, and knows what it is like to live in the world of high IQ’s and photographic memories. Their chemistry is instant, attraction mutual, and what better time than at Christmas to explore their blossoming feelings for each other. Only problem being that Ben is a wanderer, and Avery has found the place where she wants to settle for good.
"It’s about chemistry… not method."
It’s no secret I love Donna’s books, particularly in the places she creates and the people she introduces me to, the added bonus of Christmas just makes them all the more special to me, they may only be fictional characters but in reading their stories I get to enjoy the season over and over again, and through some pretty awesome people’s eyes.
"My days are better now, because you’re in them."
Another winner, I hope Chey is due for her story to be told at some point soon because as a secondary character in this one, she leaves you as the reader interested in finding out more about her, and I’d love to see her get her HEA as well.
ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
July 18, 2020
This was a cute romance novella about two "big brains" and how their relationship develops. An enjoyable afternoon read.
September 24, 2019
This amazing holiday romance novella has made my Christmas spirit go into overdrive! In Lavender & Mistletoe, we get to return to Blue Hollow Falls, one of my favorite series by Author Donna Kauffman! Avery, a genius, is trying to figure out the logistics of love. She decides the best approach would be to fix her friend Chey up with the new Veterinarian that is filling in. Dr. Ben Chandler has more in common with Avery than she wants to admit. When Avery realizes that she has feelings for Ben, she doesn't know how to handle the situation. Will Avery get what she wants the most for Christmas this year, or will her overanalyzing cause her to lose her chance at love? I absolutely love all of Author Donna Kauffman's books. Writing with so much feeling and passion, I can almost feel the emotions that her wonderful characters experience! I highly recommend this beautiful and majestic Christmas novella!
January 21, 2020
Oh my goodness. Avery, Avery. Intellectuals and love. What can I say? Just wish it would have been developed into a full novel. Great read.
February 9, 2020
Adorable!
September 30, 2019
With the holidays approaching Avery is In desperate need of a project to keep her curious mind busy. She has decided that she must analyze love, how it occurs, what makes it happen, and the stuff inbetween. She thinks helping her friend Chey in this department will give her all the data she needs to come to some sort of hypothesis. When her and Chey come across a mini goat on the side of the road, half frozen, they race to the local vet to see what he can do for the tiny animal. They soon learn that their resident vet is on vacation and a much younger attractive man is helping him out while he is gone. Avery thinks he is the perfect match for her friend and can't wait to start taking notes on the twos interaction. The problem with this is Ben is attracted to Avery and Avery herself sees herself looking at Ben in a way she has never looked at a man before. Follow along as these two skirt their feelings for each other. Will Ben's stay just be temporary or will it end up being forever? Can Avery leave all she knows and follow a man that she must met in the name of love? This was a touching and romantic read that had my heart racing, hoping that love would find a way!!!
September 24, 2019
I love Short stories and especially where there's an animal that's being rescued. A lavender farm where soaps and many other things are being made friendship are very close...
Donna writes so many books that are awesome and this one was just another one of those great books I recommend this book 2 anyone who loves animals friendships and sweet stories.
Donna writes so many books that are awesome and this one was just another one of those great books I recommend this book 2 anyone who loves animals friendships and sweet stories.
December 29, 2019
Some thoughts about Mistletoe and Lavender:
1. I did not realize going in that this was 3.5 in a series. I probably would have enjoyed this book more if I was better acquainted with the cast of characters and their back story.
2. Avery is like a female Sheldon. It was strange to have Ben describe how much he liked her big brain. Some of his description of how smart she was compared to all the less intelligent people he had met was off putting. I probably would have liked this better if I knew her from other books.
3. Though this was mostly a closed door romance I was still surprised that referenced sex as much as it did. Not a bad thing. Just went in based on the title thinking it was a sweet romance.
4. I’m obsessed with lavender and lavender farms (my fiancé was going to propose to me in one but 2019 ended up being the worst year for lavender) so I’m sure I’ll read the rest of this series!
5. I loved the cast of characters and setting in this book to be so interesting! And the writing was compelling. Adding the earlier books to my TBR!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
1. I did not realize going in that this was 3.5 in a series. I probably would have enjoyed this book more if I was better acquainted with the cast of characters and their back story.
2. Avery is like a female Sheldon. It was strange to have Ben describe how much he liked her big brain. Some of his description of how smart she was compared to all the less intelligent people he had met was off putting. I probably would have liked this better if I knew her from other books.
3. Though this was mostly a closed door romance I was still surprised that referenced sex as much as it did. Not a bad thing. Just went in based on the title thinking it was a sweet romance.
4. I’m obsessed with lavender and lavender farms (my fiancé was going to propose to me in one but 2019 ended up being the worst year for lavender) so I’m sure I’ll read the rest of this series!
5. I loved the cast of characters and setting in this book to be so interesting! And the writing was compelling. Adding the earlier books to my TBR!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
September 22, 2019
I LOVED Avery and Ben’s story in Lavender and Mistletoe by Donna Kauffman, book 3.5 in her Blue Hollow Falls series and I really struggled to put it down; visualizing the beauty of this place through its descriptive words. This is a story of two incredibly intelligent people who help each other understand how to use their gifts. It’s winter, everything is running as should be at the farm, and Avery Kent needs a research project to keep her brain busy. She started researching love, in order to prove that romance is a science. Then she meets the new veterinarian, Ben; a child genius, like Avery. At first, Avery thinks she should fix him up with her friend Chey, until she meets him. Not only are they two peas in a pod, the chemistry they have is sizzling and off the charts. Avery never expected to find love, at least until Ben touches her, kisses her, and loves her. Now if only Ben could get Avery to open her heart and accept his love. I love these two together. They may be very much alike but there are enough differences to make them two halves of a whole; or is that heart.
Ms. Kauffman, a talented story teller, wrote a joyful, funny, tender sweet, emotional and heartwarming tale that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sexual chemistry, amusing banter, and amazing characters giving Avery and Ben a chance for happiness, love and a future together. I highly recommend Lavender and Mistletoe to other readers and look forward to the next book in this outstanding series.
I won a copy of this book from the publisher.
Ms. Kauffman, a talented story teller, wrote a joyful, funny, tender sweet, emotional and heartwarming tale that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sexual chemistry, amusing banter, and amazing characters giving Avery and Ben a chance for happiness, love and a future together. I highly recommend Lavender and Mistletoe to other readers and look forward to the next book in this outstanding series.
I won a copy of this book from the publisher.
September 21, 2019
Lavender & Mistletoe by Donna Kauffman
Blue Hollow Falls 3.5
Loving and lovely this was the perfect novella length holiday romance for me to read today. Avery Kent is a genius who is comfortable, for the most part, in her skin. When Avery meets Dr. Ben Campbell, veterinarian subbing for the local animal doctor, her logical mind takes a back seat to chemistry and as the feeling is mutual...a delightful romance begins.
I loved this couple and the way they flowed effortlessly toward their HEA. They were so smart that they knew almost immediately they had met their fated mates and it was a joy to see where they would end up because it was a no brainer that they would end up together somewhere in the world.
Did I like this book? Oh my...YES
Would I read more in this series? Without a doubt
Am I looking forward to Chey’s story? Can’t wait!
Blue Hollow Falls is a delightful place with wonderful people. I eagerly look forward to each book that appears and can’t wait to read the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books-Zebra for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Blue Hollow Falls 3.5
Loving and lovely this was the perfect novella length holiday romance for me to read today. Avery Kent is a genius who is comfortable, for the most part, in her skin. When Avery meets Dr. Ben Campbell, veterinarian subbing for the local animal doctor, her logical mind takes a back seat to chemistry and as the feeling is mutual...a delightful romance begins.
I loved this couple and the way they flowed effortlessly toward their HEA. They were so smart that they knew almost immediately they had met their fated mates and it was a joy to see where they would end up because it was a no brainer that they would end up together somewhere in the world.
Did I like this book? Oh my...YES
Would I read more in this series? Without a doubt
Am I looking forward to Chey’s story? Can’t wait!
Blue Hollow Falls is a delightful place with wonderful people. I eagerly look forward to each book that appears and can’t wait to read the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books-Zebra for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
December 13, 2020
Sometimes being brilliant makes it hard to have a relationship, but can two huge brains find the best in each other. I enjoyed the Blue Hollow Falls series, but somehow missed this novella along the way. Avery Kent is the one behind all the products at farm and tea house in Blue Hollow Falls. Now what is she to do to keep busy. She meets traveling Vet, Ben Chandler, and is immediately attracted to him, but thinks he would be perfect for one of her friends. Ben has other ideas and they gradually get to know each other and realize, they are a perfect couple. Can Ben, a wanderer and Avery, someone who loves Blue Hollow Falls make a go of a relationship. I love the characters in this series. They are a chosen family, who love and support one another. Ben is perfect to add to this group. He cares about others, especially animals. I enjoy the banter between these two and as they realize how deep their feelings go, they make me smile. A sweet, romance where two people that thought love and relationships were not for them, find their true love.
October 28, 2019
4.5 Stars
This is a novella in the Blue Hollow Falls series by Donna Kauffman.
I think I thought going into this that it was a full length novel. It is only 144 pages. I have not read any other books in this series so I am not certain why these two got set aside for their own novella.
Avery is not your usual heroine. She is a bit ADD and has to have something going to keep her mind engaged at all times. So, after sex she thinks dissecting it is the normal thing to do. She goes into the whys it worked with her partner and the whys it did not to make the experience better for both of them. She is not much along the lines of a go with the flow gal. And this kind of puts off most guys from coming into her zone.
A vet has come to town to fill in for the normal guy, and Ben seems to think Ava’s type of weird is the most wonderful type of weird in the world. They are matched in many ways. Together they discover love and a true purpose in life.
Just a lovely little story with two unusual protagonists.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is a novella in the Blue Hollow Falls series by Donna Kauffman.
I think I thought going into this that it was a full length novel. It is only 144 pages. I have not read any other books in this series so I am not certain why these two got set aside for their own novella.
Avery is not your usual heroine. She is a bit ADD and has to have something going to keep her mind engaged at all times. So, after sex she thinks dissecting it is the normal thing to do. She goes into the whys it worked with her partner and the whys it did not to make the experience better for both of them. She is not much along the lines of a go with the flow gal. And this kind of puts off most guys from coming into her zone.
A vet has come to town to fill in for the normal guy, and Ben seems to think Ava’s type of weird is the most wonderful type of weird in the world. They are matched in many ways. Together they discover love and a true purpose in life.
Just a lovely little story with two unusual protagonists.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
August 31, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I really liked Avery. I understood here. I’m not as brilliant as she is but I did identify with her in many ways. I loved her curiosity. I’m totally like that. It was exciting for me to read about a character whose mind moves along seeing everything. She isn’t so good romantically. I understand that too. It was amazing for me to read her. Ben, her love interest, was just as amazing. I love the way he understood and accepted her. It just made me sigh in bliss!
I definitely want to read more in this series.
* I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. I appreciate the opportunity to read this book. The review was written honestly and voluntarily.*
I definitely want to read more in this series.
* I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. I appreciate the opportunity to read this book. The review was written honestly and voluntarily.*
September 26, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, Zebra Books and Donna Kauffman for an ARC ebook copy to review. As always, an honest review from me.
Like:
- A good mix of romance and holiday time and friendship
- The adorable goat who started it all by hitching a ride where he shouldn't 🐐 💕
- Short story, so it's the perfect length if you want a quick romance or holiday read, but you're super busy
Love:
- set around animals and the veterinary practice
- the gorgeous cover art
Dislike:
- Avery's passion project that she finally found is actually based off her boyfriend's interests, but she stated that she wants her passion project to be all her own and for her --- blinded by love
Wish that:
- We got to know a bit more about the other 3 women of the friendship group, as her friendship is very important to Avery
Overall, a short read that's a wonderful mix of romance, friendship and exploring your own interests all set on a picturesque lavender farm during the holiday season. I definitely recommend it!
Like:
- A good mix of romance and holiday time and friendship
- The adorable goat who started it all by hitching a ride where he shouldn't 🐐 💕
- Short story, so it's the perfect length if you want a quick romance or holiday read, but you're super busy
Love:
- set around animals and the veterinary practice
- the gorgeous cover art
Dislike:
- Avery's passion project that she finally found is actually based off her boyfriend's interests, but she stated that she wants her passion project to be all her own and for her --- blinded by love
Wish that:
- We got to know a bit more about the other 3 women of the friendship group, as her friendship is very important to Avery
Overall, a short read that's a wonderful mix of romance, friendship and exploring your own interests all set on a picturesque lavender farm during the holiday season. I definitely recommend it!
October 1, 2019
4.5 Stars!
Very enjoyable novella! I think Avery is one of my favorite characters ever! Usually when I'm reading a book, I want to slap the main character because she never says what she is thinking. So not the case with Avery! She just let's it all out! I had predicted what was going to happen at the end but at one point I was worried it was going to go a different direction. So glad it didn't! I was able to skip over some very detailed information and didn't lose any of the story. I loved the goat in the beginning! Cute way to start the story! I can't wait for the next chapter in this series!
Very enjoyable novella! I think Avery is one of my favorite characters ever! Usually when I'm reading a book, I want to slap the main character because she never says what she is thinking. So not the case with Avery! She just let's it all out! I had predicted what was going to happen at the end but at one point I was worried it was going to go a different direction. So glad it didn't! I was able to skip over some very detailed information and didn't lose any of the story. I loved the goat in the beginning! Cute way to start the story! I can't wait for the next chapter in this series!
September 24, 2019
The perfect afternoon read!! Avery is a "brainiac" and needs a new research project, love. She then meets the new temporary veterinarian, Ben, a child genuis. Avery wants to play matchmaker for her friend, Chey until she soon finds herself head over heels for Ben. Finding love when you least expect it, is so fun!!
Loved these two together, they were so perfect for each other, so much a like!! Great banter and chemistry between them. Loved the opening scene with goat. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
Loved these two together, they were so perfect for each other, so much a like!! Great banter and chemistry between them. Loved the opening scene with goat. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
December 21, 2019
This short holiday romance is book 3.5 in the Blue Hollow Falls series. On the way to a Christmas Party the ladies from the Lavender farm rescue a small goat in a snow bank. When they stop of the vet's Avery is intrigued with the new doctor. The brainy lady has finally met a man to catch her interest but will he be in town long enough to get to know her? A sweet short Christmas love story that will warm your heart. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 7, 2020
What's not to love about a sensual Christmas novella. I loved getting to know Avery and Ben in this charming story set in the hills of Virginia. One particular poignant part for me was, my own pup has two IVDD surgeries and to touch on this subject warmed my heart. So in addition to the love story between two people it was heart warming the obvious love for all 4 legged creatures too.
September 26, 2019
OMG this was so flipping adorable. I love love love Donna Kauffman's Blue Hollow Falls series and this was a gratifying, bite-sized addition that's got me in the mood for Christmas. Two thumbs up!
August 30, 2019
This short and sweet story is sure to capture your attention and warm your heart with love and Christmas cheer!
Avery Kent is not your average person, she is the brain behind Lavender Blue. She is the pragmatic and logical one. She is skeptical of love, that is until Ben Chandler shows up to cover for the local Vet! Will Avery be able to see the magic in love?
I loved this story and was so happy to be back visiting friends in Blue Hallow Falls. This story definately tugged at my heartstrings and I cant wait for more in this series.
Thank you to Author Donna Kauffman for allowing me to read and provide my honest opinion on this novella.
Avery Kent is not your average person, she is the brain behind Lavender Blue. She is the pragmatic and logical one. She is skeptical of love, that is until Ben Chandler shows up to cover for the local Vet! Will Avery be able to see the magic in love?
I loved this story and was so happy to be back visiting friends in Blue Hallow Falls. This story definately tugged at my heartstrings and I cant wait for more in this series.
Thank you to Author Donna Kauffman for allowing me to read and provide my honest opinion on this novella.
August 14, 2019
I adore small town stories with characters that steal a bit of my heart as I read about them. This book was one of those times. I came to love Avery Kent and her Big Brain (she is a genius). She is gifted with the ability to learn and understand easily, and remember everything. Her character, as well as the others, are so well developed that I felt a part of the community of the lavender farm, which Avery is a part owner. Avery is surrounded by people that love her and want the best of life for her.
Welcome the temporary veterinarian, Ben Chandler (who is also a genius), and Avery’s life definitely takes a time warp to her happily ever after future when she rescues a pygmy goat in the snow. Ben and Avery are immediately attracted to each other, but in spite of that, Avery wants to match him up with her friend. That is not to be, as you will find out as the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed this book. Unlike most romance stories, where the hero and heroine are attracted, then have a disagreement, only to be reunited, this story flows as I wish life would. Avery and Ben are rational, intelligent people that are trained to research and find a solution instead of jumping to a wrong conclusion. They are a bonded couple before they even realize that they are.
Thank you to NetGalley.com and Kensington Book for allowing me to read the ARC of heartwarming book. I look forward to more stories taking place in Blue Hollow Falls.
Welcome the temporary veterinarian, Ben Chandler (who is also a genius), and Avery’s life definitely takes a time warp to her happily ever after future when she rescues a pygmy goat in the snow. Ben and Avery are immediately attracted to each other, but in spite of that, Avery wants to match him up with her friend. That is not to be, as you will find out as the story unfolds.
I really enjoyed this book. Unlike most romance stories, where the hero and heroine are attracted, then have a disagreement, only to be reunited, this story flows as I wish life would. Avery and Ben are rational, intelligent people that are trained to research and find a solution instead of jumping to a wrong conclusion. They are a bonded couple before they even realize that they are.
Thank you to NetGalley.com and Kensington Book for allowing me to read the ARC of heartwarming book. I look forward to more stories taking place in Blue Hollow Falls.
October 14, 2019
This is part of a series of books in the Blue Hollow Falls. I have not read any of the other books in the series. However, I read this one easily, without having read any other books in the series, though I could have used more back story on the characters and overall situation. Not having it did not hurt.
Super intelligent Avery Kent and Chey, her friend and partner in the Blue Hollow Lavender Farm, meet the new, substitute vet, Ben (their own, regular vet has taken a temporary leave and Ben is his substitute). Almost immediately, Avery, whose newest project involves researching what love is and how couples meet, figures Ben would make a great match for Chey, and begins plotting how she can make that happen. However, things do not lead that way. Chey and their other partner, Vivi, see the spark between Avery and Ben, and begin steering Avery in Ben’s direction. Avery is not used to having romance in her life and, after a short stint with a guy during her early college years, has abstained from romance, devoting herself to getting thru college and starting up the farm with her partners. As time goes on, Avery’s and Ben’s relationship grows. Ben and Avery must now fact major decisions. What to do when the regular vet returns from his leave, and how and if their romance will continue.
This is a quick, easy read. However, I would have preferred a longer book, to watch the romance between Avery and Ben grow more slowly and flourish. It seemed as if things moved in too much of a rush. As I said, more familiarity with the setting and characters would have been nice as it would have helped me understand and appreciate a lot of what happened and was said, but not having this did not keep me from fully appreciating characters and the setting of the book. The ending was not much of a surprise, as I could tell almost from the start where it was going, and the blurb on the book alluded to it. Still, it was kind of interesting to watch a super smart Avery come up against a super smart Ben, but I am not sure just how realistic two super intelligent people meeting up like they did is. Nevertheless, it is possible. I thought, from the title, this would be a book about Christmas, but it really wasn’t. The book took place around Christmas, but there was very little of the holiday mentioned in it and no mistletoe. Still, this is another good romance. I you enjoy Donna Kauffman’s books, or romances, you will like this one. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
Super intelligent Avery Kent and Chey, her friend and partner in the Blue Hollow Lavender Farm, meet the new, substitute vet, Ben (their own, regular vet has taken a temporary leave and Ben is his substitute). Almost immediately, Avery, whose newest project involves researching what love is and how couples meet, figures Ben would make a great match for Chey, and begins plotting how she can make that happen. However, things do not lead that way. Chey and their other partner, Vivi, see the spark between Avery and Ben, and begin steering Avery in Ben’s direction. Avery is not used to having romance in her life and, after a short stint with a guy during her early college years, has abstained from romance, devoting herself to getting thru college and starting up the farm with her partners. As time goes on, Avery’s and Ben’s relationship grows. Ben and Avery must now fact major decisions. What to do when the regular vet returns from his leave, and how and if their romance will continue.
This is a quick, easy read. However, I would have preferred a longer book, to watch the romance between Avery and Ben grow more slowly and flourish. It seemed as if things moved in too much of a rush. As I said, more familiarity with the setting and characters would have been nice as it would have helped me understand and appreciate a lot of what happened and was said, but not having this did not keep me from fully appreciating characters and the setting of the book. The ending was not much of a surprise, as I could tell almost from the start where it was going, and the blurb on the book alluded to it. Still, it was kind of interesting to watch a super smart Avery come up against a super smart Ben, but I am not sure just how realistic two super intelligent people meeting up like they did is. Nevertheless, it is possible. I thought, from the title, this would be a book about Christmas, but it really wasn’t. The book took place around Christmas, but there was very little of the holiday mentioned in it and no mistletoe. Still, this is another good romance. I you enjoy Donna Kauffman’s books, or romances, you will like this one. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
October 19, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
LAVENDER & MISTLETOE is a novella (#3.5) in the Blue Hollow Falls series that captured my attention from the start and held it, along with my heart, until the ending. Although I have not read all the titles in this series I was not the least bit lost as everything I truly needed to know was addressed in the narrative or dialogue. I need to go back and grab the ones that I’ve missed, but in the end, that made no difference to my enjoyment of Avery and Ben’s romance.
Who could have ever predicted that a tiny pigmy goat found along the side of the road would lead to romance and life changes for a young woman who is beyond genius intellectually, but still curious enough to need to understand exactly how love works? Certainly not Avery, that’s for certain. I enjoyed seeing Avery a bit gobsmacked when her plans for her friend’s romance turns into something far different for herself. Ben and Avery both would be considered child geniuses, with analytical minds, and the need to apply logic to just about everything. Each has grown up dealing with being a bit different from others, and each has found their niche in life – for the most part.
Watching Ben show Avery the true magic of falling in love, that there is no proven path only what is felt was pure joy. There were a few bumps in the road to their happy ending, but nothing that could eventually keep them apart. Each was smart enough to recognize that they’d found something very special and unique in each other – getting their life plans on the same page might take a bit more work though. I had such a good time with LAVENDER & MISTLETOE this holiday season and would not hesitate to recommend it to any reader who enjoys a really good love story with touches of the magic of Christmas sprinkled about quite perfectly.
*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.*
LAVENDER & MISTLETOE is a novella (#3.5) in the Blue Hollow Falls series that captured my attention from the start and held it, along with my heart, until the ending. Although I have not read all the titles in this series I was not the least bit lost as everything I truly needed to know was addressed in the narrative or dialogue. I need to go back and grab the ones that I’ve missed, but in the end, that made no difference to my enjoyment of Avery and Ben’s romance.
Who could have ever predicted that a tiny pigmy goat found along the side of the road would lead to romance and life changes for a young woman who is beyond genius intellectually, but still curious enough to need to understand exactly how love works? Certainly not Avery, that’s for certain. I enjoyed seeing Avery a bit gobsmacked when her plans for her friend’s romance turns into something far different for herself. Ben and Avery both would be considered child geniuses, with analytical minds, and the need to apply logic to just about everything. Each has grown up dealing with being a bit different from others, and each has found their niche in life – for the most part.
Watching Ben show Avery the true magic of falling in love, that there is no proven path only what is felt was pure joy. There were a few bumps in the road to their happy ending, but nothing that could eventually keep them apart. Each was smart enough to recognize that they’d found something very special and unique in each other – getting their life plans on the same page might take a bit more work though. I had such a good time with LAVENDER & MISTLETOE this holiday season and would not hesitate to recommend it to any reader who enjoys a really good love story with touches of the magic of Christmas sprinkled about quite perfectly.
*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.*
September 10, 2019
Lavender & Mistletoe is a novella installment in Donna Kauffman’s Blue Hollow Falls series. Lavender Blue is the lavender farm begun by four very different women who came together in a time of grief but bonded in such a way as to form a family of their own. This story focuses on the youngest of the group, 26 year old Big Brain Avery Kent.
Avery completed her second PhD when 18. Soon after graduation her parents were killed in an accident putting much of her life on hold. Her parents were academics, she lived her entire life on a college campus. When her parents died, Avery was at loose ends until she bonded with her newfound family, the ladies of Lavender Blue.
As Avery and fellow Lavender lady Cheyenne McCafferty are leaving a holiday event, Avery spies the result of a vehicle sliding in the snow in a small hump in the snow. She hollers for Chey to stop, runs from their truck, and recovers a pygmy goat in the snow mound. Removing her own jacket, Avery wraps the small creature in the coat and returns to the truck. Chey heads for their local veterinarian, however he is away and young Dr. Ben Campbell is filling in during his absence.
There seems to be an instant connection between Avery and Ben, however Avery tries to ignore it and instead match the new veterinarian with her friend Chey. But Chey and housemother Vivi have other ideas. You see, Ben is a Big Brain too, and they see him a perfect match for Avery.
As the story evolves, the reader follows as Avery learns to open herself to the possibility of a real relationship with Ben despite her fear of where his job will lead him when their own veterinarian returns.
This is a lovely story. The characters are warm, the surroundings lovely. I did enjoy this story and I do recommend it.
Avery completed her second PhD when 18. Soon after graduation her parents were killed in an accident putting much of her life on hold. Her parents were academics, she lived her entire life on a college campus. When her parents died, Avery was at loose ends until she bonded with her newfound family, the ladies of Lavender Blue.
As Avery and fellow Lavender lady Cheyenne McCafferty are leaving a holiday event, Avery spies the result of a vehicle sliding in the snow in a small hump in the snow. She hollers for Chey to stop, runs from their truck, and recovers a pygmy goat in the snow mound. Removing her own jacket, Avery wraps the small creature in the coat and returns to the truck. Chey heads for their local veterinarian, however he is away and young Dr. Ben Campbell is filling in during his absence.
There seems to be an instant connection between Avery and Ben, however Avery tries to ignore it and instead match the new veterinarian with her friend Chey. But Chey and housemother Vivi have other ideas. You see, Ben is a Big Brain too, and they see him a perfect match for Avery.
As the story evolves, the reader follows as Avery learns to open herself to the possibility of a real relationship with Ben despite her fear of where his job will lead him when their own veterinarian returns.
This is a lovely story. The characters are warm, the surroundings lovely. I did enjoy this story and I do recommend it.
September 20, 2019
I received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do
This Christmas, small-town Blue Hollow Falls will work big holiday magic for two people who have researched everything but love . . .
Avery Kent needs a project. The busy brain that earned her two PhDs before the age of eighteen is fascinated by the home she’s created with her three friends in Blue Hollow Falls, but the farm and the tearoom are running like clockwork now. As the holiday season approaches, it’s time for Avery to dive into one of her last uncharted research topics: love. Not for herself, of course; for her friend, Chey! But a closer look at the handsome young veterinarian Avery has chosen for this romantic equation has her wishing for gifts she never thought she wanted . . .
Another former child prodigy, Ben Chandler is more like Avery than she ever imagined. His intellect is a perfect match for hers—and everything else about him attracts her in ways that send delicious tingles down her spine. But a relationship? That’s something Avery will need to analyze—unless her friends can help Ben convince her that romance is more magic than science, and that a good old-fashioned kiss under the mistletoe is the perfect way to open her heart to the possibility of the greatest gift of all . . .
This was a great entry in the Blue Hollow Falls series. The book lived up to the publishers description and more. It gets 5 stars from me.
From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do
This Christmas, small-town Blue Hollow Falls will work big holiday magic for two people who have researched everything but love . . .
Avery Kent needs a project. The busy brain that earned her two PhDs before the age of eighteen is fascinated by the home she’s created with her three friends in Blue Hollow Falls, but the farm and the tearoom are running like clockwork now. As the holiday season approaches, it’s time for Avery to dive into one of her last uncharted research topics: love. Not for herself, of course; for her friend, Chey! But a closer look at the handsome young veterinarian Avery has chosen for this romantic equation has her wishing for gifts she never thought she wanted . . .
Another former child prodigy, Ben Chandler is more like Avery than she ever imagined. His intellect is a perfect match for hers—and everything else about him attracts her in ways that send delicious tingles down her spine. But a relationship? That’s something Avery will need to analyze—unless her friends can help Ben convince her that romance is more magic than science, and that a good old-fashioned kiss under the mistletoe is the perfect way to open her heart to the possibility of the greatest gift of all . . .
This was a great entry in the Blue Hollow Falls series. The book lived up to the publishers description and more. It gets 5 stars from me.
December 30, 2019
Hmmm....this is the second novella by Donna Kauffman that I have read in a row and I just don't think they are my jam. I like Kauffman's longer books, but these short ones leave my eyes hurting from all the rolling they are doing.
Kauffman takes us back to Blue Hallow Falls where Avery Kent works at a lavender farm with her three friends. And, Avery is the brains of the operation. And I mean like genius brain. Double PhD by 19, eidetic memory, and the stereotypical personality traits that you associate with someone so smart that they lack a filter and have trouble connecting with others.
Enter hot veterinarian Ben Chandler. He is a vet with Veterinarians Without Borders and is in Blue Hallow Falls covering for a friend who is out of town for the holidays. Oh, and guess what? He is also a child prodigy/genius! Only he is drop dead gorgeous and not socially inept in the slightest.
It just didn't work for me. If the characters reminded me one more time that they are geniuses then I was going to barf. We get it. You're smart. And then the author tried to throw in some language like, "But really, what is smart? I can't throw a baseball. We are all great at different things!" but then the characters continued to talk about how hard their lives were being smart.
Eh, it just wasn't for me. I am starting to worry that the spark of the cheesy Christmas romances is missing this year....
Kauffman takes us back to Blue Hallow Falls where Avery Kent works at a lavender farm with her three friends. And, Avery is the brains of the operation. And I mean like genius brain. Double PhD by 19, eidetic memory, and the stereotypical personality traits that you associate with someone so smart that they lack a filter and have trouble connecting with others.
Enter hot veterinarian Ben Chandler. He is a vet with Veterinarians Without Borders and is in Blue Hallow Falls covering for a friend who is out of town for the holidays. Oh, and guess what? He is also a child prodigy/genius! Only he is drop dead gorgeous and not socially inept in the slightest.
It just didn't work for me. If the characters reminded me one more time that they are geniuses then I was going to barf. We get it. You're smart. And then the author tried to throw in some language like, "But really, what is smart? I can't throw a baseball. We are all great at different things!" but then the characters continued to talk about how hard their lives were being smart.
Eh, it just wasn't for me. I am starting to worry that the spark of the cheesy Christmas romances is missing this year....
October 11, 2019
Short Look at the “Science” of Love
This, to me, seems a little short for the story that it wanted to tell. I am new to this author, and I believe this is a series. I haven't, obviously, read any of the other books in it, and I wonder if the heroine, Avery, would have made more sense to me if I had read previous books. I don't know, though. I'm definitely a fan of an intelligent heroine, but Avery seemed to the extreme, and therefore, not quite believable. Is it actually possible to earn two PhDs by such an early age? I did like that the hero and the heroine were both brainiacs, though. In that way, they seemed well suited. Hiding beneath her brainy exterior, the heroine was actually a kind and considerate person, as shown by the way she treated the goat and her good friend, Chey. I found her scientific approach to love to be amusing, especially contrasting with the way it actually played out for her. As I said above, I thought this felt too short, so both characters and plot couldn't really be explored as much as the characters and the story warranted. All in all, I still found it a charming romance.
I received a free copy of this book, but that didn't affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
This, to me, seems a little short for the story that it wanted to tell. I am new to this author, and I believe this is a series. I haven't, obviously, read any of the other books in it, and I wonder if the heroine, Avery, would have made more sense to me if I had read previous books. I don't know, though. I'm definitely a fan of an intelligent heroine, but Avery seemed to the extreme, and therefore, not quite believable. Is it actually possible to earn two PhDs by such an early age? I did like that the hero and the heroine were both brainiacs, though. In that way, they seemed well suited. Hiding beneath her brainy exterior, the heroine was actually a kind and considerate person, as shown by the way she treated the goat and her good friend, Chey. I found her scientific approach to love to be amusing, especially contrasting with the way it actually played out for her. As I said above, I thought this felt too short, so both characters and plot couldn't really be explored as much as the characters and the story warranted. All in all, I still found it a charming romance.
I received a free copy of this book, but that didn't affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
August 11, 2019
Get ready for the most wonderful, warm, heartwarming read. I always brace myself for the inevitable conflict in a story however Avery and Ben are the most amazing characters and their story is sweet and deep and will wrap you in a (light on the holiday) romance. Although we met Avery in a previous book, the author writes more depth so we get to know her and what makes her the absolute character she is. Ben is new to the Blue Hollow Falls family but he is the most understanding individual…just what Avery needs and a match for her in every way.
I love the Blue Hollow Falls stories and this one doesn’t disappoint. Avery is so very smart and intelligent – she often says she has a big brain and makes no apologies for who she is. Ben is the perfect match for her as he, too, has a high IQ but the most important thing is…he ‘gets’ her. They also complement each other in most ways. And their chemistry is off the charts, right from the start.
Lavender & Mistletoe is a standalone story and it is wonderful; no deep, tragic storylines. I loved it and enjoyed my stay in Blue Hollow Falls once again. I highly recommend this story and all the rest of the books in the series.
I love the Blue Hollow Falls stories and this one doesn’t disappoint. Avery is so very smart and intelligent – she often says she has a big brain and makes no apologies for who she is. Ben is the perfect match for her as he, too, has a high IQ but the most important thing is…he ‘gets’ her. They also complement each other in most ways. And their chemistry is off the charts, right from the start.
Lavender & Mistletoe is a standalone story and it is wonderful; no deep, tragic storylines. I loved it and enjoyed my stay in Blue Hollow Falls once again. I highly recommend this story and all the rest of the books in the series.
August 30, 2019
Avery is one of four ladies who own and run a lavender farm business in the beautiful sounding Blue Hollow Falls area, they are friends who met and came together through personal tragedies and are each working their way through it to a better life.
Avery is a genius, a child prodigy with a 'big brain'. and responsible for developing their lavender products. Her mind works at a rapid pace and she is always looking for new challenges. Then along comes Ben, their new locum vet, who is also a former child prodigy and a 'brain'. Avery initially feels a new project is needed to figure out male/female attraction, and feels that another of her friends/business partners, Cheyenne, is the one to match with Ben. But she gets very confused when Chey doesn't feel like that for Ben and Avery's feelings come into play and she is attracted to Ben herself, and he is definitely attracted to her!
A really lovely story, even though it was a short story and I would have loved a full book! I really love this series and can't wait for Chey's story next in 'Under A Firefly Moon' - there's a excerpt at the end of this book - which I shouldn't have read as now I can't wait for the next book!
Avery is a genius, a child prodigy with a 'big brain'. and responsible for developing their lavender products. Her mind works at a rapid pace and she is always looking for new challenges. Then along comes Ben, their new locum vet, who is also a former child prodigy and a 'brain'. Avery initially feels a new project is needed to figure out male/female attraction, and feels that another of her friends/business partners, Cheyenne, is the one to match with Ben. But she gets very confused when Chey doesn't feel like that for Ben and Avery's feelings come into play and she is attracted to Ben herself, and he is definitely attracted to her!
A really lovely story, even though it was a short story and I would have loved a full book! I really love this series and can't wait for Chey's story next in 'Under A Firefly Moon' - there's a excerpt at the end of this book - which I shouldn't have read as now I can't wait for the next book!
September 17, 2019
Avery Kent is the unique person of their Lavender Blue farm group. A child prodigy with more degrees than she knows what to do with and she is currently at a crossroads in her life. The Lavender Blue farm is running smoothly and Avery needs something to research to appease her big brain. Avery gets the idea to research love, especially in regards for finding Chey the perfect guy. When Avery meets Ben Campbell, the temporary veterinarian in Blue Hallow Falls she thinks he would be the perfect man but when Avery starts to have her own funny feelings around Ben she is starting to second guess her choice.
Of course all of Avery's friend realize that Ben would be perfect for Avery and together with Ben they go about trying to show this to her. Avery may be a genius but it takes a while for her head to wrap around the fact of her and Ben but once she does she's all in.
Avery is such a fun person. I cannot imagine what it would be like to have that type of brain but she embraces it well. I just adored Ben. He is such a sweet perfect guy for Avery and together they were perfect. I just loved their happy ending....it was perfect for them!
Of course all of Avery's friend realize that Ben would be perfect for Avery and together with Ben they go about trying to show this to her. Avery may be a genius but it takes a while for her head to wrap around the fact of her and Ben but once she does she's all in.
Avery is such a fun person. I cannot imagine what it would be like to have that type of brain but she embraces it well. I just adored Ben. He is such a sweet perfect guy for Avery and together they were perfect. I just loved their happy ending....it was perfect for them!
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