Świąteczne drzewko życzeń

Eternity Springs #15

by Emily March, Edyta Świerczyńska (Translator)

Pokrzepiająca opowieść o marzeniach i drugich szansach, które pomogą ocalić niejedno skrzywdzone serce.

Kiedy Jenna adoptowała Reillego, postanowiła, że zrobi wszystko, by zapewnić mu bezpieczeństwo. Małe górskie miasteczko wydaje się być idealną kryjówką przed przeszłością oraz doskonałym miejscem do spędzenia magicznych świąt. Jenna nie może jednak spełnić najważniejszego świątecznego życzenia syna, który marzy o tatusiu.

W Wigilię rezolutny chłopiec dzwoni pod numer, który jego zdaniem należy do Mikołaja. Po drugiej stronie słuchawki trafia na Devina, który szybko wczuwa się w nową rolę i zaprzyjaźnia z chłopcem. Kiedy przystojny Święty Mikołaj odkrywa tajemnicę Jenny, oferuje jej pomoc.

Czy mężczyzna może spełnić ich świąteczne życzenia?

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Holiday, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Audiobook

352 pages, Paperback

First published October 2, 2018

About the author

Pseudonym(s): Geralyn Dawson

Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a "master of delightful banter," and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Christmas Wishing Tree by Emily March is a 2018 St. Martin’s Press publication.

Devin Murphy’s heart is torn between Eternity Springs, where his family lives, and the adventure of the open sea. Returning to Eternity Springs from Australia for the holidays, he receives a phone call from a young boy who thought he was calling Santa. Devin goes along, thinking the call was a one off. But, the kid sort of got to him, because instead the hottest toy or gadget, this kid is asking for a daddy.

Jenna Stockton adopted Reilly and although she works a lot, she’s a great mom. But, when she acquires a stalker, she must protect her son at all cost. To that end, she packs up and heads to Eternity Springs. But, amazingly, Reilly’s ‘Santa’ happens to be there, too, and he’s the sexiest Santa Jenna has ever laid eyes on. Once Devin realizes the danger Jenna and Reilly are in, he offers to help discover who the stalker is, so she can finally have her life back. His offer is tempting, but being close to him tempts in ways she doesn’t want to think about…

I say this every year, but it bears repeating. I always bite off more than I can chew when selecting my holiday themed novels for the Christmas season. I want to read all the new ones and re-read old favorites, and never manage to get them all read before we ring in the new year. (And sometimes I over indulge to the point of burning out on Ho Ho Ho’s!) But, no matter what, I always make a concerted effort to read the annual Eternity Springs holiday romance by Emily March.

This story has a very slight edge to it because of the stalker Jenna is on the run from, but mostly this is a terrific story that captures the spirit of Eternity Spring- especially during the magical holiday season. I loved this story because Reilly is a great kid, with interest beyond video games and iPads, who wants something on an emotional level, instead of a materialistic level. I’d say Jenna was a super cool mom despite some critical remarks on her parenting skills at the beginning of the book.

I also liked Devin, who was true to himself, but adult enough to realize he doesn’t have to be one dimensional or pigeonholed. Jenna’s love for Reilly, and her level-headed parenting scored points for me. I loved the way Devin and Jenna showed firmness, but sensitivity to Reilly, and the way they made concessions, working out ways to live their individual dreams and still share a life together.

Once again, Eternity Springs works its special magic and brings two awesome people together, with the help of a super cool ‘Santa’, who eventually comes through, granting a little boy his most fervent Christmas wish.

Overall, this book would be a great way to kick-start your holiday reading. It is heartwarming, with a hint of magic, and loads of charm, and a truly awesome love story. You’ll be dreaming of snowfall and Christmas trees…. And sexy Santas!!

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily March is one of those great authors who knows just how to put five candy canes worth of Christmas cheer in a holiday novel. This one was jam-packed with sleigh rides, snowy days, treks through the woods to look for Christmas trees, searches for the perfect ornament at a Christmas store, calls to Santa, cookies on a special plate, snowballs, and so much more. There was also a completely enthralling plot that kept me turning pages as a little boy wants a father, a doctor is dealing with a completely creepy stalker, a man has to decide to give up the single life, and the characters of Eternity Springs, Colorado rejoice around friends and family.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

Her son could be a terrier when he got an idea in his head, and lately, every time she turned around, he’d been yipping and yapping about needing a daddy. How about I just order one online?

Those are really big antlers.” “They’re called a rack,” Michael informed Reilly. “My brother Devin says guys really like big racks.” Jenna made a strangled noise in her throat.

I choose to live my vision, not my circumstance.

Devin didn’t dream about finding The One. His MO was The Many. He liked having a harem, to use his father’s term.

If Cam dyes his hair and starts wearing turtlenecks, I’ll lose my mind.

My Review:

Although it is not primarily a holiday story as the events span more than a year, this was a sweet, light, and effortless read and a gentle way to ease into the season. The premise was original with several active and engaging storylines of light suspense and contemporary romance. I don’t recall many books were all of the primary and secondary characters were as considerate and likable as those inhabiting this unusually relaxed and accommodating small town. The writing was well-paced, easy to follow, and pleasantly amusing.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't realize this was #15 in a series! I've read a few of the previous books because characters started sounding familiar. That said, this book can definitely be read as a stand alone but if you think you want to read this series, then start at the beginning because a series is always best started with the first book so you can watch the personal lives grow.

This installment focuses on Jenna and Devin. They meet totally by chance but had spoken on the phone without knowing it when they met. Jenna's son Reilly called Northpole One to reach Santa to add a Dad to his Christmas list. It was a fluke that a burner phone that Devin had was that number. I have to admire Devin for playing along and not crushing a young boy's belief in Santa. He tried to reach Jenna to let her know her son was calling him, but Jenna would not answer. She had her own issues with a stalker and thought it was that person. Thankfully she finally answered and they got that squared away. I think it was at that moment that Devin fell in love with someone he didn't even know.

Jenna ends up in Eternity Springs because it is touted as a place to heal broken hearts. Plus she feels safe there when the stalker forces her to go off the grid to escape him/her. She just didn't realize that she would find her new home and potentially family there. Turns out it was a great decision for her. Plus since Jenna is a OB/GYN she was able to help all the women that seemed to have gotten pregnant during a blizzard in March. One of my favorite lines near the end - "After that, it was like dominoes. All six women...every last one of them...went into labor."

Another favorite line between Jenna and Devin - Jenna "Who starts a fight at a cakewalk? You smashed Maggie's cake!" Devin - "That was unfortunate. But since I as the winner, the only person I hurt was myself." (there was more but I just highlighted my favorite parts)

There are some tense moments for Jenna when the stalker initiates some pranks and (apparently) what they call swatting (prank calls to emergency numbers). I will say that the whole situation with this stalker fell a little flat. I realize it wasn't the main focus of the book, but once they discovered who it was it just ended and there wasn't any more mention of this person or what happened to them or if Jenna would need to testify against this person.

Overall this is a very enjoyable book and I can just imagine that one of the upcoming books will be about Boone. This book just hints that there is more to him than meets the eye.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply sweet, utterly adorable and filled with that wholesome vibe... you can't help but want to become a part of the Eternity Springs family. If you are looking for the perfect read to put you into the Christmas spirit any time of the year, The Christmas Wishing Tree is the book for you.

Babies, puppies, a budding but resistant romance, and maybe one of the best cast of truly nice and sincere group of characters you'll find, The Christmas Wishing Tree had it all.

I received this ARC copy of The Christmas Wishing Tree from St. Martins Press. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Liina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jenna and her son Reilly are being targeted by a stalker, who seems to enjoy traumatizing them both. The stalked takes breaks between the bad deeds, but always comes back to scare them. On one of those in-between breaks Reilly makes a call to Santa, who is actually Devin. Devin is from Eternity Spring and keeps the Santa calls realistic for Reilly. When Jenna finds out about the phone calls, she isn't happy at first, but after speaking to Devin herself, she starts to enjoy their conversations. Devin is about to leave for Australia, because his job is there and so he planned a special Santa call for Reilly, but because the stalked struck again, it never happened and Jenna and Devin lost contact. Faith had other plans and so Jenna and Devin meet a while later in Eternity Spring and once they meet there's a real connection between them and Devin is ready to help Jenna with the bad guy, who is still not giving up.
It's the third book from the series that I've read and all books have been wonderful. I love the small town community and two strong, kind and independent main characters. The mystery aspect was a great addition to the overall plot and I would definitely read the next book in the series.

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

One man comes home to the place that holds his heart. One woman finds safety in the haven that is Eternity Springs, as her son’s belief in the miracles of Christmas and Santa Claus finds a way to make dreams come true, even if it takes a little time. All they had to do was “believe.”

THE CHRISTMAS WISHING TREE by Emily March brings the magic of the season to life as the love of a town envelopes all who enter in hope for the future!

Sweet and endearing, two people will find more than they could have dreamed of and it all started with one little boy’s wish to Santa and a throwaway phone. There’s magic in the air in Eternity Springs and at Christmas, it simply sparkles!

Start your Holiday reading off with a smile on your face and in your heart!

I received a complimentary ARC edition from St. Martin's Press!

Series: Eternity Springs - Book 6
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (September 25, 2018)
Publication Date: September 25, 2018
Genre: Holiday Romance
Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Christmas Wishing Tree by Emily March

A beautiful small town romance with a smattering of suspense. 15th in the Eternity Springs series. Can be read on its own.
I so love this town. By 15, you’d think enough already. Not so. The author brings fresh people with their own heart-to-be-healed issues, with different occupations and needs together into the community. And that community wraps them in love and acceptance.
This one is pure heart.
From a boy placing a telephone call to Santa Clause to a town angel and the concept of a Christmas Wishing Tree is a wonderfully heartwarming story.
G-rated.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy of the book because it’s a favorite author and I want to share the experience.

[İlkim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tüm seriyi bitirene kadar huzura eremedim adeta. Küçük kasaba hikayelerine bayılıyorum, bu kasabadaki herkesi de yakından tanıyormuşum gibi hissettim. Her bir üyesinin hikayesini okumadan edemedim resmen, şimdi diğer Callahan kolu ile Eternity Springs birleşecek sanırım, onlara da devam edeceğim.

[Bookish Trina · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when you take small town romance and add a little bit of suspense? Well, you get The Christmas Wishing Tree! The Christmas Wishing Tree is a magical book set in the magical locale of Eternity Springs, Colorado. What a great book filled with well-developed characters that you'll fall in love with. This is my first book in the series and I now want to go back and read the others.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Synopsis from the Publisher/NetGalley.com
Sometimes life’s most magical journeys bring you back to where it all began…From New York Times bestselling author Emily March comes The Christmas Wishing Tree, an enchanting account of the magic and miracle of Christmas.

A man who loves adventure and the open sea, Devin Murphy returns for a short Christmas trip to his small hometown of Eternity Springs. Immersed in the joy and magic of the holiday season all around him, he doesn’t hesitate to play along when a young boy phones Santa to ask for a very special wish. Devin never guesses that a wrong number has the potential to make everything in his life so right.

Jenna Stockton adopted Reilly when he needed a mother and she intends to keep him safe. A small town across the country called Eternity Springs seems like a good place to hide from their past without any complications —until sexy Santa himself discovers her secrets. When Devin proposes a daring plan to face down the danger together and defeat it once and for all, she is tempted. Maybe Devin really is capable of making wishes come true? Perhaps in a Christmas wish they’ll both find the miracle they’ve been looking for all along…

A delightful Christmas novel in the New York Times bestselling Eternity Springs series.

[Patrice · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite a good story. At first I thought it was going to be more of a "cozy" mystery; but, it melded well with the story that actually takes place over a 2 year period. It is well written and kept me wanting to find out "what happens next". It has interesting characters that are well developed. It is my first foray into Eternity Springs. I also liked that the story wasn't only in the little town of Eternity Springs. There are references to Australia and also a small Caribbean island. The main character, Jenna Stockton, is an OB/GYN doctor with a 5 year-old son named Reilly. This is their story: a boy that wants a dad, a "magical" call to Santa, and a stalker that has Jenna and Reilly scared witless.

[{MyDearestClementine} · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I would have enjoyed this book a lot better if I read it instead of listening to the audiobook. At times, listening to it was unbearable. It took me about two hours of listening to get to the point to where I could tolerate it.

[Chris Conley]

I want to find Eternity Springs. Emily March has created a community that is so lovely and welcoming. Jenna and Devin’s story just adds to the richness that is Eternity Springs.

I was lucky enough to get this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. The first time I ever won anything! It did not affect my love for this book.

[Savannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not festive at all and just is the weirdest hodgepodge of things? Is it romance? Is it a thriller? Is it garbage? Just wanted a fun festive read and this did not deliver. 80% of it takes place in summer.

[Bette Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every year there is that one holiday story that touches my heart and reminds me exactly what the season is all about. This year, for me, this is that book. It's an amazing story of love, compassion, family, and friendship that you won't soon forget.

There is nothing Jenna Stockton won't do to protect her son Riley and keep him safe. Stumbling upon the small mountain town of Eternity Springs, CO will turn out to be the best thing to ever happen to them but it will take a little time for her to realize and accept it. This is their journey and it's one you don't want to miss!

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story of a lonely little boy and his mom. I read this book out of order in the series and enjoyed it thoroughly. It is inspiring and is full of Christmas Spirit!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 15th satisfying trip to Eternity Springs, Colorado. In this installment we get to see the return of Devin Murphy, home to visit his family for the holidays. Thanks to a little cell phone catastrophe and a phone call to the wrong number, we meet Jenna Stockton and her adopted son, Reilly, who are in some dangerous trouble. The magic of Christmas, love, and a sprinkle of angelic intervention may help the miracle all of the characters have been hoping for come true.

I really enjoyed this book. The story building was excellent and secondary characters from Eternity Springs are among some of my favorites ever (Celeste!!!). That’s not to say there aren’t a few flaws... Though the beginning and middle were great, I felt like the conclusion was wrapped up too perfectly with Christmas paper and a bow. It seemed like after all the build-up and the seriousness of the dangerous plot twist, a stronger conclusion was needed. Overall, I give this one 4/5 stars and thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the chance to read and review this fabulous book!

[Jewlsbookblog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had a little mix of everything! There’s a slim thread of suspense from the stalker who is scaring Jenna and her son, Riley. Then there’s the romantic tension between Jenna and Devin. There’s Christmas magic-like major mojo as Devin reminisces about the Eternity Springs’ couples as he compares to his own life. Then there’s the slew of characters I can choose from to go back and read how they’ve all become intertwined. Of course, the best part is the sweet, chaotic vibe of living in a small town, surrounded by loving family and friends. Some things required a stretch of my imagination, but overall, I enjoyed this introduction to Eternity Springs and her colorful residents!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid Christmas Romance. I was a bit disappointed the mystery portion, I felt it was a bit of a letdown, the premise was good and all the way through the book I wondered who it could be but when we found out who caused the mystery I thought "That's it?" Not satisfying.

As I said, the romance part was good. I loved the interaction between the main characters and the ending was everything I could have hoped.

Would have been 4 stars if not for that mystery, and I think it could have been left out. Read if you love Christmas & Romance but maybe skip if you are a serious mystery lover.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Eternity Springs #15, Finally, I have been waiting on Devon Murphy's story since he first showed up as a teenager in book 4, Lover's Leap. I love Emily March and this series it's another series I buy in paperback. The whole theme for the series is that Eternity Springs is a place where broken hearts come to heal, so you know it's going to get emotional, I was crying a quarter of the way into the book. Another thing you know about this series is that it will be funny at times with quirky characters and even sillier dogs but also hope; the characters always remind each other there is always room for hope and that things have a way of working out for the better especially when there is trouble everyone is willing to pitch in to help.

I love it when characters kind of fall for each other before they meet face to face, in Devon and Jenna's case it's through phone calls. Jenna's adopted son Reilly was given a phone number to Santa who he ended up calling was Devon. With it being Christmas Devon didn't want to break a little boy's heart so Devon plays along. Devon calls back hoping to get Reilly's Mom but the phone goes unanswered when Jenna finally answers the phone it's clear she's distraught after confirming his story with Devon she agrees to play along too and Reilly can continue to call Santa. Jenna and Devon continue to talk too only knowing each other as Santa and Reilly's Mom. But on New Years Eve something horrible happens and Jenna cuts off contact with Devon before he can say goodbye to Reilly.

Having heard all about Eternity Springs from "Santa" Jenna decides Reilly needs a little heart healing after what happened the previous year and they spend Christmas at Angel's Rest in Eternity Springs. After meeting Celeste and seeing Reilly turn back to the boy she knew before she understands why "Santa", Celeste, and just about everyone else calls Eternity Springs the place where broken hearts come to heal. But two months later and once again something happens to send Jenna and Reilly running. Later that summer Jenna and Reilly are living in an RV off the grid and under assumed names come back to visit Eternity Springs hoping no one recognizes them. Not only do they run into all the friends they made at Christmas they meet "Santa" face to face for the first time. When Jenna finally confesses what's been happening Devon and everyone else in town go above and beyond to help her and Reilly and stop their tormentor.

Devon and Jenna's romance was slow burning but the spark was instantaneous starting back with the phone calls. Jenna knew how good of a person Devon was especially with her son and how much he loved his family and his home when she met his family the next year she fell in love a little bit more and then she met him and she was a goner. Devon always felt divided between his family and Eternity Springs and his love for being out on the ocean and his first home Australia. He fell a little in love with Reilly and his Mom and even though it was supposed to be goodbye he kept his Santa phone just in case Reilly made contact again and since then no one could live up to the fantasy of "Reilly's Mom" until he meets her in person and she exceeded his fantasy but he doesn't think he can take her away from her new life and up root Reilly and take them to Australia so he tries not to love her but it's easier said than done. Overall, this was a wonderful read. I absolutely adore this series. I loved Reilly and his thirst for knowledge he is such a cute kid. Boone McBride, oh well, maybe the third time's the charm.

[booksofallkinds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, that's it. I want to move to Eternity Springs! After reading THE CHRISTMAS WISHING TREE by Emily March, I have fallen head over heels in love with this magical place and its amazing community who care so deeply for each other.

Jenna Stockton will do whatever it takes to protect her son Reilly and when a stalker seems to up the ante and her little boy gets hurt in the process, Jenna realises that they must disappear. Remembering a special phone call that her son had made to Santa, they soon find themselves in Eternity Springs and this special place soon begins to work its magic on both of them. But the stalker isn't ready to give up yet...

Devin Murphy is footloose and fancy-free and that's the way he intends to keep it. All he needs is the ocean and his family but he knows he is going to break their hearts when he tells them he is leaving Eternity Springs for good to move to Australia. When he accidentally picks up a call one day from an unknown number, it will bring Jenna and Reilly into his life and that of his family. And it isn't long before sparks fly between Jenna and himself. But commitment isn't something that is on his radar and he isn't meant to be someone's dad, no matter how much Reilly yearns for one. But when danger threatens those he cares about, Devin may just realise that love matters more than anything else in the world.

Engaging, festive, magical, and simply stunning THE CHRISTMAS WISHING TREE by Emily March is everything you could ever want in a Christmas novel. The characters are strong, intelligent, kind, and completely loveable and the element of danger from Jenna's past really adds a tension to parts of the story that had my stomach in knots. The community of Eternity Springs bursts to life on every page and I fell in love with the people as much as the beautiful scenery.

If you want a novel that will burrow into your heart and just make you feel warm and fuzzy inside then look no further than THE CHRISTMAS WISHING TREE by Emily March where family, friendship and discovering where you belong, is the order of the day.

*I voluntarily reviewed this book via Netgalley.

[Reeca Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devin Murphy is home for the holidays. He receives a phone call from a small boy named Reilly. Reilly thinks he is talking to Santa. And he wants Santa to bring him a Daddy! Devin continues to talk to Reilly off and on for a long while. This leads to an adventure for Reilly and Jenna. See, Jenna has a stalker and she is terrified. No way is she allowing someone to hurt her son. She buys and camper and starts traveling around the United States. Well, she ends up in Eternity Springs.

I adore these characters. Jenna is just a good, hardworking girl determined not to let anything happen to her son. Devin is a kind soul. I fell in love with Devin the moment he pretended to be Santa. These two characters are perfect for each other. And when Jenna is threatened, the whole town of Eternity Springs comes to her rescue.

I have just recently discovered Emily March. She writes the sweetest, most heartwarming reads. This one needs to be a Hallmark Christmas movie! Great setting, great story, and fabulous characters, what is not to like!

I received this novel from St. Martin’s Press via Netgalley for a honest review.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This latest entry in the Eternity Springs series is sure to put you into the holiday spirit. While this book can be read as a stand alone novel, I highly recommend reading the series in order because all of the characters from previous books do play a role in this story. Although some are only mentioned in passing that they are now expecting babies which is a fun update if you've been reading the series. While Jenna Stockton finds herself involved with Devin Murphy a resident of Eternity Springs, by accident and then through a series of tragic events, she fits in perfectly with the town. While this is a perfect novel for the holidays, it is not necessarily a Christmas romance. In fact, the story takes place over the course of two years starting and ending at Christmas.
The novels of Eternity Springs always feature an element of romance and internal healing that the characters may or may not have even realized they needed. With plenty of heartwarming moments and likeable characters, I found myself pulled into the story immediately.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the most wonderful time of the year! And what a great way to start off the Holiday Season in Romance! Although this book is a part of a series, it can easily be read as a stand alone, which is exactly what I did.

The Christmas Wishing Tree is the perfect blend of sweet romance with a little suspense thrown in. And let me tell you right now that Reilly absolutely steals the show. You will fall for this little guy from the moment you meet him!

If you're looking for a good book to jump into the season with The Christmas Wishing tree will give you a little intrigue along with the Holiday Spirit!

[Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a long time since I've read Emily March. Being Christmas, there's no better time to return to Eternity Springs.

I don't know where to start. The Christmas Wishing Tree owned my heart with a little kid calling Santa and accidentally dialing the wrong number, only to have the fake Santa talk to him. There is something so special about Eternity Springs, which encompasses love and something magical. The Christmas Wishing Tree has a little suspense.

**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**

[Courtney Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the ‘featuring a naughty Santa’ prompt

[Olga Miret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am thankful to St Martin’s Press for offering me an ARC copy of this novel that I freely chose to review and for the opportunity to participate in the blog tour of its launch.
Although I am not a big fan of Christmas, I do enjoy some Christmas stories, movies, and songs (especially out of season, when one isn’t surrounded by it). The offer to read and review this novel reached me in the middle of a pretty hot summer and it felt like the perfect way to combat the heat. It worked, for sure, and although I had never read any of the other novels in the Eternity Springs series, I quickly became enamoured of the place and its inhabitants. I can reassure you, though, that the story goes beyond the Christmas theme, and there are wonderful scenes that take place in other seasons (the Fall, the Fourth of July…) and other locations apart from Colorado (Nashville, Florida, Australia, and the Caribbean). But I have to agree that the overall theme of the novel, and the spirit that suffuses it, is that of Christmas.
The novel, written in the third person, shares the alternating points of view (and locations) of a part-time resident of Eternity Springs, Devon Murphy (the son of Cam and Sarah Murphy, and brother to Michael, long-term residents of the town), and Jenna Stockton, a doctor specialising in Obstetrics and Gynaecology whom we meet in Nashville. While Devon seems to be a free-spirited man who loves the sea, boats, fishing, and women, but avoids commitment like the plague, Jenna is a model of responsibility. She is a single mom to Reilly, whom he adopted after looking after his mother, a young woman down on her luck who died when the boy was a toddler. She works hard and would do anything to ensure the safety and happiness of her son. But he has a Christmas wish that is out of her hands. Somehow, luck, magic, or the power of believing puts Reilly and Devon in contact, and in a roundabout way, the destinies of the three of them intersect in the wonderful town of Eternity Springs. Both main characters have secrets (as readers of the genre will probably expect): Devon has a traumatic past in the relationships department and has a lot in common with Reilly, and Jenna’s life is haunted by a stalker who seems intent on upping-the-ante and putting her and her son’s lives at risk.
I liked the characters and their relationship, that follows the well-known formula of will-they/won’t-they so successful in the romance genre (they both have very valid reasons for their hesitation, although if you get easily impatient, I must warn you that the book is quite long and the story develops over close to two years), and I liked many of the secondary characters as well (despite not having read other novels in the series, I got a fairly good sense of who they were, and I did not feel I could not fully enjoy the story because of lack of background information. And I wouldn’t mind getting to know more about many of them), particularly Celeste, her resort, and the wonderful idea of the Wishing Christmas Tree that gives the book its title. She has a touch of the magical and is the fairy godmother of the town and all the characters (and I’d love to meet her).
What I most enjoyed of the book was the town of Eternity Springs. I have read a number of novels that take place in charming towns (islands or other locations) where outsiders come and are quickly adopted by the community, becoming, in many cases for the first time, part of a big family. I always enjoy the fact that the town becomes a protagonist in its own right and when the novels works well, you feel as if you had spent time in a real place and look forward to future visits to the magical location. Eternity Springs is one of those towns, and to add to its attraction, it is located within a marvellous natural setting, and the writer does a good job of introducing us to parks, lakes, mountains, taking us on sledge rides, fishing, camping, and exploring the wonderful facilities and the traditions of the place. Although it has more than a touch of the fairy tale (everybody seems to be well-off, everybody is fairly happy, apart from the main protagonists, temporarily, and even the bad things that happen are pretty mild) and it can be a bit sugary at times, I think it would take a very cold heart to read the novel without falling for the magic of the town and its inhabitant. (And perhaps shed a tear or two. Good tears, though).
If I had to point out some things that readers might have issue with, one would be the mystery element. Jenna’s background story and her circumstances bear heavily upon her actions and how cautious she is when it comes to meeting new people and possible romances. Although the mystery element ramps up the tension and adds to the interest of the story, on occasions it seemed to be more of an afterthought and an opportunity to show Devon and his friends (all male) as a team capable of investigating and keeping everybody safe (and yes, some elements of the rescue fantasy and the knight in shining armour were clearly at work there). Although Jenna herself complains at times about being treated like a weak woman in need of protection —despite being a competent professional who had managed well by herself until that moment— this novel keeps to conventional and traditional gender roles rather than challenging them. I know that such plots and story-lines are typical of many romantic (wish-fulfilment) novels but might not suit all readers, especially those who prefer women in charge of their own destinies. As a reader of thrillers and mystery novels, I did not feel the mystery would have satisfied fans of the genre, as we are not given enough information to solve it (we get some details of the case but others are brushed over quickly and the resolution, when it arrives, is somewhat anticlimactic), and it takes a backseat to the romantic part of the story. Having read other books that mix both genres, and this being a romance with some mystery thrown in, rather than the other way round, I did not think its intended readers would be too disappointed.
There are many other subplots I have not mentioned, including dogs, pregnancies, health scares, fishing, older motherhood, baking, National Parks, love of nature, adoption, social media, stalking, counselling, vocation, tropical storms, family, traditions, Santa Claus, magic, traumatic relationships… There are wonderfully vivid and memorable scenes, the style of writing is easy and fluid, and the descriptions bring to life both the locations and the characters (without going overboard with the physical descriptions of the protagonists and love interests, although yes, don’t worry, they are attractive), and there are some sad moments, some funny ones, and many emotional and heart-warming scenes as well. There is plenty of sexual attraction and tension between Devon and Jenna, but there is no graphic sex and although there are some thrilling scenes, the doors stay firmly closed behind the protagonists when it comes to that side of things.
I know readers of romantic novels expect a happy ending. Well, you won’t be disappointed here. What’s more, I know some readers can get really upset if they feel there are elements in the story that are not fully solved and hate it when they feel that writers are using hooks and unresolved issues to keep them buying books in a series (not everybody feels the same, though). As I have said before, this novel can be read independently from the rest of the series, and all the plots and subplots of the story, even the secondary ones, are solved satisfactorily. So don’t hesitate to pick up this novel just because it’s part of a series. You will feel sad it has ended but it won’t keep you awake at night trying to guess what happened next. I kept imagining this novel as either a movie, or better even, a TV series, and would be surprised if some production company didn’t snatch it up. Done well it would be irresistible.
In sum, this is a novel that takes place in a magical location, in gorgeous settings, with a Christmas theme and a hopeful message, a romance that includes elements of mystery/thriller, with likeable characters that will make you feel home. I, for one, won’t hesitate to visit Eternity Springs again in the future.

[Celia Buell (semi hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know why I avoided reading this last Christmas, but for some reason I did. Maybe it was because it was in a series or maybe I just wasn't in the mood for this. Either way, it's a perfect read to get into the holiday season.

I was surprised at how much I wanted to know more about the main characters Jenna, Devin, and Reilly. I haven't felt close to the characters in an adult fiction novel since around this time last year, with Mr. & Mrs. American Pie. However, Emily March creates a story that had me invested from the minute I started reading.

March inserts us into the middle of the action from the very beginning, when we first meet Jenna. I didn't think I would like her character at first, but March creates a situation that has the reader asking questions from the beginning. Devin was pretty cool too.

One thing I really didn't like, though, was the derogatory comments toward their wives that the male characters made throughout the novel. While I know it's more of a country thing, it was kind of annoying, especially coming from a female writer.

I don't know if I would read the rest of the series, which all take place in Eternity Springs but focus around different characters. It seems a bit formulaic, and a lot of them are probably the same. Also, a lot of them seem like they take place at Christmas, and I don't like reading Christmas novels at times other than the holidays, so I don't really plan on reading this.

Still, it was a good holiday read, and good as a standalone, so I give it 4 stars.

Disclaimer: Free in exchange for an honest review, via Goodreads Giveaways. Thank you to St. Martin's Press for listing.

[Olcia_molcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Świąteczne drzewko życzeń" miałam przyjemność czytać dwa lata temu i pamiętam, że świetnie się przy tym bawiłam, dlatego też postanowiłam przeczytać ją po raz kolejny i nie zawiodłam się! Wiele rzeczy już nie pamiętałam, ale dzięki temu odkrywałam tą książkę na nowo, a co do samej historii to poruszyła mnie tam samo jak za pierwszym razem. Temat stalkera/dręczyciela, czy nie jest dla nas czymś co dotyka naszych znajomych lub sławne osoby, a w tej książce dopuszcza się takich rzeczy, że włos na samą myśl się jeży. Magiczne miasteczko jest niby mocno naciągane, ale kurczę to świąteczna książka i wydaje mi się, że każdy z nas szuka odrobiny magii w tego typu książkach, więc ani trochę mi to nie przeszkadzało. Główni bohaterowie wykreowani w bardzo dobry sposób i nie irytują człowieka ani przez chwilę. Książkę czyta się szybko miło i przyjemnie. Kończąc ją miałam jedną myśl: szkoda, że to już koniec bo to był naprawdę dobrze spędzony czas.

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one series that I’ve read every book in and eagerly anticipate the next release so I was thrilled to get an early copy of this one. If you’ve never visited Eternity Springs and gotten to know its citizens, you're truly missing out on one of the best experiences the fictional world has to offer. Every time I'm immersed in one of these books it's like coming home, and I'm delighted to catch up with these wonderful characters. March has a way of bringing the setting to life, engaging all senses fully, and the perception is more life-like than any virtual reality experience. No one does warm, welcoming, quaint small town quite like March, and I’m hoping she's immortal so this series can go on forever.

Eternity Springs, Colorado, is a special place where hearts go to heal and wishes come true. Celeste Blessing, the Gold Wing riding angelic resident, seems to always know what the souls in her town need, including Devin Murphy when he's visiting his family there at Christmastime. When Devin's cell phone gets damaged and Celeste gives him a loaner, along with some words of wisdom, he doesn’t think much of it. But a phone call from a five-year-old boy looking for Santa and wishing for a daddy, as well as the conversations that follow as Devin stands in for Santa, plot a course for Devin's life he never could have expected. Fate has a way of giving Celeste a helping hand, and it shouldn’t be any surprise when, months later, Devin stops to help a little boy and his mom with tangled fishing lines and they turn out to be his phone buddy, Riley, and Riley’s mom, who've run from danger to Eternity Springs.

We first met Devin as a teenager with a bit of an attitude, so following his journey to happily ever after was all the more special. I always enjoy it when a hero is anti relationship or marriage and love sneaks in and changes his plan, and Jenna and Riley wreak havoc on Devin's commitment to his bachelor lifestyle. It took some time for the stars to align for Devin and Jenna, but sometimes people need repeated messages from destiny, with their paths crossing several times, before they’re ready to accept their once-in-a-lifetime love. March does a beautiful job of introducing the hero and heroine and then returning them to their separate lives, building the reader's expectation and anticipation without a lot of angst or frustration. Instead, the reader is able to relax and enjoy the ride, confident that the twists and turns of journey will eventually bring them together.

Jenna and her son Riley have trouble on their heels and the people of Eternity Springs open their arms to them both. I immediately connected with this strong and intelligent doctor who is a single mother by choice, having adopted Riley at a young age. Nothing is more important to her than her son and his safety. Since the Santa conversations with Riley, this boy and his mom have become special to Devin, and he’ll do everything in his power to keep them safe. And when members of the community jump in to help, the bad guy doesn’t stand a chance.

I’d be hard pressed to choose a favorite element in this book. From the realistic small town and supporting characters, to Devin, Jenna and Riley who owned my heart in all of two seconds, and their story which pretty much reads itself, everything about this book is phenomenal. If I had any critique it might be to ask March to curtail the tear jerking a bit, only because it’s hard to read through watery eyes. However, she more than makes up for it with delightful, hilarious kids and critters that steal a few scenes, and a beautiful, deeply emotional love story that steals the show and will absolutely steal your heart.

*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.