Holly Jolly Christmas

Seeking Justice #1.5

by C.C. Warrens

Beneath the twinkling lights and neatly wrapped packages, lay bitter memories and carefully-kept secrets . . .Three decades have passed since Marx last set foot in his family's Georgia home. The house has faded over the years, but the haunting memories contained within its walls remain crisp and unforgettable.

If not for the girl asleep in the passenger's seat of his car, Marx would turn his car around and head back to his life in New York City. But it's time to face his demons.



Note from the This is NOT intended to be a standalone novel. While you can understand it without reading the previous books, the experience will be richer and more enjoyable if you go into it with the backstory and relationship growth of the characters.

If you're unsure where this book fits in, here is the reading order I

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Recommended Reading Criss Cross (A Holly Novel)Winter MemorialCross Fire (A Holly Novel)Crossed Off (A Holly Novel)Injustice for All (Seeking Justice)Holly Jolly Christmas (Seeking Justice)Imperfect Justice (Seeking Justice)Cross the Line (A Holly Novel)Crossroads (A Holly Novel)

Genres: Christmas, Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Fiction, Christian, Mystery Thriller, Suspense

245 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2019

About the author

Jesus and laughter have brought C.C. Warrens through some very difficult times in life, and she weaves both into every story she writes, creating a world of breath-stealing intensity, laugh-out-loud humor, and a sparkle of hope. Writing has been a slowly blossoming dream inside her for most of her life until one day it spilled out onto the pages that would become her first published book.

Reviews

[Chloe Flanagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going home for the holidays can often be just as painful as it is welcoming. Detective Richard Marx experiences this duality when he goes back to his home in Georgia to see the mother he adores and the father he resents. But nothing
will stop him from giving his surrogate daughter, Holly the family Christmas she’s missed for so long, even though he and his family will face more heartache and danger along the way.

This story has gripping elements of suspense thanks to an unknown threat, but the true mystery that unravels is the more personal one buried deep in the Marx family’s painful past. When it unfolds, with the help of the wise and adorable Holly, the results will feel poignant and real to any reader—particularly one that can relate to a complicated family history.

Holly Jolly Christmas is an inspirational and well-written story that deserves a place on a holiday favorites bookshelf for years to come.

[A.D. Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful story. It left me with happy tears. Can’t wait for the next installment in the series!

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok. I am not generally a fan of novellas. But this one? I think it might be the perfect novella. Suspense, emotion, family. And even though it isn't even close to Christmas right now, it was a perfect read.

[Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always have a hard time putting down C. C. Warrens books, and this one was no different! While Holly Jolly Christmas could be read as a stand-alone Christmas novella, I would not read it without first reading the Holly series. The series will help you understand what Holly has gone through when Marx talks about how difficult her past has been. Plus, I just LOVED the series. They were all 5 star reads for me. My only regret is that I did not get to this book sooner.

First of all, this is a novella, but it does not read like one. Second, it is 245 pages which to me, is a full-size novel. Third, I loved this story. I enjoyed seeing Marx's family and Holly's awe of Christmas through the eyes of Marx's family. I loved that even though they went to Marx's family's house for Christmas, Holly still managed to get herself in trouble, staying true to her character. I loved the hint of mystery, the thread of redemption and forgiveness, and the complex nature of family. I appreciated seeing how traits are passed from generation to generation, yet we can make different choices from those who have gone before us.

Holly Jolly Christmas is a beautiful story and one you do not want to miss. I would also recommend reading the Seeking Justice series to understand Marx better.

[Erin Laramore · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a member of this author's street team, I was blessed to beta read this fun little Christmas novella. If you have followed the Holly Novels and Seeking Justice novels, you won't want to miss this one! This takes place in the Seeking Justice series, right after Injustice for All. (this series is a continuation of the Holly novels, but is a 3rd person perspective instead). If you've not read any of the prior books, you will probably still enjoy this story line, but you really wouldn't grasp the dynamics of the characters and their relationships, so I would strongly advise reading the earlier books, but it's probably not essential. One thing I will say for these books - when I read a new book with Holly and Marx, I feel like I'm visiting old friends. There have been plenty of series books that I've been anxious for a new book to see what shenanigans the characters find themselves in this time.... but this is probably the only time I've ever wanted the next book to come so I could see how the characters are doing. It's like catching up with an old friend.

For those of you who have loved these series and have wondered a little bit more about Marx's background, this novella helps a lot! Marx takes Holly "home" for Christmas and we meet his parents and learn about his upbringing. While this one does not have the intense suspense the other books have, it does have a mystery and Holly (as usual) lands herself in a precarious situation while trying to help. Learning about Marx's history helps us to better understand him and how he relates to Holly. We also see some very redemptive themes and breaking the cycles of abuse. In C.C. Warrens style, there is humor interlaced throughout the book and I loved seeing Holly interact with new people and seeing the joy of Christmas through her eyes. My favorite part was her Christmas gift to Marx.

If you enjoy quirky characters, with strong character-driven themes, gritty human elements and mystery/suspense, I would strongly recommend this series. This book was a very fun addition and overall I LOVED it!

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly Jolly Christmas by C.C. Warrens is a novella in the Seeking Justice series about Detective Richard Marx and Holly Cross.
A relatively new voice in the suspense genre, C.C. Warrens writing grabbed me from the first paragraph and has not let go! She deals with some tough subjects about the streets of New York but also shows the topics of faith and forgiveness and spiritual growth.

This novella will not make sense unless you have read the Holly Cross books or the Seeking Justice books.

All the characters you love are back and you get to meet Marx’s mom and Dad! Marx is hoping to show Holly a real family Christmas but will it even be civil when he and his dad don’t get along? Who knows what mischief Holly will get into and will she be able to charm Marx’s parents? Trouble seems to meet them in the form of neighborhood punks when they arrive at Marx’s boyhood home. Can they figure out who is behind the vandalism? Will old wounds be healed and old mysteries come to light? Will this truly be a family Christmas?

I especially liked the interaction between Holly and Gus Marx. And the ending back in New York was just a pretty bow on a gorgeous package! I am looking forward to reading more stories about Holly and her friends.

*I was given a ecopy of this book for review by the author. I was under no obligation to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Jaycee Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly’s the best

Another excellent addition to the Holly universe! I simply adore these characters, and getting to meet Marx’s family was wonderful. CC Warrens has a gift for taking trauma and horrific backstories and making something beautiful out of them. Each tale is unique, twisted, often gut-wrenching, and yet funny, quirky, sweet, and heartfelt at the same time. Much like Holly. I can’t wait to see how she grows next. *sigh*

[Anne Callcut · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this one is my favorite!

Holly and Marx head to Georgia for Christmas with Marx's family. Marx left home at 18 to escape his abusive, alcoholic father but his desire for Holly to meet his mother and enjoy a family Christmas overrides his desire to avoid his father.

I really loved this story. Holly is slowly healing from the terror her foster brother put her through and it is wonderful to see how she is blossoming and growing, secure in the knowledge that Marx loves her. Marx's mother. "Ms Martha" quickly comes to adore Holly and tells Marx that "she is keeping her." Even Marx's father isn't immune to Holly's sweet character as she tries to help heal the breach between father and son.

Throw in obnoxious neighbors, a peeping Tom, vandalism, and Holly's penchant for trouble and it a fast paced, fun, and ultimately sweet story.

[Stella Potts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read by C. C. Warrens but it won’t be the last as I have her Holly Novels waiting. Although this is a novella following another book it was fine as a stand-alone because there was enough background information that I could well figure out what was going on. This was a great book with just enough mystery and intrigue to keep you interested and turning pages until the end. I so enjoyed getting acquainted with Holly and Marx and his family and friends. Be sure to pick this one up. You won’t be sorry. This ebook was given to me by the author with no requirement for a review. All views are my own.

[Alicia (aliciasbooksanctuary) · Rating 5 out of 5]

OVERALL STAR RATING: 6/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

Admittedly, novellas have never been my favorite. They typically aren’t long enough for my liking to go deep into a story. I NEVER thought I’d be giving a novella a 6-Star rating, yet…here we are! You guys – impressed doesn’t even properly describe my feelings for this book. I’m in awe of what the author was able to accomplish within these 230 or so pages. My heart was heavy yet full with all this beautiful story accomplished.

Please keep in mind that this should be ready along with the Holly and Seeking Justice novels or you aren’t going to understand and appreciate the full inside look into these characters. Throughout this reading journey, we’ve focused heavily on Holly Cross and her tragic and abusive life story. Her protector and friend, Detective Richard Marx, has a complicated past of his own though and this novella deep dives us into that. I was not prepared for all I was about to read. Grab your tissues, folks and buckle up for a remarkable and unforgettable story.

I will continue to shout it from the rooftops – if you are at ALL a fan of Christian suspense, this series is a MUST read! Three more books to go and I’m not ready for it to end. These characters feel like family.

*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary

[Marylin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a sweet detour from the normal stories of Holly and Marx because it takes us on a trip to Georgia. Here we get to meet Marx parents and find out all that made him . . . Marx.
We also get to have so warm holiday moments and see Holly experience all the things she missed growing up.
Now this wouldn’t be a true CC Warrens’ book unless there is a bit of suspense and drama in it. So of course, Holly gets into things that lead to tense moments.
CC Warrens is a wonderful author and I have truly enjoyed reading many of her books. I started reading the first book in her Holly Cross series and I haven’t stopped all the ones after!
They have become a part of my life and I feel like I know everyone.
This was definitely a fun book to read, and now I’m on to the next one. I know I’ll be sitting on the edge of my chair because it will tell more of Holly’s story.
If you like suspense, action, drama, bits of fun spunk and snark and some sweet Christmas moments, then this is one book you want to pick up and read.
I do need to warn you, if you start reading one of these books, you might not want to stop!
I highly recommend you put this book up and read it.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a “Holly & Marx” fan girl and I totally loved this novella about Holly’s first family Christmas with Marx’s family. It seemed a little longer than some novellas, and I totally loved that. It didn’t seem rushed or short. It was just perfect.

Holly and Marx take a trip to Marx’s home in Georgia. Marx and his dad don’t get along, there’s a lot of unknown history between them and this novella peels back the layers as to why Gus, Marx’s dad, acted the way he did and helped us understand Marx even more. And we all know that wherever Holly goes, some kind of suspense will follow and this one didn’t disappoint.

This book made me laugh and cry. It was so touching and sweet, mixed with some tense moments and a little suspense. I loved the way it ended! I can’t wait for more!!!

[GIDGET · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all 9 books in this series in a matter of a few weeks. Actually in 1 weekend I read 3 of the books. I couldn't stop reading. The way they are written you don't want to stop, they're a mixture of love, drama, thriller, forgiveness, friendship, mystery, just to name a few things in each book. When an author grabs me from the first page, they're good. I can't wait until another Holly book comes out, I want more of her and her friends. The way these books are written, you ARE there right along with the characters, you hear the sounds, smell the smells, feel the temperature, feel the emotions, and the adrenalin rushing through. This has to be one of the series of books I've read in a very long time. You won't be disappointed.

[Sarah Aspacher · Rating 1 out of 5]

I forced myself to finish.

This could’ve easily been a short story. The character development was sad, the “twists” in the story felt random and out of place, the plot was shallow.

The relationship between Holly and Marx is just weird. Holly sounds like a young teenager only to find out she’s 28? And very naiive for having been through everything she has. Marx’s constant use of pet names was ANNOYING. The author seems to reconcile abuse and alcoholism with a sad past. And what’s with the random sister?! It was a quick read so I forced myself to finish but I do not recommend.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
For those of us who love Holly and Marx, this is the perfect story to act as a bridge between the Seeking Justice series books 1 and 2. Although this book deals with tough issues, it doesn't have the same intensity as the other books about Holly. I loved getting to see a happier, more innocent, joyful side of Holly. We also learn a lot more about Marx's childhood and family. I did miss the rest of Holly's friends. This book left me eager to dive right in to Imperfect Justice.

Do not read this book if you haven't read the Holly series and Injustice For All first.
Possible triggers: Child Abuse, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse (more in the rest of the Holly books than in this one)

[Linda Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly Jolly Christmas

It was good but not quite the same as the books before it. But its probably because it was much shorter ...and I didn't feel like I really knew any of the characters in the story except Marx and Holly....although the author made me want to get to know Marx's parents.... and his sister. Perhaps in later books she will allow us that privilege. It still was a great read, if somewhat unbelievable of who and why the robbery happened...it felt almost disjointed in places...but the healing love that Holly so needs does shine through and makes the book worth the reading.

[Joel Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love love love the characters in these books, good job cc warrens

I love every book with Marx and holly. Sometimes holly acts more like a teenager than a grown women, but really enjoy every character and I love the way cc warrens write. That being said, I kinda want Marx and Holly to start dating.....i there i said it....., every book I've just been waiting for it to happen. But even if they don't have feelings for each other in the future, i will still enjoy all the books. Another great book

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marx hadn't been home in Georgia for 30 years. He and Holly go there. Tension fills the scenes as Marx doesn't get along with his father. If not for Holly, Marx would have headed back to New York City. But it's time to face his demons. Great story with many secrets. What happened in the past? Could the characters get past it? I loved this story, as I enjoy all Warren's books. She's a very good author. I look forward to more of her stories. As she writes clean, inspirational, with Jesus in mind. I love it!

[Debra Campoli · Rating 5 out of 5]

JUST A BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS STORY..PLUS

My reviews are based on my opinion - NOT about being a synopsis of the story. I liked that I Already Loved Holly from the other books, but..actually it was thrilling & exciting to see her so HAPPY spending the Best Holiday Ever! The stories that this author writes has such Thrilling sometimes scary moments that keep you reading on the edge if your seat! But, the Sweet sentiments that are going on at the same time make me want to do nothing but READ ANOTHER OF HER BOOKS!!

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun Christmas novella to read. Marx brings Holly to his parents' house in Georgia for Christmas after he left there 30 years ago. We learn more about Marx's background and his childhood in Holly Jolly Christmas. There is tension between Marx and his father, but will they resolve their differences? The author addresses the cycle of abuse and breaking free of it. Not only does this story include a bit of mystery and family secrets and Holly finding herself in a precarious situation, but it was a joy seeing Holly's delight in experiencing Christmas with Marx's family.

[David Lovell · Rating 5 out of 5]

More into the life of Marx.

Another great read by C.C. Warrens. Marx heads home for Christmas and he brings Holly with him. Of course they find trouble, but, the big thing for me was the back story of Marx and his dad's past. I didn't think I'd enjoy this one as much as the rest of this series, but I have to say this might be my favorite one. This is also a great Christmas story!

Highly recommended!!!!

[Gophergirl58 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story actually rates higher than the three stars I gave it, but I just cannot get past the fact that Holly is 28, acts like 10, and is treated as such. It was great to understand the reason behind Marx’s father’s anger, and merry, per se, his parents, but the obnoxiously childish way a Holly acts just ruins the stories (Holly stories) for me. So yeah, I’m different than many or most readers, but I’m being honest in the hopes that future books will not be as such.

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel completely explains why Marx's childhood was the way it was. We get a chance to read what happens through Gus, Marx's dad. One horrible incident haunted him for the rest of his life and impacted every decision he made. Holly comes with Marx to his family home in Georgia, and through just being herself, teaches Gus and Marx love, redemption, and forgiveness. I absolutely love Marx's mama.

[Faith Posten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home for Christmas

Holly isn't quite sure what to expect as she made the long trip to Georgia. This story is filled wit thy themes of deep hurt, despair, anger, but also of forgiveness, love , hope, and acceptance. It's a beautiful, sweet story that will touch your spirit and bless your heart! Happy reading.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read!

I have devoured all of the books that I have read by Warrens! Holly Jolly Christmas didn't disappoint. The strong faith elements in the midst of real life pain always keep me engaged and encouraged. You hit it out of the park again! Thanks for listening to the prompting of the Spirit, Crystal!

[Jim Toner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly accompanies Marx to the south where they visit his parents. Marx and his father have unresolved issues. Marx's mother is a loving Christian woman. Holly sees a guy peeking in the kitchen window. Later the house gets ransacked. C.C. Warrens did a good job in letting us see more of Holly and Marx in this short Christmas novel. I have loved everything I've read so far by Ms. Warrens.

[Sheila McIntyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Holly's stories! C.C. Warrens does such an excellent job on weaving together cute, endearing, full of mystery, lovable, funny, and Christian faith all together in one story. The dynamic between Holly and Marx will never get old, and the stories always keep me reading eagerly. I can't recommend her books enough--highly recommend!!

[Diane Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Riveting Book!!

This was such a sweet story of how dark family secrets can destroy you if you don’t let go of the past and forgive the wrongs that caused an unhappy childhood. This book had more mystery than suspense but it was so good and enlightening as to how true faith and being a beacon of light to someone can change their whole perspective.

[Stephanie Prewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book, especially with Christmas just around the corner. I found it to be very heartwarming in the end, and I loved learning about Marx’s background. I can’t put into words how much I am enjoying the Holly Novels and Seeking Justice series. I am so glad I discovered them. C.C. Warrens has quickly become a favorite author of mine! Highly recommend!!

[Suzette Lawes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Name Says It

I am a sucker for happy endings and this fits the bill. This is such a memorable Christmas read. My heart skipped a beat or two but the laughter made up for it. Grab a copy and start reading. You will end up feeling jolly and thank me for it. I highly recommend this book.