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Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage: The heartwarming, cozy and funny Christmas romance, perfect for fans of Jessica Redland and Lucy Coleman
On a grey London day, Esme’s world crumbles around her when she loses her glitzy job on a top TV programme, her gorgeous, city-slicker boyfriend and her stunning apartment, all in one fell swoop just before Christmas.
Esme is forced suddenly to move back to her sleepy home town of Sandchester, and despite the snow blanketing the roof and the fairy lights that twinkle in her rustic little cottage, everything is looking bleak. That is until she reconnects with an old crush and finds herself unexpectedly getting swept away.
But Joe, handsome and charming as he is, is not all he seems. Esme soon realises that he has a tragic past which he just might not be able to overcome…
Surrounded by her loving, if hare-brained, family and with the support of her hilarious friends, Esme is determined to have a go at forging her own path, even if it all comes to nothing. But one question still lingers in her mind: will she find someone to kiss under the mistletoe this Christmas?
Esme is forced suddenly to move back to her sleepy home town of Sandchester, and despite the snow blanketing the roof and the fairy lights that twinkle in her rustic little cottage, everything is looking bleak. That is until she reconnects with an old crush and finds herself unexpectedly getting swept away.
But Joe, handsome and charming as he is, is not all he seems. Esme soon realises that he has a tragic past which he just might not be able to overcome…
Surrounded by her loving, if hare-brained, family and with the support of her hilarious friends, Esme is determined to have a go at forging her own path, even if it all comes to nothing. But one question still lingers in her mind: will she find someone to kiss under the mistletoe this Christmas?
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 11, 2019
470 people are currently reading
1190 people want to read
About the author
Katie Ginger
13 books146 followersKatie is a mystery and romance writer. Her debut novel The Little Theatre on the Seafront, published by HarperCollins, HQ Digital was nominated for the Katie Fforde Debut Novel of the Year Award and some of her books have been Amazon bestsellers. Her most recent series is the Swallowtail Bay series featuring a gloriously quaint seaside town and hunky heroes galore!
As well as writing romance, she also writes cozy mysteries under the pen name K E Coburn.
Sign-up to her mailing list to keep up to date with her bookish news and be the first to know the behind-the-scenes gossip!
As well as writing romance, she also writes cozy mysteries under the pen name K E Coburn.
Sign-up to her mailing list to keep up to date with her bookish news and be the first to know the behind-the-scenes gossip!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
October 13, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
It’s one thing to steal a recipe but another to steal a grandma. She probably doesn’t even have one anymore. I bet she devoured hers like a praying mantis.
I bet I’m still in shock. At some point I’ll come out of it, realise what’s happened and walk to London to destroy Leo’s flat and put raw fish behind his radiators.
‘What exactly are you doing there?’ asked Helena pointing at the screen. ‘I’m creaming the butter and sugar together till it’s light and fluffy.’ ‘Your boobs look like they’re having some kind of fight. You need a better bra before you go doing that again.’
It is quite dark. We can see down your top, but not much else. They look like whoppers by the way so you’d probably get some followers but maybe not the type you want.
‘What a callous idiot. If I lived near him I’d key his car and—’ ‘He doesn’t own a car, Mum. No one does in London.’ ‘Well then, I’d put itching powder in his underpants and cut the arms and legs off all his suits.’ Esme suppressed a smile.‘ Has Dad only stayed married to you all these years because he’s too scared to leave?’ ‘Probably.’
My Review:
This was a fun and highly amusing read with storylines shot through with clever levity and delicious food taunts. I should be highly annoyed that Ms. Ginger has completely derailed my dieting efforts with her mouthwatering descriptions that I could almost smell and taste, what a brutal tease for a weak and starving woman trying to shed some excess tonnage. I said I should be annoyed, but I’m not as it was more than worth a few... oh all right… a lot of extra calorie consumption.
The storylines were engaging, the characters were vibrant and quirky, and the writing was delightfully clever as well as giggle-snort and smirk-worthy. This was my maiden voyage with the lovely Ms. Ginger and I hope to sail with her every time she leaves the shore from now on.
Don’t hate me but I don’t watch much reality television and required the services of Mr. Google to look up Bear Grylls, and he looks worthy of a bit more exploration… I also gleaned an addition to my Brit Word List with saddo – which is British slang for a socially inadequate or pathetic person; something the intrepid and adventurous Mr. Grylls certainly is not.
It’s one thing to steal a recipe but another to steal a grandma. She probably doesn’t even have one anymore. I bet she devoured hers like a praying mantis.
I bet I’m still in shock. At some point I’ll come out of it, realise what’s happened and walk to London to destroy Leo’s flat and put raw fish behind his radiators.
‘What exactly are you doing there?’ asked Helena pointing at the screen. ‘I’m creaming the butter and sugar together till it’s light and fluffy.’ ‘Your boobs look like they’re having some kind of fight. You need a better bra before you go doing that again.’
It is quite dark. We can see down your top, but not much else. They look like whoppers by the way so you’d probably get some followers but maybe not the type you want.
‘What a callous idiot. If I lived near him I’d key his car and—’ ‘He doesn’t own a car, Mum. No one does in London.’ ‘Well then, I’d put itching powder in his underpants and cut the arms and legs off all his suits.’ Esme suppressed a smile.‘ Has Dad only stayed married to you all these years because he’s too scared to leave?’ ‘Probably.’
My Review:
This was a fun and highly amusing read with storylines shot through with clever levity and delicious food taunts. I should be highly annoyed that Ms. Ginger has completely derailed my dieting efforts with her mouthwatering descriptions that I could almost smell and taste, what a brutal tease for a weak and starving woman trying to shed some excess tonnage. I said I should be annoyed, but I’m not as it was more than worth a few... oh all right… a lot of extra calorie consumption.
The storylines were engaging, the characters were vibrant and quirky, and the writing was delightfully clever as well as giggle-snort and smirk-worthy. This was my maiden voyage with the lovely Ms. Ginger and I hope to sail with her every time she leaves the shore from now on.
Don’t hate me but I don’t watch much reality television and required the services of Mr. Google to look up Bear Grylls, and he looks worthy of a bit more exploration… I also gleaned an addition to my Brit Word List with saddo – which is British slang for a socially inadequate or pathetic person; something the intrepid and adventurous Mr. Grylls certainly is not.
October 11, 2019
Food technologist Esme Kendrick is forced to move back to her hometown after losing her job, boyfriend, and apartment all on the same day. With no money and no place to call her own, she feels like a complete failure. But Esme is determined to get back on her feet, and with the support of her friends and family, she decides to follow her dreams. I absolutely loved this book. It is a heartwarming, inspiring Christmas story about love, friendship, taking risks, and not letting the fear of failure keep you from following your dreams. The story is beautifully written and full of humor. Esme is a lovable and realistic character. I rooted for her, laughed with her as I followed along on her bumpy journey to making her food blog successful. Her love of food and baking rubbed off on me and made me want to cook some of her mouthwatering recipes. I loved how readers got to see snippets of her blog and all the sweet stories she shared about her grandmother. Esme's strong bond with her friends and family just added to the cozy, heartwarming feeling of the story. If you like a slow-burn romance then you will enjoy Esme and Joe's love story. I really loved the sweet, hopeful ending and was pleased to see that two certain characters got exactly what they deserved. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a heartfelt, uplifting Christmas story. Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2019
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Everywhere you go
Take a look at the five and ten, it's glistening once again
With candy canes and silver lanes that glow.
A festive feel good story bursting with yuletide cheer and second chances. Katie ginger writes stories that will warm your heart and raise your spirits. This was an engaging second chance romance; humorous, magical, and charming. The perfect book to get you in the Christmas mood all wrapped up in a beautiful festive cover with a bow on top!
Esme has lost everything her job, her boyfriend, her apartment. So she makes the trip home to lick her wounds and regroup. Esme was such a likable character, you cannot help but route for the girl. The secondary characters were divine! I absolutely loved her parents so much fun especially her mom! I was seriously ready to pack my bags and head to Mistletoe Cottage! The charm, the whimsy, the food! My only very tiny complaint with the book was the love interest Joe, he was a little too brooding for me. I got a little frustrated with him throughout the book. Having said that I did like the slow burn romance and the ending was definitely satisfying and sweet! so cozy up with a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate and get yourself a copy of this festive fun story!
This book in emojis: 🧝🏻♀️ ❄️ 🍪 ☕️ 🎁
*** Big thanks to HQ Digital for my copy of this book ***
Everywhere you go
Take a look at the five and ten, it's glistening once again
With candy canes and silver lanes that glow.
A festive feel good story bursting with yuletide cheer and second chances. Katie ginger writes stories that will warm your heart and raise your spirits. This was an engaging second chance romance; humorous, magical, and charming. The perfect book to get you in the Christmas mood all wrapped up in a beautiful festive cover with a bow on top!
Esme has lost everything her job, her boyfriend, her apartment. So she makes the trip home to lick her wounds and regroup. Esme was such a likable character, you cannot help but route for the girl. The secondary characters were divine! I absolutely loved her parents so much fun especially her mom! I was seriously ready to pack my bags and head to Mistletoe Cottage! The charm, the whimsy, the food! My only very tiny complaint with the book was the love interest Joe, he was a little too brooding for me. I got a little frustrated with him throughout the book. Having said that I did like the slow burn romance and the ending was definitely satisfying and sweet! so cozy up with a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate and get yourself a copy of this festive fun story!
This book in emojis: 🧝🏻♀️ ❄️ 🍪 ☕️ 🎁
*** Big thanks to HQ Digital for my copy of this book ***
October 18, 2019
5☆ A Warm, Witty, Scrumptious Festive Romance!
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a heart warming festive read that was a delight to read.
But I also want to take a moment to admire the book cover, it's so beautiful and sums up that magical winters day perfectly! It truly is picture perfect!
Esme is really having a tough time. Not only is she overshadowed by a cooking star determined to steal her recipes, but when she finally pluck up the courage and stands up for herself, she finds it's her that's on the chopping board!
But things just get worse when her long term boyfriend Leo springs it on her that he no longer loves her.... all on the same day!
Homeless, jobless and with no boyfriend, she has no choice but to return back to her hometown of Sandchester with her parents.
It's here she re connects with her childhood friend Joe.
But Joe has a wounded past, but together can they mend their scars and turn friendship into love?
Things may just be starting to look up for Esme as she figures out what she wants to do next.
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a Story about picking yourself up and starting over, it's about Friendships, relationships, a journey of self discovery and love.
This book is full of warmth, with a good dose of wit and humour and some scrumptious delights. The romance aspect is slow moving but absolutely perfect for the storyline.
The Characters are Endearing and relatable. I loved watching Esme grow in confidence as she takes charge of her future!
Yes this is a compelling and Festive Delight but it's also perfect for a cold winters night, just try not to read on an empty tummy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/1...
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a heart warming festive read that was a delight to read.
But I also want to take a moment to admire the book cover, it's so beautiful and sums up that magical winters day perfectly! It truly is picture perfect!
Esme is really having a tough time. Not only is she overshadowed by a cooking star determined to steal her recipes, but when she finally pluck up the courage and stands up for herself, she finds it's her that's on the chopping board!
But things just get worse when her long term boyfriend Leo springs it on her that he no longer loves her.... all on the same day!
Homeless, jobless and with no boyfriend, she has no choice but to return back to her hometown of Sandchester with her parents.
It's here she re connects with her childhood friend Joe.
But Joe has a wounded past, but together can they mend their scars and turn friendship into love?
Things may just be starting to look up for Esme as she figures out what she wants to do next.
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a Story about picking yourself up and starting over, it's about Friendships, relationships, a journey of self discovery and love.
This book is full of warmth, with a good dose of wit and humour and some scrumptious delights. The romance aspect is slow moving but absolutely perfect for the storyline.
The Characters are Endearing and relatable. I loved watching Esme grow in confidence as she takes charge of her future!
Yes this is a compelling and Festive Delight but it's also perfect for a cold winters night, just try not to read on an empty tummy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/1...
December 1, 2019
A quick read featuring Esme, a redheaded food stylist in her 30s living in London until she loses her job and relationship in one bad day. She retreats and finds a way to reinvent herself as she rediscovers the village where she grew up. Lots of cozy and food in this one!
December 19, 2019
Esme has long had aspirations of writing her own cookbook, but she’s content working as a food technologist for a television program—that is until the ghastly host gets her fired. And after her boyfriend breaks up with her on the same day, she trades in the glitz of London for her quiet hometown of Sandchester. With the bit of money she has left, she rents a rundown cottage with the hope of carving out a new path and finally achieving her culinary dream. But after an old school crush drops back into her life, Esme soon realizes she just might want to share her dream with someone else.
Author Katie Ginger certainly makes her characters work for their happy endings, and Esme starts at rock bottom. A wicked boss who sabotages her career. A boyfriend who quickly shifts into an ex. Soon she’s shuttling back to her parents’ home—and with their idiosyncrasies, she simply cannot stay with them. There’s a deep injustice that permeates these opening scenes. Yet, even with this early turbulence, Esme remains a real, vibrant character who just needs a restart.
Fortunately, she does have a bit more control after finding herself a rental cottage with the help of the handsome, though somewhat guarded, Joe. Totally free, she explores her cookery roots by starting a blog before eventually moving into making videos. Ginger has a way of describing food that can make a mouth water in the middle of drama, which is also to suggest things are not all puff pastry and powdered sugar. Ginger carefully weaves in tension as Esme matures into her writing and hosting style.
Then there’s the love story she finds herself embroiled in. Cast aside by a boyfriend interested in pursuing another woman, Esme doesn’t go home in search of love. And yet, there’s Joe. Both of them have heartbreak in their past, and Esme soon realizes he’s holding back a lot of trouble. There’s something inevitable about them as a pairing without coming across as predictable, and the friction between them as they kindle a friendship and beyond is believable and sweet.
Peppered throughout is a charming cast of secondary characters from Esme’s London life as well as from her new community. They provide a ton of comedic relief, and their moments on the page are pure fun as they challenge Esme to experiment with food, work, and love.
As the ending winds up on Esme’s story, it’s Christmas in the village. The mistletoe is hung, the snow is blanketing the cottage, the tree is all lit up—and Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage would make for a perfectly wrapped present under it.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Author Katie Ginger certainly makes her characters work for their happy endings, and Esme starts at rock bottom. A wicked boss who sabotages her career. A boyfriend who quickly shifts into an ex. Soon she’s shuttling back to her parents’ home—and with their idiosyncrasies, she simply cannot stay with them. There’s a deep injustice that permeates these opening scenes. Yet, even with this early turbulence, Esme remains a real, vibrant character who just needs a restart.
Fortunately, she does have a bit more control after finding herself a rental cottage with the help of the handsome, though somewhat guarded, Joe. Totally free, she explores her cookery roots by starting a blog before eventually moving into making videos. Ginger has a way of describing food that can make a mouth water in the middle of drama, which is also to suggest things are not all puff pastry and powdered sugar. Ginger carefully weaves in tension as Esme matures into her writing and hosting style.
Then there’s the love story she finds herself embroiled in. Cast aside by a boyfriend interested in pursuing another woman, Esme doesn’t go home in search of love. And yet, there’s Joe. Both of them have heartbreak in their past, and Esme soon realizes he’s holding back a lot of trouble. There’s something inevitable about them as a pairing without coming across as predictable, and the friction between them as they kindle a friendship and beyond is believable and sweet.
Peppered throughout is a charming cast of secondary characters from Esme’s London life as well as from her new community. They provide a ton of comedic relief, and their moments on the page are pure fun as they challenge Esme to experiment with food, work, and love.
As the ending winds up on Esme’s story, it’s Christmas in the village. The mistletoe is hung, the snow is blanketing the cottage, the tree is all lit up—and Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage would make for a perfectly wrapped present under it.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
September 20, 2021
I was fortunate to be an early reader of this beautifully written book. I fell in love with Esme, and loved being with her as she pieced her life back together. This is a scrumptious festive read, and Katie Ginger has proven again that she is the Queen of the slow-burn romance. Highly recommended.
October 15, 2019
Esme Kendrick is forced to move back to her small hometown of Sandchester after losing her job, boyfriend, and apartment all on the same day. She has no money, no home and no prospects and is feeling like a failure. She does not want to stay with her parents, so when they offered her some money to find a place of her own until she gets back on her feet, she jumps at the chance. She is determined to make a go of her life's work, and with the support of her friends and family, she decides to follow her dreams and write the cookbook she has always wanted to get published. Of course, that does not happen right away and she has to get her name out there first. This brave young lady starts a blog, then vlogs and finally does some live broadcasts that had me in stitches.
I absolutely loved this book. It is a heartwarming story about love, friendship, taking risks, not giving up and following your dream. I loved the characters, especially Esme and Joe. They were both hurting, the difference was that Esme did not want to hide, but Joe had been back for two years and had done nothing to move forward, he was hurting so badly. Esme is a lovable and realistic character. I wanted to be her friend, or at least follow her blog. She had me laughing several times as I rooted for her, to move forward along her bumpy path. Her love of cooking and baking spoke to me as I know it is not easy to find your passion. Joe was the handsome guy she remembered from high school, but he was so closed off, that she was not sure what to make of him. I felt so bad for this man who was so eaten up with guilt that he could not feel anything. Of course this is a romance, so you know that Esme will help him heal. Throw in Esme's somewhat crazy family, and her quirky friends and you have an amazing support group. The other story line is her ex-boyfriend Leo. As the story moves forward, Leo realizes what a mistake he has made and decides that he wants Esme back and is sure she will come back. Well, he is in for a surprise.
The story is beautifully written and full of humor. If you like a slow developing romance then you will enjoy Esme and Joe's love story. I was glad that it wasn't instalove, but took time for them to realize how they felt and was still developing as the story ended. This story is set in winter around Christmas and the holidays are an important part of the story, but this is not just a Christmas story. I consider it a winter, romantic, holiday story. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a heartfelt, uplifting winter romance. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I absolutely loved this book. It is a heartwarming story about love, friendship, taking risks, not giving up and following your dream. I loved the characters, especially Esme and Joe. They were both hurting, the difference was that Esme did not want to hide, but Joe had been back for two years and had done nothing to move forward, he was hurting so badly. Esme is a lovable and realistic character. I wanted to be her friend, or at least follow her blog. She had me laughing several times as I rooted for her, to move forward along her bumpy path. Her love of cooking and baking spoke to me as I know it is not easy to find your passion. Joe was the handsome guy she remembered from high school, but he was so closed off, that she was not sure what to make of him. I felt so bad for this man who was so eaten up with guilt that he could not feel anything. Of course this is a romance, so you know that Esme will help him heal. Throw in Esme's somewhat crazy family, and her quirky friends and you have an amazing support group. The other story line is her ex-boyfriend Leo. As the story moves forward, Leo realizes what a mistake he has made and decides that he wants Esme back and is sure she will come back. Well, he is in for a surprise.
The story is beautifully written and full of humor. If you like a slow developing romance then you will enjoy Esme and Joe's love story. I was glad that it wasn't instalove, but took time for them to realize how they felt and was still developing as the story ended. This story is set in winter around Christmas and the holidays are an important part of the story, but this is not just a Christmas story. I consider it a winter, romantic, holiday story. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a heartfelt, uplifting winter romance. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
December 6, 2021
A feel good Christmas read!
September 27, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
"Though Joe seemed kind and caring when he was with her, there was an impenetrable sadness about him, a weight he carried, and she wondered if it would ever lift." (quote from ARC)
Great story and fully fleshed-out characters!
An enthralling story with a captivating heroine and a hero drowning in sadness, “Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage”, by Katie Ginger (HQ Digital) has the added bonus of taking place in the “sleepy” town of Sandchester, UK, a beautiful setting so different from the regular American small town.
Esme is a great heroine, super realistic, authentic as a character and with a fascinating honesty and decency as a person. Her passion and liveliness are contagious.
I loved watching Joe wake up from his slumbering depression, being positively affected by Esmes’ often unaware attitudes of compassion and tenderness, slowly falling for her and recovering the zest for life.
Esme’s receipes and Grandma’s Kitchen are also great, they made me want to try and cook them.
There’s a lovely group of secondary characters (Esme’s mother, friends and sister). Juanita is a great character, too, I was hoping for more about her.
A wonderful story, full of humor, about starting again, friendship, family and love and how teen relationships and experiences impact adult life and might lead to a HEA.
"Though Joe seemed kind and caring when he was with her, there was an impenetrable sadness about him, a weight he carried, and she wondered if it would ever lift." (quote from ARC)
Great story and fully fleshed-out characters!
An enthralling story with a captivating heroine and a hero drowning in sadness, “Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage”, by Katie Ginger (HQ Digital) has the added bonus of taking place in the “sleepy” town of Sandchester, UK, a beautiful setting so different from the regular American small town.
Esme is a great heroine, super realistic, authentic as a character and with a fascinating honesty and decency as a person. Her passion and liveliness are contagious.
I loved watching Joe wake up from his slumbering depression, being positively affected by Esmes’ often unaware attitudes of compassion and tenderness, slowly falling for her and recovering the zest for life.
Esme’s receipes and Grandma’s Kitchen are also great, they made me want to try and cook them.
There’s a lovely group of secondary characters (Esme’s mother, friends and sister). Juanita is a great character, too, I was hoping for more about her.
A wonderful story, full of humor, about starting again, friendship, family and love and how teen relationships and experiences impact adult life and might lead to a HEA.
October 20, 2019
Check Out the Full Review On My Blog : https://bibliomedico.wordpress.com/20...
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Thanks To Rachel At Rachel’s Random Resources For Giving Me The Opportunity To Be Part Of This Blog Tour .
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Heartfelt, Sweet and inspiring story.
Our Main character Esme lost everything at the same time, her job, boyfriend, and apartment. she is forced to go back to her home town and start from zero again.
A story about a food blogger which Even though I know nothing about food 😛 except eating it, of course, :D, I could relate to so much.
Esme’s character was so amazing, lovable, realistic and inspiring.
This was a very cozy and warm book about family and friendships, about trust and unconditional love.
Esme and Joe’s love story was the definition of ” Slow – Burn ” in it’s best form. I loved them together so much!
The ending was perfect and satisfying, in my opinion, each one got what they deserved.
Katie Ginger writing style is just so enjoyable and engaging, I’m going to check out all of her other books :D.
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a heart-warming, inspiring, romantic and completely worthy read. Highly recommended.
*****************************
Thanks To Rachel At Rachel’s Random Resources For Giving Me The Opportunity To Be Part Of This Blog Tour .
*****************************
Heartfelt, Sweet and inspiring story.
Our Main character Esme lost everything at the same time, her job, boyfriend, and apartment. she is forced to go back to her home town and start from zero again.
A story about a food blogger which Even though I know nothing about food 😛 except eating it, of course, :D, I could relate to so much.
Esme’s character was so amazing, lovable, realistic and inspiring.
This was a very cozy and warm book about family and friendships, about trust and unconditional love.
Esme and Joe’s love story was the definition of ” Slow – Burn ” in it’s best form. I loved them together so much!
The ending was perfect and satisfying, in my opinion, each one got what they deserved.
Katie Ginger writing style is just so enjoyable and engaging, I’m going to check out all of her other books :D.
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a heart-warming, inspiring, romantic and completely worthy read. Highly recommended.
October 12, 2019
I have a little confesssion to make. Okay yes yet another one. Although I have all three of Katie's books, I have only read two of them. The other one is on my 'to be read' mountain. Now I have reminded myself just how great an author Katie is, that remaining book will not be on that 'to be read' mountain for very much longer. I totally, utterly and absolutely ADORED reading 'Snowflakes At Mistletoe Cottage' but more about that in a bit.
I couldn't help but take to the character off Esme from the first moment I met her. When the story starts she is employed on a cookery show as a food technologist. In other words she does all the prep work and actually cooks the food whilst the host of the show flutters her eyelashes and pretends to be the one doing all the work, which means that she gets all the credit. I couldn't help but feel irritated at the injustice of the whole thing. Esme does all the hard work and somebody else takes all the credit. Then to add insult into injury the host then 'pitches' a new dish which is a blatant rip off of a recipe that was handed down to Esme from her grandmother. There's a bit of argy bargy and Esme ends up resigning from her job. I was mentally cheering her on at that point. Reality sets in and Esme does worry about what she is going to do to bring the pennies in. Then just to add to the day from hell her boyfriend decides that that is the day when he is going to dump her and tells her to move out. It was at this point that I wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to give Esme a hug and supply her with medicinal chocolate whilst at the same time I wanted to slap the cookery show host with a wet fish a few dozen times and I definitely wanted to kick Esme's former boyfriend in a rather rude part of his anatomy two or three or four or even better five times. I think I had taken to Esme so well that I just wanted to protect her, reassure her and to try to cheer her up. Esme ends up going back to where she used to live and it's then that she comes into contact with the mysterious sounding Joe. Joe is handsome and charming but it's clear that he has suffered some trauma in his past although it isn't immediately clear as to what that trauma is. The trauma still deeply affects him and it isn't clear whether or not he will be able to overcome the past trauma. There's a definite spark between Esme and Joe and I was keeping everything crossed that they would get together, have a kiss under the mistletoe and go off skipping into the sunset together. Do they do exactly that? Well guess what I am not going to tell you so you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out.
It didn't take me long to get into this book at all. In fact by the time I got to the bottom of the first page, I knew that this was going to be one of those reads that would prove impossible to put down. I must be psychic because that is exactly what happened. I was so taken by the story, the lovely Esme and the author's writing style that I just couldn't bear to be parted from the book. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. The book had definitely developed a hold over me and it was a hold I wasn't going to break. I did try to ration how much I read in one go so I could prolong my enjoyment of the book but I was loving the book so much that my attempt at rationing was soon thrown out of the window. I binge read the book over the course of a day.
'Snowflakes At Mistletoe Cottage' is brilliantly written but then I wouldn't expect anything else from Katie Ginger. She certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into the story. Once she has your attention she will not let it go. Katie has created a brilliant character in Esme, who is a girl next door type and an all round good egg. Katie writes so realistically and uses such great descriptions that I really did feel as though I was part of the story myself. In fact I ended up wishing that I had friends like Esme has. They put me in mind of the sorts of friends that Bridget Jones has.
In short, 'Snowflakes At Mistletoe Cottage' is an adorable story with an equally adorable lead character. Reading this book gave me a similar fuzzy warm feeling inside that felt like a hug from a mug and I was left with a smile on my face long after I finished the book and closed the back cover. I have only two complaints about the book. Firstly, that the book had to end and secondly all that talk of food made me feel hungry which isn't good when you are trying to lose weight. I would definitely recommend this delightful book to other readers. I can't wait to read more from Katie Ginger. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I couldn't help but take to the character off Esme from the first moment I met her. When the story starts she is employed on a cookery show as a food technologist. In other words she does all the prep work and actually cooks the food whilst the host of the show flutters her eyelashes and pretends to be the one doing all the work, which means that she gets all the credit. I couldn't help but feel irritated at the injustice of the whole thing. Esme does all the hard work and somebody else takes all the credit. Then to add insult into injury the host then 'pitches' a new dish which is a blatant rip off of a recipe that was handed down to Esme from her grandmother. There's a bit of argy bargy and Esme ends up resigning from her job. I was mentally cheering her on at that point. Reality sets in and Esme does worry about what she is going to do to bring the pennies in. Then just to add to the day from hell her boyfriend decides that that is the day when he is going to dump her and tells her to move out. It was at this point that I wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to give Esme a hug and supply her with medicinal chocolate whilst at the same time I wanted to slap the cookery show host with a wet fish a few dozen times and I definitely wanted to kick Esme's former boyfriend in a rather rude part of his anatomy two or three or four or even better five times. I think I had taken to Esme so well that I just wanted to protect her, reassure her and to try to cheer her up. Esme ends up going back to where she used to live and it's then that she comes into contact with the mysterious sounding Joe. Joe is handsome and charming but it's clear that he has suffered some trauma in his past although it isn't immediately clear as to what that trauma is. The trauma still deeply affects him and it isn't clear whether or not he will be able to overcome the past trauma. There's a definite spark between Esme and Joe and I was keeping everything crossed that they would get together, have a kiss under the mistletoe and go off skipping into the sunset together. Do they do exactly that? Well guess what I am not going to tell you so you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out.
It didn't take me long to get into this book at all. In fact by the time I got to the bottom of the first page, I knew that this was going to be one of those reads that would prove impossible to put down. I must be psychic because that is exactly what happened. I was so taken by the story, the lovely Esme and the author's writing style that I just couldn't bear to be parted from the book. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. The book had definitely developed a hold over me and it was a hold I wasn't going to break. I did try to ration how much I read in one go so I could prolong my enjoyment of the book but I was loving the book so much that my attempt at rationing was soon thrown out of the window. I binge read the book over the course of a day.
'Snowflakes At Mistletoe Cottage' is brilliantly written but then I wouldn't expect anything else from Katie Ginger. She certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into the story. Once she has your attention she will not let it go. Katie has created a brilliant character in Esme, who is a girl next door type and an all round good egg. Katie writes so realistically and uses such great descriptions that I really did feel as though I was part of the story myself. In fact I ended up wishing that I had friends like Esme has. They put me in mind of the sorts of friends that Bridget Jones has.
In short, 'Snowflakes At Mistletoe Cottage' is an adorable story with an equally adorable lead character. Reading this book gave me a similar fuzzy warm feeling inside that felt like a hug from a mug and I was left with a smile on my face long after I finished the book and closed the back cover. I have only two complaints about the book. Firstly, that the book had to end and secondly all that talk of food made me feel hungry which isn't good when you are trying to lose weight. I would definitely recommend this delightful book to other readers. I can't wait to read more from Katie Ginger. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
January 30, 2023
Well this took much longer than I thought as it’s such a busy time of year plus a few health issues knocked me too flat even to read. It’s a fabulous little book and was the first book Katie wrote sadly after her cousin passed away age 25. This made her realise how life can be so short so she decided to just go for it. It’s a lovely funny tale of a young woman called Esme. She has it all until everything comes crashing down in a heap all in the one day. Her job, her long term boyfriend ends it and she’s totally lost. But she slowly builds herself up and it’s just a beautiful down to earth story of how you just have to grab the bull by the horns and go for it.
Esme begins an online cooking blog which doesn’t do too well until she has a few mishaps along the way and then there’s one person who seems to make comments then everyone jumps on the bandwagon and off it goes. She sets a tea towel on fire and swears online which doesn’t go down well even if it’s aired at 9 pm. Its filmed in the tiny cottage she’s renting which by the way is freezing cold so she has to wear several lots of clothes. But this blog isn’t making money and what was supposed to be a wedding present money from her parents is dwindling away. They gave it to her to get started on her new venture. She does cakes and full spreads for parties and seems happy enough but then got drunk online in her blog one night and told the works her sad tale of how she lost her job snd the you know what hits the fan! There’s much much more but if you like a good little Christmas story you will love this even with all Esme’s up and downs she ends well.
Esme begins an online cooking blog which doesn’t do too well until she has a few mishaps along the way and then there’s one person who seems to make comments then everyone jumps on the bandwagon and off it goes. She sets a tea towel on fire and swears online which doesn’t go down well even if it’s aired at 9 pm. Its filmed in the tiny cottage she’s renting which by the way is freezing cold so she has to wear several lots of clothes. But this blog isn’t making money and what was supposed to be a wedding present money from her parents is dwindling away. They gave it to her to get started on her new venture. She does cakes and full spreads for parties and seems happy enough but then got drunk online in her blog one night and told the works her sad tale of how she lost her job snd the you know what hits the fan! There’s much much more but if you like a good little Christmas story you will love this even with all Esme’s up and downs she ends well.
October 14, 2019
Although I haven't yet read Katie Ginger's other novels, the attractive cover design of this one caught my eye and I thought the premise of the book sounded wonderful. Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage was a really lovely story and I especially liked the main character, Esme, to whom I could really relate. She was also rather amusing and I loved the Christmas theme with it's festive charm and the story's overall tone which was so snug and uplifting, bringing with it all that delicious homemade cooking.
This was a beautifully written, humorous story of love, friendship, dreams, taking risks, and overcoming the fear of failure. A dash of sparkling friction kept things fizzing and everything was wrapped up very nicely in the end.
A wonderful read with a really strong Christmas feel, this is a book that I will certainly be recommending to friends and family; I will also be suggesting it to my local library under their 'Recommend A Purchase' scheme.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from HQ Digital via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
This was a beautifully written, humorous story of love, friendship, dreams, taking risks, and overcoming the fear of failure. A dash of sparkling friction kept things fizzing and everything was wrapped up very nicely in the end.
A wonderful read with a really strong Christmas feel, this is a book that I will certainly be recommending to friends and family; I will also be suggesting it to my local library under their 'Recommend A Purchase' scheme.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from HQ Digital via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 23, 2019
Kindly received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Actual Ratings : 4.8 Christmas-y stars
What a sweet and encouraging story for everyone struggling out there. This has to be one of the sweetest stories I’ve read. Every single character was a sweetheart. Everything screamed sweetness. From Esme’s mother to Mark to Lola and evening to Joe. Everyone was so supportive of Esme and I loved how she just picked herself up. She was so relatable this story melted my heart. She was strong enough and weak enough in all the right places. Although the romance was pretty slow it was paced nicely enough for us to admire the guy in Esme to pick her self up. The story was just such a pick-me-up book for everyone. The perfect story for Christmas and boy I’m glad I picked it up from Netgalley. Kudos for the author for writing such a book for everyone without any drama and the simple Christmas spirit.
Actual Ratings : 4.8 Christmas-y stars
What a sweet and encouraging story for everyone struggling out there. This has to be one of the sweetest stories I’ve read. Every single character was a sweetheart. Everything screamed sweetness. From Esme’s mother to Mark to Lola and evening to Joe. Everyone was so supportive of Esme and I loved how she just picked herself up. She was so relatable this story melted my heart. She was strong enough and weak enough in all the right places. Although the romance was pretty slow it was paced nicely enough for us to admire the guy in Esme to pick her self up. The story was just such a pick-me-up book for everyone. The perfect story for Christmas and boy I’m glad I picked it up from Netgalley. Kudos for the author for writing such a book for everyone without any drama and the simple Christmas spirit.
September 25, 2019
Sleigh bells ring, are you listening, in the lane snow is glistening, a beautiful site, we’re happy tonight, walking in a winter wonderland.
Take a stroll through the beautiful lanes around mistletoe cottage. Where you will meet some wonderful characters and have a journey filled with Christmas joy, magic and sparkle.
Take a stroll through the beautiful lanes around mistletoe cottage. Where you will meet some wonderful characters and have a journey filled with Christmas joy, magic and sparkle.
October 15, 2019
This was an enjoyable Christmas story about Esme, who was just recently sacked from her food technician job on a TV show after standing up for herself, then when she got home her boyfriend dumped her and she had to move out of his London apartment. She's not having a good time, until she moves back to her home town, rents a quite dilapidated but very cute cottage with the lovely name of Mistletoe Cottage, starts up her own food website called 'Grandma's Kitchen', and starts blogging/vlogging about her recipes.
Once there Esme meets Rob, an old school friend she had a crush on years ago, and the estate agent who rented her Mistletoe Cottage. Rob has a reputation as a bit of a playboy in the area, but is harboring some a sad secret that is really weighing him down.
I really liked the way we also had secondary characters stories, from Esme's old London life and her present village life, Juanita especially intrigued me, but all Esme's family and friends were very loving but a bit mad, her Mum especially - I loved her character! Esme's friends did remind me a bit of the group of friends in Bridget Jones Diary, and Esme herself was a bit accident prone (like Bridget) especially during her live web broadcasts!
I did find Joe a bit irritating I must admit, the event he was brooding and depressed about was a few years ago now and he really should have got past it by now, it was like he had a dark cloud over his head a lot of the time and it did get a bit wearing, although he eventually got over it by the end of the book.
There is a very funny scene at the end of the book when Esme and her friends do a live Boxing Day Bake Off broadcast, very funny, and a few things were sorted out.
There was a lovely satisfying ending, where the 'bad' people got their comeuppance, and the 'good' people triumphed, all in a cute Christmas village setting. A light-hearted and enjoyable read.
Once there Esme meets Rob, an old school friend she had a crush on years ago, and the estate agent who rented her Mistletoe Cottage. Rob has a reputation as a bit of a playboy in the area, but is harboring some a sad secret that is really weighing him down.
I really liked the way we also had secondary characters stories, from Esme's old London life and her present village life, Juanita especially intrigued me, but all Esme's family and friends were very loving but a bit mad, her Mum especially - I loved her character! Esme's friends did remind me a bit of the group of friends in Bridget Jones Diary, and Esme herself was a bit accident prone (like Bridget) especially during her live web broadcasts!
I did find Joe a bit irritating I must admit, the event he was brooding and depressed about was a few years ago now and he really should have got past it by now, it was like he had a dark cloud over his head a lot of the time and it did get a bit wearing, although he eventually got over it by the end of the book.
There is a very funny scene at the end of the book when Esme and her friends do a live Boxing Day Bake Off broadcast, very funny, and a few things were sorted out.
There was a lovely satisfying ending, where the 'bad' people got their comeuppance, and the 'good' people triumphed, all in a cute Christmas village setting. A light-hearted and enjoyable read.
October 20, 2019
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I am a massive fan of the different book covers that are released each Christmas and I have to say the moment this is my favourite by far – I love it, and it suits the book perfectly!
I have read a few books by this author now and she never disappoints. She always has well developed characters, the perfect pace to the story and the best locations which she brings to life so well.
I thought that this was a fabulous book and it will be one of my book highlights of the 2019 Christmas season (being a blogger and reviewer we tend to start a bit earlier than some) – it is 5 stars from me, no hesitation and I cannot recommend it highly enough – it is the perfect Christmas read!!
I am a massive fan of the different book covers that are released each Christmas and I have to say the moment this is my favourite by far – I love it, and it suits the book perfectly!
I have read a few books by this author now and she never disappoints. She always has well developed characters, the perfect pace to the story and the best locations which she brings to life so well.
I thought that this was a fabulous book and it will be one of my book highlights of the 2019 Christmas season (being a blogger and reviewer we tend to start a bit earlier than some) – it is 5 stars from me, no hesitation and I cannot recommend it highly enough – it is the perfect Christmas read!!
October 14, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book via Netgalley.
SNOWFLAKES AT MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Katie Ginger is funny, endearing, and with just the right amount of cosy, festive magic to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Esme works as a food technician for a glitzy TV programme but when the presenter of the show steals Esme's cooking idea and presents it to their boss as their own, Esme refuses to let her get away with it and challenges her, which results in Esme losing her job. Well, at least she can sob into the arms of her long-term boyfriend Leo whom she suspects is going to propose this Christmas. But it turns out she can't, as he dumps her on the same day she gets fired and soon moves his new love interest into the flat. Homeless, jobless, and having lost some of her spark, Esme heads back home to her childhood town of Sandchester where her sometimes crazy family, are ready and waiting with comfort and support. And when an old school classmate, Joe, helps to find her somewhere to live, things may just be starting to look up.
Esme is a wonderful cook and wants her grandmother's recipes and her own to be shared with the world so what better time than now to focus on her dreams. But Esme soon comes to learn that dreams don't pay the rent and with vlog mishaps, and Esme's growing confusion about her past relationship and how she is beginning to have feelings for Joe who has been such a great friend, this Christmas is sure to be an eventful one. With crazy mishaps, an ex wanting another chance, the best friends a girl could ask for, and some heartbreaking secrets along the way, has Esme found the place where all of her dreams can come true?
Engaging, witty, and with a wonderful cast of characters (except for a certain love rat!), SNOWFLAKES AT MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Katie Ginger hooked me from the start and had me laughing plenty along the way. But there is also a sensitive side to this story as Esme and Joe try to figure out their past relationships and learn to let go. I loved Esme's friends who were all funny and caring but Esme's mum stole the show for me and entertained at every moment. I read this book in one sitting because I simply could not put it down and when it was over I found myself wishing that it wasn't - I really hope that this isn't the last we see of this group!
SNOWFLAKES AT MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Katie Ginger is the perfect Christmas read and I highly recommend it to all fiction fans.
SNOWFLAKES AT MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Katie Ginger is funny, endearing, and with just the right amount of cosy, festive magic to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Esme works as a food technician for a glitzy TV programme but when the presenter of the show steals Esme's cooking idea and presents it to their boss as their own, Esme refuses to let her get away with it and challenges her, which results in Esme losing her job. Well, at least she can sob into the arms of her long-term boyfriend Leo whom she suspects is going to propose this Christmas. But it turns out she can't, as he dumps her on the same day she gets fired and soon moves his new love interest into the flat. Homeless, jobless, and having lost some of her spark, Esme heads back home to her childhood town of Sandchester where her sometimes crazy family, are ready and waiting with comfort and support. And when an old school classmate, Joe, helps to find her somewhere to live, things may just be starting to look up.
Esme is a wonderful cook and wants her grandmother's recipes and her own to be shared with the world so what better time than now to focus on her dreams. But Esme soon comes to learn that dreams don't pay the rent and with vlog mishaps, and Esme's growing confusion about her past relationship and how she is beginning to have feelings for Joe who has been such a great friend, this Christmas is sure to be an eventful one. With crazy mishaps, an ex wanting another chance, the best friends a girl could ask for, and some heartbreaking secrets along the way, has Esme found the place where all of her dreams can come true?
Engaging, witty, and with a wonderful cast of characters (except for a certain love rat!), SNOWFLAKES AT MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Katie Ginger hooked me from the start and had me laughing plenty along the way. But there is also a sensitive side to this story as Esme and Joe try to figure out their past relationships and learn to let go. I loved Esme's friends who were all funny and caring but Esme's mum stole the show for me and entertained at every moment. I read this book in one sitting because I simply could not put it down and when it was over I found myself wishing that it wasn't - I really hope that this isn't the last we see of this group!
SNOWFLAKES AT MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Katie Ginger is the perfect Christmas read and I highly recommend it to all fiction fans.
December 21, 2019
First sentence: Felicity Fenchurch primped and preened in front of the camera, brushing her honey-blonde curls back from her face. The director shouted, ‘Action,’ and she gave a longing smile, dipped down to pull a tray from the oven, and gazing at the camera from under false eyelashes, pouted.
Premise/plot: Esme has it all...until she doesn't. She loses her job, her boyfriend, and her apartment all in one day! She returns to her hometown but not her parents' home. She rents a tiny cottage and starts making plans for her future. Encouraged by her friends, she starts a food blog. Can she make the blog a huge success in just three or four weeks in times to make all her holiday dreams and wishes come true?!
My thoughts: WHY did this one have to be about blogging?!?! I can gladly accept formulaic holiday-themed romances light on intelligence. But I cannot accept stories of bloggers that go from zero views to thousands of views in just a week or two. Enough views to land her a new job. Seriously. Everytime she COMPLAINED about how slow the process was for getting page views, I wanted to SCREAM at her. I actually spent most of the book angry at the main character. That being said, the romance elements were mostly enjoyable. I think if she had been doing anything else with her life instead of blogging, I would have been fine with the writing.
Premise/plot: Esme has it all...until she doesn't. She loses her job, her boyfriend, and her apartment all in one day! She returns to her hometown but not her parents' home. She rents a tiny cottage and starts making plans for her future. Encouraged by her friends, she starts a food blog. Can she make the blog a huge success in just three or four weeks in times to make all her holiday dreams and wishes come true?!
My thoughts: WHY did this one have to be about blogging?!?! I can gladly accept formulaic holiday-themed romances light on intelligence. But I cannot accept stories of bloggers that go from zero views to thousands of views in just a week or two. Enough views to land her a new job. Seriously. Everytime she COMPLAINED about how slow the process was for getting page views, I wanted to SCREAM at her. I actually spent most of the book angry at the main character. That being said, the romance elements were mostly enjoyable. I think if she had been doing anything else with her life instead of blogging, I would have been fine with the writing.
October 11, 2019
I have been eagerly awaiting this book and what a little gem it was.
Esme thinks she has life under control and everything heading in the right direction unitl the rug is pulled from under her feet. After a horrendously bad day Esme is forced to reassess her life decisions and moves back home to her parents in Sandchester.
I absolutely loved this book, it is a story full of hope, determination and at times desperation. Esme's antics will make you laugh throughout and leave you craving home Chocolate cake. The descriptions are vivid and allow you to visualise her in the cosy kitchen in Mistletoe Cottage. Esme is a superb character brimming with personality who I would love to have as a friend, especially with her wonderful cooking skills. She is the friend everyone needs in their lives and her Mum is a full force of nature that will make you giggle.
A book full of love and laughter that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy, leaving you feeling you have a lost a friend in Esme when you reach the end. I devoured this book and whilst reading it looked forward to picking it up to keep reading, even forsaking chasing Daisy to get ready for school as I was so keen to keep reading.
Esme thinks she has life under control and everything heading in the right direction unitl the rug is pulled from under her feet. After a horrendously bad day Esme is forced to reassess her life decisions and moves back home to her parents in Sandchester.
I absolutely loved this book, it is a story full of hope, determination and at times desperation. Esme's antics will make you laugh throughout and leave you craving home Chocolate cake. The descriptions are vivid and allow you to visualise her in the cosy kitchen in Mistletoe Cottage. Esme is a superb character brimming with personality who I would love to have as a friend, especially with her wonderful cooking skills. She is the friend everyone needs in their lives and her Mum is a full force of nature that will make you giggle.
A book full of love and laughter that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy, leaving you feeling you have a lost a friend in Esme when you reach the end. I devoured this book and whilst reading it looked forward to picking it up to keep reading, even forsaking chasing Daisy to get ready for school as I was so keen to keep reading.
October 1, 2019
This was an absolutely delightful story and although there is some angst, there's also lots of humor and it all just warmed my heart. I must say, I completely adored Esme's mom, Carol, what a hoot she was!! This is a story about broken hearts, family, friends, and not being afraid to take a risk in life.
Every time Esme would blog about her granny's recipes, I wanted to go try them out! lol They all sounded soooo delish and being that I love to cook and bake, it really had my interest at a peak. When she mentions how terrified she was of the pressure cooker, it brought back my own memories of being scared of it as well when my mom would use it!!!
I loved Joe as well, what a broken man he was until he and Esme met again. That one scene when he calls Clara's mother, Siobhan, I was absolutely bawling. Such a touching moment in the book.
As for Esme's friends, they were an absolute riot! We should all have close friends like that, that have your back. All in all, a wonderful story that takes place at Christmas time and oh yes....now I want to move into Mistletoe Cottage:)
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Every time Esme would blog about her granny's recipes, I wanted to go try them out! lol They all sounded soooo delish and being that I love to cook and bake, it really had my interest at a peak. When she mentions how terrified she was of the pressure cooker, it brought back my own memories of being scared of it as well when my mom would use it!!!
I loved Joe as well, what a broken man he was until he and Esme met again. That one scene when he calls Clara's mother, Siobhan, I was absolutely bawling. Such a touching moment in the book.
As for Esme's friends, they were an absolute riot! We should all have close friends like that, that have your back. All in all, a wonderful story that takes place at Christmas time and oh yes....now I want to move into Mistletoe Cottage:)
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 13, 2021
Esme is a food technician and we jump straight into the story on the day from hell when she loses her job, home and boyfriend. Doesn’t get much worse than that. So she traipses back home to Sandchester for Christmas and possibly forever. Far from ideal.
Missing her friends in London, missing her job and missing her boyfriend, Esme is desperate to get her life back on track but is London really the place for her or does Sandchester have more in store than she expected.
This is a lovely story. I read it in the run-up to Christmas and didn’t have much time to read it and it’s therefore testament to a great story that it lingered with me in between and I was keen to get back to Esme and find out what would happen next.
I do love a heart warming new beginnings story set at Christmas with snow and old cottages and this was just that. Fun, warm and definitely not my last Katie Ginger book.
Missing her friends in London, missing her job and missing her boyfriend, Esme is desperate to get her life back on track but is London really the place for her or does Sandchester have more in store than she expected.
This is a lovely story. I read it in the run-up to Christmas and didn’t have much time to read it and it’s therefore testament to a great story that it lingered with me in between and I was keen to get back to Esme and find out what would happen next.
I do love a heart warming new beginnings story set at Christmas with snow and old cottages and this was just that. Fun, warm and definitely not my last Katie Ginger book.
Read
October 5, 2019Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage by Katie Ginger is a delightful Christmas romance. The kind of story that tugs at your heartstrings and warms you all while renewing your faith in the holiday spirit. A story about broken hearts, family, friends, and not being afraid to take a risk in life. Ginger writes a touching story that lets you take a stroll through the beautiful lanes around mistletoe cottage. The characters are likable and you will instantly feel invested in them. A lovely, heart-warming read, absolutely perfect for Christmas!
January 8, 2020
This is such a lovely cosy, Christmas read. Esme sets up a food blog when her life falls apart when she loses her job and her boyfriend. She moves back home and into Mistletoe cottage. She decides to film herself cooking her grandma's recipes with comedic results. I loved the characters, including her friends and her parents.
January 16, 2023
A cozy winter read with a sprinkle of romance and Christmas // 3.75 /5 🌟
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage follows Esme as she has the worst day of her life: she looses her job, her long term boyfriend, and her apartment all in the same day. With this quick turn of events, she decides to go back home to the countryside and rent a cozy cottage. Maybe this will be her chance to achieve her dreams and perhaps fall in love again.
I really enjoyed reading this throughout the holidays. I bought it last year and didn’t get to it, but I’m so happy i picked it up this year. This was one of the most cozy holiday reads I’ve ever read. I really enjoyed this.
So why did I only rate it 3.75/5. Well it’s not to say that I didn’t like it, but I wished there would have been a bit more focus on the romance. Maybe an extra 50 pages would have been beneficial to not make it such an “insta love” because it really threw me off. I think the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly, but there are so many elements I really enjoyed about this book.
I loved the cooking blog/book idea! I loved her culinary journey and the way she builds her business. It made me have so much respect for Esme to pick herself back up and make something great out of her circumstances. I also really enjoyed her supportive friends. It’s always good when there’s more to the story than just the ex, and the love interest. Esme was such a well fleshed out character and I loved going through her struggles and successes.
I wished we also had less of the Felicity drama. I found it unnecessary to justify her situation. I didn’t need a “revenge” story for what she did. I feel like it took away from the focus of Esme. For me it’s not about the romance or the drama, but about a woman’s journey through heartbreak and finding back her passion and ambition. I overall really enjoyed it and will absolutely recommend it to others! An excellent holiday/winter read if you are one of those mood readers like me ;)
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage follows Esme as she has the worst day of her life: she looses her job, her long term boyfriend, and her apartment all in the same day. With this quick turn of events, she decides to go back home to the countryside and rent a cozy cottage. Maybe this will be her chance to achieve her dreams and perhaps fall in love again.
I really enjoyed reading this throughout the holidays. I bought it last year and didn’t get to it, but I’m so happy i picked it up this year. This was one of the most cozy holiday reads I’ve ever read. I really enjoyed this.
So why did I only rate it 3.75/5. Well it’s not to say that I didn’t like it, but I wished there would have been a bit more focus on the romance. Maybe an extra 50 pages would have been beneficial to not make it such an “insta love” because it really threw me off. I think the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly, but there are so many elements I really enjoyed about this book.
I loved the cooking blog/book idea! I loved her culinary journey and the way she builds her business. It made me have so much respect for Esme to pick herself back up and make something great out of her circumstances. I also really enjoyed her supportive friends. It’s always good when there’s more to the story than just the ex, and the love interest. Esme was such a well fleshed out character and I loved going through her struggles and successes.
I wished we also had less of the Felicity drama. I found it unnecessary to justify her situation. I didn’t need a “revenge” story for what she did. I feel like it took away from the focus of Esme. For me it’s not about the romance or the drama, but about a woman’s journey through heartbreak and finding back her passion and ambition. I overall really enjoyed it and will absolutely recommend it to others! An excellent holiday/winter read if you are one of those mood readers like me ;)
December 13, 2021
This is my first book by this author and it will not be my last. This book is exactly as described; A heartwarming and funny Christmas romance. I loved It! ! I loved how Esme faced each obstacle and didn’t give up. I loved her family (especially her mom) and friends and how they all came together to give Esme the confidence she needed. I loved how in tune she was with Joe and how their story developed. I thoroughly enjoyed this holiday story and highly recommend it.
November 15, 2019
Esme has a great life doing what she loves, living in London with a fabulous relationship, apartment, great friends and the chance to keep her beloved grandmother’s recipes alive. The only hitch in this life is the ‘star’ of the show she ‘styles ‘ food for, and the star’s mistreatment of staffers, her unapologetic nastiness and now, the outright theft of Esme’s favorite cake recipe. It wasn’t the first time that she’d had a recipe ‘stolen’ but this was the icing on the cake – and Esme went to the show’s producer to complain. With no back-up and being simply “staff” Esme was fired and aririves home in an emotional state, only to find that her boyfriend of 5 years wants her out of their apartment, now.
Heading back home with no prospects, far from London and with little money is the first in a long series of challenges for Esme- but with some help from her parents, solid love from her friends, and the realization that her relationship with Leo is solidly over now that he’s moved his new girlfriend (and boss) into his apartment, Esme has to start doing something. From reconnecting with a school-mate who now does real estate in town, to trying to start a blog and vlog about cooking, all while trying to stay warm in a little run-down cottage without central heating, Esme is up against it.
From the friendships to her crazy family, there is no shortage of support or advice for Esme, and when she finally takes the move to make her own way doing what she loves and playing about with the family cookbook while bringing her own unique style – unpolished, homey comfort food with a touch of “deal with the mistakes as they come” sort of attitude, Esme and her friends are heartfelt, engaging and utterly delightful – the perfect “lead in” to the holiday season with plenty of ideas for the feast, some fun ‘try it just for giggles’ sort of food, the friends who are always on your side and the parents who, while being a bit over the top are nothing but supportive and on your side – if occasionally scary and vaguely threatening (in the case of Esme’s mum). Grab this for a story that will demand you curl up with tea and biscuits and read through to the last page!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Heading back home with no prospects, far from London and with little money is the first in a long series of challenges for Esme- but with some help from her parents, solid love from her friends, and the realization that her relationship with Leo is solidly over now that he’s moved his new girlfriend (and boss) into his apartment, Esme has to start doing something. From reconnecting with a school-mate who now does real estate in town, to trying to start a blog and vlog about cooking, all while trying to stay warm in a little run-down cottage without central heating, Esme is up against it.
From the friendships to her crazy family, there is no shortage of support or advice for Esme, and when she finally takes the move to make her own way doing what she loves and playing about with the family cookbook while bringing her own unique style – unpolished, homey comfort food with a touch of “deal with the mistakes as they come” sort of attitude, Esme and her friends are heartfelt, engaging and utterly delightful – the perfect “lead in” to the holiday season with plenty of ideas for the feast, some fun ‘try it just for giggles’ sort of food, the friends who are always on your side and the parents who, while being a bit over the top are nothing but supportive and on your side – if occasionally scary and vaguely threatening (in the case of Esme’s mum). Grab this for a story that will demand you curl up with tea and biscuits and read through to the last page!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
October 15, 2019
Esme Kendrick thinks she's living her best life, with a job as food technologist on a popular cooking show, a handsome boyfriend, and amazing apartment in London.
Then she loses the job because she objects to the star claiming one of Esme's grandma's most treasure recipes as her own, and that same day, her gorgeous boyfriend dumps her for the woman he's been seeing behind her back. Since the amazing apartment is his, that's gone too.
Her friends help her get her stuff out, but unemployed now,, her only option is to go back home to Sandchester, and start rebuilding her life and career. Her parents give her the money they'd been saving for her wedding, and a guy she knew in school, Joe Holloway, is back in Sandchester as an estate agent, after a disappointment he doesn't discuss in Australia. He helps her find a small cottage she can afford for a few months, to avoid living with either her parents or her married sister. (Who are lovely people, but for reasons that quickly become clear, it wouldn't have worked.)
Esme has to deal with the multiple blows to her view of her life, her confidence, and her career, while setting out on a whole new path, a cooking blog that might make her enough of a name to sell the cookbook she's working on. Joe has to deal with his depression, and his guilt over what happened in Australia. Neither of them is in the right place in life to start a new relationship, right?
I love Esme, Joe, Esme's family, and Esme's friends--Helena and Mark, who also work on the show she just got fired from, and Lola, another old schoolmate who has been her best friend for years and also works in London, in marketing rather than cooking tv. Everyone needs friends like this, and in this book, you get to spend some great time with them. It's a lot of fun.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher via NetGalley, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Then she loses the job because she objects to the star claiming one of Esme's grandma's most treasure recipes as her own, and that same day, her gorgeous boyfriend dumps her for the woman he's been seeing behind her back. Since the amazing apartment is his, that's gone too.
Her friends help her get her stuff out, but unemployed now,, her only option is to go back home to Sandchester, and start rebuilding her life and career. Her parents give her the money they'd been saving for her wedding, and a guy she knew in school, Joe Holloway, is back in Sandchester as an estate agent, after a disappointment he doesn't discuss in Australia. He helps her find a small cottage she can afford for a few months, to avoid living with either her parents or her married sister. (Who are lovely people, but for reasons that quickly become clear, it wouldn't have worked.)
Esme has to deal with the multiple blows to her view of her life, her confidence, and her career, while setting out on a whole new path, a cooking blog that might make her enough of a name to sell the cookbook she's working on. Joe has to deal with his depression, and his guilt over what happened in Australia. Neither of them is in the right place in life to start a new relationship, right?
I love Esme, Joe, Esme's family, and Esme's friends--Helena and Mark, who also work on the show she just got fired from, and Lola, another old schoolmate who has been her best friend for years and also works in London, in marketing rather than cooking tv. Everyone needs friends like this, and in this book, you get to spend some great time with them. It's a lot of fun.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher via NetGalley, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
October 17, 2019
Oh my goodness I adored this novel by Katie Ginger and I’m not sure why I haven’t read any of her work before as her writing style connected with me on so many levels. Katie Ginger is definitely on my radar now and has a firm place in my favourite romcom author list.
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a gorgeous festive feast of a read that I quickly devoured. I loved it so much I wanted the storyline and characters to be real so I could connect with them and learn more about their antics and foodie delights.
Esme is a Food Tech for one of the current top foodie TV shows but when she discovers that the glamorous host of the show has double crossed her she decides enough is enough and voices her grievances but sadly her voice isn’t as important as her nemesis and she is left with an ultimatum.
When Esme thought her day couldn’t get any worse her boyfriend decides to dump her. So jobless, broken-hearted and now homeless Esme heads home to her parents. Esme’s parents are crazy but fabulous and are just the tonic she needs and with the encouragement of her friends Esme sets up a blog to share her love of cooking and of the memories she had cooking with her dear grandma.
Joe moved back to his hometown a few years ago but has been secretly struggling with emotions of the heart. His mind and heart is still in turmoil but when he meets up with his old school friend Esme he starts to see another purpose in life. Can these two lost souls who have returned to their home town learn to let love in again?
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is such a fabulously funny read and it’s filled with so much warmth it leaves you with a satisfied cosy glow. However, with all the delicious sounding recipes that Esme creates you’ll be left with a hunger for her food and a desire to get cooking.
A delicious cosy read that will fill you with a satisfied glow.
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is a gorgeous festive feast of a read that I quickly devoured. I loved it so much I wanted the storyline and characters to be real so I could connect with them and learn more about their antics and foodie delights.
Esme is a Food Tech for one of the current top foodie TV shows but when she discovers that the glamorous host of the show has double crossed her she decides enough is enough and voices her grievances but sadly her voice isn’t as important as her nemesis and she is left with an ultimatum.
When Esme thought her day couldn’t get any worse her boyfriend decides to dump her. So jobless, broken-hearted and now homeless Esme heads home to her parents. Esme’s parents are crazy but fabulous and are just the tonic she needs and with the encouragement of her friends Esme sets up a blog to share her love of cooking and of the memories she had cooking with her dear grandma.
Joe moved back to his hometown a few years ago but has been secretly struggling with emotions of the heart. His mind and heart is still in turmoil but when he meets up with his old school friend Esme he starts to see another purpose in life. Can these two lost souls who have returned to their home town learn to let love in again?
Snowflakes at Mistletoe Cottage is such a fabulously funny read and it’s filled with so much warmth it leaves you with a satisfied cosy glow. However, with all the delicious sounding recipes that Esme creates you’ll be left with a hunger for her food and a desire to get cooking.
A delicious cosy read that will fill you with a satisfied glow.
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