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Little Penhaven #1.5
Christmas in Little Penhaven
The author of One Summer in Little Penhaven returns to the charming Cornish village for the holiday season in this heartwarming British romance.
When American gym owner Hal Muir needs an escape from his life, visiting his cousin in Cornwall seems like the perfect getaway. Especially since he's always wanted to see Christmas in England. But as he gets to know the village's many festive traditions, he also gets to know a certain beautiful Cornish local.
Aspiring author Jane Solomon is expecting an uneventful Christmas in Little Penhaven. There's seldom a new face to be seen--let alone a stunningly handsome face like Hal's. Suddenly the old holiday traditions are full of new excitement. But can Jane risk giving her heart to a man who's just passing through? Or will Hal's arrival be the gift that keeps on giving?
When American gym owner Hal Muir needs an escape from his life, visiting his cousin in Cornwall seems like the perfect getaway. Especially since he's always wanted to see Christmas in England. But as he gets to know the village's many festive traditions, he also gets to know a certain beautiful Cornish local.
Aspiring author Jane Solomon is expecting an uneventful Christmas in Little Penhaven. There's seldom a new face to be seen--let alone a stunningly handsome face like Hal's. Suddenly the old holiday traditions are full of new excitement. But can Jane risk giving her heart to a man who's just passing through? Or will Hal's arrival be the gift that keeps on giving?
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2019
55 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Angela Britnell
52 books105 followersFind me on Facebook.
I was born in the beautiful county of Cornwall in southwestern England and grew up in a small village there. I return frequently to visit family and friends but especially to savor the cool rainy weather and hot tea. After school I joined the Royal Navy and served for nearly six years. I held varying jobs from being the only woman in the staff of a sports center to arranging social engagements for the Captain of the base. My last assignment was to Denmark where I thought I would spend a wild two years in Copenhagen only to discover I was being sent to a NATO Headquarters in a quiet town on the Jutland Peninsula. I was only disappointed for a while as I met my own tall, dark, handsome stranger there - a US Naval Officer named Richard who became my husband.
That was the beginning of an itinerant life as from Denmark we went to Sicily where we had our first son. Then it was on to Monterey, California and the birth of our second son. From there we headed to Patuxent River, Maryland where we had our third son. Richard's last assignment was to London where we spent a wonderful three years. Retiring from the Navy he took a job in Brentwood, Tennessee near where he grew up. Now he's retired for the 2nd time and I'm still writing!
I have always been a voracious reader, even at 5 years old my school reports show a keen interest in English and very little in math - some things never change! Although I enjoyed writing in school it wasn't until 2001 that I was tempted to take a creative writing class at a local recreation center which has sparked my new career.
I hope you enjoy reading my work as much as I enjoy writing it so sit back, make yourself a cup of tea and enjoy a break from everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 28, 2019
Christmas in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
Both Poignant and Festive- A real holiday treat!!
I Absolutely loved “One Summer in Little Penhaven”, so of course, I was very excited to read this follow up Christmas novella!!
A shocking event has left Hal Muir feeling unsure of everything in his life. He sells his part of a lucrative and mega-popular gym, and to avoid constant hovering from his family, decides a change of scenery is in order.
Claiming he’s now an aspiring author, looking for a quiet place to concentrate on his writing, Hal calls on his cousin Sam, who lives in the small Cornish village of Little Penhaven with her husband, Caden, asking if he can come for a visit.
Upon arrival, Hal meets Jane Solomon, who really is an aspiring author. As he finds himself caught up in all the holiday preparations in the village, he learns of the sacrifices Jane has made for her family and begins to realize he must put his own demons to rest before he can move forward with his life in a meaningful way. For starters, he is going to have to tell Jane his most painful secrets.
Meanwhile, Jane is coping with an unwanted suitor and her troubled brother, while falling hopelessly in love with Hal, despite knowing his stay in Little Penhaven will soon come to an end.
The beauty of the story is in seeing two people from completely different backgrounds, with virtually nothing in common, help each other come to terms with their personal problems, and bring out parts of themselves they had buried underneath their burdens.
Britnell’s stories have real depth, as the characters grapple with genuine problems, while growing into stronger and better people as the story progresses. The holiday atmosphere and British traditions, adds that special touch to this wonderful romance. I must now give into my extreme curiosity and try a mincemeat pie!!
Overall, this a touching novella, packed with emotion and holiday passion!
Both Poignant and Festive- A real holiday treat!!
I Absolutely loved “One Summer in Little Penhaven”, so of course, I was very excited to read this follow up Christmas novella!!
A shocking event has left Hal Muir feeling unsure of everything in his life. He sells his part of a lucrative and mega-popular gym, and to avoid constant hovering from his family, decides a change of scenery is in order.
Claiming he’s now an aspiring author, looking for a quiet place to concentrate on his writing, Hal calls on his cousin Sam, who lives in the small Cornish village of Little Penhaven with her husband, Caden, asking if he can come for a visit.
Upon arrival, Hal meets Jane Solomon, who really is an aspiring author. As he finds himself caught up in all the holiday preparations in the village, he learns of the sacrifices Jane has made for her family and begins to realize he must put his own demons to rest before he can move forward with his life in a meaningful way. For starters, he is going to have to tell Jane his most painful secrets.
Meanwhile, Jane is coping with an unwanted suitor and her troubled brother, while falling hopelessly in love with Hal, despite knowing his stay in Little Penhaven will soon come to an end.
The beauty of the story is in seeing two people from completely different backgrounds, with virtually nothing in common, help each other come to terms with their personal problems, and bring out parts of themselves they had buried underneath their burdens.
Britnell’s stories have real depth, as the characters grapple with genuine problems, while growing into stronger and better people as the story progresses. The holiday atmosphere and British traditions, adds that special touch to this wonderful romance. I must now give into my extreme curiosity and try a mincemeat pie!!
Overall, this a touching novella, packed with emotion and holiday passion!
November 30, 2019
Hal Muir left his home in America after a heartbreaking event – one he blamed himself for – and headed for the Cornish village of Little Penhaven where his cousin Sam and her husband lived. They were happy to put him up while he worked out what he wanted to do with his life. When Hal met Sam’s good friend, Jane Solomon, he found her to be stand offish and in complete control of her emotions. Jane worked at the local supermarket and took care of her mother and young brother. Her own dreams had gone on hold, but not been forgotten.
Jane had loved to write for as long as she could remember, but it was only recently that she’d started to become serious about it. After taking her courage in her hands, she’d entered her manuscript in a competition – and told no one about it. She put it from her mind and set about preparing for Christmas festivities. But with one thing and another; her mother Val and brother Nick, her long-time girlfriends, Hal and his vibrant enthusiasm – Jane wondered if she’d reach Christmas with her sanity intact…
Christmas in Little Penhaven is my first by author Angela Britnell (and #1.5 in the Little Penhaven series) and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light humour, a sweet romance, lots of Christmas festivities and food, some drama – what more could you want? Highly recommended.
With thanks to Choc Lit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for my honest review.
Jane had loved to write for as long as she could remember, but it was only recently that she’d started to become serious about it. After taking her courage in her hands, she’d entered her manuscript in a competition – and told no one about it. She put it from her mind and set about preparing for Christmas festivities. But with one thing and another; her mother Val and brother Nick, her long-time girlfriends, Hal and his vibrant enthusiasm – Jane wondered if she’d reach Christmas with her sanity intact…
Christmas in Little Penhaven is my first by author Angela Britnell (and #1.5 in the Little Penhaven series) and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light humour, a sweet romance, lots of Christmas festivities and food, some drama – what more could you want? Highly recommended.
With thanks to Choc Lit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for my honest review.
December 2, 2019
I loved reading 'One Summer in Penhaven' so jumped at the opportunity to read this sequel. Again the author brings this delightful community to life, immersing the reader in the heart of it all so you feel like you are part of it all as you read this fantastic, festive story.
In the first story, American Sam came to visit but ended up falling in love with Caden and staying. Now her cousin, Hal Muir, decides to visit her. He's a super fit, handsome American who again is not anticipating staying. He's told his family he's taking a break from his lucrative gym business to write a book but he's really escaping, getting away from tragic events which have seriously impacted on him. What he wasn't anticipating was meeting Jane Solomon, a friend of his cousin and someone who is making her dreams of becoming an author by writing whenever she gets the chance. As Hal tries to experience every British festive tradition, he finds himself becoming more attracted to Jane - and the attraction is mutual. The only problem is that he's actually on holiday and she has long standing family commitments that impinge dramatically at times. With the support of the SAPs (Single and Proud) will this couple find their HEA together? Or will the antics of Jane's younger brother, Nick, and their mother's needs force them to go their separate ways?
This is a heartwarming read. Whilst I suspect it will work well as a standalone, the first book is also a great read and I highly recommend reading them both. I welcomed the opportunity to catch up on the characters and community I encountered in the first book. The backgrounds of Hal and Jane are in great contrast to each other in so many ways that you'd assume they'd have nothing in common but they help each other with their personal struggles, enabling them both to look to a future they'd previously never acknowledged as even possible. Now they can dare to follow their dreams, if only fate will let them. One side effect of reading this story is that I now have a craving for mince pies . . . I feel the need to get baking coming on as, unlike Jane, I really do enjoy eating them. This is a fun, festive read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book, chose to read it and this is my honest review after doing so.
In the first story, American Sam came to visit but ended up falling in love with Caden and staying. Now her cousin, Hal Muir, decides to visit her. He's a super fit, handsome American who again is not anticipating staying. He's told his family he's taking a break from his lucrative gym business to write a book but he's really escaping, getting away from tragic events which have seriously impacted on him. What he wasn't anticipating was meeting Jane Solomon, a friend of his cousin and someone who is making her dreams of becoming an author by writing whenever she gets the chance. As Hal tries to experience every British festive tradition, he finds himself becoming more attracted to Jane - and the attraction is mutual. The only problem is that he's actually on holiday and she has long standing family commitments that impinge dramatically at times. With the support of the SAPs (Single and Proud) will this couple find their HEA together? Or will the antics of Jane's younger brother, Nick, and their mother's needs force them to go their separate ways?
This is a heartwarming read. Whilst I suspect it will work well as a standalone, the first book is also a great read and I highly recommend reading them both. I welcomed the opportunity to catch up on the characters and community I encountered in the first book. The backgrounds of Hal and Jane are in great contrast to each other in so many ways that you'd assume they'd have nothing in common but they help each other with their personal struggles, enabling them both to look to a future they'd previously never acknowledged as even possible. Now they can dare to follow their dreams, if only fate will let them. One side effect of reading this story is that I now have a craving for mince pies . . . I feel the need to get baking coming on as, unlike Jane, I really do enjoy eating them. This is a fun, festive read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book, chose to read it and this is my honest review after doing so.
December 8, 2019
Another fabulous love story.
I loved this book as the story was delightful, filled with characters who were real. They had experienced life and the pain that came along with it. Hal had left America and was in Little Penhaven to escape his past. Jane was a budding author whom Hal came to know well. Her life story made him realize his and gave him the right direction.
My first book by author Angela Britnell, I was quite blown away by the magic of the writing. The story captivated me, it spoke to me. I could understand their pain. It was wonderful to see both the main characters complement and help each other to traverse through their pain.
Christmas cheer slowly worked its magic down the pages, and I could feel the hearts of the characters become lighter as they started trusting each other. Their emotions felt honest. The book worked its magic on me as I read Hal and Jane's story well into the night.
Some books just speak to you. This one did, to me. A beautiful read. Loved it
I loved this book as the story was delightful, filled with characters who were real. They had experienced life and the pain that came along with it. Hal had left America and was in Little Penhaven to escape his past. Jane was a budding author whom Hal came to know well. Her life story made him realize his and gave him the right direction.
My first book by author Angela Britnell, I was quite blown away by the magic of the writing. The story captivated me, it spoke to me. I could understand their pain. It was wonderful to see both the main characters complement and help each other to traverse through their pain.
Christmas cheer slowly worked its magic down the pages, and I could feel the hearts of the characters become lighter as they started trusting each other. Their emotions felt honest. The book worked its magic on me as I read Hal and Jane's story well into the night.
Some books just speak to you. This one did, to me. A beautiful read. Loved it
December 15, 2023
Though I recognize the constraints of a 200-page format, I expected a more adeptly crafted storyline.
The plot was all over the place, the POVs changed so suddenly I got whiplash... I can't even remember the names of the characters because they sounded too similar, and my brain refused to remember them 💀.
I also wasn't a fan of the insta-love and insta-trust between the two main characters...
There was no buildup, no chemistry, nothing 🥹.
It's not the first short story I've read, but regrettably, it stands out as one of the weakest.
The plot was all over the place, the POVs changed so suddenly I got whiplash... I can't even remember the names of the characters because they sounded too similar, and my brain refused to remember them 💀.
I also wasn't a fan of the insta-love and insta-trust between the two main characters...
There was no buildup, no chemistry, nothing 🥹.
It's not the first short story I've read, but regrettably, it stands out as one of the weakest.
November 29, 2019
Is there anything better than a Choc Lit Christmas story? No, I can’t think of anything better or more festive either. Reading a Choc Lit book is like opening a box of your favourite chocolates – Strawberry Quality Street for me, just for future reference these delicious books make you feel all warm and full of seasonal joy, and this is no different.
This is actually the first I have read by Angela Brittnell, it certainly will not be the last. I love her cheery and sparkling writing, the story flows around you like a glittery mist, it captivates and wraps you up with Christmas cheer. the characters are so beautifully drawn, they aren’t the stereotypical happy-go-lucky twenty-somethings, they are real people who have problems, sadness and heart-aches in their lives, these are two people with past’s and who are unable to as yet see the happiness in the future and this is what we need, not everyone lives a fairy-tale but everyone has the chance for some Christmas cheer and that is what I am getting from this book.
This is apart of the ‘Little Penhaven’ series, which I actually didn’t know until after reading, not as though it mattered as this read to me as a stand-alone, after reading this one and meeting the resident Little Penhaven, I will definitely be visiting this adorable little village again.
This is a really charming little story, which is full of heart-warming festive cheer, meaningful and deserving romance, gorgeous Christmas traditions and a beautiful moral to the story of allowing yourself to move forward and let go of the past to find happiness, something we should all think about especially at this time of year when there are so many stresses.
After a tragedy that changes turns his life upside down, gym owner Hal Muir hives up the career he has spent is live forging out, and decides to leave sunny America behind and spend some time away from the memories that hare stalking him go to good old Blighty for Christmas, where he fully intends on tasting some British Christmas cheer, hopefully working on the mythical book he is said to be writing – but that is all a lie, he is essentially running away he wants to forget all about what happened to send him across the pond to stay with a cousin he hardly knew.
Honestly, I shattered just thinking about it – I may need to open the Quality Street tin!
Once reaching the little village of; Little Penhaven he meets selfless budding writer; Jane Solomon, who shows him that there can be happy if he is willing to move past his own demons. Jane is a wonderful woman, I could relate to her so much, stuck in a bit of a dead-end job, not a huge fan of Christmas, selflessly putting her life and everything she wants on hold while caring for her mother and trying to fulfil her dream to be a writer – honestly, did I just describe myself there? She really likes Hal, there is something very endearing and slightly otherworldly about him, she wants to help him find peace, but there is a sadness hidden behind his handsome eyes.
This is a really sweet and endearing story, there is a painful human aspect to it which runs hand in hand with all the Christmas spirit, which I really like. This is the perfect afternoon reading for anyone who likes to while away a few hours in the presence of fest joy
This is actually the first I have read by Angela Brittnell, it certainly will not be the last. I love her cheery and sparkling writing, the story flows around you like a glittery mist, it captivates and wraps you up with Christmas cheer. the characters are so beautifully drawn, they aren’t the stereotypical happy-go-lucky twenty-somethings, they are real people who have problems, sadness and heart-aches in their lives, these are two people with past’s and who are unable to as yet see the happiness in the future and this is what we need, not everyone lives a fairy-tale but everyone has the chance for some Christmas cheer and that is what I am getting from this book.
This is apart of the ‘Little Penhaven’ series, which I actually didn’t know until after reading, not as though it mattered as this read to me as a stand-alone, after reading this one and meeting the resident Little Penhaven, I will definitely be visiting this adorable little village again.
This is a really charming little story, which is full of heart-warming festive cheer, meaningful and deserving romance, gorgeous Christmas traditions and a beautiful moral to the story of allowing yourself to move forward and let go of the past to find happiness, something we should all think about especially at this time of year when there are so many stresses.
After a tragedy that changes turns his life upside down, gym owner Hal Muir hives up the career he has spent is live forging out, and decides to leave sunny America behind and spend some time away from the memories that hare stalking him go to good old Blighty for Christmas, where he fully intends on tasting some British Christmas cheer, hopefully working on the mythical book he is said to be writing – but that is all a lie, he is essentially running away he wants to forget all about what happened to send him across the pond to stay with a cousin he hardly knew.
Honestly, I shattered just thinking about it – I may need to open the Quality Street tin!
Once reaching the little village of; Little Penhaven he meets selfless budding writer; Jane Solomon, who shows him that there can be happy if he is willing to move past his own demons. Jane is a wonderful woman, I could relate to her so much, stuck in a bit of a dead-end job, not a huge fan of Christmas, selflessly putting her life and everything she wants on hold while caring for her mother and trying to fulfil her dream to be a writer – honestly, did I just describe myself there? She really likes Hal, there is something very endearing and slightly otherworldly about him, she wants to help him find peace, but there is a sadness hidden behind his handsome eyes.
This is a really sweet and endearing story, there is a painful human aspect to it which runs hand in hand with all the Christmas spirit, which I really like. This is the perfect afternoon reading for anyone who likes to while away a few hours in the presence of fest joy
December 1, 2019
Little Penhaven became one of my new favourite locations in the first in the series – One Summer in Little Penhaven – so it’s been an absolute delight to be able to visit there again and catch up with some of the characters. You don’t need to have read the first book though to fall in love with the storyline and characters in this book and I may have another book boyfriend crush thanks to being introduced to Hal in this story!!
This story follows Jane, who is a wannabee author, and she’s expecting another quiet Christmas with very little going on! She’s got a lovely group of friends who are always there for her, but she’s kind of got into a bit of ‘safe’ rut and it’s been ages since she’s connected with anybody romantically and even her writing seems to have suffered as she’s still not finished her novel.
Hal is new to town as he’s Sam’s cousin and needed to get away from life in America. You know he’s hiding something about the reason he needed an escape so it’s intriguing to see that storyline develop and shows a really different side to him as he always appears so confident. He’s up for a proper english Christmas so is happy to join in with the activities and finds himself spending more time with Jane as they both share darker pasts that they’re struggling to break free from.
What I love about these stories is just how relatable they are, and how you feel part of the community just reading about the goings on and the problems facing the villagers. There’s a lovely side story featuring Jane and her brother and shows how the importance of a male role model can make such a difference if energies are directed in a positive manner!
As they both begin to open up, it’s clear to see that they’re so good for one another and you just hope that their pasts aren’t going to stop them from being happy and achieving their dreams. A wonderfully uplifting and heartwarming story!
This story follows Jane, who is a wannabee author, and she’s expecting another quiet Christmas with very little going on! She’s got a lovely group of friends who are always there for her, but she’s kind of got into a bit of ‘safe’ rut and it’s been ages since she’s connected with anybody romantically and even her writing seems to have suffered as she’s still not finished her novel.
Hal is new to town as he’s Sam’s cousin and needed to get away from life in America. You know he’s hiding something about the reason he needed an escape so it’s intriguing to see that storyline develop and shows a really different side to him as he always appears so confident. He’s up for a proper english Christmas so is happy to join in with the activities and finds himself spending more time with Jane as they both share darker pasts that they’re struggling to break free from.
What I love about these stories is just how relatable they are, and how you feel part of the community just reading about the goings on and the problems facing the villagers. There’s a lovely side story featuring Jane and her brother and shows how the importance of a male role model can make such a difference if energies are directed in a positive manner!
As they both begin to open up, it’s clear to see that they’re so good for one another and you just hope that their pasts aren’t going to stop them from being happy and achieving their dreams. A wonderfully uplifting and heartwarming story!
December 12, 2021
I'm usually a sucker for a cheesy romance, especially festive ones, but this was just bland.
December 6, 2019
I read, reviewed and loved the first book in the 'Little Penhaven' series called 'One Summer In Little Penhaven' so when I heard that there another book in the series ('Christmas In Little Penhaven') was due to be released, I just knew that I had to get a copy and read it just as soon as I could. Well I did get a copy and I did read it as soon as I could. I can definitely say that this book is just as good as the first book. I flipping well loved reading 'Christmas In Little Penhaven' but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely loved the character of Jane Solomon. She is a young lady, who has had to grow up before her time in a lot of ways. She has spent that long caring for others that her own self care has fallen by the wayside. She fusses over her mother and she makes sure her brother does his homework. Jane works in a supermarket to bring some much needed cash into the household but she harbours a dream of becoming an author. She writes in her spare time and in a way writing her book is Jane's coping mechanism as she temporarily can forget her worries, her obligations and the sense of loneliness that she has. Jane hasn't got a great deal of confidence in herself and as for a love life, she hasn't had much experience in that area. However, the arrival of Hal Muir, who is American and he is the cousin of one of Jane's very good friends. Hal used to own a successful gym business could soon put an end to the lack of a love life. It's clear that Hal is wanting to escape from something that happened and initially he isn't that willing to talk about it. I was keeping everything crossed that Hal and Jane would get together and find the happy ever after ending that they both deserve. Do they get the happy ever after ending that they deserve? Well you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was addicted to 'Christmas In Little Penhaven' from the moment I saw the cover and read the synopsis and the story itself just sealed the deal as it were. I soon became addicted to the story itself and putting the book down proved to be impossible. I think part of the reason, why I became so addicted to the story was because I took to both of the lead characters so well and I wanted the best for them. I read the book in one sitting, which is practically unheard of for me. I usually have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I was able to focus solely on the book and I was able to shut out all other distractions. I seemed to race through this extremely lovely story and I reached the end quicker than I had expected or anticipated.
'Christmas In Little Penhaven' is really well written but then I found the same to be true of the first book in the series. Angela draws you in to the story from the start and before long you feel like you are a resident of Little Penhaven yourself. That's how I felt at any rate. When I had to come back to reality, I was quite upset that I had to leave the residents of Little Penhaven behind. Angela has created lovely characters and she describes them so well that they seemed incredibly lifelike and just as real as you or I. By setting the book in Cornwall, Angela has only fuelled my desperation to go back to Cornwall to see if I can find my own Hal and to visit the beautiful places in the county. I have only been to Cornwall once but I fully intend to go back.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Christmas In Little Penhaven' and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Angela's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out or 5*.
I absolutely loved the character of Jane Solomon. She is a young lady, who has had to grow up before her time in a lot of ways. She has spent that long caring for others that her own self care has fallen by the wayside. She fusses over her mother and she makes sure her brother does his homework. Jane works in a supermarket to bring some much needed cash into the household but she harbours a dream of becoming an author. She writes in her spare time and in a way writing her book is Jane's coping mechanism as she temporarily can forget her worries, her obligations and the sense of loneliness that she has. Jane hasn't got a great deal of confidence in herself and as for a love life, she hasn't had much experience in that area. However, the arrival of Hal Muir, who is American and he is the cousin of one of Jane's very good friends. Hal used to own a successful gym business could soon put an end to the lack of a love life. It's clear that Hal is wanting to escape from something that happened and initially he isn't that willing to talk about it. I was keeping everything crossed that Hal and Jane would get together and find the happy ever after ending that they both deserve. Do they get the happy ever after ending that they deserve? Well you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was addicted to 'Christmas In Little Penhaven' from the moment I saw the cover and read the synopsis and the story itself just sealed the deal as it were. I soon became addicted to the story itself and putting the book down proved to be impossible. I think part of the reason, why I became so addicted to the story was because I took to both of the lead characters so well and I wanted the best for them. I read the book in one sitting, which is practically unheard of for me. I usually have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I was able to focus solely on the book and I was able to shut out all other distractions. I seemed to race through this extremely lovely story and I reached the end quicker than I had expected or anticipated.
'Christmas In Little Penhaven' is really well written but then I found the same to be true of the first book in the series. Angela draws you in to the story from the start and before long you feel like you are a resident of Little Penhaven yourself. That's how I felt at any rate. When I had to come back to reality, I was quite upset that I had to leave the residents of Little Penhaven behind. Angela has created lovely characters and she describes them so well that they seemed incredibly lifelike and just as real as you or I. By setting the book in Cornwall, Angela has only fuelled my desperation to go back to Cornwall to see if I can find my own Hal and to visit the beautiful places in the county. I have only been to Cornwall once but I fully intend to go back.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Christmas In Little Penhaven' and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Angela's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out or 5*.
January 31, 2024
Christmas in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell - OK
The next of my own bookish advent calendar (*)
Oh dear, this isn't my usual genre and for good reason much too twee and predictable for me.
You have the down trodden, single female who had to give up on school and her hopes and ambitions when her mother was injured and couldn't work. She had wanted to go to University and become a writer but instead she's working in a local supermarket and writing in the evenings. There's also tension with her younger, teenage, brother who is going off the rails. Then a handsome American arrives in the village to visit his cousin who just happens to be a close friend. I'll just stop there. You know what's going to happen, there are no surprises - other than that I read it to the end, but at around 200 pages it only took a day.
As my ex used to say, I don't have a romantic bone in my body. Reading this just proved it to me - as if I didn't already know :-D
(*) every year I collect interesting looking Christmas themed books, wrap them up and then pick them at random during December. I never know what I'm going to get and I have some sweet treats wrapped for non-book days. Works for me!
#review
The next of my own bookish advent calendar (*)
Oh dear, this isn't my usual genre and for good reason much too twee and predictable for me.
You have the down trodden, single female who had to give up on school and her hopes and ambitions when her mother was injured and couldn't work. She had wanted to go to University and become a writer but instead she's working in a local supermarket and writing in the evenings. There's also tension with her younger, teenage, brother who is going off the rails. Then a handsome American arrives in the village to visit his cousin who just happens to be a close friend. I'll just stop there. You know what's going to happen, there are no surprises - other than that I read it to the end, but at around 200 pages it only took a day.
As my ex used to say, I don't have a romantic bone in my body. Reading this just proved it to me - as if I didn't already know :-D
(*) every year I collect interesting looking Christmas themed books, wrap them up and then pick them at random during December. I never know what I'm going to get and I have some sweet treats wrapped for non-book days. Works for me!
#review
December 30, 2022
Jane has been looking after her younger brother and mum for all of her adult life. Working in a supermarket she tries to write crime novels in her spare time.
Her friends (The SAPS - single and proud - although most are now married or in serious relationships) ensure she still has a social life be it only occasional.
Her boss has shown he would really like to get to know her better but, she is not interested in a relationship seeing what effect her dad dying and her step father leaving had on her mum. But , then Hal arrives from America to stay with his cousin Sam (one of the SAPS) and she realises that maybe she might be interested in a relationship after all.
When her mum finds a part time job ,her brother surprises her and she enters a writing contest, agreeing to go on a date seems like the next step. But, Hal will be going back to the States and she knows nothing about him. Should she take a risk and if she does how will this impact on her mum and brother?
Her friends (The SAPS - single and proud - although most are now married or in serious relationships) ensure she still has a social life be it only occasional.
Her boss has shown he would really like to get to know her better but, she is not interested in a relationship seeing what effect her dad dying and her step father leaving had on her mum. But , then Hal arrives from America to stay with his cousin Sam (one of the SAPS) and she realises that maybe she might be interested in a relationship after all.
When her mum finds a part time job ,her brother surprises her and she enters a writing contest, agreeing to go on a date seems like the next step. But, Hal will be going back to the States and she knows nothing about him. Should she take a risk and if she does how will this impact on her mum and brother?
November 13, 2021
This was a fairly short read which is great because I've been in a huge reading slump since September! Short but sweet, this was a lovely little Christmas read. The two main characters, Jane and Hal, are total opposites in terms of their lives - Jane has lived in Little Penhaven for years and works in a local shop, whereas Hal has just come from America where he ran a very successful gym and trained celebrities. It seems that they have nothing in common but they very quickly get to know each other and love blossoms. They really help to bring out the best in each other and it's a wonderful example of how love and relationships show us hidden parts of ourselves.
Being British myself I loved all the typically British Christmas traditions throughout the story, and it's just got me more excited for the big day next month! 🎄
Being British myself I loved all the typically British Christmas traditions throughout the story, and it's just got me more excited for the big day next month! 🎄
April 23, 2022
A lovely follow on to the little Penhaven series. This one followed Jane, one of the remaining single members of the ‘Single and Proud aka SOP’ group. But is that set to change with the arrival of Hal, the cousin of our larger than life Same we met in the first book?
Jane and Sam could not be more different. Sam is full of confidence, has a lot of front and wouldn’t run away from a confrontation. Whereas Jane is a lot more hesitant. She is far from trusting of men but Hal works to coax her out of her shell and the romance between the two slowly blossomed. It wasn’t without its drama though!
I’ve loved spending some time in Little Penhaven as it sounds like such an enchanting place. Lovely and entertaining set of books.
Jane and Sam could not be more different. Sam is full of confidence, has a lot of front and wouldn’t run away from a confrontation. Whereas Jane is a lot more hesitant. She is far from trusting of men but Hal works to coax her out of her shell and the romance between the two slowly blossomed. It wasn’t without its drama though!
I’ve loved spending some time in Little Penhaven as it sounds like such an enchanting place. Lovely and entertaining set of books.
May 5, 2022
Christmas in Little Penhaven by Anglea Britnell
Have yourself a little Cornish Christmas …
Wannabe author Jane Solomon is expecting an uneventful Christmas in her Cornish village of Little Penhaven.
But then super fit American gym owner Hal Muir comes to town, and suddenly the holiday season looks set to be far more interesting. Hal is keen on embracing every British tradition on offer, from mince pies to Christmas pub quizzes – and perhaps some festive romance too …
This is a relatively quick read - I finished it in just over an hour. I have read this novella as a standalone. Dripping with Christmas spirit, it will help you get in the festive mood. A beautiful read with delightful characters.
Rating 4/5
Have yourself a little Cornish Christmas …
Wannabe author Jane Solomon is expecting an uneventful Christmas in her Cornish village of Little Penhaven.
But then super fit American gym owner Hal Muir comes to town, and suddenly the holiday season looks set to be far more interesting. Hal is keen on embracing every British tradition on offer, from mince pies to Christmas pub quizzes – and perhaps some festive romance too …
This is a relatively quick read - I finished it in just over an hour. I have read this novella as a standalone. Dripping with Christmas spirit, it will help you get in the festive mood. A beautiful read with delightful characters.
Rating 4/5
January 1, 2024
Revisiting Little Penhaven in Cornwall, we see Sam's cousin, Hal, coming for a visit. After a tragic event, he sold his business and house and decided to re-evaluate his life.
Sam is pregnant, and Cadan is panicking! Both of them hiding their true fears.
Jane has always looked out for her mum and brother, but is it time to think about herself for a change?
I really enjoyed being back in Little Penhaven and hope that there will be more to come from this little town. I'll also be reading more books by this author as I like her style of writing.
The books are standalone stories, but they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters.
Sam is pregnant, and Cadan is panicking! Both of them hiding their true fears.
Jane has always looked out for her mum and brother, but is it time to think about herself for a change?
I really enjoyed being back in Little Penhaven and hope that there will be more to come from this little town. I'll also be reading more books by this author as I like her style of writing.
The books are standalone stories, but they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters.
November 18, 2023
A Lovely Book
This is book two in the Little Penhaven series. If you haven't read book 1 I do recommend that you do, because it is as lovely as this one, and a lot of the characters appear in both books. In this book we learn a lot more about Jane. She helps her mother run the household and looks after her teenage brother beside having a job in the supermarket and writing a book. When Sam's cousin arrives from America, Jane is immediately taken with him, but is he here to stay and what will he think of her small town life? This is a real feel good book which I absolutely enjoyed.
This is book two in the Little Penhaven series. If you haven't read book 1 I do recommend that you do, because it is as lovely as this one, and a lot of the characters appear in both books. In this book we learn a lot more about Jane. She helps her mother run the household and looks after her teenage brother beside having a job in the supermarket and writing a book. When Sam's cousin arrives from America, Jane is immediately taken with him, but is he here to stay and what will he think of her small town life? This is a real feel good book which I absolutely enjoyed.
November 22, 2021
A perfect Christmas chic lit book that you just want to read it’s an easy read and plenty of festive romance as well and plenty of Christmas festivities going on.
Jane is an author who lives in a small village in Cornwall and wants a quiet Christmas but when super got American gym owner Hal comes to town and things will get very interesting for her and he wants to embrace all the festive traditions so will it all go well.
Jane is an author who lives in a small village in Cornwall and wants a quiet Christmas but when super got American gym owner Hal comes to town and things will get very interesting for her and he wants to embrace all the festive traditions so will it all go well.
September 23, 2023
Lovely book about challenges & change
The issues the central characters faced were different from one another, & while each grew up in good, close families, they reacted in different ways to their situations in their youth. Later, Tragedy for one resulted in a spontaneous trip to Cornwall to visit his cousin, changed his outlook, & freed hom from a personal crisis. Love bloomed in the welcoming arms of Little Penhaven.
The issues the central characters faced were different from one another, & while each grew up in good, close families, they reacted in different ways to their situations in their youth. Later, Tragedy for one resulted in a spontaneous trip to Cornwall to visit his cousin, changed his outlook, & freed hom from a personal crisis. Love bloomed in the welcoming arms of Little Penhaven.
October 13, 2021
I enjoyed the book but couldn't at first link the main characters with the previous book and, probably just cynical me, but I couldn't get on board with Jane and Hal instantly being in love and all that goes with it in such a short time but maybe that's just me. Just all seemed a bit rushed to squash into a story for me, sorry all. Still a nice read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
Christmas in Little Penhaven is my first by author Angela Britnell (and #1.5 in the Little Penhaven series) and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light humour, a sweet romance, lots of Christmas festivities and food, some drama – what more could you want? Highly recommended.
November 17, 2024
Fabulously festive cheesy cheer! I now need to find the first in the series and read it, too! It was like reading a Christmas movie full of warmth, cheer, happiness, and warm hugs! It's definitely a great end to my festive day.
December 3, 2021
3.5 stars
September 29, 2022
Christmas in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell was a lovely read with lots of Christmas in it. A good plot and good characters. An enjoyable festive read.
December 9, 2022
CAWPILE 6.29
A cute cornish Christmas romance, short but well written without being cheesy.
Perfect fluff for the season
A cute cornish Christmas romance, short but well written without being cheesy.
Perfect fluff for the season
January 2, 2023
A feel good holiday romance book and an easy read too! To begin with I was slightly confused with the amount of characters but got my head around it all in the end!
September 17, 2023
Great story
This is a great romantic story about giving love a chance even when life hasn't been as rewarding. Sweet and tender story.
This is a great romantic story about giving love a chance even when life hasn't been as rewarding. Sweet and tender story.
December 30, 2023
A lovely little Christmas story you can cosy up with on cold dark winter nights.Not your typical Christmas romance story. A lovely read to get you through the festive season.
December 1, 2025
Feel good Christmas story!
January 13, 2020
I was looking forward to reading Christmas at Little Penhaven, having read Christmas at Black Cherry Retreat by Angela Britnell before (check out my review). As i'm sure you are all aware, I do love a Christmas novel, and i'm pleased to add this novel to my list of enjoyable Christmas reads!
Jane Solomon is a quiet, unassuming character who works hard to care for her Mum and teenage brother. She has taken on the role of caregiver to them both, often at the expense of her own hopes and dreams. In her spare time she is a budding novelist, and has recently entered her first writing competition in the hope that it could open doors for her true passion in life.
Hal Muir could not be more different to Jane. He is super fit, super attractive and super rich: until recently all of these things added up to him also being super selfish. Following an incident within his successful business at home, he sells up and runs away from his life in America to the small village of Little Penhaven. Could they each bring out the best in each other, whilst pushing them out of their comfort zones?
Jane's story is such a relatable one; following her Mothers accident many years before, she found herself looking after her family, both financially and emotionally. All of this responsibility forced her to grow up quicker than she may have liked, and it made her make sacrifices that other women her age would never have to make. Despite all this she is not a complainer - she has such a hardworking ethic, which makes her very difficult to dislike. I thought her character was well-rounded and incredibly likeable. You can't help but root for her.
Hal is the perfect knight in shining armour, but don't think that he is without substance. He is kind, caring and out to help others. From the moment he meets Jane, her needs come before his which makes it a beautiful story to follow. Throw in a whole bunch of Christmas and we have ourselves a great read! This is the perfect read for this time of year (although some snow outside would help with the reading atmosphere!). So grab a hot chocolate (or glass of wine!!), light the fire and curl up with this lovely novel.
Jane Solomon is a quiet, unassuming character who works hard to care for her Mum and teenage brother. She has taken on the role of caregiver to them both, often at the expense of her own hopes and dreams. In her spare time she is a budding novelist, and has recently entered her first writing competition in the hope that it could open doors for her true passion in life.
Hal Muir could not be more different to Jane. He is super fit, super attractive and super rich: until recently all of these things added up to him also being super selfish. Following an incident within his successful business at home, he sells up and runs away from his life in America to the small village of Little Penhaven. Could they each bring out the best in each other, whilst pushing them out of their comfort zones?
Jane's story is such a relatable one; following her Mothers accident many years before, she found herself looking after her family, both financially and emotionally. All of this responsibility forced her to grow up quicker than she may have liked, and it made her make sacrifices that other women her age would never have to make. Despite all this she is not a complainer - she has such a hardworking ethic, which makes her very difficult to dislike. I thought her character was well-rounded and incredibly likeable. You can't help but root for her.
Hal is the perfect knight in shining armour, but don't think that he is without substance. He is kind, caring and out to help others. From the moment he meets Jane, her needs come before his which makes it a beautiful story to follow. Throw in a whole bunch of Christmas and we have ourselves a great read! This is the perfect read for this time of year (although some snow outside would help with the reading atmosphere!). So grab a hot chocolate (or glass of wine!!), light the fire and curl up with this lovely novel.
December 3, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I had such a good time returning to Little Penhaven for Christmas with updates on old book friends and the chance to meet Hal and Jane. The emotions of this story grabbed me and never let go for both Hal and Jane are harboring secrets, life happening around them as they deal with what life has handed them, and the chance to see events through another’s eyes that will change perspectives – if Hal hasn’t messed it up by claiming to be an aspiring author when in reality he was running to a place where no one knew him except his cousin Sam and her husband, Caden.
My heart broke for both Hal and Jane in different ways as they each deal with events that, at times, seem to have dimmed everything else around them. Watching those wounds heal, enjoying the traditional and modern traditions of Christmas in the small village of Little Penhaven, and being front row as two people who deserve love, good things, and a future together was emotional with laugh out loud moments and a few necessary tears as well.
CHRISTMAS IN LITTLE PENHAVEN is a real slice of life type of story that will have you rooting for this couple to go beyond what was and take a chance on what could be. Yes, I’m being a bit vague on details because I believe this is a Romance that is best discovered by each reader – there is pain, sadness, joy, and hope for the future here, but you should see how it all comes together for yourself. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this Christmas Romance for any reader who loves a really good story, believable characters, and the magic that Christmas can bring.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher Choc Lit / Ruby Fiction. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I had such a good time returning to Little Penhaven for Christmas with updates on old book friends and the chance to meet Hal and Jane. The emotions of this story grabbed me and never let go for both Hal and Jane are harboring secrets, life happening around them as they deal with what life has handed them, and the chance to see events through another’s eyes that will change perspectives – if Hal hasn’t messed it up by claiming to be an aspiring author when in reality he was running to a place where no one knew him except his cousin Sam and her husband, Caden.
My heart broke for both Hal and Jane in different ways as they each deal with events that, at times, seem to have dimmed everything else around them. Watching those wounds heal, enjoying the traditional and modern traditions of Christmas in the small village of Little Penhaven, and being front row as two people who deserve love, good things, and a future together was emotional with laugh out loud moments and a few necessary tears as well.
CHRISTMAS IN LITTLE PENHAVEN is a real slice of life type of story that will have you rooting for this couple to go beyond what was and take a chance on what could be. Yes, I’m being a bit vague on details because I believe this is a Romance that is best discovered by each reader – there is pain, sadness, joy, and hope for the future here, but you should see how it all comes together for yourself. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this Christmas Romance for any reader who loves a really good story, believable characters, and the magic that Christmas can bring.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher Choc Lit / Ruby Fiction. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
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