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Christmas Romance #1
The Christmas Swap
Chloe, Jules, and Lucy meet at a Maui resort kids' club, aged 11, forging a lifelong friendship spanning two decades and three continents.
Twenty-two years later, they decide to swap Christmases, none of them expecting the hilarity and romantic escapades that will ensue.
Chloe from Melbourne spends her Christmas with Lucy's mum and dad in a sleepy village in Oxfordshire, England, stunned to the core when she discovers who grew up across the road from Lucy.
Lucy, who has jetted off to snowy Colorado for her dream-come-true white Christmas, is taken into the fold of Jules's loud and brash family, discovering more about herself in a few short days than she has in years.
And Jules leaves the cold climes of Colorado to spend a balmy 'Orphan's Christmas' with Chloe's friends in Melbourne, finding that time away from her mundane life is just what she needed.
Join these three lovable women as they each get a Christmas to surpass their wildest dreams.
Twenty-two years later, they decide to swap Christmases, none of them expecting the hilarity and romantic escapades that will ensue.
Chloe from Melbourne spends her Christmas with Lucy's mum and dad in a sleepy village in Oxfordshire, England, stunned to the core when she discovers who grew up across the road from Lucy.
Lucy, who has jetted off to snowy Colorado for her dream-come-true white Christmas, is taken into the fold of Jules's loud and brash family, discovering more about herself in a few short days than she has in years.
And Jules leaves the cold climes of Colorado to spend a balmy 'Orphan's Christmas' with Chloe's friends in Melbourne, finding that time away from her mundane life is just what she needed.
Join these three lovable women as they each get a Christmas to surpass their wildest dreams.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2020
618 people are currently reading
2834 people want to read
About the author
Sandy Barker
20 books376 followersI’m a writer, traveller and hopeful romantic with a lengthy bucket list, and many of my travel adventures have found homes in my novels. I’m also an avid reader, a film buff, a wine lover and a coffee snob.
I am currently on a one-year sabbatical, living and writing across the world, with my partner, Ben, who I met while travelling in Greece. Our real-life love story inspired my debut novel One Summer in Santorini, the first in the five-book Holiday Romance series with One More Chapter, an imprint of HarperCollins.
Also with One More Chapter, is the Christmas Romance series, celebrating my favourite time of the year, and a stand-alone romcom, The Dating Game, set in the world of reality TV.
I am now writing for Boldwood Books, including the 5-book Ever After Agency romcom series. Next up are 5 more standalone romcoms for Boldwood.
I am represented by Lina Langlee of The North Literary Agency.
I am currently on a one-year sabbatical, living and writing across the world, with my partner, Ben, who I met while travelling in Greece. Our real-life love story inspired my debut novel One Summer in Santorini, the first in the five-book Holiday Romance series with One More Chapter, an imprint of HarperCollins.
Also with One More Chapter, is the Christmas Romance series, celebrating my favourite time of the year, and a stand-alone romcom, The Dating Game, set in the world of reality TV.
I am now writing for Boldwood Books, including the 5-book Ever After Agency romcom series. Next up are 5 more standalone romcoms for Boldwood.
I am represented by Lina Langlee of The North Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 394 reviews
October 25, 2020
A fun feel good festive Christmas swap. Three lovely romances for the price of one. Chloe, Lucy, and Jules met when they were 11 while they were on vacation with their families in Hawaii. The girls formed a fast friendship dubbing themselves the May Ladies since they all have May birthdays. Through the years the girls’ friendship has strengthened through video chats and vacations spent together. This year however they are planning something a little different Chloe is heading to Lucy‘s home in the UK for a traditional family Christmas. Lucy is heading to snowy Colorado for a white Christmas at Jule’s family ski cabin. And Jules is heading to Australia to spend time in the sun with Chloe‘s friends at their orphan’s Christmas. The book bounces around between the three girls adventures with periodic video calls between the three woven in. Love spending time with these three ladies in these three gorgeous locations. Also loved getting to know the three men they all get involved with-seriously Will, Matt, and Asher were three of the greatest guys ever. The chemistry was instant, the angst was minimal, and the romance was sweet. Admittedly I enjoyed Chloe and Lucy‘s stories a tiny bit more than Jules, probably because in California I’ve spent many a hot Christmas. Love how the book highlighted the different cultures and food when it comes to celebrating Christmas in these three locations. Snowboarding, winetasting, fair planning. Sun, snow, rain. Christmas cake, hot chocolate, shrimp. Three friends... three men... three Christmases... one great book!
This book in emojis ☀️ ❄️ ☔️ 🍷 🎿 🎠 🎁 🎄 📸
*** Big thank you to One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book in emojis ☀️ ❄️ ☔️ 🍷 🎿 🎠 🎁 🎄 📸
*** Big thank you to One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
September 27, 2020
Lucy, Chloe and Jules, a.k.a. The May Ladies Club, have been BFFs since they met on a trip to Hawaii when they were 11 yo. Twenty something years later they realize that they never had the Christmas experience they always longed for, so they decide to swap Christmases so Jules can have her Australian sun and beach Christmas, Chloe her traditional English Christmas and Lucy her snowy one in Colorado.
“The Christmas swap” is a fun and feel good Christmas romance and, while it certainly awoke the Christmas spirit and made me wish I could live some of those experiences, it felt like it could have been so much more. The three storylines were quite similar so that made me lose interest sometimes.
Yeah, I know this is a romance story but, with three different characters in three different gorgeous locations, I feel the plot possibilities could have been endless, but instead they were all three insta-romances that, truth be told, were a bit unrealistic. I would have love for some variety or even some different kind of romance.
Out of all the girls, my favorites were Lucy and Chloe, although all three were likeable. The three guys were all boyfriend material (shocking... and quite unlikely), so the romances felt quite easy, as if they didn’t have to clear any big hurdles to reach their happy endings.
The location descriptions were quite enticing and I loved to read about some different Christmas traditions.
Light and easy read that will make you wish Christmas was already here!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
“The Christmas swap” is a fun and feel good Christmas romance and, while it certainly awoke the Christmas spirit and made me wish I could live some of those experiences, it felt like it could have been so much more. The three storylines were quite similar so that made me lose interest sometimes.
Yeah, I know this is a romance story but, with three different characters in three different gorgeous locations, I feel the plot possibilities could have been endless, but instead they were all three insta-romances that, truth be told, were a bit unrealistic. I would have love for some variety or even some different kind of romance.
Out of all the girls, my favorites were Lucy and Chloe, although all three were likeable. The three guys were all boyfriend material (shocking... and quite unlikely), so the romances felt quite easy, as if they didn’t have to clear any big hurdles to reach their happy endings.
The location descriptions were quite enticing and I loved to read about some different Christmas traditions.
Light and easy read that will make you wish Christmas was already here!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2020
5☆ A Fun filled, Feel-Good, Christmassy Romance!
When I first read the blurb straight away my heart filled with joy as it just reminded me of my favourite Christmas Film....The Holiday!
Which it's an ickle bit like that, except with this book.... Three best friends decide to swap their Christmases with each other. Oh and don't worry there is plenty of Romance and Humour.
Best Friends Lucy, Jules and Chloe want something different for Christmas this year, one dreams of a snow filled white Christmas ( I mean we all secretly hope for one), the other is fed up with those bitter cold Christmas (can you guess who swapped) and the last one dreams of having a traditional family Christmas and not being alone.
The Characters are wonderfully written, each one very different yet all on an exciting journey of discovery and growth.
I adored each setting and Barker created the ambiance perfectly, seamlessly swapping between stories.
The Christmas Swap Is a fun filled, feel-good, Christmassy Romance, there's snow, devilishly handsome men, drama, humour, family and friendship, self discovery, traditions, stunning locations, adventure and lots of festive delights to get you in the Christmassy Mood!
So if you are looking for a cosy Christmas Romance, that will leave you feeling warm, have you smiling and laughing then I highly recommend you pick up a copy of The Christmas Swap and be prepared to be whisked away.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
When I first read the blurb straight away my heart filled with joy as it just reminded me of my favourite Christmas Film....The Holiday!
Which it's an ickle bit like that, except with this book.... Three best friends decide to swap their Christmases with each other. Oh and don't worry there is plenty of Romance and Humour.
Best Friends Lucy, Jules and Chloe want something different for Christmas this year, one dreams of a snow filled white Christmas ( I mean we all secretly hope for one), the other is fed up with those bitter cold Christmas (can you guess who swapped) and the last one dreams of having a traditional family Christmas and not being alone.
The Characters are wonderfully written, each one very different yet all on an exciting journey of discovery and growth.
I adored each setting and Barker created the ambiance perfectly, seamlessly swapping between stories.
The Christmas Swap Is a fun filled, feel-good, Christmassy Romance, there's snow, devilishly handsome men, drama, humour, family and friendship, self discovery, traditions, stunning locations, adventure and lots of festive delights to get you in the Christmassy Mood!
So if you are looking for a cosy Christmas Romance, that will leave you feeling warm, have you smiling and laughing then I highly recommend you pick up a copy of The Christmas Swap and be prepared to be whisked away.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
December 24, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
Flattery, flattery, flattery— in her experience, the three best ways to earn someone’s trust quickly.
Mr Tate, may I remind you that I am from Australia where we say the F-word on TV and include words like ‘bloody’ and ‘bugger’ in award-winning ad campaigns. Yes, I know that those are the height of profanity here in the UK, but in ’Straya”— she bunged on a broad Aussie accent—“ they are regularly heard on the playground.
My Review:
This was a fun, amusing, and low conflict women’s fiction holiday read, perfect for the days leading up to Christmas, which is exactly when I read it. While three separate romances were blossoming across the globe, the underpinning of the storylines was a long-standing twenty-year friendship between three women from three different continents. Their deep and supportive friendships were established as young girls when they met during family vacations in Hawaii and well maintained into adulthood. The type of friendship everyone yearns to have yet few can successfully sustain.
The author was new to me yet her smooth and relaxed writing style felt immediately comfortable, pleasantly familiar, and easy to follow. Her agile storytelling was engaging and insightful and I enjoyed her characters as much as their storylines. This was a fresh take on a familiar premise and while I was well entertained and enamored with all three couples, I will confess to loving Chloe a bit more for her fierceness.
Flattery, flattery, flattery— in her experience, the three best ways to earn someone’s trust quickly.
Mr Tate, may I remind you that I am from Australia where we say the F-word on TV and include words like ‘bloody’ and ‘bugger’ in award-winning ad campaigns. Yes, I know that those are the height of profanity here in the UK, but in ’Straya”— she bunged on a broad Aussie accent—“ they are regularly heard on the playground.
My Review:
This was a fun, amusing, and low conflict women’s fiction holiday read, perfect for the days leading up to Christmas, which is exactly when I read it. While three separate romances were blossoming across the globe, the underpinning of the storylines was a long-standing twenty-year friendship between three women from three different continents. Their deep and supportive friendships were established as young girls when they met during family vacations in Hawaii and well maintained into adulthood. The type of friendship everyone yearns to have yet few can successfully sustain.
The author was new to me yet her smooth and relaxed writing style felt immediately comfortable, pleasantly familiar, and easy to follow. Her agile storytelling was engaging and insightful and I enjoyed her characters as much as their storylines. This was a fresh take on a familiar premise and while I was well entertained and enamored with all three couples, I will confess to loving Chloe a bit more for her fierceness.
October 20, 2020
This book was sweet. Seriously sweet. As in, once I had finished it, I had the sensation of tooth ache. There is not a dilemma or real cross word in these pages and I think it would be impossible not to find your mood improved after reading Barker’s book. Plus, it will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit.
The best way to describe this book is by referring you to the Christmas film, 'The Holiday'. Because, that’s what this book is. Three friends who are dotted around the glove – Denver, Oxfordshire and Melbourne – decide they want the other’s Christmas season. Jules wants to escape the chilling winter snows and heads to Australia; Lucy wants more snow than what Britain can offer, so jets to America; Chloe wants something more traditional than a summer Christmas and therefore lands in the UK. You get the gist of it.
Throw in three gorgeous men and you have the recipe for romance and relationships. The three males are all equally appealing and do not seem to have a bad bone to them, nor any skeletons in the closet. Will, Jules’s brother, is portrayed as the most vulnerable and I found it difficult to believe he was in his twenties – he seems more like an old teenager! On the other hand, Archer, in the UK, is a famous actor and readers only get a true sense of his fame as Chloe grows closer to him. In Australia, Jules sets her eye on Matt, who, as it turns out, is a bit of a wine connoisseur and businessman. Will the ladies settle into their relationships?
I think I was wishing for a bit more drama and crisis in this story. But, this would definitely go against the Christmas spirit! It was a predictable story for the most part as it was clear that each of the girls would end up in a holiday relationship. True, I was keen to see how the romance would be established, especially as each girl is surrounded by friends and family – where was the privacy?! In addition, I was really curious about how Barker would conclude the narrative: would the girls keep their Happy Ever After, despite living in different countries?
As you would expect with the Christmas season, there’s a lot of references to food in this book. It was guilt-free over indulgence through the pages and with no need to diet afterwards! Reading the book did make me peckish and craving a few hot chocolates to drink so, perhaps read this when you can control your munching?!
This was a lovely book to read, I’ll admit it. Once I got my head around each of the character’s home town and then where they had landed, I soon fell into this easy-to-absorb narrative. I loved the cultural differences that became evident in the plot, such as Jules not understanding certain Australian phrases. It felt like the writer had really considered how each character would fit into her new surroundings and what they would find so different.
If you love everything Christmas and you love that festive film, then this is definitely going to be a popular read. Personally, I would have preferred a bit more drama and crisis to the characters’ happiness but, this would certainly go against all what Christmas symbolises. It is lovely, the characters are lovely and, on completing the book, you will feel even more festive.
With thanks to One More Chapter, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The best way to describe this book is by referring you to the Christmas film, 'The Holiday'. Because, that’s what this book is. Three friends who are dotted around the glove – Denver, Oxfordshire and Melbourne – decide they want the other’s Christmas season. Jules wants to escape the chilling winter snows and heads to Australia; Lucy wants more snow than what Britain can offer, so jets to America; Chloe wants something more traditional than a summer Christmas and therefore lands in the UK. You get the gist of it.
Throw in three gorgeous men and you have the recipe for romance and relationships. The three males are all equally appealing and do not seem to have a bad bone to them, nor any skeletons in the closet. Will, Jules’s brother, is portrayed as the most vulnerable and I found it difficult to believe he was in his twenties – he seems more like an old teenager! On the other hand, Archer, in the UK, is a famous actor and readers only get a true sense of his fame as Chloe grows closer to him. In Australia, Jules sets her eye on Matt, who, as it turns out, is a bit of a wine connoisseur and businessman. Will the ladies settle into their relationships?
I think I was wishing for a bit more drama and crisis in this story. But, this would definitely go against the Christmas spirit! It was a predictable story for the most part as it was clear that each of the girls would end up in a holiday relationship. True, I was keen to see how the romance would be established, especially as each girl is surrounded by friends and family – where was the privacy?! In addition, I was really curious about how Barker would conclude the narrative: would the girls keep their Happy Ever After, despite living in different countries?
As you would expect with the Christmas season, there’s a lot of references to food in this book. It was guilt-free over indulgence through the pages and with no need to diet afterwards! Reading the book did make me peckish and craving a few hot chocolates to drink so, perhaps read this when you can control your munching?!
This was a lovely book to read, I’ll admit it. Once I got my head around each of the character’s home town and then where they had landed, I soon fell into this easy-to-absorb narrative. I loved the cultural differences that became evident in the plot, such as Jules not understanding certain Australian phrases. It felt like the writer had really considered how each character would fit into her new surroundings and what they would find so different.
If you love everything Christmas and you love that festive film, then this is definitely going to be a popular read. Personally, I would have preferred a bit more drama and crisis to the characters’ happiness but, this would certainly go against all what Christmas symbolises. It is lovely, the characters are lovely and, on completing the book, you will feel even more festive.
With thanks to One More Chapter, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2020
This book could seriously give you toothache😂 I enjoyed the story and loved the friendship of the characters but at times I did find it all too much to be real. It did give me an escape for a few hours and the fact that I could put it down and just get back into it a few hours later was a bonus.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
September 12, 2020
So this is like the film The Holiday but on drugs.
We have the fabulous locations of Melbourne Australia, Beckenridge, Colorado and a small village in Oxfordshire England.
We have three women - one who has always dreamed of a white Christmas, one who has always wanted a traditional family Christmas, and one who likes Christmas but hates the cold and wants to break out of a rut. All three have been best friends since they met age 11 on holiday and despite living at opposites ends of the world, they have kept in touch and have holidayed together plenty.
Then there are three incredibly sexy men, the snowboarder, the film star and the winemaker.
As you may have guessed from the title, all three women swap Christmases, and stay with the family or friends, of each friend, allowing them all to have the Christmas of their dreams.
The action alternates between the three women, the differing locations and I loved seeing how each of them spent the fesitve period and few days afterwards.
You can expect amongst other things from this book, snow, Winter Wonderland, a Christmas fair, embarrassing relatives, horse riding, wine, winter sports, being papped, and a great deal of laughs and happiness, and instant chemistry.
Now I'm not going to tell you who goes where, or what of those things happens where, but suffice to say I loved all three story lines, even if I could have done with drawing a diagram of who is who and where they went and normally live - as my head just couldn't retain it all at the same time!!
Although our three leading ladies are all lovely, it was the men in this story that caught my eye, and I can honestly say I'd happily have all three of them as book boyfriends at the same time!!
I loved the location details, and just well everything about this book. I think it would make an even better film than The Holiday too, and would be a lot easier to keep things straight if you are watching! So please big film companies, or Hallmark, put this on the big screen!
Easily my favourite book from one of my favourite travel romance authors!
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
We have the fabulous locations of Melbourne Australia, Beckenridge, Colorado and a small village in Oxfordshire England.
We have three women - one who has always dreamed of a white Christmas, one who has always wanted a traditional family Christmas, and one who likes Christmas but hates the cold and wants to break out of a rut. All three have been best friends since they met age 11 on holiday and despite living at opposites ends of the world, they have kept in touch and have holidayed together plenty.
Then there are three incredibly sexy men, the snowboarder, the film star and the winemaker.
As you may have guessed from the title, all three women swap Christmases, and stay with the family or friends, of each friend, allowing them all to have the Christmas of their dreams.
The action alternates between the three women, the differing locations and I loved seeing how each of them spent the fesitve period and few days afterwards.
You can expect amongst other things from this book, snow, Winter Wonderland, a Christmas fair, embarrassing relatives, horse riding, wine, winter sports, being papped, and a great deal of laughs and happiness, and instant chemistry.
Now I'm not going to tell you who goes where, or what of those things happens where, but suffice to say I loved all three story lines, even if I could have done with drawing a diagram of who is who and where they went and normally live - as my head just couldn't retain it all at the same time!!
Although our three leading ladies are all lovely, it was the men in this story that caught my eye, and I can honestly say I'd happily have all three of them as book boyfriends at the same time!!
I loved the location details, and just well everything about this book. I think it would make an even better film than The Holiday too, and would be a lot easier to keep things straight if you are watching! So please big film companies, or Hallmark, put this on the big screen!
Easily my favourite book from one of my favourite travel romance authors!
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 27, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Christmas Swap
By: Sandy Barker
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
What would be your perfect Christmas Swap destination? Personally, I would like a white Christmas. In this holiday romcom three women swap their homes for the Christmas holiday. Australia, Colorado and Oxfordshire are the destinations, and these places are obviously very different. But, that is the point of the story. Change. Possibilities. Getting unstuck from the rut of your life. Yes, the premise is reminiscent of The Holiday (a movie I love), but the similarities in no way detract from the joy of reading this delightful story. I had a fantastic time with The Christmas Swap, and I bet you will, too!
The Christmas Swap
By: Sandy Barker
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
What would be your perfect Christmas Swap destination? Personally, I would like a white Christmas. In this holiday romcom three women swap their homes for the Christmas holiday. Australia, Colorado and Oxfordshire are the destinations, and these places are obviously very different. But, that is the point of the story. Change. Possibilities. Getting unstuck from the rut of your life. Yes, the premise is reminiscent of The Holiday (a movie I love), but the similarities in no way detract from the joy of reading this delightful story. I had a fantastic time with The Christmas Swap, and I bet you will, too!
December 29, 2021
I adored The Christmas Swap. The characters are all fabulous and wonderfully written. The storyline was entertaining! I loved the friendships so, so much!
Huge thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for my gifted ecopy!
Huge thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for my gifted ecopy!
December 10, 2020
Chloe, Lucy and Jules met as 11-year-old girls on family holidays in Maui, and from then on The May Ladies was born. After years of friendship, and traveling the world on various girly holidays, the girls decide to switch up Christmas by swapping households for the season. Chloe stays with Lucy's family in a small English visit - and finds out the boy next door is a famous movie star, while Lucy travels to Colorado and realises that Jules's little brother Will is all grown up. And Jules swaps snow for sand for the land down under, and falls in love with more than just Melbourne.
This is a fun novel with an enjoyable aspect - who wouldn't want to swap Christmases one year and see how other people do it. I loved, in particular, the Colorado Christmas as that's the one I would like the most - snow, cabin, hot chocolate - bliss!
It goes with no saying that if you like the movie The Holiday you would like this book, as it's a similar concept. However, in saying that I do think there were way too many mentions and references to the actual movie in this novel - to the point where the characters were saying which characters they would be in the movie.
While the book was cute and nice, I do think it was a little bit flat because nothing really happened to be honest, and after 50% through I grew really bored of it. Contemporaries are known to have those dramatic moments that make the couple split up, and they get back together at the end but nothing that like happened in this book (so if you hate that trope maybe you would like this one). I actually would have liked a bit of drama to shake things up. All the downs in the book were very small scale and boring, and borderline petty. And all of the love interests were just so gorgeous, and perfect and it felt unbelievable that there wasn't one dud among them. The girls also felt much younger than they were - I kept thinking they were about 25 years old but they were actually 33.
I also was really disappointed that the author did not take the opportunity to have one of these girls be a queer character, and for one of the romances in this book be a Christmassy gay one! I would have loved that.
This is a fun novel with an enjoyable aspect - who wouldn't want to swap Christmases one year and see how other people do it. I loved, in particular, the Colorado Christmas as that's the one I would like the most - snow, cabin, hot chocolate - bliss!
It goes with no saying that if you like the movie The Holiday you would like this book, as it's a similar concept. However, in saying that I do think there were way too many mentions and references to the actual movie in this novel - to the point where the characters were saying which characters they would be in the movie.
While the book was cute and nice, I do think it was a little bit flat because nothing really happened to be honest, and after 50% through I grew really bored of it. Contemporaries are known to have those dramatic moments that make the couple split up, and they get back together at the end but nothing that like happened in this book (so if you hate that trope maybe you would like this one). I actually would have liked a bit of drama to shake things up. All the downs in the book were very small scale and boring, and borderline petty. And all of the love interests were just so gorgeous, and perfect and it felt unbelievable that there wasn't one dud among them. The girls also felt much younger than they were - I kept thinking they were about 25 years old but they were actually 33.
I also was really disappointed that the author did not take the opportunity to have one of these girls be a queer character, and for one of the romances in this book be a Christmassy gay one! I would have loved that.
July 31, 2020
A delightful, fun-filled and uplifting, heart-warmer of a story!
When three life-long friends decide to swap Christmases, none of them realise quite what they are letting themselves in for.
Lucy is in a rut – one she’s about to be firmly yanked out of, but can she become the brave woman she’s always longed to be?
Chloe prefers to play it safe and was planning a quiet Christmas in England. Even in her wildest dreams she could not have imagined what was about to happen.
And Jules, leaving behind the cold climate of Colorado, heads to Australia to experience the sunshine, the beach and… the kookaburras!
A heart-warming tale of three friends who get to step outside their own lives for a while at Christmas and in doing so, discover surprising things about themselves. Wonderfully feel-good fiction!
When three life-long friends decide to swap Christmases, none of them realise quite what they are letting themselves in for.
Lucy is in a rut – one she’s about to be firmly yanked out of, but can she become the brave woman she’s always longed to be?
Chloe prefers to play it safe and was planning a quiet Christmas in England. Even in her wildest dreams she could not have imagined what was about to happen.
And Jules, leaving behind the cold climate of Colorado, heads to Australia to experience the sunshine, the beach and… the kookaburras!
A heart-warming tale of three friends who get to step outside their own lives for a while at Christmas and in doing so, discover surprising things about themselves. Wonderfully feel-good fiction!
October 16, 2020
*** Note : I received e-ARC of this book via NetGalley as a part of blog tour, in exchange for and honest review. Many thanks to Rachel for tour invite and author and publisher for providing NetGalley widget of review copy. ***
The Christmas Swap was sweet and lovely romcom that revolved around three friends and their Christmas Swap. It was about friendship, family, love, and Christmas magic.
Writing was engaging and magical that transported me in lives of The May Ladies- Chloe, Jules, and Lucy. It was third person narrative from Chole, Jules and Lucy perspective, each telling their part of stories and their feeling for each other. There were chapters titled ‘The May Ladies’ that showed their conversations through video chats which I loved most.
All characters were lovely, likable and realistic. Best part of the book was bond between friends, setting and Christmas vibe. I loved how strong their friendship was even though they lived in different continent and knew each other like family. All three places, Oxfordshire, Breckenbridge, and Melbourne with their different weather and different Christmas tradition were amazing and author described them so well that I wanted to pack my bags and visit these places. I loved reading characters enjoying skiing, snowmobiling, village fair, horse riding, and wine tasting. Christmas food was cherry on the top.
Why 4 stars-All three girls finding love instantly and falling in love in just few days was bit unbelievable. In combining three stories in one book, each three main characters got only few chapters to tell their story and that’s why I felt romance was wrapped too fast. It left me feeling I wanted a bit more in their stories.
Overall, The Christmas Swap was fun, entertaining and very Christamasy romcom with amazing setting, lovely characters, and 3 in 1 story- a holiday offer you wouldn’t want to miss. I’m definitely going to read more books by Sandy Barker.
Read full review on my book blog by following this link - https://booksteacupnreviews.com/2020/...
The Christmas Swap was sweet and lovely romcom that revolved around three friends and their Christmas Swap. It was about friendship, family, love, and Christmas magic.
Writing was engaging and magical that transported me in lives of The May Ladies- Chloe, Jules, and Lucy. It was third person narrative from Chole, Jules and Lucy perspective, each telling their part of stories and their feeling for each other. There were chapters titled ‘The May Ladies’ that showed their conversations through video chats which I loved most.
All characters were lovely, likable and realistic. Best part of the book was bond between friends, setting and Christmas vibe. I loved how strong their friendship was even though they lived in different continent and knew each other like family. All three places, Oxfordshire, Breckenbridge, and Melbourne with their different weather and different Christmas tradition were amazing and author described them so well that I wanted to pack my bags and visit these places. I loved reading characters enjoying skiing, snowmobiling, village fair, horse riding, and wine tasting. Christmas food was cherry on the top.
Why 4 stars-All three girls finding love instantly and falling in love in just few days was bit unbelievable. In combining three stories in one book, each three main characters got only few chapters to tell their story and that’s why I felt romance was wrapped too fast. It left me feeling I wanted a bit more in their stories.
Overall, The Christmas Swap was fun, entertaining and very Christamasy romcom with amazing setting, lovely characters, and 3 in 1 story- a holiday offer you wouldn’t want to miss. I’m definitely going to read more books by Sandy Barker.
Read full review on my book blog by following this link - https://booksteacupnreviews.com/2020/...
December 13, 2020
3.5 stars
October 16, 2020
Thanks Harper Collins for a review copy via NetGalley
I know this is a big call, especially in mid-October, but I feel like if you are going to read one fun Christmas romance this year, then The Christmas Swap is going to be the one to pick up – it has all my essential Christmas bases covered, with snow and Christmas cake and the beach, and three lovely love stories in one, which makes it an absolute Christmas star for me!
I know this is a big call, especially in mid-October, but I feel like if you are going to read one fun Christmas romance this year, then The Christmas Swap is going to be the one to pick up – it has all my essential Christmas bases covered, with snow and Christmas cake and the beach, and three lovely love stories in one, which makes it an absolute Christmas star for me!
December 17, 2020
3,5 Stars
Three girls from America, UK and Australia meet at the age of 11 - and are still BFFs 20 years later. During a Facetime call they realize that each wants what the other has - at least for Christmas. So they decide to 'swap' their Christmasses. Jules flies to Melbourne to celebrate a Christmas in summer with Chloes friends. Chloe meanwhile wants experience a traditional English Christmas and spends it with Lucy's parents. And Lucy dreams of a really white Christmas full of snow - and gets just that in Colorado, where she spents the holidays with Jules' family in a cabin.
I liked the idea of a swap in general, but would personally find it weird to be with a strange family during Christmas - especially if you are on very good terms with your own family and miss them during the festivities. Maybe I would visit my best friend and have at least her there with me. But thankfully there are three very handsome men in each city, who seem to have waited all their life just for our May Ladies.
Normally I would find it all a bit unrealistic, especially with the instant attraction between each couple. But I actually liked reading about the three women and their swapped Christmasses. Maybe the "Christmas book" bonus helped there, they are allowed to be a bit cheesy. I just would have liked to be more part of the actual Christmas activities, but they only mentioned dressing up for the formal Christmas lunch in Australia, or that there is a village fete in England, or the American Christmas Day in Colorado - but there are no descriptions of the actual event.
Considering the ending I could also easily imagine a sequel, seeing what the three friends are doing in the new year.
Three girls from America, UK and Australia meet at the age of 11 - and are still BFFs 20 years later. During a Facetime call they realize that each wants what the other has - at least for Christmas. So they decide to 'swap' their Christmasses. Jules flies to Melbourne to celebrate a Christmas in summer with Chloes friends. Chloe meanwhile wants experience a traditional English Christmas and spends it with Lucy's parents. And Lucy dreams of a really white Christmas full of snow - and gets just that in Colorado, where she spents the holidays with Jules' family in a cabin.
I liked the idea of a swap in general, but would personally find it weird to be with a strange family during Christmas - especially if you are on very good terms with your own family and miss them during the festivities. Maybe I would visit my best friend and have at least her there with me. But thankfully there are three very handsome men in each city, who seem to have waited all their life just for our May Ladies.
Normally I would find it all a bit unrealistic, especially with the instant attraction between each couple. But I actually liked reading about the three women and their swapped Christmasses. Maybe the "Christmas book" bonus helped there, they are allowed to be a bit cheesy. I just would have liked to be more part of the actual Christmas activities, but they only mentioned dressing up for the formal Christmas lunch in Australia, or that there is a village fete in England, or the American Christmas Day in Colorado - but there are no descriptions of the actual event.
Considering the ending I could also easily imagine a sequel, seeing what the three friends are doing in the new year.
October 20, 2020
A really sweet book to get you in the Christmas spirit. It's very much like the film, "The Holiday". Three long-time friends trade Christmas experiences. The London based girl goes from a family based Christmas to a skiing trip in Colorado. The Colorado girl heads to Australia and the Australian girl heads to London. Romance and experiences ensue. It gets you in the holiday mood.
September 23, 2020
I have read all of Sandy Barker’s other books and The Christmas Swap didn’t disappoint. This was a fun and festive story in the tradition of all good modern Christmas movies... I found it ridiculously easy to read, staying up late to get to the end, and it made me feel all Christmassy, even in September!
I particularly enjoyed the close and witty friendship between Chloe, Jules and Lucy - the ‘May Ladies - and Sandy gave each of them a suitably lovely and sexy leading man. I liked having the three different storylines; it was intriguing and I think part of why I found it so hard to put down, as well as Sandy Barker’s warm and welcoming writing style. I think my favourite couple were Chloe and Archer, the international movie star (possibly because I dream of meeting one of my actor crushes in real life!)
Stunning locations are a running theme through this author’s books, and the opportunity to visit Colorado, Australia and Oxfordshire in one story was delightful. I’m planning to buy the paperback when it’s released and read it again over Christmas.
With thanks to the author, Netgalley and the publisher One More Chapter for the ARC of this book. I read it voluntarily and this is my honest review.
I particularly enjoyed the close and witty friendship between Chloe, Jules and Lucy - the ‘May Ladies - and Sandy gave each of them a suitably lovely and sexy leading man. I liked having the three different storylines; it was intriguing and I think part of why I found it so hard to put down, as well as Sandy Barker’s warm and welcoming writing style. I think my favourite couple were Chloe and Archer, the international movie star (possibly because I dream of meeting one of my actor crushes in real life!)
Stunning locations are a running theme through this author’s books, and the opportunity to visit Colorado, Australia and Oxfordshire in one story was delightful. I’m planning to buy the paperback when it’s released and read it again over Christmas.
With thanks to the author, Netgalley and the publisher One More Chapter for the ARC of this book. I read it voluntarily and this is my honest review.
September 28, 2020
This is such a fun concept - three best friends Lucy, Jules and Chloe swap Christmasses across three different continents. Barker effortlessly switches between the delightful settings and the story gripped me straightaway. I loved the women's friendships that provided continuity throughout the book - they were sweet yet real. The storylines were gripping and kept me quickly turning the pages to find out how each one was going to end. And as for Alan, Matt and Will - what swoonworthy heroes!
Utterly romantic. Gorgeously festive. I loved this book!
Utterly romantic. Gorgeously festive. I loved this book!
January 11, 2021
Thank goodness there are great books you can armchairtravel with. I have been to England, Australia and America in three christmassy stories, wonderfully entwined in one book. Following three close friends; Jules, Lucy and Chloe as they decide to swap homes for Christmas. It makes for hilarious situations, misunderstandings, great descriptions of three very different celebrations, and lots of warmth and love. And also hot guys, don't forget that.
December 4, 2020
Delightful!
I'm not sure how she did it, but Sandy Barker has pulled off a very complex point of view (and location) novel with ease. Impressive! The story flowed beautifully and kept me intrigued from the first page. Many have said in their reviews that this romcom put them in mind of The Holiday, and I agree. It would be fantastic to see it on the big screen ; everything about it is quintessential Christmassy romance... and then some. The perfect festive pick me up, full of all the feels. I think it's her best writing yet!
I'm not sure how she did it, but Sandy Barker has pulled off a very complex point of view (and location) novel with ease. Impressive! The story flowed beautifully and kept me intrigued from the first page. Many have said in their reviews that this romcom put them in mind of The Holiday, and I agree. It would be fantastic to see it on the big screen ; everything about it is quintessential Christmassy romance... and then some. The perfect festive pick me up, full of all the feels. I think it's her best writing yet!
December 4, 2020
What an unusual, enjoyable and compelling story. I was hooked since the first pages and I loved this story that made me travel to new places and live three different Christmas.
Excellent character and plot development, good storytelling and a tightly knitted plot.
It's strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Excellent character and plot development, good storytelling and a tightly knitted plot.
It's strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
January 4, 2021
Loved it!
I was a little dubious at the start thought it wouldn't be my cup of tea but Sandy Barker stepped the characters and relationships well...easy read hard to put down and definitely a chick flick!!! Will read more of hers!!!
I was a little dubious at the start thought it wouldn't be my cup of tea but Sandy Barker stepped the characters and relationships well...easy read hard to put down and definitely a chick flick!!! Will read more of hers!!!
August 14, 2023
2.5 Stars
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with this ARC.
Going into this book I was really excited. The holiday is one of my favourite Christmas films and so this sounded right up my street. I really loved 2 out of the 3 Christmas romances but the other just seemed to be there for filler. I really feel that this would have been so much better just focusing on Chloe and Lucy, and developing their stories more. While I did enjoy this book, there were lots of problematic diet culture references (such as characters exclaiming how fat they were going to get or saying they better run extra to earn the calories at dinner) and I just didn't think there was any need for this.
Overall an OK book, just nothing special.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with this ARC.
Going into this book I was really excited. The holiday is one of my favourite Christmas films and so this sounded right up my street. I really loved 2 out of the 3 Christmas romances but the other just seemed to be there for filler. I really feel that this would have been so much better just focusing on Chloe and Lucy, and developing their stories more. While I did enjoy this book, there were lots of problematic diet culture references (such as characters exclaiming how fat they were going to get or saying they better run extra to earn the calories at dinner) and I just didn't think there was any need for this.
Overall an OK book, just nothing special.
January 9, 2021
This book was like The Holiday but on steroids! Trust me, that's a good thing. The Holiday is my favourite Christmas rom-com of all time.
If you're looking for a fun-filled festive book, then this is the book for you! All of Sandy Barker's books have the feel-good factor and this is no exception.
It's the perfect Christmassy book for this time of year. Packed with tradition, fabulous characters and festive delights, you'll want to pick this up and be whisked away.
If you're looking for a fun-filled festive book, then this is the book for you! All of Sandy Barker's books have the feel-good factor and this is no exception.
It's the perfect Christmassy book for this time of year. Packed with tradition, fabulous characters and festive delights, you'll want to pick this up and be whisked away.
December 9, 2020
I was just in the mood for an uplifting, festive read when I picked up this book, the news is quite depressing at the moment isn’t it, and what a perfect choice this is for anyone looking for something to warm their cockles and bring a sprinkling of Christmas cheer into their lives. It also addresses one of the burning questions of the age – is Die Hard a Christmas movie?
The book follows three friends who meet on holiday aged eleven and forge a bond that survives over the years, despite the fact they all live on different continents. Fast forward a couple of decades and all of the girls are at some kind of cusp in their lives with issues that need a shake up. Will swapping homes and Christmases for one year provide the catalysts they need to move to the next stage of their lives?
The premise of the book is charming and it works perfectly. Cue the opportunity for the author to transport us to three very different countries for three very different Christmases. In Oxford, Melbourne and Colorado, the three girls are taken in by their friend’s families and find out how the other half does Christmas. Warm beaches, snowy mountains and the English countryside provide the perfect backdrops against which the girls can explore unique Christmas traditions, and maybe make new friends, even of a romantic variety! The author does an absolutely fabulous job of drawing the different environments and transporting the reader there. This book is armchair travel at its most enticing and I felt like I had been transported to the locations in the novel. I defy anyone to come away from reading this book and not wish they could be snow-shoeing through a quiet, Colorado forest or doing a horseback tour of Australian wineries. My passport is itching just thinking about it, especially given my lack of travel this year.
For me, the most compelling thing about this book is the portrayal of the friendship between the three girls. Each of the characters was perfectly drawn and absolutely believable, and the dynamic between them realistic and charming to read. I have two very close groups of female friends who mean the world to me and are the first people I would turn to, in times of trouble and turmoil, but also in times of joy and success. I recognised immediately the workings of the friendship between these women, even went it was sent slightly off track, and it was such a joy to read. I so wanted everything to work out for them, shared their happiness and disappointment throughout and, by the end, I didn’t want to leave their company. I felt like they had become my friends, and I really want to know how things end up for them.
This is a really cheering read with the perfect flavour of Christmas to get you in the mood for the upcoming holiday. I would highly recommend it to all fans of romance looking for a bit of Yuletide cheer. And, as for that burning question at the beginning – is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Of course it is, and that is a hill I am prepared to die on.
The book follows three friends who meet on holiday aged eleven and forge a bond that survives over the years, despite the fact they all live on different continents. Fast forward a couple of decades and all of the girls are at some kind of cusp in their lives with issues that need a shake up. Will swapping homes and Christmases for one year provide the catalysts they need to move to the next stage of their lives?
The premise of the book is charming and it works perfectly. Cue the opportunity for the author to transport us to three very different countries for three very different Christmases. In Oxford, Melbourne and Colorado, the three girls are taken in by their friend’s families and find out how the other half does Christmas. Warm beaches, snowy mountains and the English countryside provide the perfect backdrops against which the girls can explore unique Christmas traditions, and maybe make new friends, even of a romantic variety! The author does an absolutely fabulous job of drawing the different environments and transporting the reader there. This book is armchair travel at its most enticing and I felt like I had been transported to the locations in the novel. I defy anyone to come away from reading this book and not wish they could be snow-shoeing through a quiet, Colorado forest or doing a horseback tour of Australian wineries. My passport is itching just thinking about it, especially given my lack of travel this year.
For me, the most compelling thing about this book is the portrayal of the friendship between the three girls. Each of the characters was perfectly drawn and absolutely believable, and the dynamic between them realistic and charming to read. I have two very close groups of female friends who mean the world to me and are the first people I would turn to, in times of trouble and turmoil, but also in times of joy and success. I recognised immediately the workings of the friendship between these women, even went it was sent slightly off track, and it was such a joy to read. I so wanted everything to work out for them, shared their happiness and disappointment throughout and, by the end, I didn’t want to leave their company. I felt like they had become my friends, and I really want to know how things end up for them.
This is a really cheering read with the perfect flavour of Christmas to get you in the mood for the upcoming holiday. I would highly recommend it to all fans of romance looking for a bit of Yuletide cheer. And, as for that burning question at the beginning – is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Of course it is, and that is a hill I am prepared to die on.
October 12, 2020
As I’ve been reading and reviewing Christmassy books since the first week in September, I suspect you might have realised that they’re something I really enjoy – so you can only imagine my delight when I discovered that this book focuses on not one but three very different Christmases. Jules, Lucy and Chloe have been the closest of friends since childhood, despite the fact that they live on different continents: when they talk about Christmas, they’re all looking for something different, and the obvious answer is to swap their Christmas experiences.
Instead of her traditional family Christmas in an Oxfordshire village, Lucy heads off for Colorado, Jules’ extended family, and the white Christmas she’s always craved: Jules heads for Melbourne, for a beach and city break with Chloe’s friends, and where the heat will be more than just the warmth of the season. And Chloe? She finds herself in Lucy’s very pink childhood bedroom in Oxfordshire, roped in to helping organise the village fair.
I loved all the Christmas detail – the differing traditions, the food, the entertainment – but all three of them find romance, with Jules’ lovely little brother Will, with Matt the winemaker, and with Alan (now Archer) the rather unexpected international film star. Their stories alternate, clearly signposted, smooth and easy to follow – I’d planned to tell you which one I enjoyed the most, but just can’t because all three are quite lovely stories, beautifully told.
Well ok, if you push me a bit, I might particularly mention Chloe and Archer – as film stars go (and you don’t often find one in Oxfordshire, spending his Christmas with his mum), he’s very real and grounded, but fame has its downside when the press are watching your every move, and that’s without the additional complication of the ex from hell. But who couldn’t also love Lucy’s snowbound experience – the skiing, the snowboarding, the rum-infused hot chocolate, the cabin in the woods? But then there’s Jules’ Australian adventure – Melbourne itself, the beach, the winelands… I loved them all equally.
Underpinning it all is that amazing friendship between the three women – shaken up a bit at times, a little light conflict, but no-one writes female friendship quite like Sandy Barker. The supporting characters are quite wonderful too – the families, and each woman’s own friendship circle – and I really don’t think I’d have said no to any of their gorgeous love interests. I read this whole book in one glorious sitting – and when I finished, I really felt I’d been travelling, spending Christmas on three continents, and enjoying every single moment.
There’s such a tremendous warmth about the whole book – the settings, the festive touches, the way the characters develop and discover themselves, that strong friendship, the perfect romances – and I entirely loved it. You really must add it to your Christmas reading list – you’re going to love it too.
Instead of her traditional family Christmas in an Oxfordshire village, Lucy heads off for Colorado, Jules’ extended family, and the white Christmas she’s always craved: Jules heads for Melbourne, for a beach and city break with Chloe’s friends, and where the heat will be more than just the warmth of the season. And Chloe? She finds herself in Lucy’s very pink childhood bedroom in Oxfordshire, roped in to helping organise the village fair.
I loved all the Christmas detail – the differing traditions, the food, the entertainment – but all three of them find romance, with Jules’ lovely little brother Will, with Matt the winemaker, and with Alan (now Archer) the rather unexpected international film star. Their stories alternate, clearly signposted, smooth and easy to follow – I’d planned to tell you which one I enjoyed the most, but just can’t because all three are quite lovely stories, beautifully told.
Well ok, if you push me a bit, I might particularly mention Chloe and Archer – as film stars go (and you don’t often find one in Oxfordshire, spending his Christmas with his mum), he’s very real and grounded, but fame has its downside when the press are watching your every move, and that’s without the additional complication of the ex from hell. But who couldn’t also love Lucy’s snowbound experience – the skiing, the snowboarding, the rum-infused hot chocolate, the cabin in the woods? But then there’s Jules’ Australian adventure – Melbourne itself, the beach, the winelands… I loved them all equally.
Underpinning it all is that amazing friendship between the three women – shaken up a bit at times, a little light conflict, but no-one writes female friendship quite like Sandy Barker. The supporting characters are quite wonderful too – the families, and each woman’s own friendship circle – and I really don’t think I’d have said no to any of their gorgeous love interests. I read this whole book in one glorious sitting – and when I finished, I really felt I’d been travelling, spending Christmas on three continents, and enjoying every single moment.
There’s such a tremendous warmth about the whole book – the settings, the festive touches, the way the characters develop and discover themselves, that strong friendship, the perfect romances – and I entirely loved it. You really must add it to your Christmas reading list – you’re going to love it too.
October 14, 2020
Another sweet Christmas read coming your way, this one publishing on October 16, and I had the pleasure of reading it early! Call it an early Christmas gift!
This is a sweet and fun holiday read that centers around three friends that have known each other since they were 11, and continue to holiday together frequently. Chloe, Jules and Lucy each longing for their ultimate Christmas experience, decide to swap locations for the upcoming season. Chloe heads to Oxfordshire England for her traditional English Christmas, Jules heads to Melbourne Australia to spend the holiday on the beach, and Lucy travels to Breckenridge Colorado to have the snowy white Christmas she’s always wanted. Spending the holiday with your “friends” hometown friends and family becomes quite the Christmas adventure for each one of the girls.
With 3 different story lines we travel with each of the girls to their new destinations and watch them celebrate 3 different family holiday traditions. Filled with so much festive spirt, each one of the girls learn so much more about the meaning of Christmas, family, and even about themselves. PLUS each one of them find romance along the way. This is a heartwarming and cozy read that engrosses you immediately and leaves you completely enchanted. All 3 of the girls are likable, (and so are all 3 of the guys). I am so ready for the holiday season after this book and now I need to go and spend it in each one of these locations. I really enjoyed this brilliant and festive holiday romance.
Thank you so much to Sandy Barker, Rachel Gilbey from Rachels Random Resources, and One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book for my honest and unbiased opinion.
This is a sweet and fun holiday read that centers around three friends that have known each other since they were 11, and continue to holiday together frequently. Chloe, Jules and Lucy each longing for their ultimate Christmas experience, decide to swap locations for the upcoming season. Chloe heads to Oxfordshire England for her traditional English Christmas, Jules heads to Melbourne Australia to spend the holiday on the beach, and Lucy travels to Breckenridge Colorado to have the snowy white Christmas she’s always wanted. Spending the holiday with your “friends” hometown friends and family becomes quite the Christmas adventure for each one of the girls.
With 3 different story lines we travel with each of the girls to their new destinations and watch them celebrate 3 different family holiday traditions. Filled with so much festive spirt, each one of the girls learn so much more about the meaning of Christmas, family, and even about themselves. PLUS each one of them find romance along the way. This is a heartwarming and cozy read that engrosses you immediately and leaves you completely enchanted. All 3 of the girls are likable, (and so are all 3 of the guys). I am so ready for the holiday season after this book and now I need to go and spend it in each one of these locations. I really enjoyed this brilliant and festive holiday romance.
Thank you so much to Sandy Barker, Rachel Gilbey from Rachels Random Resources, and One More Chapter for my gifted copy of this book for my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 10, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me access to this feel good Christmas story.
Chloe, Jules, and Lucy meet at a Maui resort kids' club, aged 11, forging a lifelong friendship spanning two decades and three continents.
Twenty-two years later, they decide to swap Christmases, none of them expecting the hilarity and romantic escapades that will ensue.
Chloe from Melbourne spends her Christmas with Lucy's mum and dad in a sleepy village in Oxfordshire, England, stunned to the core when she discovers who grew up across the road from Lucy.
Lucy, who has jetted off to snowy Colorado for her dream-come-true white Christmas, is taken into the fold of Jules's loud and brash family, discovering more about herself in a few short days than she has in years.
And Jules leaves the cold climes of Colorado to spend a balmy 'Orphan's Christmas' with Chloe's friends in Melbourne, finding that time away from her mundane life is just what she needed.
Join these three lovable women as they each get a Christmas to surpass their wildest dreams.
I wasn't sure when I started reading this book that it was for me. But having got past the first chapter (and I am so glad I did) I absolutely loved it! For me it has everything a good book should have, tears tantrums, love friendship and a massive dose of Christmas! I wont spoil it but needless to say I read it in a day and was sad when I got to the end. I am hoping there will be a sequel so we can find out where the girls are now and what they are up too.
Chloe, Jules, and Lucy meet at a Maui resort kids' club, aged 11, forging a lifelong friendship spanning two decades and three continents.
Twenty-two years later, they decide to swap Christmases, none of them expecting the hilarity and romantic escapades that will ensue.
Chloe from Melbourne spends her Christmas with Lucy's mum and dad in a sleepy village in Oxfordshire, England, stunned to the core when she discovers who grew up across the road from Lucy.
Lucy, who has jetted off to snowy Colorado for her dream-come-true white Christmas, is taken into the fold of Jules's loud and brash family, discovering more about herself in a few short days than she has in years.
And Jules leaves the cold climes of Colorado to spend a balmy 'Orphan's Christmas' with Chloe's friends in Melbourne, finding that time away from her mundane life is just what she needed.
Join these three lovable women as they each get a Christmas to surpass their wildest dreams.
I wasn't sure when I started reading this book that it was for me. But having got past the first chapter (and I am so glad I did) I absolutely loved it! For me it has everything a good book should have, tears tantrums, love friendship and a massive dose of Christmas! I wont spoil it but needless to say I read it in a day and was sad when I got to the end. I am hoping there will be a sequel so we can find out where the girls are now and what they are up too.
December 20, 2020
If you are looking for a little Christmas escapism with some romance thrown in, then this is the book for you! If you've seen the film "The Holiday" well this is similar as the ladies within the story admit, only three times the fun.
The best thing about this book for me, particularly at the moment, is that it was set in three locations and I felt like I had a little holiday in all of them. We have Oxford (taking in London), Colorado and Melbourne. I loved that Melbourne had some descriptions of the City landmarks and even looked them up online, which made it all the more real. I also enjoyed reading about the different Christmas traditions, such as the popcorn stringing in America (which I have never really understood).
The story centres around three best friends Chloe, Jules and Lucy who all live in different countries and they agree to swap their Christmases with each other. Of course each of them finds romance in their new location, but it doesn't always run smoothly or to plan.
There's not much more to say other than snuggle down, be whisked away to a different scene and enjoy.
The best thing about this book for me, particularly at the moment, is that it was set in three locations and I felt like I had a little holiday in all of them. We have Oxford (taking in London), Colorado and Melbourne. I loved that Melbourne had some descriptions of the City landmarks and even looked them up online, which made it all the more real. I also enjoyed reading about the different Christmas traditions, such as the popcorn stringing in America (which I have never really understood).
The story centres around three best friends Chloe, Jules and Lucy who all live in different countries and they agree to swap their Christmases with each other. Of course each of them finds romance in their new location, but it doesn't always run smoothly or to plan.
There's not much more to say other than snuggle down, be whisked away to a different scene and enjoy.
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