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It Takes a Miracle
Is twenty-five years long enough to forget your first love?
Vanessa Perry’s summer visit to her grandparents is even better than her dreams when she meets and falls in love with Makenna Markus. The teenagers quickly make college plans and can’t wait for Vanessa’s next visit at Christmas.
But Vanessa’s mother has other ideas and does a terrible thing. Their lives will never be the same.
Do you believe in miracles? How about a Christmas miracle? Vanessa does. And twenty five years later her son, two entwined trees, and a Christmas Stroll just may be the Christmas miracle she always hoped for.
Vanessa Perry’s summer visit to her grandparents is even better than her dreams when she meets and falls in love with Makenna Markus. The teenagers quickly make college plans and can’t wait for Vanessa’s next visit at Christmas.
But Vanessa’s mother has other ideas and does a terrible thing. Their lives will never be the same.
Do you believe in miracles? How about a Christmas miracle? Vanessa does. And twenty five years later her son, two entwined trees, and a Christmas Stroll just may be the Christmas miracle she always hoped for.
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2020
43 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Jamey Moody
36 books197 followersJamey Moody is a small town Texas girl living her best life with her little terrier Leo, who brings her a toy every time she walks in the house.
When she’s not reading or writing her next sapphic romance you can find her on a bike ride, paddle boarding the lake, or in the middle of an adventure.
Reach out, she’d love to hear from you.
When she’s not reading or writing her next sapphic romance you can find her on a bike ride, paddle boarding the lake, or in the middle of an adventure.
Reach out, she’d love to hear from you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 8, 2021
**'Storytelling is not all about the nice parts of a character or only about all the nice things --- everything should be included; lust, anger and fear etc...'
2.5stars!
Way too fast-paced and sappy...
2.5stars!
Way too fast-paced and sappy...
April 2, 2021
Who said you can’t read (or in this case listen to) Christmas novellas all year long?
Twenty-five years ago, Vanessa’s parents forbade her from seeing Makenna, even though Vanessa was sure the other young woman was the love of her life. Twenty-five years later, divorced and a mother, Vanessa comes back to the place where it all began and where, coincidentally, her son is now going to college, only to find out that Makenna is her son’s counsellor. It’s love at first sight again.
I’ve written this in previous reviews for Jamey Moody’s books, if cheesiness isn’t your thing, she’s not an author for you. This novella is a sweet, uncomplicated read about love resisting time and picking up where you left off. Nothing groundbreaking but nice.
The narration isn’t bad but it didn’t work for me. It’s too dramatic and the voices aren’t distinctive enough, especially Makenna and Declan (Vanessa’s son) sound almost alike. Vanessa’s voice is different but all wrong for her personality. Makenna describes her a few times as a whirlwind yet she sounds like a fragile old lady. The pace is good, however, and other reviewers seem to have enjoyed the narration a lot more than I did, so listen to the sample and decide for yourself.
Twenty-five years ago, Vanessa’s parents forbade her from seeing Makenna, even though Vanessa was sure the other young woman was the love of her life. Twenty-five years later, divorced and a mother, Vanessa comes back to the place where it all began and where, coincidentally, her son is now going to college, only to find out that Makenna is her son’s counsellor. It’s love at first sight again.
I’ve written this in previous reviews for Jamey Moody’s books, if cheesiness isn’t your thing, she’s not an author for you. This novella is a sweet, uncomplicated read about love resisting time and picking up where you left off. Nothing groundbreaking but nice.
The narration isn’t bad but it didn’t work for me. It’s too dramatic and the voices aren’t distinctive enough, especially Makenna and Declan (Vanessa’s son) sound almost alike. Vanessa’s voice is different but all wrong for her personality. Makenna describes her a few times as a whirlwind yet she sounds like a fragile old lady. The pace is good, however, and other reviewers seem to have enjoyed the narration a lot more than I did, so listen to the sample and decide for yourself.
November 26, 2020
A great read!
It takes a miracle is a passionate second chance, magical lovestory that melted my heart.
It has little drama but a lot of beautiful moments. Definitely a book to read while sitting in front of a fireplace with hot chocolate.
It takes a miracle is a passionate second chance, magical lovestory that melted my heart.
It has little drama but a lot of beautiful moments. Definitely a book to read while sitting in front of a fireplace with hot chocolate.
April 19, 2021
That was a wonderful story. So romantic It had me laughing and crying at the same time. This would make a fabulous holiday movie. Sometimes two people are just meant to be together and nothing will stop a force that strong no matter how much time has passed. Vanessa is determined to win her only true love back. Is Makenna’s heart willing to take another chance on her first love. Wonderful characters and the setting is perfect for a holiday romance.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2021
3 stars. This was a nice second chances holidays novella.
I think „nice“ sums it up pretty well.
What I liked was that the mains were both in their fourties and the one secondary character, Vanessa‘s son Declan who is also Makenna‘s coachee, was pretty cool.
What I didn‘t like so much was that they were written as if their‘re still in their twenties - or they‘re very onedimensional characters. It seemed a little odd to me and the „I love you“s and „oh baby“ were quickly getting on my nerves.
But I think what really irked me was that the story was very... descriptive and heavy on dialogue, but we almost didn‘t get any inner monologue or personal feelings (plus, the dialogue in the sex scenes was awful).
There‘s also no real POV, it‘s an omniscient narrator and this doesn‘t work for me at all.
All in all, the whole story was cute, but too superficial. Even for a novella, I though this was a bit lame.
I think „nice“ sums it up pretty well.
What I liked was that the mains were both in their fourties and the one secondary character, Vanessa‘s son Declan who is also Makenna‘s coachee, was pretty cool.
What I didn‘t like so much was that they were written as if their‘re still in their twenties - or they‘re very onedimensional characters. It seemed a little odd to me and the „I love you“s and „oh baby“ were quickly getting on my nerves.
But I think what really irked me was that the story was very... descriptive and heavy on dialogue, but we almost didn‘t get any inner monologue or personal feelings (plus, the dialogue in the sex scenes was awful).
There‘s also no real POV, it‘s an omniscient narrator and this doesn‘t work for me at all.
All in all, the whole story was cute, but too superficial. Even for a novella, I though this was a bit lame.
December 29, 2024
If you find this a little too full-on sweet early on, you're not the only one. Other reviewers have said similar. But I'll add this: Jamey Moody has clearly told the story she wants to tell for the holidays: 2nd chance and redemption with low angst and high sweetness suffused in lots of holiday feels. By the time the story swings in for landing, you'll likely find you've gotten caught up in the ride too :).
December 4, 2020
Is 25 years too long for a lost love?
I love that Jamey Moody writes characters that are established in their careers, in their 40s.
I love that Jamey Moody writes characters that are established in their careers, in their 40s.
December 10, 2021
Second-chance romances are my kryptonite, so I was really looking forward to this. And for a holiday novella, it definitely delivers everything it's supposed to. But I had some major issues with it. Mostly it felt like I was reading something in fast-forward mode. Everything happened so quickly I almost couldn't keep up. They meet again as adults and they're basically back to exchanging I love yous within hours of meeting and are pledging to spend their lives together based on a summer teenage romance in which more than 20 years has passed? I get the idea of Meant to Be and Soulmates and all that, but there is no basically no time spent getting to know each other as adults and it made me a lot uncomfortable. I think for this to succeed, it would need to be fleshed out into a full novel.
December 21, 2021
This was a sweet second chance romance holiday book. It was filled with lots of dialogue which I can handle on in the novella form. It was cute but maybe a little too much of a whirlwind after 25 years of separation. Regardless, it kept me reading to find out what happens to the lovely couple.
April 3, 2021
A more appropriate title should have been Christmas Mush. More slushy and I would gave needed a spoon! It was all too quick.
October 15, 2022
Back to back Christmas romances from Moody today. This is a second chance with little angst other than the 25 years the MC’s have been pining for each other. Vanessa’s parents forbade her from seeing Makenna and controlled her via threats about paying for college and anything else. Over two decades later returns to her grandmothers house to visit her son who attends the local college. Makenna is her son’s school counsellor and is instant rekindling at first sight. They are unseperable from the moment together. Cheesy and sweet. A nice escape but it wont stand out and be remembered by me.
January 27, 2021
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by April Doty. Thank you very much for the code, Jamey Moody.
Loved this book. Makkena and Vanessa were great characters but I totally fell in love with Declan (Vanessa's son). Vanessa's mother was a bitch from hell.
April Doty is a new narrator for me and she has done an excellent job at bringing the characters to life. This is one book I could read/listen to over and over again.
Loved this book. Makkena and Vanessa were great characters but I totally fell in love with Declan (Vanessa's son). Vanessa's mother was a bitch from hell.
April Doty is a new narrator for me and she has done an excellent job at bringing the characters to life. This is one book I could read/listen to over and over again.
November 6, 2020
This is another Jem from Jamey Moody, a love story, in the past, present and a touch of Christmas magic.
This Christmas novel could be the next LGBTQ Hallmark movie. Yes, it’s that good!
This story began 25 years ago when Makenna and Vanessa fall in love as teenagers.
Vannessa’s mother doesn’t approve this love.
Because of this Vannessa has to leave Makenna, go on with their lives and a hole in their hearts.
By coincidence, they meet 25 years later during Christmas break.
Old times relive again,
Can they both find their way, with their past in this present?
Read the book and find out.
Jamey Moody is known for making her love stories real, with real characters and their struggles in life.
I hope we’ll read more of her books in the future.
This Christmas novel could be the next LGBTQ Hallmark movie. Yes, it’s that good!
This story began 25 years ago when Makenna and Vanessa fall in love as teenagers.
Vannessa’s mother doesn’t approve this love.
Because of this Vannessa has to leave Makenna, go on with their lives and a hole in their hearts.
By coincidence, they meet 25 years later during Christmas break.
Old times relive again,
Can they both find their way, with their past in this present?
Read the book and find out.
Jamey Moody is known for making her love stories real, with real characters and their struggles in life.
I hope we’ll read more of her books in the future.
November 6, 2020
This was such a little feel-good read. It certainly was all about Christmas miracles and it was beautiful to see the two get back together after Vanessa’s parents ruined everything all those years ago. On top of all that, I’m a huge fan of the relationship they both had with Declan and how he was all in favor of them being together... beautiful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2020
What can I say I‘m a big fan of Jamey Moody‘s work so I might be a bit biased. But well her books just always make me smile and feel warm inside. I just love reading about characters that are close to my age. So I only had to read the blurb and I knew that I will love this book just as much. And that’s exactly what I did. I was captivated right from the start and couldn’t put it down. Vanessa and Makenna (what a beautiful name btw) meet again after 25 years. What happens then is just one of the most beautiful journeys. I don’t think I have the words to describe how much I loved this book. And also how those characters were able to talk to each other without all the drama. Another thing I love so much about Jamey’s books. I know this is fiction but when you’re looking for romance this one has it all. Seriously just like all Jamey’s books have. I highly recommend this and all her others. Get them now if you haven’t.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a rewiev.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a rewiev.
December 31, 2020
A second chance romance that features Makenna/Kenna and Vanessa/Nessa who meet again through Vanessa's son Declan and realize this chance shouldn't be allowed to slip away. An emotional storyline with a bit of humor, the right amount of heat and nicely fleshed out supporting characters, I loved the aspect of women in their 40's and the entwined trees was just the touch needed for a magical reunion. I read through the night to a very satisfying ending.
Thank you Ms. Moody for taking me away for a short time from the grimness of life in 2020
Thank you Ms. Moody for taking me away for a short time from the grimness of life in 2020
November 15, 2020
guilty pleasures: second chance romance, "i've always loved you." 😔✊
December 29, 2020
This was a very sweet second chance romance with little to no angst or conflict. Two teens separated by one’s mother accidentally reunite 25 years later when Vanessa’s son Declan introduces her to his sports psychologist coach, Makenna. There is a small bit of worry for them but the story proceeds very quickly and is mostly a very happy love story with many romantic love scenes.
December 29, 2024
I was eager to dive into It Takes a Miracle and was excited for a cozy Sapphic Christmas romance. While I’ve enjoyed (though not loved) two of Jamey Moody’s previous books, this novella ended up being a disappointment.
The premise had potential—a second-chance romance after decades apart—but the execution fell flat. These grown women revert to teenagers the moment they see each other again. With decades of separation, zero knowledge of who the other has become, and no exploration of their current lives, they decide the promises they made as teens are still binding. It felt rushed and unrealistic, especially when I desperately wanted to see them rediscover each other as adults.
The supporting elements were equally unconvincing. Vanessa’s college-aged son starts calling Makenna “mom” almost immediately—something that felt abrupt and forced. The novella format does limit how much plot and character development can be included, but even within that constraint, I needed more depth.
On top of that, the story was painfully repetitive. The constant mentions of pies, miracles, and Vanessa’s mother’s actions became tiresome. Instead of building up the story, they felt like filler.
Ultimately, while the idea of a Christmas miracle sounded charming, this novella didn’t deliver the magic I was hoping for.
The premise had potential—a second-chance romance after decades apart—but the execution fell flat. These grown women revert to teenagers the moment they see each other again. With decades of separation, zero knowledge of who the other has become, and no exploration of their current lives, they decide the promises they made as teens are still binding. It felt rushed and unrealistic, especially when I desperately wanted to see them rediscover each other as adults.
The supporting elements were equally unconvincing. Vanessa’s college-aged son starts calling Makenna “mom” almost immediately—something that felt abrupt and forced. The novella format does limit how much plot and character development can be included, but even within that constraint, I needed more depth.
On top of that, the story was painfully repetitive. The constant mentions of pies, miracles, and Vanessa’s mother’s actions became tiresome. Instead of building up the story, they felt like filler.
Ultimately, while the idea of a Christmas miracle sounded charming, this novella didn’t deliver the magic I was hoping for.
January 29, 2021
An endearingly sweet second chance Christmas romance. Moody has delivered a wonderful story bursting with joy and hope. I listened to the audiobook version of It Takes a Miracle and April Doty does a marvelous job of bringing these characters and this romance to life.
Twenty five years apart is not enough time to temper the feelings Vanessa and Makenna have for one another. Ripped apart as teens, these two reconnect and it is as if no time has passed.
I loved how the focus of the story wasn’t on the hurt or loss but on the love and hope. Vanessa is honest and open both in her apology of past hurt and desire for a future together. I loved how well they communicated, leaving no room for misunderstandings or assumptions. This is an incredibly heartwarming story despite such a devastating start.
The romance moves very quickly and I felt that fit really well with the story. Their love never faded and they had a lot of lost time to make up for. The connection between Vanessa and Makenna feels natural and is so clear, they just click, on all levels. The chemistry is all consuming, and very steamy.
I loved the support they got from Declan. The instant feeling of a family complete was marvelous. I loved the easy nature of the relationships in the story. It gives that happy feeling of meant to be.
April Doty does a wonderful job with her velvety voice. She really captured Nessa and Ken’s love.
This is such an endearing and hopeful story full of a sweet love with just the right amount of spice. An all around feel good romance sure to put a smile on your face and make you swoon.
Twenty five years apart is not enough time to temper the feelings Vanessa and Makenna have for one another. Ripped apart as teens, these two reconnect and it is as if no time has passed.
I loved how the focus of the story wasn’t on the hurt or loss but on the love and hope. Vanessa is honest and open both in her apology of past hurt and desire for a future together. I loved how well they communicated, leaving no room for misunderstandings or assumptions. This is an incredibly heartwarming story despite such a devastating start.
The romance moves very quickly and I felt that fit really well with the story. Their love never faded and they had a lot of lost time to make up for. The connection between Vanessa and Makenna feels natural and is so clear, they just click, on all levels. The chemistry is all consuming, and very steamy.
I loved the support they got from Declan. The instant feeling of a family complete was marvelous. I loved the easy nature of the relationships in the story. It gives that happy feeling of meant to be.
April Doty does a wonderful job with her velvety voice. She really captured Nessa and Ken’s love.
This is such an endearing and hopeful story full of a sweet love with just the right amount of spice. An all around feel good romance sure to put a smile on your face and make you swoon.
December 19, 2025
Twenty five years ago, Makenna lost her true love to the other girl's bigoted family.
Now a teacher and counselor, she has been helping a boy named Declan, who seems oddly familiar. Then his mom arrives... and it's her girlhood love, Vanessa.
Vanessa's as surprised to see her, and is very happy. She invites Makenna to dinner, and once Declan takes off, explains that her mother forced their separation, and threatened to ruin Makenna if Vanessa reached out to her.
Vanessa pretty much wants to resume where they left off, but Makenna is a bit wary. They have several dates, then sleep together, and Declan is amused by all of it.
Then Mommy Dearest comes. Vanessa and Declan tell her off, basically, then Vanessa makes up with Makenna's family.
Now a teacher and counselor, she has been helping a boy named Declan, who seems oddly familiar. Then his mom arrives... and it's her girlhood love, Vanessa.
Vanessa's as surprised to see her, and is very happy. She invites Makenna to dinner, and once Declan takes off, explains that her mother forced their separation, and threatened to ruin Makenna if Vanessa reached out to her.
Vanessa pretty much wants to resume where they left off, but Makenna is a bit wary. They have several dates, then sleep together, and Declan is amused by all of it.
Then Mommy Dearest comes. Vanessa and Declan tell her off, basically, then Vanessa makes up with Makenna's family.
February 6, 2021
An easy to read, feelgood story that probably rates 3.5 stars for me. I had the audiobook read by April Doty, a new narrator to me, and I felt she did a great job. Well written and likeable characters, a second chance at love for a couple who were torn apart by homophobia and threats as teenagers. Maybe a little too syrupy in places for me. Yes it did move really quickly, but it had been 25 years in the making. Yes Declan did seem to accept his mum's new relationship without raising an eyebrow, however sometimes what you need to read is a book equivalent of a hallmark movie, and this is it. Enjoyable.
May 12, 2021
Heartwarming!
I loved this book. The love story between McKenna and Vanessa was such that to see it end at the hands of ones own mother, is a hard nut to swallow. Twenty five years later and their love is still as strong as where they left off. To have your own son be the cheerleader to take another chance on their relationship is so comforting. Declan is the son all mother’s wish they had, just so supportive. As these three come together to go against the threat of their relationship again is such an uplifting moment. A definite must read. To me James Moody knows how to write LOVE....
I loved this book. The love story between McKenna and Vanessa was such that to see it end at the hands of ones own mother, is a hard nut to swallow. Twenty five years later and their love is still as strong as where they left off. To have your own son be the cheerleader to take another chance on their relationship is so comforting. Declan is the son all mother’s wish they had, just so supportive. As these three come together to go against the threat of their relationship again is such an uplifting moment. A definite must read. To me James Moody knows how to write LOVE....
November 21, 2021
What an amazing story and so heartfelt and beautiful! The story was so tender and testifies to the power of eternal love, and how time and adversity could not break that love. While the assaults of those wanting to derail that love were able to do that in the lives of the main characters when they were much younger, the strength and connection could never be severed. Their love was far stronger than the control and manipulation and fear that had once robbed them of their bond. This definitely is a story filled with miracles and joy.
March 23, 2023
I have fallen in love every time I read this tale of love!
Jamey Moody has written the most tender love story I have ever read. The tenderness plays off the sadness perfectly to bring the reader to the only ending possible so beautifully. For those of us that have had to struggle with homophobia in the past it brings a feeling of real joy for our heroines to win out! the characters are so well developed, you can’t help but feel their love. Thank you Jamey for writing this just for me (well OK, I will share it with all the rest of you).
Jamey Moody has written the most tender love story I have ever read. The tenderness plays off the sadness perfectly to bring the reader to the only ending possible so beautifully. For those of us that have had to struggle with homophobia in the past it brings a feeling of real joy for our heroines to win out! the characters are so well developed, you can’t help but feel their love. Thank you Jamey for writing this just for me (well OK, I will share it with all the rest of you).
December 13, 2020
Miracles abound
A lovely storyline with strong characters who finally are able get it right. Their strength and resolve was inspiring. I especially was impressed with Declan and his view of life and love. It looks like he’s on his way to a happily ever after, too. I heartily recommend this book and any others by this author. Her writings give me hope. A good read. Thank you Peace
A lovely storyline with strong characters who finally are able get it right. Their strength and resolve was inspiring. I especially was impressed with Declan and his view of life and love. It looks like he’s on his way to a happily ever after, too. I heartily recommend this book and any others by this author. Her writings give me hope. A good read. Thank you Peace
December 11, 2020
Great book
Nice story. Drama not awfully bad. Characters were well defined and storyline was well written. Vanessa and Macenna were great characters and added to the story. The authors development of the sex scenes really brightened up the story and made this book and it’s characters sizzle. Worthy of a second reading.
Nice story. Drama not awfully bad. Characters were well defined and storyline was well written. Vanessa and Macenna were great characters and added to the story. The authors development of the sex scenes really brightened up the story and made this book and it’s characters sizzle. Worthy of a second reading.
May 23, 2021
Beautifully Romantic
This story is so beautiful and romantic with a little bit of angst. MaKenna and Vanessa fell in love when they were teens but were torn apart by fear on different levels. When they meet again so many years later and look into each other’s eyes for the first time can only be described as the beginning of a Christmas miracle. ;)
This story is so beautiful and romantic with a little bit of angst. MaKenna and Vanessa fell in love when they were teens but were torn apart by fear on different levels. When they meet again so many years later and look into each other’s eyes for the first time can only be described as the beginning of a Christmas miracle. ;)
December 29, 2021
A sweet love story that spans decades. It’s set at Christmastime but this book is for any season of love - and not just a December read! It’s a story not only about love. It is also about family, acceptance, and forgiveness. The book is: 1 part sexy, 1 part relatable, and 1 part miracles. Appropriate for readers 18+
April 28, 2023
Christmas Magic
It's nearly the end of April as I write this (having just read the novella) and it has filled me with Christmas Magic. No matter what time of year it is "Christmas" can bring miracles and light into our lives. Pick up this quick read and bless yourself with Jamey Moody magic in the form of Vanessa and Mckenna's story. It's priceless and wonderful.
It's nearly the end of April as I write this (having just read the novella) and it has filled me with Christmas Magic. No matter what time of year it is "Christmas" can bring miracles and light into our lives. Pick up this quick read and bless yourself with Jamey Moody magic in the form of Vanessa and Mckenna's story. It's priceless and wonderful.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews