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Hardman Holidays #2
The Christmas Token
Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. Reluctantly returning to the community where she spent her childhood years, she plans to relax and enjoy a peaceful visit. Not expecting to encounter the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
A talented carpenter, Blake Stratton enjoys a simple existence in the small western town of Hardman. With honest work and good friends, his life is nearly perfect, at least until the day Ginny Granger arrives, setting him on his ear and turning his world upside down. Infuriated by her meddling presence, he’s further exasperated to discover she kept a Christmas token he gave her along with his heart the day she left town many years ago.
Love sweet holiday romances set in the splendor of the Victorian era? Don't miss out on the rest of the Hardman Holidays series!
The Christmas Bargain (Book 1) - As owner and manager of the Hardman bank, Luke Granger is a man of responsibility and integrity in the small 1890s Eastern Oregon town. When he calls in a long overdue loan, Luke finds himself reluctantly accepting a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt.
The Christmas Token (Book 2) - Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. Returning to the community where she spent her childhood years, she plans to relax and enjoy a peaceful visit. Not expecting to encounter the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
The Christmas Calamity (Book 3) - Dependable and solid, Arlan Guthry relishes his orderly life as a banker’s assistant in Hardman, Oregon. His uncluttered world tilts off kilter when the beautiful and enigmatic prestidigitator Alexandra Janowski arrives in town, spinning magic and trouble in her wake as the holiday season approaches.
A talented carpenter, Blake Stratton enjoys a simple existence in the small western town of Hardman. With honest work and good friends, his life is nearly perfect, at least until the day Ginny Granger arrives, setting him on his ear and turning his world upside down. Infuriated by her meddling presence, he’s further exasperated to discover she kept a Christmas token he gave her along with his heart the day she left town many years ago.
Love sweet holiday romances set in the splendor of the Victorian era? Don't miss out on the rest of the Hardman Holidays series!
The Christmas Bargain (Book 1) - As owner and manager of the Hardman bank, Luke Granger is a man of responsibility and integrity in the small 1890s Eastern Oregon town. When he calls in a long overdue loan, Luke finds himself reluctantly accepting a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt.
The Christmas Token (Book 2) - Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. Returning to the community where she spent her childhood years, she plans to relax and enjoy a peaceful visit. Not expecting to encounter the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
The Christmas Calamity (Book 3) - Dependable and solid, Arlan Guthry relishes his orderly life as a banker’s assistant in Hardman, Oregon. His uncluttered world tilts off kilter when the beautiful and enigmatic prestidigitator Alexandra Janowski arrives in town, spinning magic and trouble in her wake as the holiday season approaches.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2013
720 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Shanna Hatfield
163 books1,319 followersA hopeless romantic with a bit of sarcasm thrown in for good measure, Shanna Hatfield is a best-selling author of clean romantic fiction written with a healthy dose of humor.
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
November 27, 2019
..
The Christmas Token is the second book of the Hardman Holidays by Shanna Hatfield. Ginny Granger grew up in Hardman, Oregon before her parents took her back east, to prevent her from marrying Blake Stratton. Ginny escapes New York and flees to her brother's home in Hardman near the Christmas holiday, Blake Stratton was thrown off guard when Ginny tumbled out of the stagecoach and landed in a mud puddle on her backside, years after she had been snatched away by her parents. It didn't take long to discover that her heart still belongs to Blake. Unfortunately, she has a man in New York obsessed with her and eventually followed her to Hardman, demanding that she marry him before the year ended.
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
All she wanted was a peaceful holiday
A sweet holiday romance from USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield
Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. Returning to the community where she spent her childhood years, she plans to relax and enjoy a peaceful visit. Not expecting to encounter when the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
A talented carpenter, Blake Stratton enjoys a simple existence in the small western town of Hardman. With honest work and good friends, his life is nearly perfect, at least until the day Ginny Granger arrives, setting him on his ear and turning his world upside down. Infuriated by her meddling presence, he’s further exasperated to discover she kept a Christmas token he gave her along with his heart the day she left town many years ago.
Deception, Betrayal, Unrequited Love,
Blake Stratton was thrown off guard when Ginny tumbled out of the coach and landed in a mud puddle on her backside, years after she had been snatched away by her parents. Her first reaction was that of the petulance of a spoiled child. On the other hand, his reaction was more comical.
Blake's natural good looks had only improved since Ginny had last seen him. Ginny's beauty had flourished as well. It did not take long for these two young people to rekindle their relationship.
The relationship ignited and continued to grow. When a consequential event places a wedge between their future happiness, a quick decision must be addressed immediately. The conclusion was pleasant and delightful.
This is listed under Christian, Historical, and Western.
This clean and wholesome series, with the exception of some passionate kisses, provides a wide array of Holiday and romantical experiences in the town of Hardman, Oregon. It is an enjoyable series and I would recommend it to those that enjoy this genre.
Enjoy all the books in the Hardman Holidays series!
The Christmas Bargain (Hardman Holidays, Book 1)
When Luke Granger calls in a long overdue loan, he reluctantly accepts a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt.
The Christmas Token (Hardman Holidays, Book 2)
Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. The last thing she expects is to encounter the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
The Christmas Calamity (Hardman Holidays, Book 3)
Arlan Guthry's uncluttered world tilts off-kilter when the beautiful and enigmatic prestidigitator Alexandra Janowski arrives in town, spinning magic and trouble in her wake as the holiday season approaches.
The Christmas Vow (Hardman Holidays, Book 4)
Sailor Adam Guthry returns home to bury his best friend and his past, only to fall once more for the girl who broke his heart.
The Christmas Quandary ( (Hardman Holidays, Book 5)
In need of a place to recuperate from a work injury, Tom Grove heads home for the holidays. He didn’t plan on his parents acting like lovesick newlyweds, being asked to teach at the school, or falling in love.
------------------------------
The Christmas Token:
(Victorian Holiday Romance)
(Hardman Holidays Book 2)
. . . Kindle Edition
by Shanna Hatfield (Author)
Print Length: 314 pages
..
The Christmas Token is the second book of the Hardman Holidays by Shanna Hatfield. Ginny Granger grew up in Hardman, Oregon before her parents took her back east, to prevent her from marrying Blake Stratton. Ginny escapes New York and flees to her brother's home in Hardman near the Christmas holiday, Blake Stratton was thrown off guard when Ginny tumbled out of the stagecoach and landed in a mud puddle on her backside, years after she had been snatched away by her parents. It didn't take long to discover that her heart still belongs to Blake. Unfortunately, she has a man in New York obsessed with her and eventually followed her to Hardman, demanding that she marry him before the year ended.
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
All she wanted was a peaceful holiday
A sweet holiday romance from USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield
Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. Returning to the community where she spent her childhood years, she plans to relax and enjoy a peaceful visit. Not expecting to encounter when the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
A talented carpenter, Blake Stratton enjoys a simple existence in the small western town of Hardman. With honest work and good friends, his life is nearly perfect, at least until the day Ginny Granger arrives, setting him on his ear and turning his world upside down. Infuriated by her meddling presence, he’s further exasperated to discover she kept a Christmas token he gave her along with his heart the day she left town many years ago.
Deception, Betrayal, Unrequited Love,
Blake Stratton was thrown off guard when Ginny tumbled out of the coach and landed in a mud puddle on her backside, years after she had been snatched away by her parents. Her first reaction was that of the petulance of a spoiled child. On the other hand, his reaction was more comical.
Blake's natural good looks had only improved since Ginny had last seen him. Ginny's beauty had flourished as well. It did not take long for these two young people to rekindle their relationship.
The relationship ignited and continued to grow. When a consequential event places a wedge between their future happiness, a quick decision must be addressed immediately. The conclusion was pleasant and delightful.
This is listed under Christian, Historical, and Western.
This clean and wholesome series, with the exception of some passionate kisses, provides a wide array of Holiday and romantical experiences in the town of Hardman, Oregon. It is an enjoyable series and I would recommend it to those that enjoy this genre.
Enjoy all the books in the Hardman Holidays series!
The Christmas Bargain (Hardman Holidays, Book 1)
When Luke Granger calls in a long overdue loan, he reluctantly accepts a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt.
The Christmas Token (Hardman Holidays, Book 2)
Determined to escape an unwelcome suitor, Ginny Granger flees to her brother’s home in Eastern Oregon for the holiday season. The last thing she expects is to encounter the boy she once loved, her exile proves to be anything but restful.
The Christmas Calamity (Hardman Holidays, Book 3)
Arlan Guthry's uncluttered world tilts off-kilter when the beautiful and enigmatic prestidigitator Alexandra Janowski arrives in town, spinning magic and trouble in her wake as the holiday season approaches.
The Christmas Vow (Hardman Holidays, Book 4)
Sailor Adam Guthry returns home to bury his best friend and his past, only to fall once more for the girl who broke his heart.
The Christmas Quandary ( (Hardman Holidays, Book 5)
In need of a place to recuperate from a work injury, Tom Grove heads home for the holidays. He didn’t plan on his parents acting like lovesick newlyweds, being asked to teach at the school, or falling in love.
------------------------------
The Christmas Token:
(Victorian Holiday Romance)
(Hardman Holidays Book 2)
. . . Kindle Edition
by Shanna Hatfield (Author)
Print Length: 314 pages
..
October 19, 2015
The Christmas Token
Introduction:
Ginny and Blake have been in love since they were teenagers. Then Ginny moved away and has never been back. Until now. And she brings danger with her. Will Ginny and Blake be able to move past their differences in time to save Ginny from a desperate man?
Characters: 1/1
To put it plainly, Ginny is a spoiled brat and Blake is the consummate gentleman. At first. Then Ginny starts to really grow up into an accomplished young woman with ambitions.
Blake was hurt deeply when Ginny left and didn’t write a single letter back to him so many years back. When she returns and the feelings he buried so deep start to work to the surface, he is faced with decisions and sometimes they aren’t the right ones.
Dialogue: .75/1
The dialogue fit the characters. Although, when it was first mentioned that Blake’s parents are from England and that Blake has a slight accent, I would have never guessed it. A few Briticisms may have helped that some. As with The Christmas Bargain, there was a little more heat than I cared for.
Plot/Storyline: .75/1
Overall, the plot and storyline were good. There was more heat than I found comfortable, but it never progressed further (on screen) than some heated kisses.
Overall writing quality: .75/1
The editing appeared better in The Christmas Token than it was in The Christmas Bargain, but there were still a few typos. Overall, though, the quality was very good.
Un-put-down-ability: 1/1
Shanna has a talent for writing books you can’t put down. This one didn’t disappoint.
Conclusion: 4.25/5
Again, the heat level was more than I cared for, but still what would usually be considered clean. If you like suspenseful Christmas romance, you’ll enjoy this book.
Note: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Introduction:
Ginny and Blake have been in love since they were teenagers. Then Ginny moved away and has never been back. Until now. And she brings danger with her. Will Ginny and Blake be able to move past their differences in time to save Ginny from a desperate man?
Characters: 1/1
To put it plainly, Ginny is a spoiled brat and Blake is the consummate gentleman. At first. Then Ginny starts to really grow up into an accomplished young woman with ambitions.
Blake was hurt deeply when Ginny left and didn’t write a single letter back to him so many years back. When she returns and the feelings he buried so deep start to work to the surface, he is faced with decisions and sometimes they aren’t the right ones.
Dialogue: .75/1
The dialogue fit the characters. Although, when it was first mentioned that Blake’s parents are from England and that Blake has a slight accent, I would have never guessed it. A few Briticisms may have helped that some. As with The Christmas Bargain, there was a little more heat than I cared for.
Plot/Storyline: .75/1
Overall, the plot and storyline were good. There was more heat than I found comfortable, but it never progressed further (on screen) than some heated kisses.
Overall writing quality: .75/1
The editing appeared better in The Christmas Token than it was in The Christmas Bargain, but there were still a few typos. Overall, though, the quality was very good.
Un-put-down-ability: 1/1
Shanna has a talent for writing books you can’t put down. This one didn’t disappoint.
Conclusion: 4.25/5
Again, the heat level was more than I cared for, but still what would usually be considered clean. If you like suspenseful Christmas romance, you’ll enjoy this book.
Note: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2018
Once again Shanna Hatfield brings me to tears and joy with a book of hers I tell you I just love this Sweet Blessed of God lady’s writing, Teenage sweethearts have been separated 10 long years yet Ginny still carries a long ago Christmas Token that Blake gave her when they were separated by a devious and conniving Mother that Ginny had at the time can Ginny and Blake forgive each other for the letters they never received due to the meddlesome Mother of Ginny and will they both forgive her and can Ginny get away from someone before it’s to late Omg Shanna has a wonderful story woven here. I tell you I love this author with all my heart.!! Shanna Hatfield can write some of the best uplifting stories without being overly preachy. I always feel uplifted when I finish one of her stories and Once again Christmas Token didn’t disappoint
December 8, 2018
My review is based on the audio version of this book.
This is a very kissy Christmas book. A couple of kisses were bordering on scandalous but otherwise, it's a clean read.
I loved how Ginny's character grew in this story. She starts out as a spoiled, privileged, unmotivated to do anything to support herself, woman.
The frustration of not receiving letters from each other ten years ago (when Ginny moved away) caused much hurt and doubt between Blake and Ginny. It was nice to see them overcome that.
The only thing that bothered me was the narration.
The male narrator does the most annoying female voices and giggles (both male and female) that I've ever heard.
This is a very kissy Christmas book. A couple of kisses were bordering on scandalous but otherwise, it's a clean read.
I loved how Ginny's character grew in this story. She starts out as a spoiled, privileged, unmotivated to do anything to support herself, woman.
The frustration of not receiving letters from each other ten years ago (when Ginny moved away) caused much hurt and doubt between Blake and Ginny. It was nice to see them overcome that.
The only thing that bothered me was the narration.
The male narrator does the most annoying female voices and giggles (both male and female) that I've ever heard.
November 21, 2014
3.5 For what it was it was cute, Christmas tale in the old west. But, it's missing a little angst. What makes you enjoy a Christmas story is the plot must overcoming something. I never felt the leads were never going to resolve their differences, so that element is missing. But the family/community is an excellent one. A few hours of diversion.
December 18, 2018
This was an excellent book to read, the second one in the series. It was just as good as the first one. It was intriguing, romantic and mysterious all in one. A terrific second book.
December 14, 2018
Great book
This book was wonderful! I enjoyed all the different families and watching them grow. The storyline was wonderful and the word pictures were great.
This book was wonderful! I enjoyed all the different families and watching them grow. The storyline was wonderful and the word pictures were great.
December 1, 2016
The Christmas Token by Shanna Hatfield is the second book in Hardman Holidays. This book follows Ginny Granger, Luke’s younger sister, as she returns to Hardman and her brother’s home hoping to escape an unwanted proposal. Ginny’s return throws the town’s carpenter and her childhood sweetheart Blake Stratton for a loop.
Ginny was hard to like. Luke had described her in The Christmas Bargain as his spoiled and pampered baby sister and that she never grew up. He was right. Ginny is every bit as spoiled as Luke proclaimed her to be. But I do think she is misunderstood. This is a girl that has been carrying around heartbreak since she was 15. She was in love, forced to leave and never heard from the boy again. Now she’s happy to play the entitled daughter role, traveling around the world without a care in the world until she attracts unwanted attention from a man that claims they are engaged. I don’t blame her for running to her brother on that one. I would have too! Throughout the book though, Ginny grows (thanks in large part to Luke and his wife). She becomes a character with a generous heart.
Blake is a character you will love instantly. He is kind, giving, and hardworking. He is there for his friends, even the girl who left him behind. It’s been years and he never received any replies from her, not a single one when he’d written dozens of letters. He thought he was over her until he saw her fall from the coach. Now he’s confused, a little bitter, and untrusting of Ginny who didn’t just break his heart, she trampled it. I like Blake, but he is hard on Ginny. He takes all his anger out on her and honestly even though she’s spoiled I didn’t think she deserved it…at least to that extent.
Overall I enjoyed this story, reading it in one sitting. It’s sweet, heart-breaking, and takes you back in time. I love the stolen moments they find together and the good things they bring out in one another. If you enjoy Victorian romance, I highly recommend this book!
Ginny was hard to like. Luke had described her in The Christmas Bargain as his spoiled and pampered baby sister and that she never grew up. He was right. Ginny is every bit as spoiled as Luke proclaimed her to be. But I do think she is misunderstood. This is a girl that has been carrying around heartbreak since she was 15. She was in love, forced to leave and never heard from the boy again. Now she’s happy to play the entitled daughter role, traveling around the world without a care in the world until she attracts unwanted attention from a man that claims they are engaged. I don’t blame her for running to her brother on that one. I would have too! Throughout the book though, Ginny grows (thanks in large part to Luke and his wife). She becomes a character with a generous heart.
Blake is a character you will love instantly. He is kind, giving, and hardworking. He is there for his friends, even the girl who left him behind. It’s been years and he never received any replies from her, not a single one when he’d written dozens of letters. He thought he was over her until he saw her fall from the coach. Now he’s confused, a little bitter, and untrusting of Ginny who didn’t just break his heart, she trampled it. I like Blake, but he is hard on Ginny. He takes all his anger out on her and honestly even though she’s spoiled I didn’t think she deserved it…at least to that extent.
Overall I enjoyed this story, reading it in one sitting. It’s sweet, heart-breaking, and takes you back in time. I love the stolen moments they find together and the good things they bring out in one another. If you enjoy Victorian romance, I highly recommend this book!
December 20, 2017
Reviewed at Historically Romantic
I have to admit that it took me a long while to warm up to Ginny. I knew that eventually she’d turn from her totally spoiled, entitled brat ways but it was a struggle to like her. Blake was quite easy to like, a humble man even with his family’s riches and titles, he’s exactly what we see a kind, caring carpenter who simply wants to live a good life and take care of those in his community. Years apart from Ginny without any word has tempered the man he once was. Now he’s not looking for that grand passion, simply to live a good satisfying life. Yet when Ginny returns he has questions, and he is determined he will eventually get those answers.
A Christmas Token is a slow blossoming for Ginny and Blake. Once Ginny started to act like a decent human, started to think beyond her own wants and opened her eyes to what was right in front of her she began to work her way into my heart. It’s easier to think of her as a brokenhearted very young woman when she and her mother and father originally left Hardman for New York City. After all, she’s been under her mother influence for years – long before Dora has had her more recent change of heart and attitude. Slowly the people of Hardman work their magic on her, that’s when she becomes a character that I wanted to find happiness.
Two years have passed since Filly and Luke married in The Christmas Bargain. It was quite fun to see them now, still deeply in love and growing in their marriage. With a few twists and turns, The Christmas Token offers an interesting romance, forgiveness needed on many fronts and it shows how life moves on sometimes with the happy ending we never thought we’d find. While I did enjoy the first story more, Ginny and Blake’s romance was touching, frustrating and unique to them. I’m glad they got their happy ending, even if it took them so long to finally find it.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I have to admit that it took me a long while to warm up to Ginny. I knew that eventually she’d turn from her totally spoiled, entitled brat ways but it was a struggle to like her. Blake was quite easy to like, a humble man even with his family’s riches and titles, he’s exactly what we see a kind, caring carpenter who simply wants to live a good life and take care of those in his community. Years apart from Ginny without any word has tempered the man he once was. Now he’s not looking for that grand passion, simply to live a good satisfying life. Yet when Ginny returns he has questions, and he is determined he will eventually get those answers.
A Christmas Token is a slow blossoming for Ginny and Blake. Once Ginny started to act like a decent human, started to think beyond her own wants and opened her eyes to what was right in front of her she began to work her way into my heart. It’s easier to think of her as a brokenhearted very young woman when she and her mother and father originally left Hardman for New York City. After all, she’s been under her mother influence for years – long before Dora has had her more recent change of heart and attitude. Slowly the people of Hardman work their magic on her, that’s when she becomes a character that I wanted to find happiness.
Two years have passed since Filly and Luke married in The Christmas Bargain. It was quite fun to see them now, still deeply in love and growing in their marriage. With a few twists and turns, The Christmas Token offers an interesting romance, forgiveness needed on many fronts and it shows how life moves on sometimes with the happy ending we never thought we’d find. While I did enjoy the first story more, Ginny and Blake’s romance was touching, frustrating and unique to them. I’m glad they got their happy ending, even if it took them so long to finally find it.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
November 12, 2020
After 10 years, Blake and Ginny are back in the same town and neither knows how to deal with the situation. Ten years ago they were young teens in love and planning a future together, but they were separated and something happened that left them each with broken hearts. Now that they are reunited the same old feelings arise but after having their hearts broken from the other neither is sure they want to risk love again. Can Ginny and Blake open their hearts to one another? Is it worth the risk? As the story progresses we learn that someone else was responsible for their broken hearts. But will this information change their attitude towards one another?
I wasn’t really a fan of Ginny when I first met her, but over the course of the story I saw her grow from a spoiled girl into a caring young woman. Blake’s interaction with Luke and little Erin drew me to him, but then the scene of him expressing his anger towards Ginny made me wonder if I should like him. His anger felt a bit over the top. However he redeemed himself in my eyes and the more he and Ginny interacted I began cheering for them to overcome their past.
This book had me escaping from everyday life and laughing at the antics and quips between characters. I especially enjoyed spending more time in Hardman and catching up with the characters from book 1. The sibling relationship between Luke and Ginny reminded me a bit of the teasing that happens between me and my brother. Little Erin was really cute and added a sweetness to this story. Overall I was pleased with the way the story progressed and I loved the ending.
This review first appeared at: C Jane Read.
I wasn’t really a fan of Ginny when I first met her, but over the course of the story I saw her grow from a spoiled girl into a caring young woman. Blake’s interaction with Luke and little Erin drew me to him, but then the scene of him expressing his anger towards Ginny made me wonder if I should like him. His anger felt a bit over the top. However he redeemed himself in my eyes and the more he and Ginny interacted I began cheering for them to overcome their past.
This book had me escaping from everyday life and laughing at the antics and quips between characters. I especially enjoyed spending more time in Hardman and catching up with the characters from book 1. The sibling relationship between Luke and Ginny reminded me a bit of the teasing that happens between me and my brother. Little Erin was really cute and added a sweetness to this story. Overall I was pleased with the way the story progressed and I loved the ending.
This review first appeared at: C Jane Read.
November 19, 2018
It was difficult for me to like the main character, Ginny at first. She was haughty and a spit fire for sure. But over the course of the book Ms. Hattfield won me over with her growth process from shrew to sweetheart. Blake was everything a hero should be and a Brittish charming man to boot! I enjoyed all the follow up stories with Filly & Luke, Dora and Greg, Abby, Chauncy and Erin....this sweet Community of Hardman has me wanting more! Thank you, Ms. Hattfield.
November 19, 2014
This is a perfect read for the holidays, but also anytime you're looking for a sweet romance. It's not graphic in any way but passionate and romantic. Ginny is such a feisty, fun character. I enjoyed her so much and the characters in the little town of Hardman, Oregon. This follows The Christmas Bargain but can be read on it's own. This is about first love. The man she's loved all her life and thought she lost 10 years ago, comes back into her life and trouble ensues. You'll laugh and cry and want more!
January 9, 2016
This was the same cute romance as I have come to expect from Ms. Hatfield. The reason for three stars was that as the story began (and for about 3/5ths of the book) Ginny was not likable, really, or at least other than looks not really a logical object of a nice guy like Blake's affection. So despite a happy ending, I felt a little like Blake was not entirely getting a happily ever after. Be that as it may, I am on to book 3 and hope to be proved wrong.
January 6, 2017
A lovely romance set in small town America in late 1800's
This was a really good romance. While Ginny has always looked to causes and travel, Blake is very happy living a simple life. The come together when Ginny comes back to the small town of her childhood and to Blake. It is a good story with family and friends conniving to bring Ginny and Blake together. A lovely visit to small town America in the late 1800's.
This was a really good romance. While Ginny has always looked to causes and travel, Blake is very happy living a simple life. The come together when Ginny comes back to the small town of her childhood and to Blake. It is a good story with family and friends conniving to bring Ginny and Blake together. A lovely visit to small town America in the late 1800's.
December 13, 2016
I adored book 1 in the series, and while I liked this book, I didn't love it as much as the first. In fact, my favorite parts were the glimpses of Filly and Luke. I liked Ginny and Blake, and I am usually a suck for second chance love stories. It wasn't that there was anything wrong with them, but they just didn't have the same magic as the first couple. Still an enjoyable story!
July 1, 2015
I loved the first book so I bought this one. I wasn't quite as in love with it as the first one. I felt like there was WAY too much filler - they were always kissing, always staring at each other, etc which is great, except it got a little monotonous.
May 25, 2017
Book 2
The Granger family story continues in this sweet romantic tale.This book doesn't hold any surprises but sometimes you just want the story about characters that you like to continue to provide light reading entertainment, and this book does just that.
The Granger family story continues in this sweet romantic tale.This book doesn't hold any surprises but sometimes you just want the story about characters that you like to continue to provide light reading entertainment, and this book does just that.
September 8, 2017
Characters: Blake and Ginny
It was just ok for me. The story was often cheesy, and everything always turned out conveniently well. Some would say it was "so lovely." The character of Erin really bugged me. Little kids don't really talk like that in reality.
It was just ok for me. The story was often cheesy, and everything always turned out conveniently well. Some would say it was "so lovely." The character of Erin really bugged me. Little kids don't really talk like that in reality.
December 2, 2017
Can love be rekindled again?
Leaving behind an unpleasant suitor; Ginny heads to her brother's. Meeting her love from her childhood; stirs up memories and wishes, she thought were buried.
Leaving behind an unpleasant suitor; Ginny heads to her brother's. Meeting her love from her childhood; stirs up memories and wishes, she thought were buried.
December 16, 2021
A great series where every book takes place at Christmas. Perfect December reads for the western historical romance fan! Hatfield does a lot of research into her books and always notes at the end of the book some of the things she learned in her research which I always find fascinating.
December 28, 2017
Sweet, clean romance
Not overly romantic. To me, Ginny acted awfully childish. But, all in all, not a bad romance.
A little convoluted at times, it did tend to get on my nerves from time to time. But, a nice hea.
Not overly romantic. To me, Ginny acted awfully childish. But, all in all, not a bad romance.
A little convoluted at times, it did tend to get on my nerves from time to time. But, a nice hea.
June 18, 2017
Delightful
This book is a sweet and straightforward love story. The reader will be drawn in by the characters as they are so genuinely portrayed.
This book is a sweet and straightforward love story. The reader will be drawn in by the characters as they are so genuinely portrayed.
June 26, 2017
Cute book on second chances at love but entirely too much kissing. It was fun to revisit some of the characters from the previous book.
November 12, 2017
The Token
The book was great. Fun, fast read. I actually love the prudish behavior of the women and the little innuendos from the men.
The book was great. Fun, fast read. I actually love the prudish behavior of the women and the little innuendos from the men.
November 28, 2017
Christmas Kisses
Another lovely addition to the series. I really enjoyed how feisty Ginny is and how Blake loves her so. Beautiful story!
Another lovely addition to the series. I really enjoyed how feisty Ginny is and how Blake loves her so. Beautiful story!
March 16, 2018
Great series
I'm really enjoying this series. I love the characters and the fact that they carry over into the next book so you get to see how their relationships develop
I'm really enjoying this series. I love the characters and the fact that they carry over into the next book so you get to see how their relationships develop
August 10, 2018
Getting your happy ending.
The characters showed patience and hope to get their happily ever after. But each had to wait for the right time and diligently work to find love.
The characters showed patience and hope to get their happily ever after. But each had to wait for the right time and diligently work to find love.
September 14, 2023
The reason I’m dropping this book from a four to a three (I’m sorry; it wasn’t much of a five) is because of its lack of plot. There’s a slight plot that enters when the story is about to finish, but other than that, it’s just a romance story using the lovers to enemies to lovers trope. And maybe I just haven’t read enough romance (it’s not my kind of niche, tbh) but I thought it could have used a bit more climactic events and rising action. (Can you tell I teach literature ahah jk)
Characters were great. I loved returning to Luke and Filly. I read their story like three years ago when I first got my Kindle (it came as a freebie) and seeing the again was nice. The main characters were new, and they had descriptions I could follow. I actually didn’t think Ginny was as bad as the other characters thought her out to be until much later in the book. For example, I had no problem with her jabbing her pin into the hand of the mean guy she sat next to on the stage coach into Hardman. (Not exactly a spoiler, just an example from the book to make a point.)
I have mix feelings about Blake. He was a bit overbearing at times, and he didn’t really think before acting. Sure he had his good moments of humility and kindness, but there was a side of him that I don’t think is exactly husband-worthy, if that makes sense. I mean, good for Ginny that she found somebody, a childhood lover of all things, but their relationship felt rushed, even with it being a childhood-lover situation.
So speed is what caught me off-guard. Their relationship developed too fast. We definitely didn’t get enough enemy time, which I always like to see before they get back together. It could have slowed down, and there was plenty of room to do that.
However, I still got through it, so it must have been a decent book at the back of my mind. My brain just likes to pick at things when I’m writing reviews. I wouldn’t read it again, and I’m not likely to read the others (except maybe just the third one someday; I wanna know about our boi Arlan). It’s a good chill read, and that’s what I wanted to have as a getaway from work.
Characters were great. I loved returning to Luke and Filly. I read their story like three years ago when I first got my Kindle (it came as a freebie) and seeing the again was nice. The main characters were new, and they had descriptions I could follow. I actually didn’t think Ginny was as bad as the other characters thought her out to be until much later in the book. For example, I had no problem with her jabbing her pin into the hand of the mean guy she sat next to on the stage coach into Hardman. (Not exactly a spoiler, just an example from the book to make a point.)
I have mix feelings about Blake. He was a bit overbearing at times, and he didn’t really think before acting. Sure he had his good moments of humility and kindness, but there was a side of him that I don’t think is exactly husband-worthy, if that makes sense. I mean, good for Ginny that she found somebody, a childhood lover of all things, but their relationship felt rushed, even with it being a childhood-lover situation.
So speed is what caught me off-guard. Their relationship developed too fast. We definitely didn’t get enough enemy time, which I always like to see before they get back together. It could have slowed down, and there was plenty of room to do that.
However, I still got through it, so it must have been a decent book at the back of my mind. My brain just likes to pick at things when I’m writing reviews. I wouldn’t read it again, and I’m not likely to read the others (except maybe just the third one someday; I wanna know about our boi Arlan). It’s a good chill read, and that’s what I wanted to have as a getaway from work.
January 9, 2023
Another Granger family Christmas
Heading back to Hardman for the next chapter in the Grantees Christmas. This time Luke's sister Ginny arrives unexpectedly in Hardman with a lot of drama which is not unusual for Ginny. She hasn't been back to Hardman in ten years. She was in love with Blake but broke her heart when she didn't even get one letter, not one answer to the letters she wrote to him. With Luke's influence she makes changes in her life and with the machinations of the people of the town and her family she and Blake learn the truth behind the reason her family moved to New York and with a little more drama finally have an impromptu Christmas wedding.
Blake is more than he seems and I enjoyed the way he and Ginny tried to resist their attraction while getting reacquainted and Ginny focused and made major changes in her life. All the people in Filly and Luke's story were once again involved and the addition of baby Erin was a big bonus.
Heading back to Hardman for the next chapter in the Grantees Christmas. This time Luke's sister Ginny arrives unexpectedly in Hardman with a lot of drama which is not unusual for Ginny. She hasn't been back to Hardman in ten years. She was in love with Blake but broke her heart when she didn't even get one letter, not one answer to the letters she wrote to him. With Luke's influence she makes changes in her life and with the machinations of the people of the town and her family she and Blake learn the truth behind the reason her family moved to New York and with a little more drama finally have an impromptu Christmas wedding.
Blake is more than he seems and I enjoyed the way he and Ginny tried to resist their attraction while getting reacquainted and Ginny focused and made major changes in her life. All the people in Filly and Luke's story were once again involved and the addition of baby Erin was a big bonus.
December 27, 2020
Blake and Genevieve
This is a sweet love story about two young loves that were separated for ten years, through no fault of their own. They each promised to write but, fate had a hand in that too. Ten years later they meet back in their hometown of Hardman, each feeling hurt by the other. Circumstance and the well meaning interference by friends and family members bring them to the realization they each still have feelings for each other. You will enjoy discovering how Blake and Ginny find their happily ever after.
This is a sweet love story about two young loves that were separated for ten years, through no fault of their own. They each promised to write but, fate had a hand in that too. Ten years later they meet back in their hometown of Hardman, each feeling hurt by the other. Circumstance and the well meaning interference by friends and family members bring them to the realization they each still have feelings for each other. You will enjoy discovering how Blake and Ginny find their happily ever after.
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