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Cape Hope #2
Christmas Ever After
He once chose her happiness over his. Can this Christmas be their second chance?
Cassidy Hanna never felt like she belonged in Cape Hope, so she fled town and heartbreak ten years ago for a new life in Manhattan and everything she ever dreamed of—a great job and the perfect boyfriend. Only she’s never felt emptier and more alone. When her beloved grandfather falls ill, she knows she must push aside the past and return home to help.
Letting Cassidy go without a fight was the hardest thing Cape Hope doctor Phoenix Walker had ever done. Even as his own life fell apart, he lied and encouraged her to fly far from home to live out her dreams. Now Cassidy’s back—just for Christmas—and Phoenix wonders if they can have a second chance at a happy ever after...even if it’s just for the holiday.
Cassidy Hanna never felt like she belonged in Cape Hope, so she fled town and heartbreak ten years ago for a new life in Manhattan and everything she ever dreamed of—a great job and the perfect boyfriend. Only she’s never felt emptier and more alone. When her beloved grandfather falls ill, she knows she must push aside the past and return home to help.
Letting Cassidy go without a fight was the hardest thing Cape Hope doctor Phoenix Walker had ever done. Even as his own life fell apart, he lied and encouraged her to fly far from home to live out her dreams. Now Cassidy’s back—just for Christmas—and Phoenix wonders if they can have a second chance at a happy ever after...even if it’s just for the holiday.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2021
45 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Clare Connelly
517 books406 followersFor all things Clare Connelly, please see www.clareconnelly.co.uk, the official home of Clare Connelly on the web.
Clare Connelly grew up in a small country town in Australia. Surrounded by rainforests, and rickety old timber houses, magic was thick in the air, and stories and storytelling were a huge part of her childhood.
From early on in life, Clare realised her favourite books were romance stories, and read voraciously. Anything from Jane Austen to Georgette Heyer, to Mills & Boon and (more recently) 50 Shades, Clare is a romance devotee. She first turned her hand to penning a novel at fifteen (if memory serves, it was something about a glamorous fashion model who fell foul of a high-end designer. Sparks flew, clothes flew faster, and love was born.)
Clare has a small family and a bungalow near the sea. When she isn't chasing after energetic little toddlers, or wiping fingerprints off furniture, she's writing, thinking about writing, or wishing she were writing.
Clare Connelly grew up in a small country town in Australia. Surrounded by rainforests, and rickety old timber houses, magic was thick in the air, and stories and storytelling were a huge part of her childhood.
From early on in life, Clare realised her favourite books were romance stories, and read voraciously. Anything from Jane Austen to Georgette Heyer, to Mills & Boon and (more recently) 50 Shades, Clare is a romance devotee. She first turned her hand to penning a novel at fifteen (if memory serves, it was something about a glamorous fashion model who fell foul of a high-end designer. Sparks flew, clothes flew faster, and love was born.)
Clare has a small family and a bungalow near the sea. When she isn't chasing after energetic little toddlers, or wiping fingerprints off furniture, she's writing, thinking about writing, or wishing she were writing.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 6, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Christmas Ever After is the second title in the Cape Hope series, and brings us two separated loves back together for a second chance… and another surprising romance as well. Cassidy and Phoenix were once madly in love even though her dreams were far beyond their small hometown. But she believed they would work all of that out together and in the meantime, she went off to New York City only to have Phoenix truly set her free. Years later now, Cassidy’s grandfather needs her home at least for the holiday season. It’s up to two people who never really stopped loving each other to decide if it will be more than just a quick visit in the end.
I enjoyed Christmas Ever After as it wanders through the past and the present to give us the whole story of this couple who really do fit so well together. It was the blending of what happened before and what is taking place right now that gives the reader a bit of insight into decisions that were made… right or wrong. Now, even though I loved their story overall it is one of my … what’s the right word to use… let’s say annoyances when someone makes a decision for me (or a character) “for my own good” without talking about it, discussing it, making it right beforehand and not living in regret later. Phoenix did that to Cassie. He made a choice for her, and the results were a painful separation that both paid for. Watching them work their way back to each other, in spite of how they parted, was an emotional journey that kept me flipping pages to discover what came next for them.
We also get another romance, a slightly different one that tugged at my heart the entire time. No, not a word more, you should discover that one all on your own.
As always from this author, I found a delightful, realistic romance full of conflict, emotions, and resolutions. If you’re looking for a really good Christmas-time romance to add to your wish list then Christmas Ever After would be a good choice. I had a good time back in this world, and really, that’s all that matters.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Christmas Ever After is the second title in the Cape Hope series, and brings us two separated loves back together for a second chance… and another surprising romance as well. Cassidy and Phoenix were once madly in love even though her dreams were far beyond their small hometown. But she believed they would work all of that out together and in the meantime, she went off to New York City only to have Phoenix truly set her free. Years later now, Cassidy’s grandfather needs her home at least for the holiday season. It’s up to two people who never really stopped loving each other to decide if it will be more than just a quick visit in the end.
I enjoyed Christmas Ever After as it wanders through the past and the present to give us the whole story of this couple who really do fit so well together. It was the blending of what happened before and what is taking place right now that gives the reader a bit of insight into decisions that were made… right or wrong. Now, even though I loved their story overall it is one of my … what’s the right word to use… let’s say annoyances when someone makes a decision for me (or a character) “for my own good” without talking about it, discussing it, making it right beforehand and not living in regret later. Phoenix did that to Cassie. He made a choice for her, and the results were a painful separation that both paid for. Watching them work their way back to each other, in spite of how they parted, was an emotional journey that kept me flipping pages to discover what came next for them.
We also get another romance, a slightly different one that tugged at my heart the entire time. No, not a word more, you should discover that one all on your own.
As always from this author, I found a delightful, realistic romance full of conflict, emotions, and resolutions. If you’re looking for a really good Christmas-time romance to add to your wish list then Christmas Ever After would be a good choice. I had a good time back in this world, and really, that’s all that matters.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
September 18, 2021
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
A beautiful story about second chances, with so much sadness at times that it makes your heart ache, “Christmas Ever After”, by Clare Connelly (Tule Publishing), features two guarded, intense main characters, each hiding secrets from the other.
The passion, closeness and connection between Phoenix and Cassie is still there after a decade. I loved how adult Phoenix is still as in love with Cassie as when they were teenagers.
It’s lovely to see a hero pinning for so long and so deeply for the heroine and to see how his sentimental life has been in a limbo for the last decade.
I liked the yearning, the longing and even the stoicism but Phoenix deciding for Cassie in such important matters felt wrong.
I also liked how the characters evolved and the amount of baggage they carry; and although I didn’t like Phoenix’s attitude I thought it fitted his personality (and he’s still a caring and compassionate person).
Another sub-plotline involved an older man dealing (or refusing to deal) with diseases of old age, someone who was once also in love; perhaps the resolution here was too easy and I could have done without that but it was still heartwarming
A beautiful story about second chances, with so much sadness at times that it makes your heart ache, “Christmas Ever After”, by Clare Connelly (Tule Publishing), features two guarded, intense main characters, each hiding secrets from the other.
The passion, closeness and connection between Phoenix and Cassie is still there after a decade. I loved how adult Phoenix is still as in love with Cassie as when they were teenagers.
It’s lovely to see a hero pinning for so long and so deeply for the heroine and to see how his sentimental life has been in a limbo for the last decade.
I liked the yearning, the longing and even the stoicism but Phoenix deciding for Cassie in such important matters felt wrong.
I also liked how the characters evolved and the amount of baggage they carry; and although I didn’t like Phoenix’s attitude I thought it fitted his personality (and he’s still a caring and compassionate person).
Another sub-plotline involved an older man dealing (or refusing to deal) with diseases of old age, someone who was once also in love; perhaps the resolution here was too easy and I could have done without that but it was still heartwarming
October 14, 2021
I loved this dual timeline story of second chances at love both for Cassidy Hanna and for her grandfather Tommy. Most of the story focuses on Cassidy, a virtuoso pianist who has returned to Cape Hope just before Christmas because her grandfather has had a fall and is in hospital. It’s clear that she and the teenage love who broke her heart ten years earlier are both still in love with each other, though her success seems to be an insurmountable obstacle to a happy ever after for these two. Both are strong characters who clearly want the best for each other while demonstrating a woeful lack of communication skills when it comes to discussing their relationship. While they worked through their issues with me cheering on the sidelines, Tommy’s story unfolded in the form of memories that crop up through the book. I liked that we were kept in the dark as to how his story would be resolved until the very end. This story is emotionally engaging and heartwarming, perfect for a Christmas romance.
October 6, 2021
2.5 stars
Although I liked the first book in this series well enough, it wasn’t a book I loved. I wanted to give this author another chance because that book had a trope I really dislike, the “lie that never ends”. I figured the author can’t write that into every story, right? But the thing is, she kind of did. Not to the extent of last time; in fact, the lies in this book are more the understandable type of lies people tell each other. But now, ten years later, there is no reason to keep those lies any longer. Once again, I’m left with liking the story well enough, but not really feeling invested.
Most would look at Cassidy as the wronged party in the Cassidy/Phoenix relationship, and I would agree with that. Yet she somehow ends up being the character that is not as likable as the other. Phoenix is easy to like even when I didn’t like his reasons for doing things. Once in a while I would almost feel the connection between these two, but not often. In fact, there is a story within this story that I found to be so much more interesting and the chemistry so much more fiery than the main storyline.
But speaking of story within a story…there is also time jumping. Unfortunately, it’s not always obvious as to which time you’re reading. Cassidy’s grandfather has the story within the story and that is always very obvious. But Cassidy and Phoenix jump back and forth between now and ten years ago, that’s where things are often muddled. On top of that, there are continuity issues with all of the timelines and a huge problem with the current timeline as it seems 2 weeks lasts over a month. All things that will always irk me.
I just didn’t find myself rooting for this couple the way I would have hoped. I wasn’t against them, but I also wasn’t all in. It was a nice enough story, but with as many wonderful books that are out there I just may need to pass on this author next time.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
Although I liked the first book in this series well enough, it wasn’t a book I loved. I wanted to give this author another chance because that book had a trope I really dislike, the “lie that never ends”. I figured the author can’t write that into every story, right? But the thing is, she kind of did. Not to the extent of last time; in fact, the lies in this book are more the understandable type of lies people tell each other. But now, ten years later, there is no reason to keep those lies any longer. Once again, I’m left with liking the story well enough, but not really feeling invested.
Most would look at Cassidy as the wronged party in the Cassidy/Phoenix relationship, and I would agree with that. Yet she somehow ends up being the character that is not as likable as the other. Phoenix is easy to like even when I didn’t like his reasons for doing things. Once in a while I would almost feel the connection between these two, but not often. In fact, there is a story within this story that I found to be so much more interesting and the chemistry so much more fiery than the main storyline.
But speaking of story within a story…there is also time jumping. Unfortunately, it’s not always obvious as to which time you’re reading. Cassidy’s grandfather has the story within the story and that is always very obvious. But Cassidy and Phoenix jump back and forth between now and ten years ago, that’s where things are often muddled. On top of that, there are continuity issues with all of the timelines and a huge problem with the current timeline as it seems 2 weeks lasts over a month. All things that will always irk me.
I just didn’t find myself rooting for this couple the way I would have hoped. I wasn’t against them, but I also wasn’t all in. It was a nice enough story, but with as many wonderful books that are out there I just may need to pass on this author next time.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
October 7, 2021
I was so looking forward to returning to Cape Hope and Clare Connelly did not disappoint. The romance in this story broke my heart as much as it filled me with pure joy. It proves the heart cannot be tamed by common sense, circumstance or the passing of time. I adored all of these characters and each POV resonated. Christmas and Cape Hope provided the perfect backdrop for this gorgeous story of love and legacy.
October 7, 2021
I received an arc of Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This is the second book in the Cape Hope series, however if you hadn’t read book one you would not feel lost. I always have loved the second chance romance with a return to home romance genre, as this book is. As the book opens, Cassidy Hanna is returning to Cape Hope, NC as she’s received word that her beloved grandfather had had an accident and was asking for her. She had left town many years earlier to go to Julliard to study music. She became a renowned concert pianist and remained in NYC. Her ex, Phoenix Walker was supposed to have gone with her to NY for college but instead broke up with her, leaving her heartbroken. Phoenix long ago sacrificed his happiness with Cassidy for her dream of being the concert pianist and her happiness.
She learns her grandfather fell in his kitchen but luckily is supposed to recover. While in the hospital she comes face to face with Phoenix for the first time in many years. She is still hurt and angry for the way he treated her all those years ago. He had a reason why he lied and broke it off but he’s never shared the truth with her. Phoenix is now a doctor and talks to her about what is going on with her grandfather. She admits he seems confused and unsteady and he mentions having him tested for early dementia. The story tugs at your heart, not only for the grandfather’s condition, but also the lost love between Phoenix and Cassidy. As the two work together to set things up for her grandfather, both realize they still have strong feelings for each other. Phoenix realizes that like before their lives are in two separate places, making a future together seem impossible. The story takes place during the Christmas holiday season and is incorporated into the atmosphere of the book very nicely.
In addition to the interactions between Cassidy and Phoenix, there is a second story being shared with us. We learn about Tommy, Cassidy’s grandfather’s past. He had been in Vietnam and was discharged after he was injured. His best buddy Frank saved his life in Nam and later came to visit with his new wife Rita. Frank appeared to be suffering from PTSD and so Rita and Tommy spent a lot of time together while Frank was resting. They took walks and had several conversations during the week they were staying at Tommy’s. Frank was Rita’s late brother’s best friend and she was not in love with him but they had married anyway. Rita and Tommy fell in love but didn’t allow anything improper to happen before she and Frank left. They never saw each other again. Again, this sad story makes the reader tear up while learning of the past.
Clare does a remarkable job telling the story of Tommy’s past and current life, alternates with that of Cassidy and Phoenix past and present stories. She resolves all of the story threads by the end of the book. The characters are all so genuine and likable. The reader is rooting for everyone to have a happy ever after. I loved this story. I was often very choked up and at other times happy. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Like book one, this is a five star read.
She learns her grandfather fell in his kitchen but luckily is supposed to recover. While in the hospital she comes face to face with Phoenix for the first time in many years. She is still hurt and angry for the way he treated her all those years ago. He had a reason why he lied and broke it off but he’s never shared the truth with her. Phoenix is now a doctor and talks to her about what is going on with her grandfather. She admits he seems confused and unsteady and he mentions having him tested for early dementia. The story tugs at your heart, not only for the grandfather’s condition, but also the lost love between Phoenix and Cassidy. As the two work together to set things up for her grandfather, both realize they still have strong feelings for each other. Phoenix realizes that like before their lives are in two separate places, making a future together seem impossible. The story takes place during the Christmas holiday season and is incorporated into the atmosphere of the book very nicely.
In addition to the interactions between Cassidy and Phoenix, there is a second story being shared with us. We learn about Tommy, Cassidy’s grandfather’s past. He had been in Vietnam and was discharged after he was injured. His best buddy Frank saved his life in Nam and later came to visit with his new wife Rita. Frank appeared to be suffering from PTSD and so Rita and Tommy spent a lot of time together while Frank was resting. They took walks and had several conversations during the week they were staying at Tommy’s. Frank was Rita’s late brother’s best friend and she was not in love with him but they had married anyway. Rita and Tommy fell in love but didn’t allow anything improper to happen before she and Frank left. They never saw each other again. Again, this sad story makes the reader tear up while learning of the past.
Clare does a remarkable job telling the story of Tommy’s past and current life, alternates with that of Cassidy and Phoenix past and present stories. She resolves all of the story threads by the end of the book. The characters are all so genuine and likable. The reader is rooting for everyone to have a happy ever after. I loved this story. I was often very choked up and at other times happy. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Like book one, this is a five star read.
October 6, 2021
Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly
He once chose her happiness over his. Can this Christmas be their second chance?
Cassidy Hanna never felt like she belonged in Cape Hope, so she fled town and heartbreak ten years ago for a new life in Manhattan and everything she ever dreamed of—a great job and the perfect boyfriend. Only she’s never felt emptier and more alone. When her beloved grandfather falls ill, she knows she must push aside the past and return home to help.
Letting Cassidy go without a fight was the hardest thing Cape Hope doctor Phoenix Walker had ever done. Even as his own life fell apart, he lied and encouraged her to fly far from home to live out her dreams. Now Cassidy’s back—just for Christmas—and Phoenix wonders if they can have a second chance at a happy ever after…even if it’s just for the holiday.
This is Cassidy Hanna and Phoenix Walker's story.
Cassidy hated hospitals and she wasn’t really a big fan of Christmas either, so sitting in an empty emergency department waiting room with a flickering fluorescent light overhead and a plastic Christmas tree a few feet away, wrapped in tinsel as though it were a big, glittery bandage, was just adding salt to the wound.
“Excuse me?” She pounced the minute a nurse clickety-clacked her way behind the counter.
The woman— with curly black hair, bright-pink nails and a name badge that read Patricia— smiled politely.
“Phoenix!” Cassidy’s eyes, like the ocean on a stormy night, were round in her delicate face, as though he was the last person she’d expected to see— wanted to see.
Here, in his hospital. Here, in Cape Hope. Ever again.
“Cassidy.” He nodded stiffly. He shouldn’t have been surprised that she’d come, but he was. After all, her life was far away from here now.
I recommend reading.
Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Clare Connelly.
I received a complimentary copy of the book.
He once chose her happiness over his. Can this Christmas be their second chance?
Cassidy Hanna never felt like she belonged in Cape Hope, so she fled town and heartbreak ten years ago for a new life in Manhattan and everything she ever dreamed of—a great job and the perfect boyfriend. Only she’s never felt emptier and more alone. When her beloved grandfather falls ill, she knows she must push aside the past and return home to help.
Letting Cassidy go without a fight was the hardest thing Cape Hope doctor Phoenix Walker had ever done. Even as his own life fell apart, he lied and encouraged her to fly far from home to live out her dreams. Now Cassidy’s back—just for Christmas—and Phoenix wonders if they can have a second chance at a happy ever after…even if it’s just for the holiday.
This is Cassidy Hanna and Phoenix Walker's story.
Cassidy hated hospitals and she wasn’t really a big fan of Christmas either, so sitting in an empty emergency department waiting room with a flickering fluorescent light overhead and a plastic Christmas tree a few feet away, wrapped in tinsel as though it were a big, glittery bandage, was just adding salt to the wound.
“Excuse me?” She pounced the minute a nurse clickety-clacked her way behind the counter.
The woman— with curly black hair, bright-pink nails and a name badge that read Patricia— smiled politely.
“Phoenix!” Cassidy’s eyes, like the ocean on a stormy night, were round in her delicate face, as though he was the last person she’d expected to see— wanted to see.
Here, in his hospital. Here, in Cape Hope. Ever again.
“Cassidy.” He nodded stiffly. He shouldn’t have been surprised that she’d come, but he was. After all, her life was far away from here now.
I recommend reading.
Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Clare Connelly.
I received a complimentary copy of the book.
September 4, 2021
I enjoyed this novel very much despite that I found it to be sad for nearly the entire length. This is one of those books where I am being extra careful with my review. How can I articulate my feelings without giving away the plot? I can't. Christmas Ever After spans years. The author goes back to the past on several occasions which makes the premise even more complex and filled with character depth and development. I read the first book in this series and enjoyed that as well. I found that I have a connection with this author's writing. While I did not experience what the characters did, she engaged me from the very beginning and I refused to put this book down until I got my happily-ever-after. I wasn't at all sure of how this book would end due to the angst and behavior of certain characters. Phoenix was a hero I had to love despite his choices that I did not agree with. I've never been a fan of a man making decisions in the relationship that HE thinks is best without talking about it with the heroine. People should be able to make their own choices. And here is where I won't comment about that further. Cassidy is amazing, strong, caring and independent. I admired her a great deal.
I can tell you that this book was beautifully written bringing the characters and town to life where you could feel the presence strongly; you are there in Cape Hope. Lots of twists and turns. A book that is not forgettable.
While I received an advanced reading copy of Christmas Ever After, this is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
I can tell you that this book was beautifully written bringing the characters and town to life where you could feel the presence strongly; you are there in Cape Hope. Lots of twists and turns. A book that is not forgettable.
While I received an advanced reading copy of Christmas Ever After, this is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
January 3, 2022
Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly, book two in her Cape Hope series, is a dual timeline story of second chances at love for Cassidy Hanna as well as her grandfather Tommy that totally tugs at your heart strings. This story follows two love stories, that of Cassidy and her grandfather. Phoenix and Cassie have been friends since they were kids. The plan was to follow their dreams together; he wanted to be a Doctor and she wanted to go to music school in New York. After Cassie left Cape Hope for New York, Phoenix called her and broke up with her. Phoenix never told her about how his life was forever changed after she left and he could no longer leave town. He decided to put on a brave face and break Cassidy's heart to ensure that she followed her dream. It’s been ten years, and Cassie seldom visits, but upon receiving a call that her Grandfather Tommy fell and was hospitalized, Cassie quickly flies back to Cape Hope take care of the only family she had. Upon arrival she learns that not only did he break his arm but is also suffering early stages of dementia from Phoenix, now a pediatrician. As Cassie and Phoenix work together to make life easier for Tommy when he’s released from the hospital, they discover that they are both still in love with each other. Once they learn how to worked through their issues and learn how to communicate with each other, Cassie and Phoenix can figure out how to overcome any obstacle, including her position as a world renown pianist, keep them from getting their happy ever after. Tommy’s story of a love that was not to be, was shared in the form of memories and dreams that crop up through the book.
Ms. Connelly wrote a wonderful story that wanders through the past and the present to give the entire story of Cassie and Phoenix; who really do fit so well together. It was the blending of what happened before and what is taking place right now that gives the reader a bit of insight into decisions that were made; right or wrong. I highly recommend Christmas Ever After, a tale that tugs at your emotions, making me feel as if I was part of the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Connelly wrote a wonderful story that wanders through the past and the present to give the entire story of Cassie and Phoenix; who really do fit so well together. It was the blending of what happened before and what is taking place right now that gives the reader a bit of insight into decisions that were made; right or wrong. I highly recommend Christmas Ever After, a tale that tugs at your emotions, making me feel as if I was part of the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 6, 2021
Christmas Ever After is the second book in the Cape Hope Series by Clare Connelly. It is a wonderful romance with angst and drama for a couple given a second chance. The chance comes with a sorrow attached as Cassidy comes home to a sick grandfather. One who had been her guardian from a young age but also her greatest support.
The characters are so likable that is poses a question as to why Cassidy and Phoenix broke up ten years ago. The how it happened is told in the first chapter, it is the real why did it happened that is intriguing. Wanting to find out why that happened kept me reading. Told in dual perspectives adds to the story. Then another time and a third perspective are introduced which I found to be another alluring reason to keep reading when I normally would have turned the light out for the night. Presently, Cassidy, her grandfather, and Phoenix find themselves at a crossroads at Christmas but it is a read for any time of the year.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are so likable that is poses a question as to why Cassidy and Phoenix broke up ten years ago. The how it happened is told in the first chapter, it is the real why did it happened that is intriguing. Wanting to find out why that happened kept me reading. Told in dual perspectives adds to the story. Then another time and a third perspective are introduced which I found to be another alluring reason to keep reading when I normally would have turned the light out for the night. Presently, Cassidy, her grandfather, and Phoenix find themselves at a crossroads at Christmas but it is a read for any time of the year.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 9, 2025
A true soap opera of a book. I had the same reaction to it qs I do to soap operas I have unsuccessfly attempted to follow. I would end up yelling, "DO something! Progress isn't evil!" But of course, neither tv nor books nor the walls of your living spaces can hear you and the authors or screenwriters and producers don't care as they have an overwhelming number of fans who write into the sbow and make suggestions for the plot. The pacing is just fine for them.
This one is sneaky as it seesms normally paced at first, but then they start dragging more & more. I finished it because I wanted to see what happened, otherwise I'd have chucked it long before I finished it.
The author has a promising career writing soap operas, but I won't be subjecting myself to any more of her books. I hate soap operas in any form.
This one is sneaky as it seesms normally paced at first, but then they start dragging more & more. I finished it because I wanted to see what happened, otherwise I'd have chucked it long before I finished it.
The author has a promising career writing soap operas, but I won't be subjecting myself to any more of her books. I hate soap operas in any form.
January 14, 2026
4++ Stars ⭐⭐⭐✨ CHRISTMAS EVER AFTER is an emotional rollercoaster that will have you feeling every heartache and heartwarming moment as if they were happening to you. From the start, you are easily drawn into the lives of Cassidy, Phoenix, and Tommy. Cassidy and Phoenix have a complicated relationship marked by conflicting emotions. Although it’s easy to understand the reasoning behind their decisions, the path they are destined to take will not be easy. The flashbacks add depth to Cassidy and Phoenix’s past relationship and to Tommy’s past, helping you understand their motivations and fostering a level of empathy for their current circumstances. All in all, this is a fast-paced story with well-drawn characters and a captivating storyline that will keep you thoroughly entertained from start to finish.
December 11, 2024
The characters address some difficult issues. They allow anger drive their choices and not for their benefit. The author tends to rehash the same thoughts too much. It becomes so redundant that I just want to move forward.
An editing issue near the beginning of the book has grandpa Tommy going past a nectarine tree with both fruit and blossoms. This is not possible with this variety of tree.
The story line jumps from past to present with Phoenix and Cassidy as well as the grandfather’s past memories. These shifts would be easier to follow with a notation of the time period. Perhaps the author didn’t want to date her book, but it was already dated by the reference to the Vietnam War.
Otherwise, a good “gift of the magi “read.
An editing issue near the beginning of the book has grandpa Tommy going past a nectarine tree with both fruit and blossoms. This is not possible with this variety of tree.
The story line jumps from past to present with Phoenix and Cassidy as well as the grandfather’s past memories. These shifts would be easier to follow with a notation of the time period. Perhaps the author didn’t want to date her book, but it was already dated by the reference to the Vietnam War.
Otherwise, a good “gift of the magi “read.
October 1, 2021
Phoenix and Cassie had a dream. He wanted to be a Doctor and she wanted to go to school in New York. Then when Cassie left and went to New York Phoenix called her and broke up with her. She had no idea and they did not speak for ten years.
She got the call that her Grandfather Tommy fell and she came home. She found out that he broke his arm and is suffering from the onset of dementia.
This book really tugs at your emotions and at some points I felt like I was in the book with the characters, feeling what they were feeling. questioning Phoenix's decisions. Check the book out I think you will enjoy it. I know that I certainly did.
She got the call that her Grandfather Tommy fell and she came home. She found out that he broke his arm and is suffering from the onset of dementia.
This book really tugs at your emotions and at some points I felt like I was in the book with the characters, feeling what they were feeling. questioning Phoenix's decisions. Check the book out I think you will enjoy it. I know that I certainly did.
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October 6, 2021Second book in this series and like the first it totally tugs at your heart strings as these two who have never gotten over one another are drawn back to one another
Cassidy and Phoenix where school yard sweethearts be he knew she was destined for better things so he allowed her to leave breaking both their hearts in a process 10 years later Cassidy Hanna has returned to Cape Hope to help her grandfather and Phoenix Walker is determined this time she won't walk away from him Can they build a future together You will have to read to see
Cassidy and Phoenix where school yard sweethearts be he knew she was destined for better things so he allowed her to leave breaking both their hearts in a process 10 years later Cassidy Hanna has returned to Cape Hope to help her grandfather and Phoenix Walker is determined this time she won't walk away from him Can they build a future together You will have to read to see
October 31, 2021
This book follows two love stories, that of Cassidy and her grandfather. It has been ten years since she left her hometown of Cape Hope broken hearted. Now she has returned because her grandfather took a fall. Phoenix let the love of his life go ten years ago. The plan was to go together until his life was forever changed and he couldn't leave town. He had to put on a brave face and break Cassidy's heart to ensure that she followed her dream. Now she is back and their love remains. If he explains what happened all those years ago will she understand and give him a second chance? Good read.
October 6, 2021
This was the second book in this series. This book was a second chance romance for Cassidy and Phoenix. Cassidy let Phoenix leave a long time ago because he loved her and new she had a real future for herself if she left their town. Now 10 years later she is back to help her grandfather out. Will Phoenix let her go a second time? This book will really tug at your heart. Once you start you will not be able to put it down. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2021
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book for a honest opinion.
Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly, book two in the Cape Hope series.
A new to me author that I'll be checking out more books by.
A possible second chance at love storyline, coming home and a holiday read.
This story went back and forth in time. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
Christmas Ever After by Clare Connelly, book two in the Cape Hope series.
A new to me author that I'll be checking out more books by.
A possible second chance at love storyline, coming home and a holiday read.
This story went back and forth in time. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
September 8, 2021
Christmas Ever After is one of those novels that will touch your heart and soul. Two blending stories of love lost, one current and one past, that reach inside you and draws you ever nearer to the pages.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 26, 2023
Writing at it's best.
This was the first book of Clare's that I've read, and it certainly won't be the last. I've already bought the first book in the series to read next.
Clare wove a story of love, betrayal, and love again. Second, chances you think are lost, but somehow, she ties it back together.
You will need tissues but your heart will be left full.
This was the first book of Clare's that I've read, and it certainly won't be the last. I've already bought the first book in the series to read next.
Clare wove a story of love, betrayal, and love again. Second, chances you think are lost, but somehow, she ties it back together.
You will need tissues but your heart will be left full.
December 18, 2023
Christmas Ever After (Cape Hope Book 2)
The love story of Cassidy and Phoenix. Phoenix give up everything so Cassidy cause go to Julia Arts School. He became a doctor and she became a concert pianist. Now she is back in Cape Hope because her grandfather is ill. Can they find love again? Ok story.
The love story of Cassidy and Phoenix. Phoenix give up everything so Cassidy cause go to Julia Arts School. He became a doctor and she became a concert pianist. Now she is back in Cape Hope because her grandfather is ill. Can they find love again? Ok story.
October 22, 2021
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Cape Hope
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from Tule Publishing.
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Cape Hope
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from Tule Publishing.
September 30, 2021
Excellent second chance romance for not one but two couples.
October 5, 2021
This is an amazing book. I enjoyed so much. It has 2 stories in one and it is just a wonderful and uplifting read from start to finish!
October 6, 2021
I really enjoyed the relationship between Cassidy and her grandfather grieving over the loss of their loved ones after the horrific accident that took her mom & grandmother.
December 31, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews