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Willowbrook
Vánoční prázdniny
Věčné optimistce Evie Millerové zkrachoval vztah se snoubencem, a tak se rozhodla konečně si splnit své sny: v malebné cotswoldské vesničce Willowbrook otevírá obchůdek s látkami a šicími potřebami nazvaný Knoflíková dírka. Začít znovu však není tak jednoduché, na Evie doráží finanční starosti a její bývalý ji nenechává na pokoji. Uniknout před minulostí chce i Jake Hartwood. Zlomila ho ztráta milované ženy a od té doby už nechce mít raději žádné blízké vztahy. To poslední, nač má náladu, je slavit Vánoce s rodinou. Jake a Evie se spřátelí a vypadá to, že by mohli být spojenci i v úniku před oslavami. Jakeova služební cesta do Provence nabízí příležitost. Co když však kouzlo svátečního období začne přece působit? A co když jeden z nich začne cítit něco víc?
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2019
386 people are currently reading
1338 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Claire
9 books98 followersSophie Claire writes emotional stories set in England and in sunny Provence, where she spent her summers as a child.
She has a French mother and a Scottish father, but was born in Africa and grew up in Manchester, England, where she still lives with her husband and two sons.
Previously, she worked in marketing and proofreading academic papers, but writing is what she always considered her ‘real job’ and now she’s delighted to spend her days dreaming up heartwarming contemporary romance stories set in beautiful places.
She has a French mother and a Scottish father, but was born in Africa and grew up in Manchester, England, where she still lives with her husband and two sons.
Previously, she worked in marketing and proofreading academic papers, but writing is what she always considered her ‘real job’ and now she’s delighted to spend her days dreaming up heartwarming contemporary romance stories set in beautiful places.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
September 20, 2019
This is a lovely Christmas festive romance from Sophie Claire featuring the themes of loss, grief and the struggle to comes to terms with and move on from such desperate heartbreak. Evie Miller has recently settled in the beautiful small village of Willowbrook, leaving behind her hated job in London working in a jewellery store and the break up of her engagement, after she found her fiance, Tim, in bed with another woman. She has set up her own fabric and sewing shop, a dream she has finally realised, she is a gifted and creative seamstress, but is facing Christmas with her shop in dire financial straits. She is making fitted curtains to keep her head above water, but it is not where her heart lies, she enjoys inspiring others to develop their sewing skills with her classes, and loves making daring and colourful quilts, can turn her hand to other items, such as sewn Christmas decorations and more.
She is fitting curtains at the local manor house, when she finds herself encountering the new owner who was not due to move in yet and his lovable dalmation, Smoke. An inebriated Jake Hartwood is in no mood for company, and is less than polite to Evie. He has deliberately moved away from members of his family, so that he can be alone to grieve the loss of his beloved wife, Maria, from a brain tumour over two years ago. His family cannot understand why he is refusing to move on, but he just has not been able to, finding himself unable to cope with the festive season, family celebrations and the bonhomie that goes with them. He finds Evie too much, too colourful, too optimistic, bright, cheerful and friendly, referring to her as Pollyanna. However, Evie has her own demons, she is clumsy and is still missing her sister, Zara, a loss that has torn apart her family. She has low self esteem issues, Tim had been constantly critical, considered her a failure and made it clear that in his eyes, she was far from the perfect woman. Tim is continuing to harass her, despite cheating on her, insisting that she marry him, and he is supported by Evie's parents who think she should just buckle down, give up her failing business and settle down with Tim.
To avoid going to her family who are spending Christmas with Tim's family, Evie decides to go way on holiday to the South of France, with Jake, who is doing business with wine growers for his wine importing business. Jake and Evie find themselves taken with each other, but will their friendship become anything more with so much that lies between them, and a Jake certain he will never get over his dead wife. This is a wonderfully entertaining and warmhearted Christmas reading fare, with great characters and a fabulous dog in Smoke. If you are looking for escapist Christmas reading fare, this fits the bill perfectly. Many thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC.
She is fitting curtains at the local manor house, when she finds herself encountering the new owner who was not due to move in yet and his lovable dalmation, Smoke. An inebriated Jake Hartwood is in no mood for company, and is less than polite to Evie. He has deliberately moved away from members of his family, so that he can be alone to grieve the loss of his beloved wife, Maria, from a brain tumour over two years ago. His family cannot understand why he is refusing to move on, but he just has not been able to, finding himself unable to cope with the festive season, family celebrations and the bonhomie that goes with them. He finds Evie too much, too colourful, too optimistic, bright, cheerful and friendly, referring to her as Pollyanna. However, Evie has her own demons, she is clumsy and is still missing her sister, Zara, a loss that has torn apart her family. She has low self esteem issues, Tim had been constantly critical, considered her a failure and made it clear that in his eyes, she was far from the perfect woman. Tim is continuing to harass her, despite cheating on her, insisting that she marry him, and he is supported by Evie's parents who think she should just buckle down, give up her failing business and settle down with Tim.
To avoid going to her family who are spending Christmas with Tim's family, Evie decides to go way on holiday to the South of France, with Jake, who is doing business with wine growers for his wine importing business. Jake and Evie find themselves taken with each other, but will their friendship become anything more with so much that lies between them, and a Jake certain he will never get over his dead wife. This is a wonderfully entertaining and warmhearted Christmas reading fare, with great characters and a fabulous dog in Smoke. If you are looking for escapist Christmas reading fare, this fits the bill perfectly. Many thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC.
December 27, 2021
Rounded up from around 4.5 stars ⭐️ I always love reading a festive romance in December and I particularly enjoyed this one!
The Christmas Holiday follows Evie and Jake who take a holiday to France to escape Christmas. Evie is dealing with a difficult breakup and money problems. Jake is a widow who is struggling to come to terms with his loss.
This book was completely charming in all the right ways. The settings of both a small snowy English village and France transported me away to another place. I loved the character of Evie and felt such a connection with her, I desperately want her to be my real life friend!! It’s almost difficult to wrap my head around the idea that this book wasn’t real, it felt so realistic and almost become engrained into my life.
I like to read a festive romance every year, usually they are relatively forgettable but I think this one is going to stay with me. I may even need to pick it up again in the years to come. There wasn’t anything particular that blew me away about this book, the whole thing was just well written and feel-good without being over the top. I think I definitely need to read some more books by this author now!
I recommend this to anyone that loves reading romances, particularly festive romances!
The Christmas Holiday follows Evie and Jake who take a holiday to France to escape Christmas. Evie is dealing with a difficult breakup and money problems. Jake is a widow who is struggling to come to terms with his loss.
This book was completely charming in all the right ways. The settings of both a small snowy English village and France transported me away to another place. I loved the character of Evie and felt such a connection with her, I desperately want her to be my real life friend!! It’s almost difficult to wrap my head around the idea that this book wasn’t real, it felt so realistic and almost become engrained into my life.
I like to read a festive romance every year, usually they are relatively forgettable but I think this one is going to stay with me. I may even need to pick it up again in the years to come. There wasn’t anything particular that blew me away about this book, the whole thing was just well written and feel-good without being over the top. I think I definitely need to read some more books by this author now!
I recommend this to anyone that loves reading romances, particularly festive romances!
October 25, 2021
Dieser Roman hat nicht meine Erwartungen erfüllen können. Wegen des Covers hatte ich einen humorvollen Liebesroman erwartet, eine richtige Komödie, doch er beschäftigt sich hauptsächlich mit Trauer und sollte etwas humorvoll gewesen sein, dann ist das leider an mir vorbeigegangen, ohne das ich es bemerkt hätte.
Außerdem war weniger Frankreich drin, als ich beim Klappentext erwartet habe, denn nach Frankreich geht es erst bei etwa 60 % des Buches.
Für mich schlug das Maketing des Romanes einfach fehl, weil ich mit den falschen Erwartungen rangegangen bin und so leider festgestellt habe, dass ich nicht die richtige Leserin bzw. Hörerin (hatte es als Hörbuch) war.
Die Charaktere waren nicht ausgereifter oder weniger ausgegreift als in anderen Romanen dieser Art. Evie wurde definiert durch ihre Minderwertigkeitsgefühle, während Jake kaum mehr war als Trauer und Schuldgefühle.
Das Herrenhaus Setting und auch Frankreich, waren für mich nur wenig atmosphärisch anmutend, sondern schlichte hübsche Kulissen für den Roman.
Grundthema des Buches ist Trauer. Evie hat einen schweren Verlust erlitten und auch Jake. Während Evie deswegen nur noch mit ihrem Selbstbewusstsein hadert, verweigert sich Jake ein Leben nach seiner Ehefrau und ist mit Schuldgefühlen belastet.
Für mich wurde der Roman schnell langweilig. Es dreht sich immer wieder um die gleichen Themen, ohne das neue Aspekte oder Ideen dazukommen.
Ich habe das Buch als Hörbuch gehört. Die Autorin hat eine angenehme Stimme und ein gutes Tempo.
Letztlich war ich die falsche Person für dieses Buch. Ich wurde mit den Charakteren nicht warm und habe mich gelangweilt. Aber, wie oben schon beschrieben hatte ich auch andere Erwartungen und hoffte auf einen lustigen Weihnachtsroman mit Hund und Herz.
Das Hörbuch wurde mir vom Verlag als Hörbuch zur Verfügung gestellt.
Außerdem war weniger Frankreich drin, als ich beim Klappentext erwartet habe, denn nach Frankreich geht es erst bei etwa 60 % des Buches.
Für mich schlug das Maketing des Romanes einfach fehl, weil ich mit den falschen Erwartungen rangegangen bin und so leider festgestellt habe, dass ich nicht die richtige Leserin bzw. Hörerin (hatte es als Hörbuch) war.
Die Charaktere waren nicht ausgereifter oder weniger ausgegreift als in anderen Romanen dieser Art. Evie wurde definiert durch ihre Minderwertigkeitsgefühle, während Jake kaum mehr war als Trauer und Schuldgefühle.
Das Herrenhaus Setting und auch Frankreich, waren für mich nur wenig atmosphärisch anmutend, sondern schlichte hübsche Kulissen für den Roman.
Grundthema des Buches ist Trauer. Evie hat einen schweren Verlust erlitten und auch Jake. Während Evie deswegen nur noch mit ihrem Selbstbewusstsein hadert, verweigert sich Jake ein Leben nach seiner Ehefrau und ist mit Schuldgefühlen belastet.
Für mich wurde der Roman schnell langweilig. Es dreht sich immer wieder um die gleichen Themen, ohne das neue Aspekte oder Ideen dazukommen.
Ich habe das Buch als Hörbuch gehört. Die Autorin hat eine angenehme Stimme und ein gutes Tempo.
Letztlich war ich die falsche Person für dieses Buch. Ich wurde mit den Charakteren nicht warm und habe mich gelangweilt. Aber, wie oben schon beschrieben hatte ich auch andere Erwartungen und hoffte auf einen lustigen Weihnachtsroman mit Hund und Herz.
Das Hörbuch wurde mir vom Verlag als Hörbuch zur Verfügung gestellt.
October 8, 2019
From the first moments where we meet Evie and Jake, I was hooked. There was just something about their interactions that kept me reading and going back from more. Their early banter is amusing but it is also clear they are both not in the market for a relationship, or in Jake's case friendship either.
Slowly though Evie's bright bubbly personality manages to affect Jake, and you start to understand why he is the he is currently acting. I loved all of Evie's passion for sewing,and her ideas for her shop.
What I found a shame was how Evie's family and ex-boyfriend treat her, and just how its affected her self confidence. I could completely empathise with Evie, especially in relation to having parents that don't have any faith in a persons job, and only wanting them to marry someone who meets their expectations in terms of what they do and how much they earn. It's a situation I find myself in continually, so really felt for Evie whenever she had to deal with her family.
Whenever I wasn't reading this, my mind was on the story and wondering when I could next pick the book up to continue reading. This is the first book I've read by Sophie Clare and I'm so glad that I picked it. The writing is so friendly, easy to follow and I found the pages were just flying past.
I really enjoyed every aspect of this book. I would say if you are looking for a book that gives you a strong Christmas feeling, then you may be disappointed, but if you would enjoy heartwarming stories, filled with character growth,set to a December backdrop, a season of looking book and also looking forwards, then this would be a wonderful read for you. I really do feel this could easily be read at all times of the year.
Thank you to Hodder on Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Slowly though Evie's bright bubbly personality manages to affect Jake, and you start to understand why he is the he is currently acting. I loved all of Evie's passion for sewing,and her ideas for her shop.
What I found a shame was how Evie's family and ex-boyfriend treat her, and just how its affected her self confidence. I could completely empathise with Evie, especially in relation to having parents that don't have any faith in a persons job, and only wanting them to marry someone who meets their expectations in terms of what they do and how much they earn. It's a situation I find myself in continually, so really felt for Evie whenever she had to deal with her family.
Whenever I wasn't reading this, my mind was on the story and wondering when I could next pick the book up to continue reading. This is the first book I've read by Sophie Clare and I'm so glad that I picked it. The writing is so friendly, easy to follow and I found the pages were just flying past.
I really enjoyed every aspect of this book. I would say if you are looking for a book that gives you a strong Christmas feeling, then you may be disappointed, but if you would enjoy heartwarming stories, filled with character growth,set to a December backdrop, a season of looking book and also looking forwards, then this would be a wonderful read for you. I really do feel this could easily be read at all times of the year.
Thank you to Hodder on Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 28, 2022
Yes! Almost a year to read this amazing book but last year I wasn’t in the mood at all to read Xmas books but took it up and loved it.
Story about forgiveness, second chance at love and open your heart. Evie Miller and Jake Hartwood are opposite but love comes to them.
Loved it!
Story about forgiveness, second chance at love and open your heart. Evie Miller and Jake Hartwood are opposite but love comes to them.
Loved it!
December 18, 2022
Es war eine sehr schöne Geschichte 🥰 Das kleine Dorf mit Evies Laden, der Dalmatiner Smoke und die Reise nach Frankreich haben mir alles so gefallen 🥰 Auch die Charaktere waren alle einzigartig und authentisch ☺️
Irgendwie habe ich beim Lesen total Lust bekommen, mal das Stricken und Nähen auszuprobieren 🧵🪡🥰 Aber wo ist nur die Zeit dafür? 😱🙈
Irgendwie habe ich beim Lesen total Lust bekommen, mal das Stricken und Nähen auszuprobieren 🧵🪡🥰 Aber wo ist nur die Zeit dafür? 😱🙈
December 30, 2019
With thanks to Netgalley and Hodder and Staughton for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.I
Evie Miller had fled London after discovering Tim her fiance was having an affair. She moved to the village of Willowbrook where she had opened a craft shop called The Button Hole. However Evie`s shop was in dire straits and she was making curtains to survive. Luckily she had received a big order to make curtains for the new owner of Old Hall.
One night she went to Old Hall to hang some curtains. She was shocked that the new owner Jake Hartman and his dog Smokey were there. Smokey was instantly drawn to Evie, but Jake was drunk and angrily threw her out of his house. However it was snowing outside and she crashed her car into a ditch. Jake reluctantly let her stay the night, he mentioned he used to be a doctor but was now a wine importer.
With the help of Smokey, Evie and Jake became friends. Evie explained how Tim used to belittle her and chipped away at her self asteem. Jake told her he was still grieving for his wife Maria who had died two years earlier. When Jake is offered a villa in Provence for christmas, he invites Evie so they can get away from relatives and Christmas traditions. With Evie`s love of life he discovers he realises he is falling in love. , However he feels guilty because he still loves Maria.
I enjoyed this story and could of read it in one evening. Despite the cover The Christmas Holiday had some serious topics such as grief and mental abuse. The story was told from the POV of Evie and Jake which I enjoyed.
Despite her low self esteem I admired Evie for being brave enough to leave London and open her own shop. I was annoyed when her parents dismissed her achievements. Although Jake initially came across as cold, I grew to like him as his story came out.
This was a delightful story which left me with a warm glow of happiness. I would love another story about Evie and Jake s life in Willowbrook.
I highly recommend this book.
I
Read
November 25, 2020Vydavateľstvu Fortuna Libri by som sa nesmierne rada poďakovala, že mi túto vianočnú novinku zaslali na recenziu, lebo to bol krásny príbeh.
Musím priznať, že keď mi prišla kniha domov začala som mať obrovské pochybnosti, či sa mi bude páčiť, napriek tomu, že obálka a anotácia ma zaujali a chcela som vedieť viac. Detail s gombíkom v nadpise má vážne dostal a ilustrácia znázorňujúca Evie a Jakea so psom? To je krása.
Príbeh sa odohrával v malej dedinke Willowbrook v Anglicku. Tu anotácia zavádza, pretože do Provensalska odišli až po väčšej polovičke deja. Ich vzťah prechádzal takými tromi fázami: haters to lovers, priatelia a priatelia s výhodami.
Jake bol tridsaťpäť ročný vdovec, ktorý sa odsťahoval z mesta na okraj malebnej dediny iba so svojím psom, dalmatíncom, Smokom. Najskôr pôsobil ako alkoholický buran a nevychovanec. Postupným čítaním stránok sme sa dozvedeli, že to bola len maska, ktorou sa chránil a v konečnom dôsledku išlo o priateľského a nápomocného človeka, ktorý sa nedostal zo smrti manželky. Vďaka Evie postupne otváral predtým uzamknutú komnatu. Dokonca sa vrátil ku svojej pôvodnej profesii, ktorú zavrhol z výčitiek voči žene.
,,Verím, že každý z nás má svoju spriaznenú dušu." - str. 110, Jake
Evie sa mi ako hrdinka páčila. Ušla z Londýna pred rodičmi a najmä snúbencom, ktorý ju podviedol a napriek tomu ju chcel späť. O čo horšie bolo, že ju neustále ponižoval a urážal, čím jej sebavedomie bolo na bode mrazu. Jej rodičia ju porovnávali s nebohou sestrou Zarou a nútili ju aby sa vrátila k Timovi. V ničom si neverila a necítila sa krásna. Bolo to také nemehlo a takmer vždy sa dostala do ťažkostí. Postupne prešla obrovskou zmenou a sebarozvojom, ale nešikovnosť jej ostala. Tomu napomohol aj samotný Jake a jeho povzbudzujúce slová. Vo všetkom zlom videla aj malý plamienok optimizmu a radosti. Živila sa najmä ako krajčírka kviltov a patchworkových dek a bola majiteľka obchodu Gombíková dierka. Vítala som, že išlo o výbornú zmenu prostredia, zázemia postáv a niečoho úplne nového. Stále som mala potrebu vlastniť patchworkovú prikrývku a v tej chvíli sa ňou zohriať.
Obaja hlavní hrdinovia prešli obrovským posunom. Napriek tomu, že boli rozdielni, tak sa k sebe hodili a dopĺňali. On sa vďaka nej vyrovnal so stratou ženy a pochopil, že nemôže stále od seba odháňať ľudí. Ona si začala viac veriť a mať sa rada so všetkými dokonalosťami i nedokonalosťami.
Pery sa mu zvlnili. Musel Evie uznať, že na jej čudnej povahe bolo čosi vábne, čosi neobvyklé. Úsmev s jamkami na lícach a nezdolne radostná povaha boli ako závan čerstvého vzduchu. - str. 115
Záverečné hodnotenie
Vianočná láska je krásny romantický vianočný príbeh, ktorý zhltnete okamžite. Očaria vás dynamické dialógy, opisy prostredia, svet šitia kviltov, závesov a pod., vývin postáv a samotný dej. Oceníte ako postavy dospejú do fázy, kedy sú schopní posunúť sa ďalej. Budete sa rozplývať vďaka Jakeovym myšlienkam, napriek tomu, že jeho kroky budú pomalé. Nenájdete tu nijakú konkrétnu sexuálnu scénu, iba jej načrtnutie a aj tak vo vás vyvolá vzrušenie. Ideálne dielo na chladné zimné či jesenné dni, kedy sa schováte pod deku a sledujete padajúce vločky za oknami. Jednoznačne odporúčam. 5/5
Musím priznať, že keď mi prišla kniha domov začala som mať obrovské pochybnosti, či sa mi bude páčiť, napriek tomu, že obálka a anotácia ma zaujali a chcela som vedieť viac. Detail s gombíkom v nadpise má vážne dostal a ilustrácia znázorňujúca Evie a Jakea so psom? To je krása.
Príbeh sa odohrával v malej dedinke Willowbrook v Anglicku. Tu anotácia zavádza, pretože do Provensalska odišli až po väčšej polovičke deja. Ich vzťah prechádzal takými tromi fázami: haters to lovers, priatelia a priatelia s výhodami.
Jake bol tridsaťpäť ročný vdovec, ktorý sa odsťahoval z mesta na okraj malebnej dediny iba so svojím psom, dalmatíncom, Smokom. Najskôr pôsobil ako alkoholický buran a nevychovanec. Postupným čítaním stránok sme sa dozvedeli, že to bola len maska, ktorou sa chránil a v konečnom dôsledku išlo o priateľského a nápomocného človeka, ktorý sa nedostal zo smrti manželky. Vďaka Evie postupne otváral predtým uzamknutú komnatu. Dokonca sa vrátil ku svojej pôvodnej profesii, ktorú zavrhol z výčitiek voči žene.
,,Verím, že každý z nás má svoju spriaznenú dušu." - str. 110, Jake
Evie sa mi ako hrdinka páčila. Ušla z Londýna pred rodičmi a najmä snúbencom, ktorý ju podviedol a napriek tomu ju chcel späť. O čo horšie bolo, že ju neustále ponižoval a urážal, čím jej sebavedomie bolo na bode mrazu. Jej rodičia ju porovnávali s nebohou sestrou Zarou a nútili ju aby sa vrátila k Timovi. V ničom si neverila a necítila sa krásna. Bolo to také nemehlo a takmer vždy sa dostala do ťažkostí. Postupne prešla obrovskou zmenou a sebarozvojom, ale nešikovnosť jej ostala. Tomu napomohol aj samotný Jake a jeho povzbudzujúce slová. Vo všetkom zlom videla aj malý plamienok optimizmu a radosti. Živila sa najmä ako krajčírka kviltov a patchworkových dek a bola majiteľka obchodu Gombíková dierka. Vítala som, že išlo o výbornú zmenu prostredia, zázemia postáv a niečoho úplne nového. Stále som mala potrebu vlastniť patchworkovú prikrývku a v tej chvíli sa ňou zohriať.
Obaja hlavní hrdinovia prešli obrovským posunom. Napriek tomu, že boli rozdielni, tak sa k sebe hodili a dopĺňali. On sa vďaka nej vyrovnal so stratou ženy a pochopil, že nemôže stále od seba odháňať ľudí. Ona si začala viac veriť a mať sa rada so všetkými dokonalosťami i nedokonalosťami.
Pery sa mu zvlnili. Musel Evie uznať, že na jej čudnej povahe bolo čosi vábne, čosi neobvyklé. Úsmev s jamkami na lícach a nezdolne radostná povaha boli ako závan čerstvého vzduchu. - str. 115
Záverečné hodnotenie
Vianočná láska je krásny romantický vianočný príbeh, ktorý zhltnete okamžite. Očaria vás dynamické dialógy, opisy prostredia, svet šitia kviltov, závesov a pod., vývin postáv a samotný dej. Oceníte ako postavy dospejú do fázy, kedy sú schopní posunúť sa ďalej. Budete sa rozplývať vďaka Jakeovym myšlienkam, napriek tomu, že jeho kroky budú pomalé. Nenájdete tu nijakú konkrétnu sexuálnu scénu, iba jej načrtnutie a aj tak vo vás vyvolá vzrušenie. Ideálne dielo na chladné zimné či jesenné dni, kedy sa schováte pod deku a sledujete padajúce vločky za oknami. Jednoznačne odporúčam. 5/5
April 11, 2020
A long way from Christmas, or maybe a bit too early, but it's never not the right time to read a book that brings in the Christmas cheer along with a romance that has all the right elements. Jake, deliciously handsome, drowns himself in alcohol every night because he cannot handle his tragedies when sober. Evie, our cheery seamstress has big dreams in a quaint town but is severely demotivated, overtly critical and completely heartbroken over her last relationship.
As they meet on an unfortunate night, their chemistry sizzles and burns, but with an undertone of hate. As they get to know each other, they find out how complementary they are to each other. But there are hurdles and insecurities, as is in every love story we stumble upon.
Claire in 'The Christmas Holiday' builds an adorable romance but through characters who are not mysterious. While it threw me off the wagon and made me wonder if I would like the book, I realized it actually worked wonders for the story. I mean, we already know everything that happens in a typical romance, might as well start knowing the in and outs of the characters right from the start.
The Chrismas bit isn't overdone and serves as a cushion for a budding romance. 'The Christmas Holiday' is fun in a way that its quirky, charming and very entertaining.
As they meet on an unfortunate night, their chemistry sizzles and burns, but with an undertone of hate. As they get to know each other, they find out how complementary they are to each other. But there are hurdles and insecurities, as is in every love story we stumble upon.
Claire in 'The Christmas Holiday' builds an adorable romance but through characters who are not mysterious. While it threw me off the wagon and made me wonder if I would like the book, I realized it actually worked wonders for the story. I mean, we already know everything that happens in a typical romance, might as well start knowing the in and outs of the characters right from the start.
The Chrismas bit isn't overdone and serves as a cushion for a budding romance. 'The Christmas Holiday' is fun in a way that its quirky, charming and very entertaining.
January 8, 2021
Moja prvá ozajstná vianočná kniha je práve táto - Vianočná láska ❄️
Úplne navodila vianočnú atmosféru a som veľmi rada, že som si ju prečítala. 🥰
Po nepríjemnom rozchode so snúbencom sa večná optimistka Evie Millerová presťahuje do dedinky Willowbrook, aby si konečne splnila sen a venovala sa tomu, čo ju najviac teší a na čo má talent. Pre finančné problémy sa jej však nedarí celkom podľa očakávania.
Aj Jake Hartwood sa usiluje vyrovnať sa s minulosťou. Po smrti manželky je odhodlaný nikoho si už nepustiť k telu. A už vôbec nemá chuť sláviť vianočné sviatky.
Evie s Jackom sa dohodnú, že pred Vianocami uniknú na dovolenku do Provensalska. Dokáže však ich priateľstvo vzdorovať čaru sviatkov? A čo ak jeden z nich začne cítiť čosi viac?
Pekný, milý, veľmi romantický zimný príbeh. Plný rôznych myšlienok o živote.
“Takže vy veríte v lásku na prvý pohľad?”
“Verím, že každý z nás má svoju spriaznenú dušu.”
Aj keď je človek na dne, vždy má v sebe toľko síl, aby sa z toho dna dostal a niekedy, väčšinou práve vtedy príde niekto, vďaka komu bude jeho život farebnejší, pestrejší a možno nie vždy lepší, ale každopádne iný...
Práve o tom je aj táto kniha s neskutočne krásnou tematickou obálkou😍
October 7, 2019
Overall opinion of the book:
I’ve got to be honest, when I first started reading the book I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy it as much as I thought I would. The enemies to lovers trope is my biggest bug bearer and The Christmas Holiday had mild elements of it at the beginning. As the book progressed and the plot deepened, the first few chapters are put into perspective and it’s clear to see why Claire decided to use this particular trope. This was an absolutely fantastic and brilliantly written love story, it had so many layers and dealt with some important and difficult topics too.
The Christmas Holiday had everything I enjoy in a book. The plot unravelled at a steady pace, the characters love for each other was a slow burner and it reflects the reality of life. There’s no over dramatic, unrealistic scenes, all of it is grounded in real life situations, which can quite often be raw and emotional. As I’ve said above, this book isn’t your ordinary Chick-Lit, it deals with some traumatic and difficult issues, such as the loss of a spouse and family members. Though this is a sensitive topic, Claire has approached it with the utmost respect and sensitivity. It really hits home that life is short and no one knows what could happen next. Claire shows the raw emotion and lasting affects losing a loved one can have. Her characters go on a tough journey of accepting this grief and allowing themselves to move on while still remembering the people they’ve lost. This was written well and Claire explores how the stages of grief affect people differently and take time to overcome.
Claire discusses toxic relationships and how they can have a lasting affect on an individual’s thought process, long after the relationship has ended. Evie’s ex-partner was emotionally abusive and this leads her to have a lack of self confidence in herself and abilities. Her parents are unaware of how controlling they are, and how this has been detrimental to Evie. This again was dealt in a sensitive, yet realistic way. I think it will resonate with many readers who have gone through something similar and although it’s tough at times to read, it’s important these issues are being brought up to emphasise what is, and what isn’t, a healthy relationship. It’s great Evie’s thought process surrounding her appearance, eating habits, business and personality is regularly challenged by Jake and her friends. It emphasises the importance of surrounding yourself with non toxic people, and accepting what has been said about you in the past isn’t true.
Though the plot was a little staccato and slow to begin with, it didn’t take me long to be won over by Evie’s bright and optimistic personality. You can’t help but to love her positivity and clumsiness. She’s a brilliant protagonist and compliments Jake’s more introverted, wary personality brilliantly. They’re polar opposites, yet are so similar at times. I loved seeing their relationship progress from one that’s quite sour and frosty. There’s so many layers to each of them, and as the novel continues and we find out more of their backstory, it’s clear to see why they both act in certain ways.
When I began reading The Christmas Holiday, I didn’t realise it was a multiple narrative, it switches between Evie and Jake throughout. I would have liked for each character’s section to be differentiated by their names to make it clear to readers when the perspective is going to change, but that’s just a personal preference. The multiple narrative works perfectly in this book as it allows readers more of an insight into both character’s thoughts and feelings. I enjoyed both Evie and Jake’s sections equally. As Jake is a somewhat closed book, his sections were particularly interesting to read.
The Christmas Holiday was such a great read and definitely one of my favourite Chick-Lit books of the year. Although it’s set in December and does talk about Christmas, you could read it any time of the year – it does make for the perfect and cosy Autumn/Winter read however. It’s ironic that it’s a Christmas book about avoiding celebrating Christmas! I loved everything about both Willowbrook and Provence. Willowbrook seems like a perfect, quaint English Village and Provence sounds gorgeous. As someone who visited France every year as a child, I definitely have a soft spot for the country and language. Both settings were described well, and I loved the community feeling of Willowbrook.
The plot was complex, yet so endearing, and I loved the romance between Jake and Evie. The Christmas Holiday had a bit of everything in it and I now want a Dalmatian like Smoke, what a gorgeous, loyal dog! I would have liked to have been introduced to Heidi as she’s a character mentioned throughout the book, but readers never actually get to meet her. She seems to play such a big role in Jake’s life and it seemed like a shame that she wasn’t introduced fully. The writing was perhaps a little cliche in parts but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The spelling, punctuation and grammar was perfect and I loved Claire’s writing style. It was easy to follow and flowed well. I could have easily devoured another 200 pages of The Christmas Holiday as I’d love to find out what happens after the end of the book!
Final thoughts:
The Christmas Holiday took me completely by surprise. I thought I would enjoy it bu actually ended up loving it. It has so many layers and isn’t your ordinary love story. It complex, emotional, yet beautiful too. I’d definitely recommend reading this book if you’re a romance and women’s fiction fan. It’s the perfect read for this time of year, the writing is fantastic, it’s full of humour and I’m sure you will fall in love with Evie, Jake and Smoke just as much as I did.
I hope Claire decides to write a second novel or a novella about these characters in the future because I honestly can’t get enough of them. I’m blown away by the fact that this is Sophie Claire’s debut novel, it absolutely fantastic and certainly rivals the likes of Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes! Claire’s definitely an author to look out for and I genuinely can’t wait to read more of her books in the future.
I’ve got to be honest, when I first started reading the book I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy it as much as I thought I would. The enemies to lovers trope is my biggest bug bearer and The Christmas Holiday had mild elements of it at the beginning. As the book progressed and the plot deepened, the first few chapters are put into perspective and it’s clear to see why Claire decided to use this particular trope. This was an absolutely fantastic and brilliantly written love story, it had so many layers and dealt with some important and difficult topics too.
The Christmas Holiday had everything I enjoy in a book. The plot unravelled at a steady pace, the characters love for each other was a slow burner and it reflects the reality of life. There’s no over dramatic, unrealistic scenes, all of it is grounded in real life situations, which can quite often be raw and emotional. As I’ve said above, this book isn’t your ordinary Chick-Lit, it deals with some traumatic and difficult issues, such as the loss of a spouse and family members. Though this is a sensitive topic, Claire has approached it with the utmost respect and sensitivity. It really hits home that life is short and no one knows what could happen next. Claire shows the raw emotion and lasting affects losing a loved one can have. Her characters go on a tough journey of accepting this grief and allowing themselves to move on while still remembering the people they’ve lost. This was written well and Claire explores how the stages of grief affect people differently and take time to overcome.
Claire discusses toxic relationships and how they can have a lasting affect on an individual’s thought process, long after the relationship has ended. Evie’s ex-partner was emotionally abusive and this leads her to have a lack of self confidence in herself and abilities. Her parents are unaware of how controlling they are, and how this has been detrimental to Evie. This again was dealt in a sensitive, yet realistic way. I think it will resonate with many readers who have gone through something similar and although it’s tough at times to read, it’s important these issues are being brought up to emphasise what is, and what isn’t, a healthy relationship. It’s great Evie’s thought process surrounding her appearance, eating habits, business and personality is regularly challenged by Jake and her friends. It emphasises the importance of surrounding yourself with non toxic people, and accepting what has been said about you in the past isn’t true.
Though the plot was a little staccato and slow to begin with, it didn’t take me long to be won over by Evie’s bright and optimistic personality. You can’t help but to love her positivity and clumsiness. She’s a brilliant protagonist and compliments Jake’s more introverted, wary personality brilliantly. They’re polar opposites, yet are so similar at times. I loved seeing their relationship progress from one that’s quite sour and frosty. There’s so many layers to each of them, and as the novel continues and we find out more of their backstory, it’s clear to see why they both act in certain ways.
When I began reading The Christmas Holiday, I didn’t realise it was a multiple narrative, it switches between Evie and Jake throughout. I would have liked for each character’s section to be differentiated by their names to make it clear to readers when the perspective is going to change, but that’s just a personal preference. The multiple narrative works perfectly in this book as it allows readers more of an insight into both character’s thoughts and feelings. I enjoyed both Evie and Jake’s sections equally. As Jake is a somewhat closed book, his sections were particularly interesting to read.
The Christmas Holiday was such a great read and definitely one of my favourite Chick-Lit books of the year. Although it’s set in December and does talk about Christmas, you could read it any time of the year – it does make for the perfect and cosy Autumn/Winter read however. It’s ironic that it’s a Christmas book about avoiding celebrating Christmas! I loved everything about both Willowbrook and Provence. Willowbrook seems like a perfect, quaint English Village and Provence sounds gorgeous. As someone who visited France every year as a child, I definitely have a soft spot for the country and language. Both settings were described well, and I loved the community feeling of Willowbrook.
The plot was complex, yet so endearing, and I loved the romance between Jake and Evie. The Christmas Holiday had a bit of everything in it and I now want a Dalmatian like Smoke, what a gorgeous, loyal dog! I would have liked to have been introduced to Heidi as she’s a character mentioned throughout the book, but readers never actually get to meet her. She seems to play such a big role in Jake’s life and it seemed like a shame that she wasn’t introduced fully. The writing was perhaps a little cliche in parts but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The spelling, punctuation and grammar was perfect and I loved Claire’s writing style. It was easy to follow and flowed well. I could have easily devoured another 200 pages of The Christmas Holiday as I’d love to find out what happens after the end of the book!
Final thoughts:
The Christmas Holiday took me completely by surprise. I thought I would enjoy it bu actually ended up loving it. It has so many layers and isn’t your ordinary love story. It complex, emotional, yet beautiful too. I’d definitely recommend reading this book if you’re a romance and women’s fiction fan. It’s the perfect read for this time of year, the writing is fantastic, it’s full of humour and I’m sure you will fall in love with Evie, Jake and Smoke just as much as I did.
I hope Claire decides to write a second novel or a novella about these characters in the future because I honestly can’t get enough of them. I’m blown away by the fact that this is Sophie Claire’s debut novel, it absolutely fantastic and certainly rivals the likes of Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes! Claire’s definitely an author to look out for and I genuinely can’t wait to read more of her books in the future.
December 28, 2019
Evie is an optimist, despite the lack of support from her parents, the tragedy she has suffered, and the abusive relationship she is still trying to escape. Jake has lost the love of his life and finds going on without her difficult. The village of Willowbrook gives Evie a chance of a new independent life, and Jake the chance to hide away until he feels strong enough to carry on. The only problem is Christmas, which brings back painful memories for both.
Evie and Jake’s relationship has a less than auspicious start, but a friendship builds out of their mutual suffering, and escaping together for Christmas offers a solution to both their problems, but is friendship what they want? Or is a holiday romance inevitable?
Heartwarming romance and emotional conflict with a festive twist, set in a lovely English village, and fabulous Provence. The intensity of grief and loss is explored during Christmastime, sensitively, whilst keeping a positive, uplifting ethos. The characters are believable and individual and the settings bring the story to life. A lovely wintery story is written in an easy to read style by a consummate storyteller,
I received a copy of this book from Hodder and Stoughton via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Evie and Jake’s relationship has a less than auspicious start, but a friendship builds out of their mutual suffering, and escaping together for Christmas offers a solution to both their problems, but is friendship what they want? Or is a holiday romance inevitable?
Heartwarming romance and emotional conflict with a festive twist, set in a lovely English village, and fabulous Provence. The intensity of grief and loss is explored during Christmastime, sensitively, whilst keeping a positive, uplifting ethos. The characters are believable and individual and the settings bring the story to life. A lovely wintery story is written in an easy to read style by a consummate storyteller,
I received a copy of this book from Hodder and Stoughton via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
December 20, 2020
A great Christmas romance, with just the right amount of side story.
It was a joy to read from the very beginning. The characters were all written very well with the main two being particularly likeable in their own ways.
It was a joy to read from the very beginning. The characters were all written very well with the main two being particularly likeable in their own ways.
December 14, 2022
Sophie Claire has shot into first place as my favourite author for this genre, contemporary romance. I absolutely loved this book. A Christmas story with a twist. This story highlights the fact that not everyone looks forward to the festivities that Christmas brings and spending time with our families.
Sophie’s characters are so likeable and authentic, flaws and all. Her books are well researched with just the right amount of romance, real life and humour entwined.
Culminating in a most enjoyable read.
If you love to sew and make quilts then this story has an extra special sparkle to it too.
I’ll definitely be reading more of Sophie Claire’s books.
Sophie’s characters are so likeable and authentic, flaws and all. Her books are well researched with just the right amount of romance, real life and humour entwined.
Culminating in a most enjoyable read.
If you love to sew and make quilts then this story has an extra special sparkle to it too.
I’ll definitely be reading more of Sophie Claire’s books.
November 22, 2023
If a book features a sewing shop in it then I’m normally happy. Loved the character Evie and her love for sewing, patchwork, quilts and her tolerance for curtain making! A really easy Christmas read. The plot was known from the start and that’s ok because sometimes it’s just nice to read a lovely book with characters you like, a village you want to live in and the Button Hole which you want to work in!
December 16, 2022
3.5 Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
December 18, 2023
Mest fordi den var tysk + alltid slay med julebok
December 20, 2019
This is my first book by this author and won't be my last it's was brilliant from the first page and had me hooked and such a festive read and full of romance friendship and families but really also about learning to move forward from the past and be happy.
Evie has split from her boyfriend who has always put her down and she's moved to a small village and opened her own shop making quilts bit her parents aren't happy and say she's not like her sister who has passed away and she feels she's not good enough for them. She has made some curtains for a big house to which she is told is empty so she goes to put them up but while doing so Jake who has brought the house is staying there. He's also trying to escape his past as his wife died and he's blaming himself. Evie finds him rude and arrogant and wants to get out as quick as she can but it's snowing and her car bumps into the garden and she has to stay at the big house with Jake. They both start talking and she learns he's not as rude as she thought. They slowly start to get to know each other both aren't looking forward to Christmas and Jake's sister wants him with her but a mutual friend suggests going to stay at theirs and he agrees. The sister isn't happy and Evie agrees to go out on holiday with him and will it be a success will they be able to both let go of their pasta and move forward and will they be able to be happy and find romance.
A perfect book.
Evie has split from her boyfriend who has always put her down and she's moved to a small village and opened her own shop making quilts bit her parents aren't happy and say she's not like her sister who has passed away and she feels she's not good enough for them. She has made some curtains for a big house to which she is told is empty so she goes to put them up but while doing so Jake who has brought the house is staying there. He's also trying to escape his past as his wife died and he's blaming himself. Evie finds him rude and arrogant and wants to get out as quick as she can but it's snowing and her car bumps into the garden and she has to stay at the big house with Jake. They both start talking and she learns he's not as rude as she thought. They slowly start to get to know each other both aren't looking forward to Christmas and Jake's sister wants him with her but a mutual friend suggests going to stay at theirs and he agrees. The sister isn't happy and Evie agrees to go out on holiday with him and will it be a success will they be able to both let go of their pasta and move forward and will they be able to be happy and find romance.
A perfect book.
December 28, 2021
Ahhh how cute was this book!!!!!
Give me a book with broken hearts, grief and second chances then add in an insanely adorable dog and I’m putty in your hands, I absolutely ADORE this kind of read especially when cemeteries around Christmas oh my gosh!
Evie is an incredible woman, my love for her is infinite. After a bad break up and a knock to her self confidence she’s making a go at something she’s proud of, something she loves and is passionate about. She’s set up her own shop and determined to prove those who doubt her wrong. Seven with a determined family and an ex fiancé telling v her she’ll never make it she strives to work harder to show them she can. She’s quirky as heck and an absolute joy to read. She’s clumsy and full of fun and brightness, it’s one of the things I love most about her. She’s not afraid to show off her boldness even if she’s in doubt.
Jake, oh this man. My heart instantly went out to him. He’s in Willowbrook looking to forget about his past but grief never leaves a person. After loosing his wife Jake has lost himself and the person he used to be. He’s determined to keep people away but when a whirlwind that is Evie comes barrelling into his house it’s impossible to do so. It’s almost impossible for him to not smile around this woman she’s so different to any woman he’s seen
They both want the same thing, to escape Christmas and the hurt that follows that certain day so they escape the town their in for a place in France.
And what happens in France you might ask…a whole lot but that’s all I’m gonna say about that, it’s GOOD. SO GOOD.
I absolutely adored this book and honestly, as soon as I read the last page I just wanted more from these two, they’re cute and adorable especially with Jake’s dog.
Although their story is fun it’s tinged with grief and broken hearts and there comes a point in the story that your eyes well up with tears and it’s almost impossible to not let them fall. The amount of things these two have gone through is just heartbreaking and you’ll want to hug them both so tight, ugh!
Now, I just want to go read more Christmas books lol.
Give me a book with broken hearts, grief and second chances then add in an insanely adorable dog and I’m putty in your hands, I absolutely ADORE this kind of read especially when cemeteries around Christmas oh my gosh!
Evie is an incredible woman, my love for her is infinite. After a bad break up and a knock to her self confidence she’s making a go at something she’s proud of, something she loves and is passionate about. She’s set up her own shop and determined to prove those who doubt her wrong. Seven with a determined family and an ex fiancé telling v her she’ll never make it she strives to work harder to show them she can. She’s quirky as heck and an absolute joy to read. She’s clumsy and full of fun and brightness, it’s one of the things I love most about her. She’s not afraid to show off her boldness even if she’s in doubt.
Jake, oh this man. My heart instantly went out to him. He’s in Willowbrook looking to forget about his past but grief never leaves a person. After loosing his wife Jake has lost himself and the person he used to be. He’s determined to keep people away but when a whirlwind that is Evie comes barrelling into his house it’s impossible to do so. It’s almost impossible for him to not smile around this woman she’s so different to any woman he’s seen
They both want the same thing, to escape Christmas and the hurt that follows that certain day so they escape the town their in for a place in France.
And what happens in France you might ask…a whole lot but that’s all I’m gonna say about that, it’s GOOD. SO GOOD.
I absolutely adored this book and honestly, as soon as I read the last page I just wanted more from these two, they’re cute and adorable especially with Jake’s dog.
Although their story is fun it’s tinged with grief and broken hearts and there comes a point in the story that your eyes well up with tears and it’s almost impossible to not let them fall. The amount of things these two have gone through is just heartbreaking and you’ll want to hug them both so tight, ugh!
Now, I just want to go read more Christmas books lol.
December 29, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a sweet Christmas story with good characters and plausible reasons as to why they were acting the way they were.
After having devoured several cosy XMas books the last couple of weeks this one stood out from the rest as particularly well composed by the author.
The only complaint I have is that the story sometimes jumps between scenes a bit abruptly. It was a bit confusing at times, as the narrator didn't really have a clear pause in between some of those scenes, but I'm sure that works better in written form.
The story between Evie and Jake is sweet and it ends just the way you want it to. It contains no real surprises anywhere, but the characters are written in a way that makes you root for that ending. You want them to end up happy and it's heart-warming to see things go right for them, eventually.
I thought maybe Jake lingered a bit too long on the side of stubborn and gloomy, but... Ahh... Well... All in all, it was a nice book. Like sugar straight into the blood stream.
I think I have to switch back to dark fantasy and thrillers soon, or I'll get diabetes. 😂
This was a sweet Christmas story with good characters and plausible reasons as to why they were acting the way they were.
After having devoured several cosy XMas books the last couple of weeks this one stood out from the rest as particularly well composed by the author.
The only complaint I have is that the story sometimes jumps between scenes a bit abruptly. It was a bit confusing at times, as the narrator didn't really have a clear pause in between some of those scenes, but I'm sure that works better in written form.
The story between Evie and Jake is sweet and it ends just the way you want it to. It contains no real surprises anywhere, but the characters are written in a way that makes you root for that ending. You want them to end up happy and it's heart-warming to see things go right for them, eventually.
I thought maybe Jake lingered a bit too long on the side of stubborn and gloomy, but... Ahh... Well... All in all, it was a nice book. Like sugar straight into the blood stream.
I think I have to switch back to dark fantasy and thrillers soon, or I'll get diabetes. 😂
December 18, 2019
The Cotswold village of Willowbrook seems more like a setting for a cozy mystery, but then The Christmas Holiday is something of a cozy romance.
Evie and Jake are both recovering - her from a breakup with an abusive fiancee and him from the death of his wife two years prior. Both come to Willowbrook for a fresh start. Evie has followed her dream and recently opened a quilt shop. After his wife's death, Jake left medicine and started a wine importing business.
Things start out shaky between them, but they eventually become friends. Especially since Smoke, Jake's Dalmation has fallen in love-at-first-sight with Evie.
This is a sweet, enjoyable romance between two people not quite ready to celebrate a traditional Christmas. Perfect for the holidays.
Cover: It's Willowbrook, and it's perfect.
Narrator: Nice job.
Hogwarts Sorting Hat: Evie is a Hufflepuff. Jake is a little harder to sort because we mostly see him deep in grief. I'm going to guess he's a Gryffindor.
Themes: Christmas, village, Cotswolds, Provence, quilts/quilt shop, abusive relationship, grief
Evie and Jake are both recovering - her from a breakup with an abusive fiancee and him from the death of his wife two years prior. Both come to Willowbrook for a fresh start. Evie has followed her dream and recently opened a quilt shop. After his wife's death, Jake left medicine and started a wine importing business.
Things start out shaky between them, but they eventually become friends. Especially since Smoke, Jake's Dalmation has fallen in love-at-first-sight with Evie.
This is a sweet, enjoyable romance between two people not quite ready to celebrate a traditional Christmas. Perfect for the holidays.
Cover: It's Willowbrook, and it's perfect.
Narrator: Nice job.
Hogwarts Sorting Hat: Evie is a Hufflepuff. Jake is a little harder to sort because we mostly see him deep in grief. I'm going to guess he's a Gryffindor.
Themes: Christmas, village, Cotswolds, Provence, quilts/quilt shop, abusive relationship, grief
November 16, 2020
Wow you know it’s a good book when you get excited at the next time you can pick it up and read because you miss the characters 😍🥰 “forget Brigitte Bardot she was very much still clumsy Evie Miller” such a beautiful story, heart warming, and laugh out loud funny in places, sometimes it’s beautiful to see the good in every bad and Evie proves that 😍
About the book, Evie Miller moves out of London and to a very beautiful little town called willowbrook in the cotswolds to escape a bad break up and loss of her sister, to follow her dreams of opening a shop of her own doing what she loves as a seamstress, where she meets Jake hartwood who has also escaped London for a new life after the tragic death of his wife, they are both trying to get over there grief and try and find happiness, although some people need more help than others at moving on!
This is the first Christmas type book I’ve read and I absolutely loved it, highly recommended 5 star me from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
About the book, Evie Miller moves out of London and to a very beautiful little town called willowbrook in the cotswolds to escape a bad break up and loss of her sister, to follow her dreams of opening a shop of her own doing what she loves as a seamstress, where she meets Jake hartwood who has also escaped London for a new life after the tragic death of his wife, they are both trying to get over there grief and try and find happiness, although some people need more help than others at moving on!
This is the first Christmas type book I’ve read and I absolutely loved it, highly recommended 5 star me from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 18, 2022
What a wonderful book to start off my festive reads this year! I've always loved the sound and look of this one and couldn't wait to get stuck in once the festive season was here.
I actually really enjoyed this! It wasn't overly Christmasy and the plot worked in a very nice timely manner. It was realistic and not a crazy plot. It just worked really well.
Evie was just such a wonderful character and I instantly loved her from the beginning, Jake took a little while longer to warm too 😂 I loved all the talk of Evie in the shop and how Jake helped her build her confidence. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
I actually really enjoyed this! It wasn't overly Christmasy and the plot worked in a very nice timely manner. It was realistic and not a crazy plot. It just worked really well.
Evie was just such a wonderful character and I instantly loved her from the beginning, Jake took a little while longer to warm too 😂 I loved all the talk of Evie in the shop and how Jake helped her build her confidence. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
December 12, 2020
I enjoyed this book so much more than I expected. It is well written and is a page turner which I don't often find with this genre. It has the hate to love trope which usually annoys me, however in this case it was particularly well plotted.
I felt attached to both characters for different reasons, and for me having a textile and quilting shop thrown in was a bonus.
It covers grief and how it affects individuals very differently.
Excellent, I highly recommend it and I will be looking out for more by this author.
I felt attached to both characters for different reasons, and for me having a textile and quilting shop thrown in was a bonus.
It covers grief and how it affects individuals very differently.
Excellent, I highly recommend it and I will be looking out for more by this author.
December 19, 2023
Síce kniha pre mňa nemala tú vianočnú atmosféru, ktorú som čakala, príbeh bol naozaj pekný. Oboch hlavných hrdinov som si veľmi obľúbila a na ich ceste za láskou som im držala palce. Obaja sa museli vyrovnať s veľkým smútkom. Koniec bol trošku predvídateľný, ale pri takomto type príbehu mi to vôbec nevadilo. Naozaj milá, nie úplne prvoplánová, romantická oddychovka.
November 28, 2021
A good read on a cold Sunday.
I loved Evie and Jake, but Smoke stole the book for me! I mean, who can’t resist a fictional dog who brings a couple together?
Will definitely read more of this author.
I loved Evie and Jake, but Smoke stole the book for me! I mean, who can’t resist a fictional dog who brings a couple together?
Will definitely read more of this author.
December 12, 2020
Romance and Christmas books aren't usually something I read, but, after a few heavy novels I decided to give them a go.
This is a pleasant little story, predictable, but charmingly festive, and not too heavy on the Christmas theme.
This is a pleasant little story, predictable, but charmingly festive, and not too heavy on the Christmas theme.
December 23, 2020
Oddychovka na vypnutie hlavy, fajn na jedno prečítanie, ale aj v tomto žánri sa podľa mňa nájdu kvalitatívne lepšie knižky. Ani na vianočnú náladu to napriek názvu až tak nenaladí.
December 15, 2022
"what would Evie Miller do?' will be the way I figure out every single problem for the rest of my life
December 16, 2022
3,5 ⭐️
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