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Heirloom Island #2
The Manger House: An Heirloom Island Christmas
Holiday romance, second chances, and new beginnings... The Manger House is a heartwarming, romantic women's fiction about the true meaning of Christmas.
Tatum Sageberry always wanted to open an animal shelter. Now she's got the property but not a clue where to begin.
Enter local bachelor Rip Van Dam, a family friend who’s been looking for the chance to spend time with the pretty new islander. What’s more? He’s a pet-lover, too. But Tatum has only one thing on her mind: and it has nothing to do with meeting under the mistletoe.
Meanwhile, Tatum’s sisters are in the thick of their own fresh starts. Cadence is opening her own new business: an all-inclusive events venue. And just in time for the holiday season. But with property management, the new business, and her return to the classroom--it’s too much, and she’s about to lose her grip for good.
Darla’s life has been turned upside down, and she is second-guessing everything, not least of which the only anchor she has: teaching. Work was always a safe haven for the sensible thirty-something, but now a new romance is drifting in like softly falling snow, her sisters are starting new businesses, and Darla is going through the biggest change of her life. If things don’t settle down fast, Darla can’t imagine sticking around Heirloom Island for much longer.
This Christmas could be the best ever--complete with the sisters’ famous gooseberry pie, decked halls, and hot cocoa by the fire. But only if they can find their holiday spirit together, amidst all the madness of the yuletide season.
Head to Heirloom Island in this heartwarming series about three sisters and the charming small town they come to call home. With enemies-to-lovers romance, sister drama, and small-town charm, The Manger House is the perfect Christmas story.
Tatum Sageberry always wanted to open an animal shelter. Now she's got the property but not a clue where to begin.
Enter local bachelor Rip Van Dam, a family friend who’s been looking for the chance to spend time with the pretty new islander. What’s more? He’s a pet-lover, too. But Tatum has only one thing on her mind: and it has nothing to do with meeting under the mistletoe.
Meanwhile, Tatum’s sisters are in the thick of their own fresh starts. Cadence is opening her own new business: an all-inclusive events venue. And just in time for the holiday season. But with property management, the new business, and her return to the classroom--it’s too much, and she’s about to lose her grip for good.
Darla’s life has been turned upside down, and she is second-guessing everything, not least of which the only anchor she has: teaching. Work was always a safe haven for the sensible thirty-something, but now a new romance is drifting in like softly falling snow, her sisters are starting new businesses, and Darla is going through the biggest change of her life. If things don’t settle down fast, Darla can’t imagine sticking around Heirloom Island for much longer.
This Christmas could be the best ever--complete with the sisters’ famous gooseberry pie, decked halls, and hot cocoa by the fire. But only if they can find their holiday spirit together, amidst all the madness of the yuletide season.
Head to Heirloom Island in this heartwarming series about three sisters and the charming small town they come to call home. With enemies-to-lovers romance, sister drama, and small-town charm, The Manger House is the perfect Christmas story.
- GenresChristmas
159 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 23, 2021
73 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Bromke
56 books224 followersElizabeth Bromke writes women's fiction and heartwarming romance. In her stories, she weaves together family dynamics and the triumphs and trials of modern relationships. Echoes of the past flavor her books with nostalgia.
Elizabeth lives in the mountains of Arizona. There, she enjoys walking, reading, and cooking with her husband, son, and their sweet Golden-mix, Winnie.
Elizabeth lives in the mountains of Arizona. There, she enjoys walking, reading, and cooking with her husband, son, and their sweet Golden-mix, Winnie.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 27, 2021
It's getting close to Christmas time on Heirloom Island and each of the Sageberry sisters have a lot going on individually. Tatum finally has the property to open her own animal shelter, but there's so much to do--where does she start? Cadence is starting her own business--a venue center, but will she be able handle that on top of managing the properties and teaching? Darla is about to go through the biggest change of her life just as she was settling in teaching. Will she be able to continue to do the one thing she loves?
This book is Tatum's story but as always, we get updates on the other sisters Cadence and Darla too. These sisters each have a lot going on but they still do their best to be there for each other. I felt it wasn't fair that Cadence thought of Tatum as irresponsible at times because she'd forget her cell phone or forget to charge it, since that happens to even the most responsible people. Tatum cared so much about animals I think sometimes the rest of the world kind of faded into the background for her, but that's not to say she didn't care about her sisters because she did. I liked her friendship with Rip Van Dam and how he helped her turn the old farmhouse into a shelter for the rescued animals.
I always wondered why Cadence kept herself so busy and we get a peek into the reason. I won't say much about Darla because I don't want to give any spoilers. I will say I laughed at her naivete when she thought she'd be back to directing the Nativity play in a couple of weeks. Silly Darla. I also really liked how the author tied the Nativity story into this book, and the baby kittens!!! The way Elizabeth Bromke writes her characters is the reason she's an automatic must read for me.
I received a complimentary copy to review. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
This book is Tatum's story but as always, we get updates on the other sisters Cadence and Darla too. These sisters each have a lot going on but they still do their best to be there for each other. I felt it wasn't fair that Cadence thought of Tatum as irresponsible at times because she'd forget her cell phone or forget to charge it, since that happens to even the most responsible people. Tatum cared so much about animals I think sometimes the rest of the world kind of faded into the background for her, but that's not to say she didn't care about her sisters because she did. I liked her friendship with Rip Van Dam and how he helped her turn the old farmhouse into a shelter for the rescued animals.
I always wondered why Cadence kept herself so busy and we get a peek into the reason. I won't say much about Darla because I don't want to give any spoilers. I will say I laughed at her naivete when she thought she'd be back to directing the Nativity play in a couple of weeks. Silly Darla. I also really liked how the author tied the Nativity story into this book, and the baby kittens!!! The way Elizabeth Bromke writes her characters is the reason she's an automatic must read for me.
I received a complimentary copy to review. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
November 24, 2021
Could you go back as an adult and live with your sisters? I would lose my mind, but we haven't lived together for 48 years. Anyway, that's what happens in this book about three very different sisters trying to figure out their lives and where to go from this moment. This is book #2 in a series, but I hadn't read the first (I will) and had no problem knowing what was going on.
I love Elizabeth Bromke books. They are very well written fiction that always keeps you turning the pages and make you invested in the lives of the characters. She did such a great job in this book of putting on display how different sisters can be, how irritating they can be and just how much you have to love them anyway. One is suffering from grief, one is trying to start the business that's always been in her heart and the last is about to have a life changing event. Through it all, they learn that they need each other and can rely on each other (mostly).
I was gifted a copy of this book by the author. All thoughts are my own.
I love Elizabeth Bromke books. They are very well written fiction that always keeps you turning the pages and make you invested in the lives of the characters. She did such a great job in this book of putting on display how different sisters can be, how irritating they can be and just how much you have to love them anyway. One is suffering from grief, one is trying to start the business that's always been in her heart and the last is about to have a life changing event. Through it all, they learn that they need each other and can rely on each other (mostly).
I was gifted a copy of this book by the author. All thoughts are my own.
November 24, 2021
I received an ARC for The Manger House:An Heirloom Island Christmas by Elizabeth Bromke in exchange for my honest review. It’s book two in The Heirloom Island series. I decided to purchase and read book one first. I think this could be read as a stand-alone, but reading book one gives you background on the three main characters.
The main characters are three sisters, Cadence, Tatum and Darla. This story focuses on Tatum. She’s a huge animal lover, and her dream has been to open an animal rescue shelter. She locates an old, rundown farmhouse house on the island with lots of property. It’s requires tons of updating and the funds to do so. She has the help of a local bachelor and fellow animal lover. But the animals needing rescue can’t wait for that! Throw in a little romance, some family drama and fun characters, and you have a great holiday read. I’m looking forward to reading more about these sisters.
I definitely recommend this book and the series.
The main characters are three sisters, Cadence, Tatum and Darla. This story focuses on Tatum. She’s a huge animal lover, and her dream has been to open an animal rescue shelter. She locates an old, rundown farmhouse house on the island with lots of property. It’s requires tons of updating and the funds to do so. She has the help of a local bachelor and fellow animal lover. But the animals needing rescue can’t wait for that! Throw in a little romance, some family drama and fun characters, and you have a great holiday read. I’m looking forward to reading more about these sisters.
I definitely recommend this book and the series.
November 22, 2021
I received an advanced reader copy for my honest review. This is book 2 in the Heirloom Island series. I haven’t read book 1, The Boardwalk House. I need to get myself a copy! Three sisters are all dealing with life changes. How each sister approaches her challenges and works to find solutions is very different. They have to support each other and their decisions to become a unified family . There are challenges living on an island, especially in winter, being dependent on the ferry schedule and the weather. However, the benefits of a tight knit community gives them strength. Add in romances, Christmas, and you will understand why this book is The Manger House. I have unanswered questions about each sister and hope to learn more in book 3, The Abbey House. Once again, Elizabeth Bromke has left me wanting to return to Heirloom Island. I recommend this sweet cozy holiday book.
November 24, 2021
I adored this story! Three sisters, three vastly different personalities with different goals in life. Tatum has started on making her dream of opening an animal rescue come true, but there is so much to be done and not enough funds. Darla’s life has some new excitement in it and Cadence has started her new business in time for the holidays. There is some family drama as they try to work out a new normal. I could see hints of possible future books and I can’t wait!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
November 24, 2021
Three sisters with very different personalities and challenges. They have some tension among them but they always support each other. Each sister is faced with an issue and they handle it in their own unique way. You get nuggets of information about each sister that leaves you want to know more. Each sister may have a love interest on the horizon. You will not be disappointed with the series or this book. Can not wait to see what comes up in book three!!
November 24, 2021
This book is full of family drama and will keep you turning the pages to see how everything works out. It's the perfect book to curl up with to escape life for just a little while. This is another wonderful book by Elizabeth Bromke that you don't want to miss.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own
November 19, 2021
Short Tale Packs A Lot In Its Pages. This is a long novella / short novel (seriously, it is right at that 160 page point that some consider the cutoff between the two) featuring three sisters and their efforts to reclaim their lives and make their marks on their hometown. As the middle book of a trilogy, arguably Book 1 (The Boardwalk House) should be read first, but honestly this book reads perfectly fine if you want to start here and go back as well. Great atypical Christmas story featuring three vastly different sisters in three vastly different situations, yet who all show what Christmas is all about. Another great read for those family get togethers where maybe you just need a break from your actual family. Very much recommended.
November 22, 2021
A really good family drama. The Manger House features three sisters making navigating their way in their lives and with each other. Each sister is dealing with their own issue, but at heart, their love of their family shines through. A really warm story that shows the meaning of Christmas.
November 28, 2021
A sweet holiday read.
This is the second book following The Boardwalk House. Because I didn’t read the first story, I do feel like I was a little confused about the characters at the beginning, and I do think it affected my enjoyment so I recommend reading this after The Boardwalk House. Overall still an enjoyable read, with sisterly conflict, romantic interests, adorable pets and the holiday spirit.
This is the second book following The Boardwalk House. Because I didn’t read the first story, I do feel like I was a little confused about the characters at the beginning, and I do think it affected my enjoyment so I recommend reading this after The Boardwalk House. Overall still an enjoyable read, with sisterly conflict, romantic interests, adorable pets and the holiday spirit.
November 16, 2021
I received an ARC to review: this book was a breath of fresh air! It's a window into the lives of the 3 Sageberry sisters one Christmas and has threads of pets, romance, intrigue, finding love and growing family, all packed in one tale! A thoroughly delightful story.
December 4, 2021
Interesting story.
There's lots of family drama. The sisters obviously have had a difficult relationship that is mostly smoothed out and old feelings still bubble up causing friction, but they still look after each other. They still support each other and their goals.
There's a hint of future romances and that was fun to witness, too.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
There's lots of family drama. The sisters obviously have had a difficult relationship that is mostly smoothed out and old feelings still bubble up causing friction, but they still look after each other. They still support each other and their goals.
There's a hint of future romances and that was fun to witness, too.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
December 30, 2021
Another lovely story by the talented Ms. Bromke. I always love picking up her books because I end up with a warm, happy feeling afterwards. This is the second book of the Heirloom Island series. It can certainly be read as a standalone, but it is more enjoyable if you read the previous book as well. This is Tatum's story, but we get updates on her two sisters Cadence and Darla as well. Tatum is a big animal lover and wants to open an animal shelter. She finds a great place but it needs a lot of fixing up. Of course the story would not be complete without family and sisterly drama, so count on that as well as maybe a little romance for Tatum! I really enjoy reading these books and getting to know the sisters.
The book has a strong storyline with wonderful characters with such personality and depth that give them an authentic quality, you can't help but be endeared to them. This is truly a heartwarming story and a brilliant addition to an amazing series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The book has a strong storyline with wonderful characters with such personality and depth that give them an authentic quality, you can't help but be endeared to them. This is truly a heartwarming story and a brilliant addition to an amazing series.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
November 25, 2022
Finding yourself in the things that make you who you are
The sisters on Heirloom Island are still working on finding themselves. Each one has their own set of issues. Darla is pregnant with no partner to help. Tatum is trying to start the island's first animal shelter and Camille is trying to find her way after losing her husband and her father at the same time. All of them are trying to work on themselves and still be here to help and support the others, just like family should do. They are all still a work in progress, but are making headway.
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has no action and no steam. The characters are vivid and engaging. The issues are very believable and intriguing. I can't wait to see what happens next. If you like your contemporary fiction stories with a bit of romance, fantastic characters, babies and cute animals, then this is for you. Enjoy!
The sisters on Heirloom Island are still working on finding themselves. Each one has their own set of issues. Darla is pregnant with no partner to help. Tatum is trying to start the island's first animal shelter and Camille is trying to find her way after losing her husband and her father at the same time. All of them are trying to work on themselves and still be here to help and support the others, just like family should do. They are all still a work in progress, but are making headway.
The pace is engrossing and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has no action and no steam. The characters are vivid and engaging. The issues are very believable and intriguing. I can't wait to see what happens next. If you like your contemporary fiction stories with a bit of romance, fantastic characters, babies and cute animals, then this is for you. Enjoy!
November 29, 2021
The Manger House by Elizabeth Bromke is the second book in The Heirloom Island Series.!! Although I read this as a stand alone, I had no problems following along the storyline!! I will definitely go back and read the first one and I cannot wait for the next episode!!!
This is a heartwarming story about three sisters who are different in every way, come to get her to support each other as only sisters know how! It is a gratifying story of finding themselves, finding each other and finding love along the way!!! Bromke combines family drama, humor, adorable animals and romance and it all takes place during the Holiday Season! This is a perfect read during Christmas time that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face.
Thank you Elizabeth Bromke and Publishing in the Pines for an advance copy of this beautifully written story in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is a heartwarming story about three sisters who are different in every way, come to get her to support each other as only sisters know how! It is a gratifying story of finding themselves, finding each other and finding love along the way!!! Bromke combines family drama, humor, adorable animals and romance and it all takes place during the Holiday Season! This is a perfect read during Christmas time that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face.
Thank you Elizabeth Bromke and Publishing in the Pines for an advance copy of this beautifully written story in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 30, 2021
A fun read set during the Christmas season, book 2 in the series. The Sageberry Sisters Tatum, Darla and Cadence are living on Heirloom Island. Each sister plays a part in this book, although this book is mainly Tatum’s story. The trio lost their father in the past year. Tatum is working to open an animal shelter on the island. Her love for animals and rescuing strays means Tatum leaves her phone behind, to the frustration of her sisters. Darla is facing upcoming motherhood, with a surprise in store. Cadence also recently lost her husband. Sister love and family support are themes in this book. The author has given the sisters unique character traits that sometimes frustrate the other sisters, but yet keep the sisters working together.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
November 30, 2021
I received this ARC book from Elizabeth Brooke in exchange for a honest review. It is Christmas time on Heirloom Island and it is here we find the Sagebury Sisters. Three women each trying to find their way and their future while encountering a few obstacles and maybe finding the love of their lives. Elizabeth has such a way of telling a story that you are hooked from page one. Well actually I was hooked when I heard about the storyline. My favorite series settings are life on an island and you can't help but fall in love with Elizabeth's characters. I can't wait to read book one of the series.
December 1, 2021
The Manger House: An Heirloom Island Christmas #2 by Elizabeth Bromke
A wonderful Christmas story that was written by Elizabeth. Elizabeth always delivers with her stories, with true-to-life characters and believable storylines that have you falling into the story from the very beginning.
The storyline was great, the characters are fantastic and the book had a smooth flow to it. This was another great addition to the series and kept me entertained from beginning to end. The author has given us characters that we can care about. The story pulls you in and never lets's go.
I highly recommend it.
A wonderful Christmas story that was written by Elizabeth. Elizabeth always delivers with her stories, with true-to-life characters and believable storylines that have you falling into the story from the very beginning.
The storyline was great, the characters are fantastic and the book had a smooth flow to it. This was another great addition to the series and kept me entertained from beginning to end. The author has given us characters that we can care about. The story pulls you in and never lets's go.
I highly recommend it.
December 2, 2021
Christmas is approaching on Heirloom Island and the Sageberry girls have a lot going on as usual. Tatum has finally been able to purchase property for an animal shelter but it needs a lot of work. Rip Van Dam helped Tatum turn an old farmhouse into a rescue shelter.
All the sisters have a lot going on but they still find the time to support and help each other. There is a hint of romance but you’ll have to read the book to see what happens. I love Elizabeth Bromke’s characters as she brings them alive and makes for a great read.
I received a complimentary copy to review and all thoughts expressed are my own.
All the sisters have a lot going on but they still find the time to support and help each other. There is a hint of romance but you’ll have to read the book to see what happens. I love Elizabeth Bromke’s characters as she brings them alive and makes for a great read.
I received a complimentary copy to review and all thoughts expressed are my own.
November 27, 2021
A family story about sisters who have recently reunited after the death of their father. One has also lost her husband. All are trying to decide what to do with their lives now. The youngest wants to open an animal rescue and is getting closer to doing so. That doesn't mean the other two will be left out in this story. A heart warming tale with a little romance thrown in. I received an ARC and am leaving a review to let you know this is an interesting, clean family story. It even has babies--animal and people ones.
January 1, 2022
I enjoyed this second book of The Heirloom Island Christmas series. This story revolves around the youngest sister, Tatum, and her dream of opening a shelter for rescue animals. She bought a farm and with the help of Rip who she is beginning a relationship with, the grand opening happens on Christmas Eve and the name of the shelter is The Manger House. I recommend this book about three sisters bonding and making their dreams come true. The characters are likeable and the story moves along well. I received an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 25, 2021
The Manger House by Elizabeth Bromke is the second book in the Heirloom Island series. It is a heartwarming Christmas story about the Sageberry sisters-Cadence, Darla, and Tatum. Their goals in life are very different and they soon learn they can trust each other to be supportive.
You will find humor, romance and animals in need of rescuing! I recommend this fun and delightful read. I was given an ARC and this is my honest review.
You will find humor, romance and animals in need of rescuing! I recommend this fun and delightful read. I was given an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 29, 2021
The Manger House is centered around three sisters coming together after years of being apart and developing relationships with one another. It was an easy, enjoyable read. I wish I'd read the first book in the series first, but will plan to go back and read it. Sweet story about family and relationships, love and loss.
December 24, 2022
Not realizing that this was the second book in a series, I may have liked it more if I started with the first book. I felt off the entire time reading it like I was missing something. Also seemed a little too simple yet rushed in regards to the relationships between the sisters and the love interests in their lives. Just wasn’t feeling it.
December 30, 2021
A sweet Christmas read that moves along. I can’t imagine as an adult living with my siblings. Lots of conflicts due to this and add the animals and fact the place is run down. Whole lot of holiday craziness!
*I was given a copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
*I was given a copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
January 23, 2022
Darla, Tatum and Candace settle in together
When Darla finds out she is having twins her two sisters step up to help. With Tatum’s animal shelter opening soon how much help can she be? Will Candace’s PTSD hinder her from helping? Read and see.
When Darla finds out she is having twins her two sisters step up to help. With Tatum’s animal shelter opening soon how much help can she be? Will Candace’s PTSD hinder her from helping? Read and see.
March 17, 2023
The Manger House
Perfect story with lots of problems and good things happening! Life is full of ups and downs and the characters seem to go through it well! Highly recommended reading!
Perfect story with lots of problems and good things happening! Life is full of ups and downs and the characters seem to go through it well! Highly recommended reading!
December 7, 2021
I absolutely love books about sisters or families. This book will keep you begging for more on their journey of life together. Such a wonderful book.
December 28, 2021
It took me a few chapters to get into this book, but once I did, I am so glad I didn't give it up! I loved this tale of three very different sisters and the challenges that life brings. This story made me miss my sister but so grateful for the bond we share. I enjoyed this lovely holiday read!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews