Checking Holly Twice

Romancing the Rink #2

by Tess Thompson

Famous actress Holly Turner arrives in Garland Grove with a bang when she crashes her sports car in the middle of the town square. Facing humiliation after getting very publicly dumped by her fiancé for another actress, she's looking for a place to escape. But when all the inns are full, she's forced to stay at the bed and breakfast run by the grumpiest of owners, Forest Sully. The bonus? His adorable niece and nephew.

Forest Sully has no use for spoiled actresses but when Holly needs a place to stay, he's only too happy to rent her a room at his empty bed and breakfast. Raising his parentless niece and nephew, he's desperate to save the family home for their sake. Given how things are going, he'll lose the place to the bank before the snow melts in the spring.

Can a Christmas miracle save them all?

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Contemporary, Hockey Romance

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2021

About the author

Tess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.

Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.

She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.

Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.

She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.

She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.

Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites

Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.

Reviews

[Francesca the Fierce (Under the Covers Book Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

[Monae Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the perfect read for the Christmas holiday 🎄. This book is part of the Romancing The Rink series. This story revolves around a woman named Holly. She is an actress. She arrives in Garland Grove after crashing her sports car in the middle of town square. Facing humiliation after being dumped by her former fiancée she’s looking for a place to escape. When she finds that all of the inns are full she finds a bed and breakfast owned by Forest Sully. Forest is a bit of a grump who has no time for an actress like Holly. He does rent her a room at his inn. He has guardianship of his niece and nephew after losing his sister and husband. Forest is desperate to save the family inn. Forest and Holly are cute together and they’re attraction to each other is hot. Forest’s niece and nephew were cute in this story and Holly was great with them. I enjoyed reading this book. I liked how this story ended.

[Becky Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Checking Holly Twice is amazing. I loved this one so much. You are filled with such holiday spirit that it will put a smile on your face. Holly may be running away from Hollywood but she has met her match once she makes it to Canada. Forest will put a smile on your face. He is grumpy but such a sweet guy. Once you meet his niece and nephew it is all over. He is an incredible uncle to those kids and you are going to love every moment of meeting them. Forest and Holly have amazing chemistry and it just grows even more as they get to know each other. I love how Holly is with the kids and the small town of Garland Grove. I loved this one so much and could not put it down. This gave me all the holiday feels I wanted and then some. Tess Thompson did an amazing job bring this Christmas romance to life with in the Romancing the Rink series.

[Lisa Wetzel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tess Thompson has written yet another wonderful book in Checking Holly Twice:Romancing the Rink Book 2. It is a fascinating story about how opposites can attract and save the day for all involved. It is a story of faith, hope and love and all wrapped up around the holidays. This is a fast paced well written story that will be love by all. Tess Thompson’s books are always a must read and she will not disappoint.

Thank you Tess Thompson and Garland Grove Books for an advanced copy of this joyous story in exchange for my honest review.
#tessthompson # checkinghollytwice # arc
#garlandgrovebooks

[ROBIN RUIZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Christmas book by Tess Thompson. Say no more I am all in. Anything written by This author is going to give you all the feels, the best characters, the best towns and stories that will stay with you and leave you with a smile on your face. And Checking Holly Twice is not exception!

So dive right in, get cozy and enjoy another home run by Tess Thompson !

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Checking Holly Twice
By Tess Thompson. 🎄


Holly
The Famous actress
Now with a broken heart. Is going off the grid leaving behind the cheating Ex.. and everything attached. That includes a mom who only saw dollar signs ..
Finding herself. Without the flash of the Paparazzi evey were.


But then Garland Grove happens.

Forest.
Hot Hunk Uncle. Raising his niece and nephew. After the loss of his sister and Brother in law.
Fender benders.
Chance meetings.
Are not his thing.


Another wonderful story
That Tess Thompson.
Has Written Perfectly. I'm a
Fan for sure..thank you Tess 🌹

[Mary Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of Tess Thompson’s writing, so I was delighted to read this Christmas story, part of a group of 4 books by different authors set in the small town of Garland Grove. This is the story of Hollywood actress Holly, escaping the tabloids after her fiancé cheated on her, and heading north with no real destination in mind. Pulling off the road in Garland Grove, looking for food & a place to spend a few quiet days before she has to report to the set of her next movie, her plans go astray when it starts snowing & her little sports car plows into a parked truck, owned by grumpy accountant & reluctant bed & breakfast owner Forest. Forest moved back to his hometown after his only sister & brother-in-law were killed, leaving him as guardian of their two adorable kids & the owner of the newly remodeled and heavily mortgaged inn. Holly & this little family may seem like a terrible mismatch, but Christmas does bring miracles…and a great read! I enjoyed this book & look forward to the others in this series!

[Barb McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is always so exciting when my favorite author releases a new book! While ‘Checking Holly Twice’ is part of a series that was created by several authors, please know that is can also be read as a stand-alone. The story opens by introducing us to Holly Turner who is a successful actress who was to be married in December but unfortunately, her planned happily ever after never transpired due to an unfaithful fiancé. As a result, she decides that the best course of action is to immediately leave for the holidays to nurse her broken heart. During her driving adventure, she unexpected meets Forest Sully, his niece and nephew in very unusual circumstances. I do not wish to give the storyline away but want you to know that this is the perfect holiday romance that you will not be able to put down! As always, Tess Thompson does not disappoint. This is a wonderful read to start off the upcoming holiday season!

Thank you Tess Thompson and Garland Grove Books for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Tara Peters · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this sweet Christmas romance, Forest and Holly are thrown together when she hits his car and she has to stay with him and his kids for a few days. She is running from her ex, who humiliated her and he is struggling to keep his kids in his family home. He is full of pride and doesn’t take it well when she offers to help him. She truly means no harm, because she loves his family (which she has never had). The connection between them is great and they believe they can end things when it is time for her to go back to Hollywood.
As they get to know each other, their feelings grow and so does the connection she has with his kids. I loved how protective he was of Holly. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens next in Garland Grove. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think if Tess Thompson decided to write a phone book full of entirely made up numbers such as (555) 555-5555, I would read it cover to cover because I love her writing that much. So of course I was ecstatic to read Checking Holly Twice, a book that is part of a series created by several authors that can also be read as a standalone.

The characters are always my favorite part of a Tess Thompson book, and it was no different this time. Holly, Forest, Ruby, and Dane are my favorite things about this book. It was so interesting to read about a Hollywood star and see all of the problems that happen behind the scenes in the star’s private life. The story is great as well! I loved seeing how quickly everyone fell in with each other.

As always, Tess Thompson has delivered another fantastic, feel good read. I can’t wait for the next one!

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A jilted bride stumbles across the most delightful downhome Christmas she could have ever dreamed of! Tess Thompson brings an adorable family with a grumpy uncle to life in a delightful way when a wayward actress literally crashes into their Christmas with a bang. The back stories are emotional and the sweetness of these little kiddos steals the show as kindness and love win out in this addictive holiday tale!

Holly is a sweetheart who has the world at her fingertips in Hollywood but somehow keeps losing out when it comes to love and loyalty.

Forest is bitter and frustrated but truly has a sweet endearing quality that makes him enormously lovable.

I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a small town Christmas romance filled with heart, romance and sweet surprises around every corner.

[Pam Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super fun and sweet holiday read. Famous actress Holly Turner arrives in town with a bang and a crash. On the run from a Jilted love affair with former boyfriend , she is seeking an escape. She literally runs into a vehicle belonging to the the gruff Forrest who has assumed care of his Niece and nephew following the death of his sister. Holly is seeking an escape and Forrest is working to make ends meet supporting the children. Holly is happy to come to the rescue financially. The pair is soon involved trying to decide if they have a future together. Can Forrest’s pride stand to be helped out financially by Holly’s generous nature. Will a movie star be able to have a future with the immediate family?

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbroken and running from the fast lane she’s been living in Holly is looking for a place to hide out for awhile to get herself together. When a unexpected accident happens she becomes stuck and alone in a place she knows no one. In comes Forest who has his own share of problems. When he offers Holly a place to stay a few days neither can predict what will happen when they find they have much they enjoy like having the other one there. But will their differences be too much to overlook with her fame and his small town life? This fast paced romance was perfectly written- not too much and not too little. Great, lovable characters and a heartwarming story! I absolutely loved this book and recommend it all year round!

[Andi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Holly and Sully's story. I really love when a romance novel also includes children and the relationship that develops not just with the love interest, but with the children as well. This novel was enjoyable on many levels: Holly is a famous actress and is able to use her wealth for good; even though Holly is famous, she has challenging family issues like many of us; and Sully, while a bit grumpy, is a truly selfless person and therefore a lovable character. A nice Romance/Holiday read! Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read an Advanced Review Copy. All opinions are my own.

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so loving the Romancing the Rink series and Garland Grove! Checking Holly Twice is a great addition! Holly and Forest were thrown together and they made the best of the situation. She is drawn to Forest and his kids. They are a great family that she which she wishes she had. As time goes by their feelings grow and Holly doesn’t want her time there to end. Will they be able to make a relationship work? Tess has written a wonderful Christmas romance! I loved it! I can’t wait for the next book in the Romancing the Rink series!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was honestly the perfect Christmas book! It had all the elements just waiting to be swirled into a heartwarming story. Forrest, the hunky father with two sweet children; Holly, the actress who is running away from life by driving north, far north; Garland Grove, the perfect little town nestled away in Canada. Mix and stir these elements with Christmas lights, hot chocolate, ice skating and fluffy snowflakes and what can possibly happen? I enjoyed every single page! I highly recommend this book! Thanks to the author for an ARC, all opinions are my own.

[Darcy Sanchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely Christmas story to start the holiday season. Checking Holly Twice is a sweet love story between Holly and Forest. Holly is a famous actress and is escaping LA and the paparazzi. Forest is a single man raising his deceased sister's two children. Holly arrives in Garland Grove on a wintry day and unfortunately crashes into Forest's parked truck. This encounter starts a heartfelt relationship between Holly and Forest. This is a definite must read! Thank you Tess for another wonderful book!!

[Stephanie Hause · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet little holiday book!! Holly is a famous Hollywood actress who comes crashing into Forrest’s life while running away from her own. Holly joins in with the family while waiting to leave town, and helps overworked Uncle Forrest in a big way! When it’s time to leave town and head to her next big role, no one wants to see her leave. The love is quick, but the story supported with deep backgrounds and a super sweet niece & nephew. I would make a great movie! ;)

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great holiday story and romance! Tess Thompson just does not disappoint when it comes to small town romances! In this case there is a famous actress who happens to stumble upon this small town and the grouchiest Uncle turned daddy…or is he grouchy? Well you have to read this book to find out what happens between Forest and Holly and the cutest little kids! If you are wanting to get into the Christmas spirit any time of year definitely read this book!

[Bette Stanek · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 bumped to 4. Second chances (both were engaged before, not to each other), enemies to lovers (sort of, she smashed up his truck, and he was not happy), Hollywood star with grumpy, small-town guy, evil mother, and single dad tropes. Checking Holly Twice is entertaining. Although the timeline is unrealistic, it somehow works. Oh, did I mention there are two of the most adorable kids ever? This one is pure fun.

[Kimberly Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun, enjoyable Christmas read. Famous actress, Holly Turner, is just driving with no plans when she finds herself in Garland Grove. She’s escaping a bad breakup. She meets Forest, Ruby, and Dane and ends up staying at their bed and breakfast. She discovers she likes Garland Grove and she even finds something she’s been longing for. Loved this book! The perfect Christmas read!

[Cynthia Van Camp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this heart warming story of Holly and Forest.Holly has a whole different life and is wanting to get away and think about the people who hurt her. She’s headed north until the unexpected happens. Best thing she ever had happens to her. Grumpy Forest is upset she hit his truck but between Ruby and Dane his children. They are adoring Holly and her beauty and sweet self!!!

[Valerie Blankenship · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tess Thompson knows how to write a book that just hooks me. I loved the chemistry between Holly and Forest. She is good with his niece and nephew. I really enjoyed those two and how Forest loves them so. Tess really brought out the Christmas spirit in Garland Grove, and I felt like I was in this story watching it all unfold.

[Christina Montminy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very sweet story. The sadness that filled the lives of Holly & Forest before they met was heartbreaking. The way they met was kind of fun but the way they fell in love was very sweet. Adding in two very adorable children & a town that had a bit of magic to it made this story wonderful. Recommend to read.

[Deb · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do enjoy the romances about Garland Grove and the magical hockey rink that people fall in love at. I did like this one, but it was insta-love, and just a little too much. Holly is too good to be a celebrity and Forest is too local. No tV, no movies. I wish it was a bit longer for the relationship to grow.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a Tess Thompson book, it has to be great. Checking Holly Twice did not disappoint.
Wonderful, refreshing, cozy Christmas romance story.

Thank you, Tess Thompson and crew for providing he ARC copy.

[Katie Waddell hovey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know how to put into words how much I loved this book. The story is everything I have come to know and love about Tess's books and more. I can relate to Holy more than I care to admit, and hope that one day I'll find my Forest ♡

[Keena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely story of second chances in happily ever after. A cozy and warm read that will have you smiling ear to ear.


****Thank you to the publisher for an ARC. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own****

[Shanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet and funny read

I really liked this story. It was sweet, funny, and romantic. I admit a few times I was contemplating googling how far was Garland Grove from Vancouver for them to have a solution. I mean they do do a lot of filming in Vancouver.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun read.
A little bit steamy but nothing that would embarrass you if someone was peeping over your shoulder.
In these mixed up times its necessary to read something every now and then makes you feel good and happy.