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Jewell Cove #3.5
Christmas at Evergreen Inn
A wicked Nor’easter strands an unlikely couple together in a sweet and sexy Christmas tale.
Room at the inn?
B&B owner Lainey Price has a full house as a storm shuts down the midcoast. There’s not a bed to be had—and Officer Todd Smith finds himself stranded with the other travelers. Lucky for him, Lainey offers him the use of her sofa in her cottage behind the inn.
Lainey’s been aware of Todd’s charm and good looks since grade school, but she’s not interested in a relationship—not since her engagement ended exactly a year ago. Still, the attentions of the sexy cop make her feel more alive than she’s felt in months, and before long it’s clear the attraction is more than physical. Dare she take a chance with her heart again, or will she spend another Christmas alone?
Room at the inn?
B&B owner Lainey Price has a full house as a storm shuts down the midcoast. There’s not a bed to be had—and Officer Todd Smith finds himself stranded with the other travelers. Lucky for him, Lainey offers him the use of her sofa in her cottage behind the inn.
Lainey’s been aware of Todd’s charm and good looks since grade school, but she’s not interested in a relationship—not since her engagement ended exactly a year ago. Still, the attentions of the sexy cop make her feel more alive than she’s felt in months, and before long it’s clear the attraction is more than physical. Dare she take a chance with her heart again, or will she spend another Christmas alone?
109 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2015
374 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
About the author
Donna Alward
286 books693 followersSince 2006, New York Times bestseller Donna Jones Alward has enchanted readers with stories of happy endings and homecomings that have won several awards and been translated into over a dozen languages. She’s worked as an administrative assistant, teaching assistant, in retail and as a stay-at-home-mom, but always knew her degree in English Literature would pay off, as she is now happy to be a full-time writer. Her new historical fiction tales blend her love of history with characters who step beyond their biggest fears to claim the lives they desire.
Donna currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her husband and cats. You can often find her near the water, either kayaking on the lake or walking the sandy beaches to refill her creative well.
Find out more at www.donnajonesalward.com
Donna currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her husband and cats. You can often find her near the water, either kayaking on the lake or walking the sandy beaches to refill her creative well.
Find out more at www.donnajonesalward.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
June 20, 2023
Can we talk about this AMAZING cover that just popped out at me and slapped me on my forehead?!
The juicy red screamed "look at me" and the wreath and bow looked absolutely perfect! If this cover was a dress- I'd wear it!! Festive holiday cheer! I must admit, I was initially enticed by this gorgeous cover.
This is a cozy little read that I read over the weekend (while sitting by the lake in June- many months away from Christmas). I love the holiday season and so I am always ready to incorporate anything festive in my life that comes my way- no matter the season.
Lainey and Todd's romance was a super cute, realistic romance. I enjoy reading books where two souls come together romantically during the holiday season. There is something so dreamy about new love at Christmas. (Yes, a ridiculous romantic here!)
A nice book if you are looking for a quick holiday read!
4/5
The juicy red screamed "look at me" and the wreath and bow looked absolutely perfect! If this cover was a dress- I'd wear it!! Festive holiday cheer! I must admit, I was initially enticed by this gorgeous cover.
This is a cozy little read that I read over the weekend (while sitting by the lake in June- many months away from Christmas). I love the holiday season and so I am always ready to incorporate anything festive in my life that comes my way- no matter the season.
Lainey and Todd's romance was a super cute, realistic romance. I enjoy reading books where two souls come together romantically during the holiday season. There is something so dreamy about new love at Christmas. (Yes, a ridiculous romantic here!)
A nice book if you are looking for a quick holiday read!
4/5
December 24, 2015
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life
3.5 Stars!
I liked this novella length romance well enough. It isn't a story that will stay with me for a long time or anything but it was entertaining enough. The story was a bit predictable but the overall tone of the story was really nice. I liked the little town of Jewell Cove and the Christmas theme was very well done.
Todd is a police officer who is out helping stranded motorists during a severe snowstorm. When he comes across someone from out of town, he takes the individual to the Evergreen Inn for a place to stay for the night. The inn is at capacity but Lainey finds a spot for the stranded out of towner. Todd will also need to stay in town to help out and ends up on Lainey's couch for the night. Sparks fly between the pair but can this thing between them go anywhere?
I liked Todd a lot. How could you not?!?! He was pretty close to perfect in every way. He was such a nice guy and went out of his way to be helpful. I liked Lainey but nowhere near as much as I did Todd. Lainey took pride in her work at the inn and she was very trusting and kind. My problem with Lainey was her insecurity. There were a few points in the story where I wanted to tell her to snap out of it. Of course, Todd being the nice guy that he is was much more patient with her. They did have wonderful chemistry together.
I would recommend this story to fans of contemporary romance who are looking for a nice Christmas themed story. This was the first time that I have read anything by Donna Alward and I really enjoyed her writing style. I would definitely be interested in reading more books in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thoughts
This was a decent novella length romance. It was rather predictable but I still enjoyed the story overall. I liked Todd a lot but have to admit that Lainey got on my nerves at times with her insecurity.
3.5 Stars!
I liked this novella length romance well enough. It isn't a story that will stay with me for a long time or anything but it was entertaining enough. The story was a bit predictable but the overall tone of the story was really nice. I liked the little town of Jewell Cove and the Christmas theme was very well done.
Todd is a police officer who is out helping stranded motorists during a severe snowstorm. When he comes across someone from out of town, he takes the individual to the Evergreen Inn for a place to stay for the night. The inn is at capacity but Lainey finds a spot for the stranded out of towner. Todd will also need to stay in town to help out and ends up on Lainey's couch for the night. Sparks fly between the pair but can this thing between them go anywhere?
I liked Todd a lot. How could you not?!?! He was pretty close to perfect in every way. He was such a nice guy and went out of his way to be helpful. I liked Lainey but nowhere near as much as I did Todd. Lainey took pride in her work at the inn and she was very trusting and kind. My problem with Lainey was her insecurity. There were a few points in the story where I wanted to tell her to snap out of it. Of course, Todd being the nice guy that he is was much more patient with her. They did have wonderful chemistry together.
I would recommend this story to fans of contemporary romance who are looking for a nice Christmas themed story. This was the first time that I have read anything by Donna Alward and I really enjoyed her writing style. I would definitely be interested in reading more books in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thoughts
This was a decent novella length romance. It was rather predictable but I still enjoyed the story overall. I liked Todd a lot but have to admit that Lainey got on my nerves at times with her insecurity.
June 6, 2016
4 - "You're not as scary as you used to be..." Stars!
One of my favourite things about Christmas, is the plethora of Christmas novellas that we as readers have available to us now. It gives me a chance to experience Christmas, time and time again, with a large number of people, and feel the love and relationships grow for them as their stories are told, not to mention feel the seasonal spirit bloom inside myself as I fill my imagination with all things Christmassy.
It is also a really good time to discover new authors, and Donna Alward falls into that category for me, and it was an extremely pleasant discovery. As was the town of Jewell Cove and its residents.
Although a relatively short novella, nothing is lacking in Todd and Lainey’s story, they have known each other since school, but the timing has never been right in the past, for them to be anything other than friends. Until one massive snow storm leaves them stranded at Evergreen Inn together, and the chance to take things further is provided.
”We’ll just have to figure it out one thing at a time.”
Lainey having had her heart broken the previous Christmas is wary of romance, not to mention lacking in the spirit of the season, and Todd goes out of his way to help her make new and happier memories.
I absolutely adored this couples coming together, having not read any of the previous books in the series (something I plan on rectifying very soon) I didn’t find it detrimental to Todd and Lainey’s story, and it can absolutely be read as a standalone.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
One of my favourite things about Christmas, is the plethora of Christmas novellas that we as readers have available to us now. It gives me a chance to experience Christmas, time and time again, with a large number of people, and feel the love and relationships grow for them as their stories are told, not to mention feel the seasonal spirit bloom inside myself as I fill my imagination with all things Christmassy.
It is also a really good time to discover new authors, and Donna Alward falls into that category for me, and it was an extremely pleasant discovery. As was the town of Jewell Cove and its residents.
Although a relatively short novella, nothing is lacking in Todd and Lainey’s story, they have known each other since school, but the timing has never been right in the past, for them to be anything other than friends. Until one massive snow storm leaves them stranded at Evergreen Inn together, and the chance to take things further is provided.
”We’ll just have to figure it out one thing at a time.”
Lainey having had her heart broken the previous Christmas is wary of romance, not to mention lacking in the spirit of the season, and Todd goes out of his way to help her make new and happier memories.
I absolutely adored this couples coming together, having not read any of the previous books in the series (something I plan on rectifying very soon) I didn’t find it detrimental to Todd and Lainey’s story, and it can absolutely be read as a standalone.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
September 30, 2015
It’s that time of year! Here comes the delightfully light, fluffy and romantic Holiday reads! Take one blizzard, no room at the Inn and add two friends who never hooked up and poof, time for mistletoe and the magic of Christmas!
Christmas at Evergreen Inn by Donna Alward is the perfect small town romance to usher in the Holidays. No great mystery about the ending, but the journey is painfully sweet, filled with glowing fires, and one semi-Scrooge woman with a fresh pain to remember. Just as the roads are closed, in comes the deputy with a stranded motorist needing a place to stay, and, as they say, the rest is history.
Somewhere Donna Alward invited Cupid to pass out the gifts and he started with the gift of love. Sweet, romantic and light, perfect reading for the upcoming season when a little reminder is needed to slow down when passing under the Mistletoe.
I received an ARC edition from St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Jewel Cove - Book 4
Publication Date: October 13, 2015
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
ISBN-13: 9781250086945
Genre: Romance
Print Length: 92 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Christmas at Evergreen Inn by Donna Alward is the perfect small town romance to usher in the Holidays. No great mystery about the ending, but the journey is painfully sweet, filled with glowing fires, and one semi-Scrooge woman with a fresh pain to remember. Just as the roads are closed, in comes the deputy with a stranded motorist needing a place to stay, and, as they say, the rest is history.
Somewhere Donna Alward invited Cupid to pass out the gifts and he started with the gift of love. Sweet, romantic and light, perfect reading for the upcoming season when a little reminder is needed to slow down when passing under the Mistletoe.
I received an ARC edition from St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Jewel Cove - Book 4
Publication Date: October 13, 2015
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
ISBN-13: 9781250086945
Genre: Romance
Print Length: 92 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 12, 2015
Autry's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
The weather has left Todd with no choice but to stay at the Innkeepers cottage. Unfortunately, Lainey wants nothing to do with having the hunky cop sleeping on her couch. Too much pain and hurt are wrapped up in the Christmas season for Lainey to enjoy it. Only when Todd pushes Lainey out of her comfort zone and back into the Christmas spirit does the romance start to really heat up.
Todd has always been one to help wherever he can, and as cop he should. Risking his life to make sure citizens and visitors to the town are safe and warm when a large snowstorm hits the town. The weather strands many of visitors at the Evergreen Inn and it give Todd some time to navigate his feelings for Lainey. This time of year, served as a reminder to Lainey, that everything she once dreamed of came crashed down around her. Seeing all the holiday cheer and families wandering about made it all the harder to resist Todd’s charm.
Christmas at Evergreen Inn maintained a sweet, warm feeling throughout the book, however things never really heated up or drew me into the novel. It was a very light read; there was not a lot of emotional heaviness to the characters. The plot flowed nicely, and the characters had flaws that would make them believable and even relatable, but something was missing that would make me really connect with them. Lainey and Todd were a great couple who faced real life problems and reacted the same way most real life people would. The banter and emotions was spot on for the relationship they were building and hoping to continue. The relationship didn’t seem to take off until about 70% through the book and then it felt as if it was cut short simply because Christmas Day had arrived. I would have liked to see an epilogue, so we could have a glance at where Lainey and Todd ended up. However, if you are searching for a holiday romance that heats up and draws you in, and compels you to finish the novel in one sitting, this is not for you. If you want a light, fun, warm holiday read that can be read at your own pace, this is the novel for you.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
The weather has left Todd with no choice but to stay at the Innkeepers cottage. Unfortunately, Lainey wants nothing to do with having the hunky cop sleeping on her couch. Too much pain and hurt are wrapped up in the Christmas season for Lainey to enjoy it. Only when Todd pushes Lainey out of her comfort zone and back into the Christmas spirit does the romance start to really heat up.
Todd has always been one to help wherever he can, and as cop he should. Risking his life to make sure citizens and visitors to the town are safe and warm when a large snowstorm hits the town. The weather strands many of visitors at the Evergreen Inn and it give Todd some time to navigate his feelings for Lainey. This time of year, served as a reminder to Lainey, that everything she once dreamed of came crashed down around her. Seeing all the holiday cheer and families wandering about made it all the harder to resist Todd’s charm.
Christmas at Evergreen Inn maintained a sweet, warm feeling throughout the book, however things never really heated up or drew me into the novel. It was a very light read; there was not a lot of emotional heaviness to the characters. The plot flowed nicely, and the characters had flaws that would make them believable and even relatable, but something was missing that would make me really connect with them. Lainey and Todd were a great couple who faced real life problems and reacted the same way most real life people would. The banter and emotions was spot on for the relationship they were building and hoping to continue. The relationship didn’t seem to take off until about 70% through the book and then it felt as if it was cut short simply because Christmas Day had arrived. I would have liked to see an epilogue, so we could have a glance at where Lainey and Todd ended up. However, if you are searching for a holiday romance that heats up and draws you in, and compels you to finish the novel in one sitting, this is not for you. If you want a light, fun, warm holiday read that can be read at your own pace, this is the novel for you.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
December 11, 2015
3.5 stars
I really enjoy stories like this. The romantic interests are both adults with put together lives. They've been through relationships and have baggage, like most of us. It's a realistic type of read. Lainey runs a bed and breakfast business. Todd is a local cop. It's a small town. They grew up together.
During a huge storm, Todd is patrolling for people who have ran off the road and taking them to safety. On his last run, he gets snowed in at Lainey's place, which is already over capacity. Sparks start flying between these two, but it isn't a full on lustfest.
This is a very enjoyable novella. I recommend Christmas at Evergreen Inn to someone looking for a down-to-earth, spicy contemporary romance.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents
Website / Facebook / Twitter / Google+ / Pinterest / Goodreads / Tumblr / tsū
I really enjoy stories like this. The romantic interests are both adults with put together lives. They've been through relationships and have baggage, like most of us. It's a realistic type of read. Lainey runs a bed and breakfast business. Todd is a local cop. It's a small town. They grew up together.
During a huge storm, Todd is patrolling for people who have ran off the road and taking them to safety. On his last run, he gets snowed in at Lainey's place, which is already over capacity. Sparks start flying between these two, but it isn't a full on lustfest.
This is a very enjoyable novella. I recommend Christmas at Evergreen Inn to someone looking for a down-to-earth, spicy contemporary romance.
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents
Website / Facebook / Twitter / Google+ / Pinterest / Goodreads / Tumblr / tsū
December 14, 2015
Christmas at Evergreen Inn by Donna Alward is a 2015 St. Martin’s Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story is a short but sweet contemporary, Christmas themed, romance centered around Jewel Cove and featuring Lainey, the owner of a local inn, and Todd Ricker, a cop with a bit of a playboy reputation.
After a storm blows in, Todd helps a stranded motorist, but ends up stuck for the night at Lainey’s inn. With the inn full, Lainey offers to let him sleep on her couch, in an attached cottage. This situation puts the two long time acquaintances together with no way to run from the attraction that has been lying between them for a long time. A simple kiss releases a long dormant and powerful passion between them, but Lainey is still down about a break up the previous year, that has her defenses up and her spirits down.
Can Todd help Lainey get her holiday groove back?
This sweet and spicy holiday tale is about healing, trust and second chances. This story has very few secondary characters so the focus is purely on the romantic developments. Todd’s character hasn’t had a great deal of adversity, like Lainey, but his character growth comes from realizing he has been waiting his whole life for Lainey, and going the extra mile to convince her that what they have is meant to be.
Although this is a standard contemporary holiday novella, it's pretty nice and I enjoyed reading it.
3.5 stars
This story is a short but sweet contemporary, Christmas themed, romance centered around Jewel Cove and featuring Lainey, the owner of a local inn, and Todd Ricker, a cop with a bit of a playboy reputation.
After a storm blows in, Todd helps a stranded motorist, but ends up stuck for the night at Lainey’s inn. With the inn full, Lainey offers to let him sleep on her couch, in an attached cottage. This situation puts the two long time acquaintances together with no way to run from the attraction that has been lying between them for a long time. A simple kiss releases a long dormant and powerful passion between them, but Lainey is still down about a break up the previous year, that has her defenses up and her spirits down.
Can Todd help Lainey get her holiday groove back?
This sweet and spicy holiday tale is about healing, trust and second chances. This story has very few secondary characters so the focus is purely on the romantic developments. Todd’s character hasn’t had a great deal of adversity, like Lainey, but his character growth comes from realizing he has been waiting his whole life for Lainey, and going the extra mile to convince her that what they have is meant to be.
Although this is a standard contemporary holiday novella, it's pretty nice and I enjoyed reading it.
3.5 stars
December 29, 2015
I spent pre-Christmas reading Christmas romances that turned out to be pretty light on "Christmas stuff." So I read this book, post-Christmas and FINALLY get lots of "Christmas stuff." My timing, as usual, leaves a lot to be desired.
There's some series baggage in this novella but I haven't read all the books (yet) and kept up just fine. Nice hero. Nice heroine. Liked that the two had a long-standing crush and that it was the heroine who needed to find her holiday spirit. There's some "jumping to conclusions" at the end that I found a little jarring - but otherwise this was a nice, cozy read. Just what I like in Christmas romances.
There's some series baggage in this novella but I haven't read all the books (yet) and kept up just fine. Nice hero. Nice heroine. Liked that the two had a long-standing crush and that it was the heroine who needed to find her holiday spirit. There's some "jumping to conclusions" at the end that I found a little jarring - but otherwise this was a nice, cozy read. Just what I like in Christmas romances.
September 26, 2015
This is a gentle little Christmas romance to help you get ready for the holidays.
As teenagers in Jewell Cove, Lainey Price and Todd Ricker were a bit wild, and very popular with the opposite sex. Ironically, they regarded each other as a bit out of reach. Then Lainey went off to college and came back engaged to Jason. She also took over the Evergreen Inn, restored it, and built up its business. Meanwhile, formerly wild Todd became a police officer in Jewell Cove.
When a major nor'easter hits Jewell Cove and the entire region a few days before Christmas, Todd is out on his last, very tricky patrol of the roads when he sees a car that's slid off the road into the ditch. He pulls the driver, Mr. Sewell, out of his car and drives him to the only place in town that might still have room-Evergreen Inn. It's full, too, but by now the roads have been closed, and Sewell and Todd are stuck there. Lainey finds space for Sewell, and puts Todd on her couch in her own cottage behind the inn.
Jason? Well, Jason broke up with her last year a few days before Christmas--which was to have been their wedding day. Lainey has decided she can't stand Christmas. It's too painful.
Discovering their attraction is mutual isn't enough by itself to overcome Lainey's bruised heart, loss of confidence, and lack of trust, but this is Jewell Cove, and it's Christmas. Oh, and Todd has come a long way from the kid who stole the school principals underwear and ran it up the flagpole!
This is a fun, light read, great for getting in the mood for Christmas.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
As teenagers in Jewell Cove, Lainey Price and Todd Ricker were a bit wild, and very popular with the opposite sex. Ironically, they regarded each other as a bit out of reach. Then Lainey went off to college and came back engaged to Jason. She also took over the Evergreen Inn, restored it, and built up its business. Meanwhile, formerly wild Todd became a police officer in Jewell Cove.
When a major nor'easter hits Jewell Cove and the entire region a few days before Christmas, Todd is out on his last, very tricky patrol of the roads when he sees a car that's slid off the road into the ditch. He pulls the driver, Mr. Sewell, out of his car and drives him to the only place in town that might still have room-Evergreen Inn. It's full, too, but by now the roads have been closed, and Sewell and Todd are stuck there. Lainey finds space for Sewell, and puts Todd on her couch in her own cottage behind the inn.
Jason? Well, Jason broke up with her last year a few days before Christmas--which was to have been their wedding day. Lainey has decided she can't stand Christmas. It's too painful.
Discovering their attraction is mutual isn't enough by itself to overcome Lainey's bruised heart, loss of confidence, and lack of trust, but this is Jewell Cove, and it's Christmas. Oh, and Todd has come a long way from the kid who stole the school principals underwear and ran it up the flagpole!
This is a fun, light read, great for getting in the mood for Christmas.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
September 26, 2015
Love the cover it sets the mood. This is a real quick read. I like how the characters were all willing to help each other so everyone could fit in. Even Lainey took one guest into her cottage for the night.
Todd Ricker is a cop who on his day off was out rescuing stranded motorists. The last one made it so he could not even get home. Lainey said he could sleep on her couch.
Lainey Price owns the bread & breakfast in Jewel Cove. She lives in a little cottage out back of it.
Lainey is not excited for Christmas anymore but she is still very helpful and nice.
Todd always thought Lainey was too good for him now he wants to help her enjoy the season.
There is plenty of drama, romance and holiday spirit to make this a nice romance. A love scene that I skipped over.
I think this would be 5 book in season. It is only the first I have read would like to read the others they sounds adventurous and exciting.
Easy to follow the characters and feel there setting.
It made me think about how often are action can ruin someones special places. Or we can try and help make someones a positive experience. Also we need to try and let bad experiences hang around.
I was given this ebook to read for free from Net Galley and St. Martin's Press
in return I agreed to give a honest review of Christmas at Evergreen.
Todd Ricker is a cop who on his day off was out rescuing stranded motorists. The last one made it so he could not even get home. Lainey said he could sleep on her couch.
Lainey Price owns the bread & breakfast in Jewel Cove. She lives in a little cottage out back of it.
Lainey is not excited for Christmas anymore but she is still very helpful and nice.
Todd always thought Lainey was too good for him now he wants to help her enjoy the season.
There is plenty of drama, romance and holiday spirit to make this a nice romance. A love scene that I skipped over.
I think this would be 5 book in season. It is only the first I have read would like to read the others they sounds adventurous and exciting.
Easy to follow the characters and feel there setting.
It made me think about how often are action can ruin someones special places. Or we can try and help make someones a positive experience. Also we need to try and let bad experiences hang around.
I was given this ebook to read for free from Net Galley and St. Martin's Press
in return I agreed to give a honest review of Christmas at Evergreen.
October 10, 2015
Christmas at Evergreen Inn is everything A Donna Alward book should be. The characters deliver poignant performances that remain all through the story and linger after the last page. This is one of those stories that wring you dry emotionally but happy to have experienced. I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2022
Short sweet story
The book is short, and thank God for it because the mfc was getting on my nerves. I understand she has been burnt in the past, but her attitude just annoyed me. Saying that the town, the inn and the mmc were all interesting. The book was worth it on ku.
The book is short, and thank God for it because the mfc was getting on my nerves. I understand she has been burnt in the past, but her attitude just annoyed me. Saying that the town, the inn and the mmc were all interesting. The book was worth it on ku.
December 19, 2018
Christmas at Evergreen Inn delivers on the magic of the heart.
October 11, 2015
In Christmas at Evergreen Inn by Donna Alward, when a snowstorm strands Todd, he gets shelter and a lot more than he was looking for this Christmas! Lainey is not interested in celebrating Christmas, but for the clients at her B & B she puts on the act, happy to escape at night to her cottage behind the inn. When Todd needs a place to stay, she can't stop herself from offering him her couch. Todd and Lainey have known each other for years, and there's always been a subtle attraction. Both have felt the other was too good for them though, so nothing ever came of it. In their present day life and circumstances, the attraction is still there. But Lainey is definitely not looking for love, she's still hurting from a past relationship. Todd isn't really looking for love, or a commitment, but now that he's been so close to Lainey he wants more. He wants her to smile, he wants to show her fun, and remind her what Christmas can be. Neither expects the attraction they feel to suddenly seem like so much more. Can Lainey open her heart again and risk it for Todd and for Christmas? The chemistry and connection is definitely there...but will she end up with a broken heart at Christmas again?
I really enjoyed this quick, well paced novella. I felt like Donna wrote the perfect length for this story. I liked Lainey and Todd. They felt real, like people I could know. Todd finds himself wanting more with Lainey. He is considerate but also just pushy enough. I liked that it wasn't all about what he wanted and what would be good for him. I felt like he really thought about Lainey and wanted her to be happy. Lainey is still hurting from another broken relationship, and is having a hard time opening herself up to anything else - relationships or Christmas. There were a few times she made assumptions about Todd that could have pushed him away but didn't. I got the impression it was self preservation for herself kicking in, and while I didn't like that side of her I did understand it. Donna writes this story well, and manages to show the struggles some people do have around the holiday season, even if it's not obvious. I felt like this was an important part of Christmas at Evergreen Inn. It didn't overwhelm the main plot, but it just makes you more aware. There is just enough tension and drama to make things real, but there was also hope and heart woven into the story.
I liked the build up of passion between Lainey and Todd. Donna wrote this in well and it is relevant to the characters and the plot.
I love the setting, the snow, and the Christmas feel I got when reading Christmas at Evergreen Inn! Donna managed to make me feel like I should be decorating for Christmas! I found Christmas at Evergreen Inn to be entertaining, moving, and emotional. I'd recommend Christmas at Evergreen Inn to any romance reader looking for a smoothly written Christmas novella!
I really enjoyed this quick, well paced novella. I felt like Donna wrote the perfect length for this story. I liked Lainey and Todd. They felt real, like people I could know. Todd finds himself wanting more with Lainey. He is considerate but also just pushy enough. I liked that it wasn't all about what he wanted and what would be good for him. I felt like he really thought about Lainey and wanted her to be happy. Lainey is still hurting from another broken relationship, and is having a hard time opening herself up to anything else - relationships or Christmas. There were a few times she made assumptions about Todd that could have pushed him away but didn't. I got the impression it was self preservation for herself kicking in, and while I didn't like that side of her I did understand it. Donna writes this story well, and manages to show the struggles some people do have around the holiday season, even if it's not obvious. I felt like this was an important part of Christmas at Evergreen Inn. It didn't overwhelm the main plot, but it just makes you more aware. There is just enough tension and drama to make things real, but there was also hope and heart woven into the story.
I liked the build up of passion between Lainey and Todd. Donna wrote this in well and it is relevant to the characters and the plot.
I love the setting, the snow, and the Christmas feel I got when reading Christmas at Evergreen Inn! Donna managed to make me feel like I should be decorating for Christmas! I found Christmas at Evergreen Inn to be entertaining, moving, and emotional. I'd recommend Christmas at Evergreen Inn to any romance reader looking for a smoothly written Christmas novella!
September 30, 2015
This is a super romance that will usher in the Christmas season easily for the reader. Todd Ricker, policeman in Jewell Cove, has spent the day responding to and helping out holiday travelers stranded by a storm. When the day is over, he finds that his way home is blocked by the snow and that the Evergreen Inn, one of the last places to stay in town, is also filled to capacity. He ends up staying there, through the good graces of Lainey Price, who owns and runs the inn. Both Todd and Lainey have known each other for years, though they never paired up, each having decided the other is out of reach. However, in light of their new circumstances, they begin to change that opinion. Todd is not looking for a long term relationship. Lainey is still smarting after her fiancé Jason literally dumped her for another woman the Christmas before. Can they overcome their doubts and pasts to make this a holiday season they will each find especially meaningful as well as an exciting one to remember? The story moves along at a good clip, as each of the two dance around a budding relationship while doing their daily jobs. The story is short and sweet but sweet enough to tug at even the hardest of hearts. If you are looking for a quick romance to get you in the holiday spirit, look no further. This one will do it. I loved the chemistry between Lainey and Todd as well as the way their relationship slowly grew and grew until each admitted and committed to it. If you are looking for one book to make you enjoy and want to prolong the magic of the season, this one can do that easily. As usual, the author has provided us with a fantastic tale of romance in this small town. I have not read all of the book in the series, but have read many. This one will fall right in line with the others. I am certain anyone who opens the book to read this story will love it as much as I did. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
October 7, 2015
This was a cute holiday romance, and I really enjoyed the bed and breakfast aspect, and I love the snowed in small town scenario. Lainey is one of the main characters, who is a little iffy on beginning a relationship because her fiancé dumped her last Christmas, so she is sort of pushing Todd away, a sort of friend, and she also is not really in the holiday spirit, so she's feeling a bit sorry for herself and she needs a pick me up. Enter Todd, hunky cop, who thinks Lainey is wonderful, but Lainey is a little weary of Todd because he's a bit of a ladies man. Todd and Lainey are really cute together, and they have a bit of spice to their chemistry. There is a sex scene, and I think it was written well, and I like that Lainey didn't fall all over herself to be with Todd. I love pretty much any Christmas time story, so that definitely added to my enjoyment of this book, and it's quite short, so I finished it in no time, and I was interested till the very end. Definitely give it a read if you like romance and Christmas!
October 20, 2015
This was a sweet short novella contemporary romance and while it wasn’t horrible, I didn’t care for it a whole lot. Todd Ricker is one of the small town police officers that lives outside of town. When a wicked storm closes the highways leading out of town he has no other choice but to stay at the Evergreen Inn. Only problem is that it’s fill past capacity as well with people sleeping on cots and couches. That leaves Todd no other choice but to sleep on Lainey’s couch in her small cottage. Lainey has known Todd since they were kids and had always thought that he was a player, Todd always thought that Lainey was out of his league. Now Lainey has sworn off men as well Christmas since going through a terrible breakup with her fiancé the year before. Can Todd change her mind about him as well as Christmas or is he destined to continue admiring her from afar?
I was given an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I was given an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
December 8, 2015
ARC REVIEW
A Christmas at Evergreen Inn
by Donna Alward
This was a really sweet one a very subtle story that kind of creeps it's way into your heart. a Jewell Cove Christmas novella can be read as a stand-alone. Todd Ricker and Lainey Price have known each other for almost all their lives. Todd always had a thing for her but never thought he was good enough for her. Lainey Price went off to college and came back engaged to a guy Todd didn't really care for. The engagement ended rather abruptly leaving Lainey alone and slowly growing bitter. One night right before Christmas a bad storm blows in and traps Todd at the Evergreen Inn which Lainey runs, Todd finally admits he has always liked Lainey but she is skeptical because of the time of year. Her engagement ended at Christmas and the holiday has lost it's joy for her. Todd aims to change that convincing her not to let her ex ruin Christmas for her and if Lainey tries maybe she can even let Todd into her heart.
A Christmas at Evergreen Inn
by Donna Alward
This was a really sweet one a very subtle story that kind of creeps it's way into your heart. a Jewell Cove Christmas novella can be read as a stand-alone. Todd Ricker and Lainey Price have known each other for almost all their lives. Todd always had a thing for her but never thought he was good enough for her. Lainey Price went off to college and came back engaged to a guy Todd didn't really care for. The engagement ended rather abruptly leaving Lainey alone and slowly growing bitter. One night right before Christmas a bad storm blows in and traps Todd at the Evergreen Inn which Lainey runs, Todd finally admits he has always liked Lainey but she is skeptical because of the time of year. Her engagement ended at Christmas and the holiday has lost it's joy for her. Todd aims to change that convincing her not to let her ex ruin Christmas for her and if Lainey tries maybe she can even let Todd into her heart.
January 31, 2016
This was a cute sweet small town short read two people who have know each other all their lives but never got together each had a crush on the other. This is a delightful Christmas story but can be read an enjoyed any time of year. A blizzard no room in the end and two people who find they make sparks the only problem is the lady doesn’t enjoy Christmas anymore. It is up to Todd to bring back Christmas to Lainey aka Miss. Scrooge. Nothing unexpected in this story just a sweet wonderful read with passion and delightful characters you can relate to.
This book was very entertaining that still shows dreams can come true. The story is very well written putting a lot in a little time frame. The author doesn’t leave anything out just gives you a fun loving read.
This book was very entertaining that still shows dreams can come true. The story is very well written putting a lot in a little time frame. The author doesn’t leave anything out just gives you a fun loving read.
December 9, 2015
This book is featured on One Book Two's Naughty or Nice? list. To view the entire list go to: https://onebooktwo.wordpress.com/2015...
On Ruby’s Nice List~ This one almost made the naughty list as the romance pushed the PG-13 limit but a little more romance never hurt anyone. Christmas at Evergreen Inn is a lovely Christmas story that is perfect to read when the Christmas lights are glowing and the snow is swirling outside. It will make you want a police officer to spend a night on your couch.
Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
On Ruby’s Nice List~ This one almost made the naughty list as the romance pushed the PG-13 limit but a little more romance never hurt anyone. Christmas at Evergreen Inn is a lovely Christmas story that is perfect to read when the Christmas lights are glowing and the snow is swirling outside. It will make you want a police officer to spend a night on your couch.
Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2016
I'd almost given up on this series after the previous book, due to the overwhelming number of babies that it contained. This book has fewer babies, but the heroine still seems to regard babies as the ultimate proof that a relationship is successful. I think this really is the point where I give up, even though parts of this story were almost as charming as the first in the series.
October 19, 2015
There is nothing like a visit to Jewell Cove at Christmas time. Both Todd Ricker and Lainey Price are old friends who find that Christmas changes friends to lovers. A nice short sweet romance.
January 5, 2022
2.5 stars. Cute Christmas time read but lacking that spark and a decent epilogue.
I had grabbed this book first as I love to read Christmas themed books at Christmas.
Realised I was at the end of a series, so started reading them in order, then found the box set.
It really didn’t matter as this book does not touch on the series, characters or town of Jewell Cove.
A typical short novella with a standard plot.
No characters from the previous books make an appearance which is a pity. I would have liked to have had an epilogue that was set in the future.
Todd is a police officer and Lainey runs the Evergreen Inn.
We met both these characters in previous books.
Lainey and Todd have known each other and been aware of the other for years, having both grown up in Jewell Cove but never really interacted.
Todd had never asked Lainey out when younger, as he always felt she was above him for some reason. Then Lainey met someone at college, so these two never interacted as adults.
Lainey was cruelly dumped by her fiancé the previous Christmas. Her Inn that she runs is obviously decorated for the holidays but she has no Christmas spirit for herself.
A severe snow storm blows in and Todd shows up at the Inn with a stranded motorist he has rescued. He also has to stay overnight due to the conditions and that is when he and Lainey connect as adults.
Lainey really has held on to the baggage her ex dumped on her, instead of putting it on his cheating shoulders.
She hurts Todd with her attitude but eventually realises she may be missing out on a really good man.
Todd is overall and kind and caring person.
As this seems to be the end of Jewell Cove for the moment, it could have done with a Christmas party where everyone from the previous books attended.
Read in the box set through Kindle Unlimited.
I had grabbed this book first as I love to read Christmas themed books at Christmas.
Realised I was at the end of a series, so started reading them in order, then found the box set.
It really didn’t matter as this book does not touch on the series, characters or town of Jewell Cove.
A typical short novella with a standard plot.
No characters from the previous books make an appearance which is a pity. I would have liked to have had an epilogue that was set in the future.
Todd is a police officer and Lainey runs the Evergreen Inn.
We met both these characters in previous books.
Lainey and Todd have known each other and been aware of the other for years, having both grown up in Jewell Cove but never really interacted.
Todd had never asked Lainey out when younger, as he always felt she was above him for some reason. Then Lainey met someone at college, so these two never interacted as adults.
Lainey was cruelly dumped by her fiancé the previous Christmas. Her Inn that she runs is obviously decorated for the holidays but she has no Christmas spirit for herself.
A severe snow storm blows in and Todd shows up at the Inn with a stranded motorist he has rescued. He also has to stay overnight due to the conditions and that is when he and Lainey connect as adults.
Lainey really has held on to the baggage her ex dumped on her, instead of putting it on his cheating shoulders.
She hurts Todd with her attitude but eventually realises she may be missing out on a really good man.
Todd is overall and kind and caring person.
As this seems to be the end of Jewell Cove for the moment, it could have done with a Christmas party where everyone from the previous books attended.
Read in the box set through Kindle Unlimited.
March 5, 2023
Love and longing on the mid-coast of Maine
Because I love Maine, Penobscot Bay area in particular, where this story is set, I was stirred to mild interest in checking out Donna Alward's Jewell Cove romance novels. I got hooked and read all five of them.
Although the themes are pretty much the same in each one: Beautiful people overwhelmingly smitten with each other, but holding back because of baggage holding past traumas and heartbreaks, hoping for another chance at happiness, I give each book five stars for the descriptive writing , author 's subject knowledge and character development. Donna writes of what she knows and paints word pictures that take you there and get you involved. (including steamy, thorough, but tastefully described sexual encountets). As various personalities thrash and stumble through the resistance of their fears and insecurities in hopes of this time, having things turn out right, there is always an underlying tension that misinterpretation of well intended words will end up shattering dreams of possible fulfillment much to their devastation and the reader's dismay. But love and lust propel them to keep at it in the face of hopelessness. And this where it gets good . The dialogue gets very real and constructively honest with lots of courageous looking inward and authentic disclosure instead of blaming. As result, there are happy endings and we are shown how it's done. I recommend these books for readers who quest for intimacy and enduring relationships as well as anyone who enjoys an escape to a quaint little village on the coast of Maine populated by good and caring people.
Because I love Maine, Penobscot Bay area in particular, where this story is set, I was stirred to mild interest in checking out Donna Alward's Jewell Cove romance novels. I got hooked and read all five of them.
Although the themes are pretty much the same in each one: Beautiful people overwhelmingly smitten with each other, but holding back because of baggage holding past traumas and heartbreaks, hoping for another chance at happiness, I give each book five stars for the descriptive writing , author 's subject knowledge and character development. Donna writes of what she knows and paints word pictures that take you there and get you involved. (including steamy, thorough, but tastefully described sexual encountets). As various personalities thrash and stumble through the resistance of their fears and insecurities in hopes of this time, having things turn out right, there is always an underlying tension that misinterpretation of well intended words will end up shattering dreams of possible fulfillment much to their devastation and the reader's dismay. But love and lust propel them to keep at it in the face of hopelessness. And this where it gets good . The dialogue gets very real and constructively honest with lots of courageous looking inward and authentic disclosure instead of blaming. As result, there are happy endings and we are shown how it's done. I recommend these books for readers who quest for intimacy and enduring relationships as well as anyone who enjoys an escape to a quaint little village on the coast of Maine populated by good and caring people.
September 23, 2024
Meh…. That’s all I can say really 😒 went in expecting a wholesome, warm, loving story and I mean…yeah…the relationship was there, the love was there.
BUT! There was so build up, no real story, no real Christmas spirit! I found it was very rushed….0-100 then end of the story. Christ I was reading a rushed sex scene in chapter 2 😂 there was meant to be history and a connection between the 2 characters involved yet there was very minimal build up to 💥 BOOM SEX 💥
I think I just expected a little more…more details, more storyline, more Christmas just MORE in general. Overall it was a quick filler book…just over 100 pages and was a quick in between whilst deciding what to read next 😂
BUT! There was so build up, no real story, no real Christmas spirit! I found it was very rushed….0-100 then end of the story. Christ I was reading a rushed sex scene in chapter 2 😂 there was meant to be history and a connection between the 2 characters involved yet there was very minimal build up to 💥 BOOM SEX 💥
I think I just expected a little more…more details, more storyline, more Christmas just MORE in general. Overall it was a quick filler book…just over 100 pages and was a quick in between whilst deciding what to read next 😂
December 16, 2022
Series a bit disappointing
Read the first book in the series loved both the characters and the depth of plot. Read the next book which also held my attention with the story line and the people I felt I had gotten to know. Read the last three in the series. Each one held my interest less. The original characters slowly disappeared as did the details about the importance of the beautiful place they lived. The focus shifted strongly to sexuality and lack of depth of character. I wish I had left it to the first two of the series.
Read the first book in the series loved both the characters and the depth of plot. Read the next book which also held my attention with the story line and the people I felt I had gotten to know. Read the last three in the series. Each one held my interest less. The original characters slowly disappeared as did the details about the importance of the beautiful place they lived. The focus shifted strongly to sexuality and lack of depth of character. I wish I had left it to the first two of the series.
February 5, 2023
If at first you don't succeed.
Lainey was so busy and her Inn was busting at the seams when a blizzard stranded more guests than she was expecting, including Jewell Cove's cop, Todd. Could Todd repair Lainey's Christmas spirit that took a severe beating a year ago or not? Read this story and find out what happens.
Lainey was so busy and her Inn was busting at the seams when a blizzard stranded more guests than she was expecting, including Jewell Cove's cop, Todd. Could Todd repair Lainey's Christmas spirit that took a severe beating a year ago or not? Read this story and find out what happens.
May 12, 2023
Cute stand alone novella of two people who have danced around each other than grow up and admit their feelings. My criticism is I never understand why the tension is summed up as "I told myself I shouldn't fall for him" so I must stick to my guns. My frustration is that this is the end of the series and their are other interesting characters that never go their moments.
August 21, 2023
This novella follows a standard plot, offering a quick read that wraps up swiftly. However, the absence of characters from previous books is a disappointment, leaving us wanting more connections. A lacking epilogue adds to this feeling.
The swift pace of the narrative makes it feel like it's over in a heartbeat. Despite its brevity, the story does manage to reference the abandoned baby from the last Christmas novella, though only fleetingly.
While this short story does tie into the series, it could have benefited from more depth and continuity. The absence of familiar characters and unresolved threads, like the lover's island storyline, leave a feeling of dissatisfaction.
The swift pace of the narrative makes it feel like it's over in a heartbeat. Despite its brevity, the story does manage to reference the abandoned baby from the last Christmas novella, though only fleetingly.
While this short story does tie into the series, it could have benefited from more depth and continuity. The absence of familiar characters and unresolved threads, like the lover's island storyline, leave a feeling of dissatisfaction.
April 5, 2024
This Christmas novella was a good addition to the Jewell Cove series. There was a terrible storm leading up to the Christmas holiday and no room at the Inn. The manager found a way to help everyone who needed it and romance followed. It was a good story although too short to be fully developed. An easy standalone.
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