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Christmas in Mistletoe Square
Christmas in Mistletoe Square: Christmas Romance Novella Collection
Christmas is in the air in Kedgewick Creek, North Carolina, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Will romance find four couples in the month of December or will the pressure to keep the festivities Mistletoe Square is known for keep these couples apart? Find out in this collection of four novellas from inspirational authors Pepper Basham, Cara Putman, Janine Rosche, and Teresa Tysinger.
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
After five years away, Piper Dawson returns home to Kedgewick Creek and is pulled into a Christmas Scavenger Hunt that resurrects a heartbreak from Christmas past she’s not quite ready to mend. Will a matchmaking granny, a little Christmas magic, and a cute guy in a kilt make all the difference to her Christmas yet-to-come?
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
Growing up with dyslexia, Avery Blair didn’t love books, but the family-owned bookshop held her heart. She never expected her little business on the backside of nowhere to garner a New York City publishing house’s attention. Hunter Chase has lived an “always winter, never Christmas” existence, and spending the holidays in Christmas Town U.S.A. wasn’t exactly on his Christmas wish list, but he had no choice when his boss gave him an ultimatum. Can small town and big city discover a Christmas future that will last far beyond the page?
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
Ellie and Oliver Larson face a Christmas full of uncertainty rather than festive cheer. Ellie is tired of playing a supporting role to Oliver’s passion of running the Kedgewick Creek Playhouse. Oliver can’t imagine his life without her. When things go off script, will their love story find its second act?
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
Toy shop owner Peyton Hammond knows a secret that could take down online giant Kiljoy Toyz and its owner, Joey Kiljoy. After the two adversaries spend Christmas Eve delivering gifts for charity, will the sun rise on newfound love, or will prejudice and lost dreams keep hope in the dark?
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
After five years away, Piper Dawson returns home to Kedgewick Creek and is pulled into a Christmas Scavenger Hunt that resurrects a heartbreak from Christmas past she’s not quite ready to mend. Will a matchmaking granny, a little Christmas magic, and a cute guy in a kilt make all the difference to her Christmas yet-to-come?
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
Growing up with dyslexia, Avery Blair didn’t love books, but the family-owned bookshop held her heart. She never expected her little business on the backside of nowhere to garner a New York City publishing house’s attention. Hunter Chase has lived an “always winter, never Christmas” existence, and spending the holidays in Christmas Town U.S.A. wasn’t exactly on his Christmas wish list, but he had no choice when his boss gave him an ultimatum. Can small town and big city discover a Christmas future that will last far beyond the page?
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
Ellie and Oliver Larson face a Christmas full of uncertainty rather than festive cheer. Ellie is tired of playing a supporting role to Oliver’s passion of running the Kedgewick Creek Playhouse. Oliver can’t imagine his life without her. When things go off script, will their love story find its second act?
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
Toy shop owner Peyton Hammond knows a secret that could take down online giant Kiljoy Toyz and its owner, Joey Kiljoy. After the two adversaries spend Christmas Eve delivering gifts for charity, will the sun rise on newfound love, or will prejudice and lost dreams keep hope in the dark?
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2021
60 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Pepper Basham
41 books2,893 followersPepper D Basham has been telling tales ever since she was a little girl. When her grandmother called her a “writer” at the age of ten, Pepper took it as gospel and has enjoyed various types of writing styles ever since. A native of the Blue Ridge Mountains, mom of five, speech-language pathologist, and lover of chocolate, Pepper enjoys sprinkling her native Appalachian culture into her fiction wherever she can. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of the New River Valley in Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
July 12, 2021
This is a wonderful collection of Christmas novellas, all set in a wonderful little town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are so precious. I do indeed recommend them very much.
The Christmas Clue To Finding You by Pepper Basham
'This was an incredibly delightful and sweet story set during the Christmas season in a small town in the Blue Ridge mountains. And Christmas is such a magical time, too. You can feel it throughout the book. Pepper Basham manages to make this novella seem like a full length novel in this sweet story of forgiveness and belonging. God indeed has a plan for our lives. Sometimes it just takes longer than we think it should. I was invested from the first page. Piper and Gage are great characters! And hello! There is a kilt!'
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
Teresa Tysinger’s contribution features an older decades long married couple. Oh, how I enjoyed this story. She manages to just pull the reader right into their lives and emotions. I could ‘sense’ it from the very beginning, the troubles they were going through. It was incredible to have such emotions evoked in my heart by two characters. Full and rich, with emotions so powerful it stirred my heart to tears. Incredibly well done! I loved it!
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
Cara Putman’s offering in this collection gives us a sweet story of a book/coffee shop owner who needs to understand just how much of worth she is, not only to others, but to God. Kedgewick Creek’s book store portrayed here made me want to open the door, grab a cappuccino and settle in for a spot of reading. And there is a super hunky hero, too.
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
This one is just so sweet. An old fashioned toy shop’s owner, a million dollar toy company owner and a secret Christmas Santa all together in one story. I don’t want to say more for fear of a spoiler but this one just warms the heart strings. I loved it.
My thanks to the authors for providing me with their work. A positive review was not expected. The opinion here is my own.
The Christmas Clue To Finding You by Pepper Basham
'This was an incredibly delightful and sweet story set during the Christmas season in a small town in the Blue Ridge mountains. And Christmas is such a magical time, too. You can feel it throughout the book. Pepper Basham manages to make this novella seem like a full length novel in this sweet story of forgiveness and belonging. God indeed has a plan for our lives. Sometimes it just takes longer than we think it should. I was invested from the first page. Piper and Gage are great characters! And hello! There is a kilt!'
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
Teresa Tysinger’s contribution features an older decades long married couple. Oh, how I enjoyed this story. She manages to just pull the reader right into their lives and emotions. I could ‘sense’ it from the very beginning, the troubles they were going through. It was incredible to have such emotions evoked in my heart by two characters. Full and rich, with emotions so powerful it stirred my heart to tears. Incredibly well done! I loved it!
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
Cara Putman’s offering in this collection gives us a sweet story of a book/coffee shop owner who needs to understand just how much of worth she is, not only to others, but to God. Kedgewick Creek’s book store portrayed here made me want to open the door, grab a cappuccino and settle in for a spot of reading. And there is a super hunky hero, too.
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
This one is just so sweet. An old fashioned toy shop’s owner, a million dollar toy company owner and a secret Christmas Santa all together in one story. I don’t want to say more for fear of a spoiler but this one just warms the heart strings. I loved it.
My thanks to the authors for providing me with their work. A positive review was not expected. The opinion here is my own.
December 3, 2021
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
I love this super fun story! Piper and Gabe were excellent main characters, and I love them both! I could very much relate to Piper. This story has all the witty banter, and small town charm that are trademarks of Pepper Basham's writing. Plus, there's a guy in a kilt! Another thing I love about this story is the faith message, it is so beautifully written, and totally touched my heart! This story has total Hallmark Christmas movie vibes, but with depth as well, love it! Be sure to check out this enchantingly delightful novella! Highly recommend!
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
What a lovely story! This story has such a unique and intriguing premise, love it! I love Avery and Hunter, their witty banter had me chuckling more than once! I love how the author worked an element of mystery and secrets into this novella, there were definitely a couple surprises I didn't see coming, love that! I love this story, and there is a secondary character that I loved and I'm really hoping will get a story of their own! I loved this novella and highly recommend it!
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
I so enjoyed this delightful novella! I've found that I enjoy a good marriage reconciliation story, and this is one of the best I've read! Ellie and Oliver were both great characters, I loved them, and was cheering for them! I loved that Ellie and Oliver operate a community playhouse, it's a dream of mine to one day try my hand at acting in community theater, and it was fascinating to get a little glimpse of what it's like to run a theater. I really enjoyed this story, and the last scene especially had me smiling and happy-sighing. I loved hanging out with Ellie and Oliver and I hated to say goodbye to them when the story ended! Highly recommend!
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
Oh my stars! This story filled my heart with joy, and I couldn’t stop smiling while I was reading it! Peyton and Joey are such amazing characters, and I loved getting to hang out with them as they embarked on a magical Christmas Eve adventure! And I would be remiss if I did not mention a certain adorable yellow lab pup who stole my heart the moment she first appeared, and put a smile on my face every time she was mentioned! Janine Rosche is one of my very favorite authors, her books are always such a treat to read and Dreams in Toyland was no exception! I absolutely adored every single moment of this novella! I loved the entire Christmas in Mistletoe Square collection, but this one is definitely my favorite! Reading this story was pure bliss, and I most highly recommend it! Oh, and confession time: I’ve never seen Babes in Toyland, but Janine has convinced me I need to do so!
I received an eARC of this collection from the authors. No review required. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I love this super fun story! Piper and Gabe were excellent main characters, and I love them both! I could very much relate to Piper. This story has all the witty banter, and small town charm that are trademarks of Pepper Basham's writing. Plus, there's a guy in a kilt! Another thing I love about this story is the faith message, it is so beautifully written, and totally touched my heart! This story has total Hallmark Christmas movie vibes, but with depth as well, love it! Be sure to check out this enchantingly delightful novella! Highly recommend!
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
What a lovely story! This story has such a unique and intriguing premise, love it! I love Avery and Hunter, their witty banter had me chuckling more than once! I love how the author worked an element of mystery and secrets into this novella, there were definitely a couple surprises I didn't see coming, love that! I love this story, and there is a secondary character that I loved and I'm really hoping will get a story of their own! I loved this novella and highly recommend it!
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
I so enjoyed this delightful novella! I've found that I enjoy a good marriage reconciliation story, and this is one of the best I've read! Ellie and Oliver were both great characters, I loved them, and was cheering for them! I loved that Ellie and Oliver operate a community playhouse, it's a dream of mine to one day try my hand at acting in community theater, and it was fascinating to get a little glimpse of what it's like to run a theater. I really enjoyed this story, and the last scene especially had me smiling and happy-sighing. I loved hanging out with Ellie and Oliver and I hated to say goodbye to them when the story ended! Highly recommend!
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
Oh my stars! This story filled my heart with joy, and I couldn’t stop smiling while I was reading it! Peyton and Joey are such amazing characters, and I loved getting to hang out with them as they embarked on a magical Christmas Eve adventure! And I would be remiss if I did not mention a certain adorable yellow lab pup who stole my heart the moment she first appeared, and put a smile on my face every time she was mentioned! Janine Rosche is one of my very favorite authors, her books are always such a treat to read and Dreams in Toyland was no exception! I absolutely adored every single moment of this novella! I loved the entire Christmas in Mistletoe Square collection, but this one is definitely my favorite! Reading this story was pure bliss, and I most highly recommend it! Oh, and confession time: I’ve never seen Babes in Toyland, but Janine has convinced me I need to do so!
I received an eARC of this collection from the authors. No review required. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
September 26, 2021
Four noted Christian authors put their own spin on romance in a Christmas themed town.
The Christmas Clue to Finding You- Pepper Basham: An annual scavenger hunt for the perfect date. Was Piper’s old classmate really someone to avoid at all costs? She will follow the clues to her happily ever after. Told with the authors signature wit.
Silver Bell Secrets-Cara Putman: Avery Blair has a secret that makes her wary of a book deal from a persistent publisher. But Hunter tries to get on her good side by stuffing the book donation box in her combination book shop/coffee bar. A little suspense, too!
An Unscripted Christmas- Teresa Tysinger: A story of a seemingly stable marriage of an older couple. Ellie and Oliver learn to recapture their Happily Ever After and realize that communication and listening to God is important in their relationship.
Dreams In Toyland- Janine Rosche: Peyton, a small toyshop owner jumps to conclusions about Joey Killjoy, Santa’s helper in disguise. Lots of great Christmas references from nostalgic toys to A Christmas Carol.
These come across with the spirit of cooperation, selfless giving and forgiveness. Just the thing to get you in the Christmas Spirit. Well done ladies!
* I received a complimentary copy of these ebook novellas from the authors. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own *
The Christmas Clue to Finding You- Pepper Basham: An annual scavenger hunt for the perfect date. Was Piper’s old classmate really someone to avoid at all costs? She will follow the clues to her happily ever after. Told with the authors signature wit.
Silver Bell Secrets-Cara Putman: Avery Blair has a secret that makes her wary of a book deal from a persistent publisher. But Hunter tries to get on her good side by stuffing the book donation box in her combination book shop/coffee bar. A little suspense, too!
An Unscripted Christmas- Teresa Tysinger: A story of a seemingly stable marriage of an older couple. Ellie and Oliver learn to recapture their Happily Ever After and realize that communication and listening to God is important in their relationship.
Dreams In Toyland- Janine Rosche: Peyton, a small toyshop owner jumps to conclusions about Joey Killjoy, Santa’s helper in disguise. Lots of great Christmas references from nostalgic toys to A Christmas Carol.
These come across with the spirit of cooperation, selfless giving and forgiveness. Just the thing to get you in the Christmas Spirit. Well done ladies!
* I received a complimentary copy of these ebook novellas from the authors. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own *
December 19, 2021
I enjoyed the stories very much. These got me in the mood for Christmas and I'd much rather read a good book(s) than watch Hallmark movies any day. (I can't believe I just admitted that, but it's true.) In fact, the story by Cara Putman had me so invested that I downloaded the anthology box set called Dangerous Pursuits to read the continuation of a character's story.
March 2, 2022
I was so lucky to win and autographed copy of Christmas in Mistletoe Square, a collection of 4 novellas from 4 different authors in a giveaway in December. I’ve read Pepper Basham’s work before and she never disappoints with her wonderful imagination and colorfully descriptive words. Love her writing!! The other 3 authors, Cara Putman, Teresa Tysinger and Janine Rosche were all new to me. Not to say I hadn’t heard of them but I had never had the chance to read any of their stories. Well, I have now and what a pleasure it was reading such moving tales. I enjoyed every last one set in this adorable fictional town. I highly recommend this book with a 4 of 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 31, 2021
Definitely an enjoyable way to spend a few hours! These stories filled my heart with smiles during a season when smiles sometimes felt scarce. ☺️
October 25, 2021
What a fun Christmas novella collection from some of my favorite authors! Kedgewick Creek is sure to draw you in with its small town charm and magical Christmas air.
I loved Pepper Basham's story of Piper returning home to help her grandmother with the family inn but ending up finding herself, her true gifts, her faith, and a lost love. This is Christmas rom-com at its finest.
Cara Putman's story entwines a bit of mystery into Avery's predictable life as the town's bookstore/coffee shop owner when a big city publisher enters her world with a deal and some shocking secrets.
Teresa Tysinger beautifully portrays the empty-nesters Ellie and Oliver as the town's theater owners who need to adjust their dreams and learn to compromise for the sake of love.
Janine Rosche packs a lot into this novella with Peyton, the mom and pop toy store owner, facing off Joey, the head of a toy conglomerate, as they argue, bicker, but also work together in the spirit of generosity.
If you enjoy Christmas novellas, this collection is right up your alley. I received the book from the authors and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
I loved Pepper Basham's story of Piper returning home to help her grandmother with the family inn but ending up finding herself, her true gifts, her faith, and a lost love. This is Christmas rom-com at its finest.
Cara Putman's story entwines a bit of mystery into Avery's predictable life as the town's bookstore/coffee shop owner when a big city publisher enters her world with a deal and some shocking secrets.
Teresa Tysinger beautifully portrays the empty-nesters Ellie and Oliver as the town's theater owners who need to adjust their dreams and learn to compromise for the sake of love.
Janine Rosche packs a lot into this novella with Peyton, the mom and pop toy store owner, facing off Joey, the head of a toy conglomerate, as they argue, bicker, but also work together in the spirit of generosity.
If you enjoy Christmas novellas, this collection is right up your alley. I received the book from the authors and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
July 9, 2021
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
With her signature wit and delightful small-town appeal, Pepper Basham has penned another hit in her Christmas novella. While there is every hint at the makings of a romcom in this friends-to-more romance, this book has a strong faith thread of forgiveness and hope. Loved the chemistry between Piper and Gabe.
Looking forward to reading the other stories that take place in Mistletoe Square when the book releases. I received a complimentary copy of this novella from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
With her signature wit and delightful small-town appeal, Pepper Basham has penned another hit in her Christmas novella. While there is every hint at the makings of a romcom in this friends-to-more romance, this book has a strong faith thread of forgiveness and hope. Loved the chemistry between Piper and Gabe.
Looking forward to reading the other stories that take place in Mistletoe Square when the book releases. I received a complimentary copy of this novella from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 10, 2021
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham:
Such a wonderfully fun Christmas story with just a touch of mystery in a Christmas Scavenger Hunt, layered with Christmas' true history, thoroughly mixed with traditions, the smell of Christmas goodies & favorite drinks, a hint of humor, and much more than just a dash of romance - tried, tested through time, and found true. Themes of forgiveness of self and others, healing, grieving, finding one's place and purpose in life, and trusting God for all of these. Love these words: "It was time to let go of all the hurts and embrace the hope. To forgive and live. To choose tomorrow instead of yesterday. And, to keep a better watch for those Heavenly clues of love on a daily basis." I was reluctant to leave Kedgewick Creek, because I'm sure it is brimming over with stories yet to be told! Truly an exceptional story that I sincerely hope will have sequels!
Such a wonderfully fun Christmas story with just a touch of mystery in a Christmas Scavenger Hunt, layered with Christmas' true history, thoroughly mixed with traditions, the smell of Christmas goodies & favorite drinks, a hint of humor, and much more than just a dash of romance - tried, tested through time, and found true. Themes of forgiveness of self and others, healing, grieving, finding one's place and purpose in life, and trusting God for all of these. Love these words: "It was time to let go of all the hurts and embrace the hope. To forgive and live. To choose tomorrow instead of yesterday. And, to keep a better watch for those Heavenly clues of love on a daily basis." I was reluctant to leave Kedgewick Creek, because I'm sure it is brimming over with stories yet to be told! Truly an exceptional story that I sincerely hope will have sequels!
July 10, 2021
This entertaining Christmas romcom novella was fun to read. The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham had humor but also hope. I enjoyed the cute romantic holiday story and I really appreciated the lessons learned by the main character, Piper. Not only did she learn about God’s guidance in her own life but she was also reminded about the true meaning of Christmas. This novella is a perfect mix of fun and faith lessons for the Christmas season. I was given a copy of this novella. All opinions are my own.
September 30, 2021
Lovely stories!
Four novellas combine to create the Christmas in Mistletoe Square collection. Each one takes place in the same small Blue Ridge Mountain town.
I enjoy it when authors deviate from the norm and write their romances about older couples! Teresa Tysinger has written the wonderful An Unscripted Christmas, which is about a husband and wife, Oscar and Ellie, who are struggling in their marriage. This genuinely moving story alone is worth the price of this collection!
Not only did I love Ellie and Oliver, but I also loved their sweet friends who were not afraid to speak the truth when necessary. The things they learned about marriage, each other, and themselves were poignant and transformational for the characters and could be for the readers as well.
The Christmas Clue to Loving You by Pepper Basham is among my favorites by her. I loved reading Piper's story and was so touched by her insecurities and pain. As the quieter (and clumsier) of twin sisters, she had always been overshadowed by Paisley. Except with her best friend, Gabe, until he ghosted her their senior year.
Beautiful descriptions of the lovely town and the surroundings drew me in. And I grinned and laughed and smiled and hoped right along with Piper. A fun aspect of the story was the annual scavenger hunt and how clues from God pointed her to His love.
If you enjoy sweet romance, I highly recommend this lovely story. And while I haven't read the entire collection yet, I have read others by the authors and am looking forward to reading them all.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Four novellas combine to create the Christmas in Mistletoe Square collection. Each one takes place in the same small Blue Ridge Mountain town.
I enjoy it when authors deviate from the norm and write their romances about older couples! Teresa Tysinger has written the wonderful An Unscripted Christmas, which is about a husband and wife, Oscar and Ellie, who are struggling in their marriage. This genuinely moving story alone is worth the price of this collection!
Not only did I love Ellie and Oliver, but I also loved their sweet friends who were not afraid to speak the truth when necessary. The things they learned about marriage, each other, and themselves were poignant and transformational for the characters and could be for the readers as well.
The Christmas Clue to Loving You by Pepper Basham is among my favorites by her. I loved reading Piper's story and was so touched by her insecurities and pain. As the quieter (and clumsier) of twin sisters, she had always been overshadowed by Paisley. Except with her best friend, Gabe, until he ghosted her their senior year.
Beautiful descriptions of the lovely town and the surroundings drew me in. And I grinned and laughed and smiled and hoped right along with Piper. A fun aspect of the story was the annual scavenger hunt and how clues from God pointed her to His love.
If you enjoy sweet romance, I highly recommend this lovely story. And while I haven't read the entire collection yet, I have read others by the authors and am looking forward to reading them all.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
July 11, 2021
This review is for The Christmas clue to finding you by Pepper Basham .
The Christmas and the joy in this bite size bit of Basham's writing is just perfect for the Holiday season! Need a smile and a Christmas romance, grab it! I love a good friends to more with bait of a twist and the scavenger hunt element was so fun. Its short and sweet and gives all the Christmas romance feels.
I recieved a complementary copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and honest.
The Christmas and the joy in this bite size bit of Basham's writing is just perfect for the Holiday season! Need a smile and a Christmas romance, grab it! I love a good friends to more with bait of a twist and the scavenger hunt element was so fun. Its short and sweet and gives all the Christmas romance feels.
I recieved a complementary copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and honest.
October 8, 2021
This is a great collection of Christmas stories! It’s perfect for getting you into the holiday spirit! My favorite was the Christmas Clue to Finding You!
November 30, 2022
What keeps people showing up in Mistletoe Square? Some have always lived and worked here. Others return home. Some arrive and cannot seem to leave. Will you find a place this Christmas in Mistletoe Square?
December 25, 2021
Great collection
I enjoyed all of the novellas in this collection. Mistletoe Square was a delightful place to spend The Christmas season.
I enjoyed all of the novellas in this collection. Mistletoe Square was a delightful place to spend The Christmas season.
July 6, 2021
I was blessed with the opportunity to read two novellas in this highly anticipated collection, and I'm over the Christmas moon with delight and wonder!
Basham and Putman have crafted stories to warm your heart and remind you of the wonder of Christmas and the romance of stepping into love. Both stories have me in anxious anticipation for the rest!
Basham and Putman have crafted stories to warm your heart and remind you of the wonder of Christmas and the romance of stepping into love. Both stories have me in anxious anticipation for the rest!
December 14, 2021
Fun Christmas Novella Collection
I enjoyed reading this fun Christmas Novella Collection! A great way to get in the Christmas spirit with a festive collection of stories. As with any collection, I had my favorites, but all in all, these stories held just the right amount of holiday flavor!
I enjoyed reading this fun Christmas Novella Collection! A great way to get in the Christmas spirit with a festive collection of stories. As with any collection, I had my favorites, but all in all, these stories held just the right amount of holiday flavor!
October 17, 2021
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman:
I finished Silver Bells Secrets a few minutes ago. This is such a sweet story.
I've read Cara's legal suspense stories and was elated to read this Christmas romance. There is so much to point out that I liked...first and foremost the main characters were kind to each other. Hunter is a dreamboat. Understanding. Listened. Handsome. Sigh. Loved him.
Avery is a superstar. Running a bookstore in a small community, loving her job so much she finds ways to work around her dyslexia (this really makes the story!). She is amazing. Any reader will love her.
Elaine is a mystery. I want to know more about her. the two main characters yelling at each other
Twists and turns deepened the story.
Loved, loved Putman's dropping in names of fellow authors and their books. Did you know Agatha Christie did that also? Such a gracious and cool thing to do. Oh...love this...great writer tips: "It took more than words and a social media platform...." Such a fab line and there are others mixed in the story. And this one: "If any of the submitted proposals lived up to the pitches, that wouldn't take much to turn the image into reality." So many kudos in this story. This is one of the books I seriously couldn't put down. I really enjoyed it.
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
-- is as festive as a green wreath crafted from sweet cakes and pines then seasoned with hope, forgiveness, and especially love.
This witty and fun story has heart-swooning dialogue. Basham truly keeps the bar high as she has with her previous stories of romance and faith.
Have a cup of hot cocoa, a crackling fire, a homemade quilt snuggled to your chin? This is a perfectly delightful story to read for such a time. I highly recommend this story.
I finished Silver Bells Secrets a few minutes ago. This is such a sweet story.
I've read Cara's legal suspense stories and was elated to read this Christmas romance. There is so much to point out that I liked...first and foremost the main characters were kind to each other. Hunter is a dreamboat. Understanding. Listened. Handsome. Sigh. Loved him.
Avery is a superstar. Running a bookstore in a small community, loving her job so much she finds ways to work around her dyslexia (this really makes the story!). She is amazing. Any reader will love her.
Elaine is a mystery. I want to know more about her. the two main characters yelling at each other
Twists and turns deepened the story.
Loved, loved Putman's dropping in names of fellow authors and their books. Did you know Agatha Christie did that also? Such a gracious and cool thing to do. Oh...love this...great writer tips: "It took more than words and a social media platform...." Such a fab line and there are others mixed in the story. And this one: "If any of the submitted proposals lived up to the pitches, that wouldn't take much to turn the image into reality." So many kudos in this story. This is one of the books I seriously couldn't put down. I really enjoyed it.
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
-- is as festive as a green wreath crafted from sweet cakes and pines then seasoned with hope, forgiveness, and especially love.
This witty and fun story has heart-swooning dialogue. Basham truly keeps the bar high as she has with her previous stories of romance and faith.
Have a cup of hot cocoa, a crackling fire, a homemade quilt snuggled to your chin? This is a perfectly delightful story to read for such a time. I highly recommend this story.
October 19, 2021
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham
What a great opener to this collection and a wonderful introduction to the charming town of Kedgewick Creek and its residents. The characters were lovable. I really liked Piper and Gabe and Piper's matchmaking Granny. The whole idea of the Christmas Scavenger Hunt was so fun... and romantic. Though this was a quick read, it packed just as much into it as a full-length story. I enjoyed every second of it.
Fave Quote:
It was time to let go of all the hurts and embrace the hope. To forgive and live. To choose tomorrow instead of yesterday. And to keep a better watch for those heavenly clues of love on a daily basis.
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
This was a sweet story that I really enjoyed. I loved The Daily Press, the coffee shop/bookstore. It was such a cozy place. I'd stay there all the time if it were real. Avery and Hunter's banter was so much fun and I liked that there was just a little bit of a mystery.
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
This story features an older couple who've been married for a longtime but are struggling and trying to rekindle their love. I can't say that I ever really connected with Ellie and Oliver, but I did enjoy getting a look behind the scenes of the theater.
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
This was my favorite story of the collection. It's my first time reading anything from this author, but it certainly won't be the last. It was so heartwarming, so sweet, so much fun. I had a big smile on my face throughout pretty much the whole thing. The toy shop element was a lot of fun and added a bit of whimsy to the story. And I loved Joey. He was such an awesome guy, I couldn't help but fall for him. All in all, this was a stellar story and the perfect ending to this great collection.
What a great opener to this collection and a wonderful introduction to the charming town of Kedgewick Creek and its residents. The characters were lovable. I really liked Piper and Gabe and Piper's matchmaking Granny. The whole idea of the Christmas Scavenger Hunt was so fun... and romantic. Though this was a quick read, it packed just as much into it as a full-length story. I enjoyed every second of it.
Fave Quote:
It was time to let go of all the hurts and embrace the hope. To forgive and live. To choose tomorrow instead of yesterday. And to keep a better watch for those heavenly clues of love on a daily basis.
Silver Bell Secrets by Cara Putman
This was a sweet story that I really enjoyed. I loved The Daily Press, the coffee shop/bookstore. It was such a cozy place. I'd stay there all the time if it were real. Avery and Hunter's banter was so much fun and I liked that there was just a little bit of a mystery.
An Unscripted Christmas by Teresa Tysinger
This story features an older couple who've been married for a longtime but are struggling and trying to rekindle their love. I can't say that I ever really connected with Ellie and Oliver, but I did enjoy getting a look behind the scenes of the theater.
Dreams in Toyland by Janine Rosche
This was my favorite story of the collection. It's my first time reading anything from this author, but it certainly won't be the last. It was so heartwarming, so sweet, so much fun. I had a big smile on my face throughout pretty much the whole thing. The toy shop element was a lot of fun and added a bit of whimsy to the story. And I loved Joey. He was such an awesome guy, I couldn't help but fall for him. All in all, this was a stellar story and the perfect ending to this great collection.
October 28, 2021
Pepper Basham is one of my favorite authors, so it’s no surprise I loved The Christmas Clue to Finding You. It’s a sweet, poignant story dealing with the tough subject of grief. Piper Dawson and Gabe Cameron were the best of friends, with the potential for so much more, until tragedy ripped them apart. Now, years later Piper has returned home and runs into the now, hunky kilt-wearing Gabe in the local grocery store. Sparks, along with a bag of flour, fly setting the stage for this delightful second-chance romance. I laughed, swooned, and felt the heartache both characters had experienced. This novella is pure Basham genius, and you won’t want to say goodbye to Piper and Gabe.
Silver Bell Secrets is the first book I’ve read by Cara Putman, but it won’t be my last. Avery Blair and Hunter Chase have chemistry right from the start as Hunter tries to convince Avery to sign a book deal. The problem is Avery has a huge secret that she knows will hurt someone else and will ruin her budding relationship with Hunter. I felt Avery’s inner turmoil, which I can only imagine would be a life-changer. Hunter was the best sort of guy and just what Avery needed to see her true worth. There’s a mystery that’s introduced, which will be resolved in another book, so be prepared to be left hanging.
I didn’t receive an advance copy of the other two books in the collection, but both authors are considered great storytellers, so I’m sure I’ll enjoy them when I get the book.
Silver Bell Secrets is the first book I’ve read by Cara Putman, but it won’t be my last. Avery Blair and Hunter Chase have chemistry right from the start as Hunter tries to convince Avery to sign a book deal. The problem is Avery has a huge secret that she knows will hurt someone else and will ruin her budding relationship with Hunter. I felt Avery’s inner turmoil, which I can only imagine would be a life-changer. Hunter was the best sort of guy and just what Avery needed to see her true worth. There’s a mystery that’s introduced, which will be resolved in another book, so be prepared to be left hanging.
I didn’t receive an advance copy of the other two books in the collection, but both authors are considered great storytellers, so I’m sure I’ll enjoy them when I get the book.
October 17, 2021
All 4 stories are set in the fictional town of Kedgewick Creek with its very own Mistletoe Square.
Having read the first two in the collection by Pepper Basham and Cara Putman I liked how the stories have their unique flavour but interconnect with each other, it being a very small town. Basham's story has a lovely theme of second chances as Piper returns to her hometown just before Christmas and discovers there's more for her in Kedgewick Creek that she previously imagined.
Putman's story has a hint of mystery as Hunter comes to town seeking to recruit Avery to his publishing company's author line-up. This one felt a little incomplete as the mystery is left hanging and I hope there's a longer story to be made available in the future.
Both stories are charming and an easy enjoyable read.
I'll update my review on reading the final 2 stories in the collection.
Having read the first two in the collection by Pepper Basham and Cara Putman I liked how the stories have their unique flavour but interconnect with each other, it being a very small town. Basham's story has a lovely theme of second chances as Piper returns to her hometown just before Christmas and discovers there's more for her in Kedgewick Creek that she previously imagined.
Putman's story has a hint of mystery as Hunter comes to town seeking to recruit Avery to his publishing company's author line-up. This one felt a little incomplete as the mystery is left hanging and I hope there's a longer story to be made available in the future.
Both stories are charming and an easy enjoyable read.
I'll update my review on reading the final 2 stories in the collection.
December 14, 2022
The Christmas Clue to Finding You by Pepper Basham —Such a sweet, perfectly Christmassy story. Filled with snowflakes and tree lightings, hot cocoa, graceful moments, and even a Santa scavenger hunt. It’s there that Piper Dawson finds herself returning home to Kedgwick Creek after 5 years away, jobless and untethered, and seeking out clues from an unknown secret Santa. There’s Bobby, the local plumber who has always seemed shyly sweet on her, her sister’s ex-boyfriend Lance, who seems to be leaning toward starting something new with her, and Gabe, her once best friend who went through a catastrophic loss in high school from which their friendship never quite recovered—but who now cavorts around the local supermarket wearing a kilt and showing off his remarkable knees. As Piper follows the clues to her secret Santa, she discovers that things are not always what they seem and some forgiveness is called for Piper to make peace with herself. She also begins to run head first into the clues that God is leaving for her, and begins to see exactly where she belongs. I can’t wait to read the remaining novellas by Janine Rosche, Cara Putman, and Teresa Tysinger!
October 29, 2021
A wonderful place for Christmas romance
All four stories are engaging and romantic! The place they've created, Kedgewick Creek, and Mistletoe Square, and the businesses around it are a fairytale-come-true.
All four stories are engaging and romantic! The place they've created, Kedgewick Creek, and Mistletoe Square, and the businesses around it are a fairytale-come-true.
March 21, 2024
I enjoyed this collection of contemporary stories set in a quaint Christmas town. My favorite was the first story, Pepper Basham’s. If you’re looking for sweet Christmas romance novellas, I think this is one you’ll enjoy.
November 1, 2021
I was excited when I noticed that four of my favorite authors wrote a Christmas collection together. All four books revolve around the fictional town of Mistletoe Square. The four titles are distinct although they do connect a few characters.
"The Christmas Clue to Finding You" is by Pepper Basham. This novella is classic Basham as it is set in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a fun heroine and even a bit of British/Scottish flair as a part of this one. Within the first chapter I was definitely laughing and into the storyline. My favorite quote? "I just didn't expect you to have ... grown into your kilt so well."
Piper temporarily moves back home to help her Gran run her Mistletoe Inn. There she reconnects with some male friends from her past. Will either one play a part in her future?
This novella has all of the feels of a Hallmark Christmas movie - a spunky heroine who returns home to discover that she could find opportunities there, a male hero who wants to be a part of community, a quirky inn, a fun town tradition along with a great supporting cast. 5 stars.
"Silver Bell Secrets" is by Cara Putman is one that I wanted to like. (I always love Putman's books.) After all, the main setting is a book store/ coffee shop. In some ways, proprietor Avery Blair was cheerful, but in other ways she was grumpy. She seemed stuck in her past even though she had overcome several challenges. The Christmas Ball Audrey Hepburn moment should have been fun, but I could not appreciate the character enough to enjoy it.
Near the end, I thought it was getting interesting as there was a bit of a mystery involved. But then there was too much thrown into the plot without a lot of resolution. I am not sure if there needed to be more pages or exactly what happened. One key character completely disappeared, and I kept wondering if she was going to come back. The unconditional love aspect was a nice thought, but even that fell flat. This one missed the mark for me. 3.4 stars.
"An Unscripted Christmas" is by Teresa Tysinger features a couple that has been married for over 30 years. (Because I have been married for over two decades, this detail definitely helped me to connect with the characters!) Oliver and Ellie Larson have been an important part of local Christmas tradition with their annual play "Meet Me in Mistletoe Square." Since they have other playhouse events throughout the year, Ellie feels like having so much expected of them during December is too much. All she wants is uninterrupted time with her husband.
This story is about being willing to compromise. Too often we are unwilling to listen to the other point of view. We can easily take each other for granted. Tradition is important, but the people that are around our table matter even more. This was a sweet story with just the right amount of townspeople, tradition, couple connection and romance. 5 stars.
"Dreams in Toyland" is by Janine Rosche. A story featuring a toy store at Christmas definitely made for a fun setting. The two main characters are ones that should possibly be enemies. So I enjoyed the fact that they connected over an act of charity. Perhaps in my mind anyway, they made too intense of a match as kissing someone you have known less than 24 hours did not make sense to me. That part was a bit much for me. But I really enjoyed the characters and appreciated the back story. Overall this book was a great conclusion to the series. 4.6 stars.
I did receive an e-book from the authors. I did want to review the book. All opinions are my own.
Final rating for the novella is 4.5 stars which I rounded up to 5.
"The Christmas Clue to Finding You" is by Pepper Basham. This novella is classic Basham as it is set in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a fun heroine and even a bit of British/Scottish flair as a part of this one. Within the first chapter I was definitely laughing and into the storyline. My favorite quote? "I just didn't expect you to have ... grown into your kilt so well."
Piper temporarily moves back home to help her Gran run her Mistletoe Inn. There she reconnects with some male friends from her past. Will either one play a part in her future?
This novella has all of the feels of a Hallmark Christmas movie - a spunky heroine who returns home to discover that she could find opportunities there, a male hero who wants to be a part of community, a quirky inn, a fun town tradition along with a great supporting cast. 5 stars.
"Silver Bell Secrets" is by Cara Putman is one that I wanted to like. (I always love Putman's books.) After all, the main setting is a book store/ coffee shop. In some ways, proprietor Avery Blair was cheerful, but in other ways she was grumpy. She seemed stuck in her past even though she had overcome several challenges. The Christmas Ball Audrey Hepburn moment should have been fun, but I could not appreciate the character enough to enjoy it.
Near the end, I thought it was getting interesting as there was a bit of a mystery involved. But then there was too much thrown into the plot without a lot of resolution. I am not sure if there needed to be more pages or exactly what happened. One key character completely disappeared, and I kept wondering if she was going to come back. The unconditional love aspect was a nice thought, but even that fell flat. This one missed the mark for me. 3.4 stars.
"An Unscripted Christmas" is by Teresa Tysinger features a couple that has been married for over 30 years. (Because I have been married for over two decades, this detail definitely helped me to connect with the characters!) Oliver and Ellie Larson have been an important part of local Christmas tradition with their annual play "Meet Me in Mistletoe Square." Since they have other playhouse events throughout the year, Ellie feels like having so much expected of them during December is too much. All she wants is uninterrupted time with her husband.
This story is about being willing to compromise. Too often we are unwilling to listen to the other point of view. We can easily take each other for granted. Tradition is important, but the people that are around our table matter even more. This was a sweet story with just the right amount of townspeople, tradition, couple connection and romance. 5 stars.
"Dreams in Toyland" is by Janine Rosche. A story featuring a toy store at Christmas definitely made for a fun setting. The two main characters are ones that should possibly be enemies. So I enjoyed the fact that they connected over an act of charity. Perhaps in my mind anyway, they made too intense of a match as kissing someone you have known less than 24 hours did not make sense to me. That part was a bit much for me. But I really enjoyed the characters and appreciated the back story. Overall this book was a great conclusion to the series. 4.6 stars.
I did receive an e-book from the authors. I did want to review the book. All opinions are my own.
Final rating for the novella is 4.5 stars which I rounded up to 5.
December 15, 2023
4.5 stars for this collection of Christmas novellas that is centered in the small town of Kedgewick Creek, NC in the Blue Ridge mountains. The town itself had a Hallmark-movie feel to it as they have year-round Christmas themes. Each story focused on 1 member of the community who was integral to one of the small businesses. The Christmas Clue to Finding You focused on Piper Dawson at the town's B&B the Sleigh Bell Inn. I thoroughly enjoyed Piper's story that focused on the community's annual Christmas scavenger hunt. Silver Bell Secrets focused on bookstore owner Avery Blair and focused on the community's annual toy drive. An Unscripted Christmas focused on married couple Ellie and Oliver Larson. As a married person, I always enjoy romance stories that include married couples. This one focused on the community's annual Christmas play. The final story, Dreams in Toyland focused on Peyton Hammond who owns the local toy store. I thoroughly enjoyed her story as well, and this one centered on the town's local Santa (Handsell), a mysterious benefactor who provides gifts to those in need. All in all, this was a sweet and fun collection of Christmas romance novellas!
December 26, 2021
The Christmas Clue to Finding You is a swoony Basham novella. This novella has some delicious surprises for the reader. I enjoyed Piper and Gabe's story.
An important fact regarding the wise men is in error. The wise men studied astronomy not astrology.
In Silver Bell Secrets, we meet Avery Blair and Hunter Chase. Family secrets have a way of being exposed at the most inopportune times. I felt this novella ended abruptly. Overall it was a wonderful read.
An Unscripted Christmas spotlights sacrificial love. Ellie and Oliver Larson are Kedgewick Creek's model couple on the surface. In reality their marriage is on the edge of crumbling. Their journey to healing is inspirational.
Dreams in Toyland encourages fulfilling your dreams. Peyton Hammond and Joey Kiljoy discover the joy of dreams coming true.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christmas novella collections.
I borrowed a copy from Kindle Unlimited. I've expressed my honest opinion.
An important fact regarding the wise men is in error. The wise men studied astronomy not astrology.
In Silver Bell Secrets, we meet Avery Blair and Hunter Chase. Family secrets have a way of being exposed at the most inopportune times. I felt this novella ended abruptly. Overall it was a wonderful read.
An Unscripted Christmas spotlights sacrificial love. Ellie and Oliver Larson are Kedgewick Creek's model couple on the surface. In reality their marriage is on the edge of crumbling. Their journey to healing is inspirational.
Dreams in Toyland encourages fulfilling your dreams. Peyton Hammond and Joey Kiljoy discover the joy of dreams coming true.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christmas novella collections.
I borrowed a copy from Kindle Unlimited. I've expressed my honest opinion.
December 17, 2022
Overall, an absolutely delightful quartet of stories centred around 'Mistletoe Square'. I enjoyed that we saw glimpses of the other people and places in each story.
My favourite of the stories was Pepper Basham's. Solid 5 star read, and I loved that the pastor reminded Piper that sometimes God gives us clues about His plans for us, and that we need to be aware of those clues . . . and that we CAN become aware of them as we learn how to hear Him!
I was disappointed in Cara Putman's story . . . not because of the story itself, but because there was definitely some unfinished 'side business' that I really wanted to know was going to be resolved . . . Does anyone happen to know if those other characters feature in one of her other stories? If so, I need the deets, stat!
4.5 stars
My favourite of the stories was Pepper Basham's. Solid 5 star read, and I loved that the pastor reminded Piper that sometimes God gives us clues about His plans for us, and that we need to be aware of those clues . . . and that we CAN become aware of them as we learn how to hear Him!
I was disappointed in Cara Putman's story . . . not because of the story itself, but because there was definitely some unfinished 'side business' that I really wanted to know was going to be resolved . . . Does anyone happen to know if those other characters feature in one of her other stories? If so, I need the deets, stat!
4.5 stars
November 21, 2021
A wonderful set of Christmas stories
This set of stories, set in an adorable town that sounds like a perfect place to visit, we a lovely Christmas read. I enjoyed each story and that they all took place in the same little town, so they felt like one bigger story rather than four separate stories. I loved the characters and their struggles and their joys - all unique, but all heartwarming and personally challenging at times, too. Snuggle up with a blanket and a warm beverage and enjoy!
This set of stories, set in an adorable town that sounds like a perfect place to visit, we a lovely Christmas read. I enjoyed each story and that they all took place in the same little town, so they felt like one bigger story rather than four separate stories. I loved the characters and their struggles and their joys - all unique, but all heartwarming and personally challenging at times, too. Snuggle up with a blanket and a warm beverage and enjoy!
December 26, 2021
Christmas at Mistletoe Square is a wonderful holiday treat filled with sweet romance and Christmas cheer. I do not often read contemporary romance, but I thoroughly adored this novella collection and loved reading the majority of it on Christmas Day. My favorite stories were those written by Pepper Basham and Janine Rosche for their dreamy heroes and swoon-worthy romance, but I truly enjoyed all four tales. Each story compliments the others to paint a picture of a small mountain town that cherishes Christmas in Hallmark movie-like fashion. Thank you to Pepper Basham for gifting me this copy to enjoy! I loved it!
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