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The Christmas Escape
This Christmas, be whisked away by USA Today bestselling author Sarah Morgan in this uplifting novel of friendship, the festive season, and risking everything for the biggest gift of all...
It was supposed to be Christy Sullivan’s perfect Christmas getaway—a trip to Lapland with her family and best friend, Alix. But facing a make-or-break marriage crisis, Christy desperately needs time alone with her husband. Her solution? Alix can take Christy’s little daughter to Lapland, and they will reunite there for Christmas Day. It’s a big ask, but what else are friends for?
There’s nothing Alix won’t do for Christy. But Christy’s request to save Christmas is giving Alix sleepless nights. She knows something is wrong, but for the first time ever, Christy isn’t talking. And even the Arctic temperatures in Lapland aren’t enough to dampen the seriously inconvenient sizzle Alix is developing for Zac, a fellow guest and nemesis from her past.
As secrets unravel and unexpected romance shines under the northern lights, can Christy and Alix’s Christmas escape give them the courage to fight for the relationships they really want, and save the precious gift of each other’s friendship?
It was supposed to be Christy Sullivan’s perfect Christmas getaway—a trip to Lapland with her family and best friend, Alix. But facing a make-or-break marriage crisis, Christy desperately needs time alone with her husband. Her solution? Alix can take Christy’s little daughter to Lapland, and they will reunite there for Christmas Day. It’s a big ask, but what else are friends for?
There’s nothing Alix won’t do for Christy. But Christy’s request to save Christmas is giving Alix sleepless nights. She knows something is wrong, but for the first time ever, Christy isn’t talking. And even the Arctic temperatures in Lapland aren’t enough to dampen the seriously inconvenient sizzle Alix is developing for Zac, a fellow guest and nemesis from her past.
As secrets unravel and unexpected romance shines under the northern lights, can Christy and Alix’s Christmas escape give them the courage to fight for the relationships they really want, and save the precious gift of each other’s friendship?
374 pages, Paperback
First published October 26, 2021
649 people are currently reading
10042 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Morgan
683 books7,057 followersAbout Sarah
USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.
Look out for Sarah's next novel coming in October - All Together for Christmas (UK title)/ A Merry Little Lie (US/Canadian title)
Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.
Look out for Sarah's next novel coming in October - All Together for Christmas (UK title)/ A Merry Little Lie (US/Canadian title)
Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,173 reviews
December 3, 2021
The Christmas Escape by Sarah Morgan is a 2021 HQN publication.
Robyn:
Robyn has carved out a solid life in Lapland with husband, but a call from her niece, Christy, opens painful reminders of her past. Christy wants to bring her daughter, Holly, to meet Robyn and spend the holidays in Lapland. Robyn is thrilled, but also very nervous. What would Christy think about Robyn if she knew the truth about her…
Christy:
Christy and Seb married after she learned of her pregnancy. They hadn’t been seeing each other very long, but they were ready to give marriage a try. Now things aren’t going so well. Seb has been ‘working late’, their cottage needs costly repairs, and Christy is second guessing her choice to leave the city.
Alix:
Alix and Christy have been friends forever. Alix was vehemently opposed to Christy’s choice to marry Seb. Seb’s best friend, Zac, was the only thing standing in the way of her stopping the wedding. For five years Alix has been waiting for the other shoe to drop and now it looks like her predictions may be coming true…
With Christy and Seb needing a few days alone, Alix and Zac proceed with the holiday trip to Lapland with Holly. They can’t stand each other, but are determined to do right by Holly…
What could possibly go wrong?
Sarah Morgan is one of my very favorite contemporary fiction writers, these days, but I missed out on her holiday offerings in 2020, so I wanted to be sure to add her latest Christmas book to my list this year.
This is an ambitious story, with three threads, three couples, a child, dogs, and the holidays to navigate, but Morgan manages to make it look easy.
For a while, I was beginning to wonder if Robyn’s thread would ever fully develop, but once she had the floor, I was blown away.
Alix was hysterically funny, but in a poignant and bittersweet way.
Life moves on, and people change and grow, relationships wax and wane and take on new dimensions and the friendship between Christy and Alix showcases the need to accept those changes, but also the importance of communication and empathy. Christy’s role, though, may have been the most important of all, as she is finally able to break the chain of unhealthy family tendencies, to live a more balanced life and set a great example for her children.
At first, I was a bit concerned the drama would outweigh the holiday cheer, which was my chief complaint about last year’s crop of holiday fare, but once again Morgan manages to give me exactly what I wanted- reindeer, snow, hot cocoa, beautiful scenery, an adorable, precocious little girl, long overdue happy ever after’s, and the promise of new holiday traditions to come. What more could I possibly ask for?
Robyn:
Robyn has carved out a solid life in Lapland with husband, but a call from her niece, Christy, opens painful reminders of her past. Christy wants to bring her daughter, Holly, to meet Robyn and spend the holidays in Lapland. Robyn is thrilled, but also very nervous. What would Christy think about Robyn if she knew the truth about her…
Christy:
Christy and Seb married after she learned of her pregnancy. They hadn’t been seeing each other very long, but they were ready to give marriage a try. Now things aren’t going so well. Seb has been ‘working late’, their cottage needs costly repairs, and Christy is second guessing her choice to leave the city.
Alix:
Alix and Christy have been friends forever. Alix was vehemently opposed to Christy’s choice to marry Seb. Seb’s best friend, Zac, was the only thing standing in the way of her stopping the wedding. For five years Alix has been waiting for the other shoe to drop and now it looks like her predictions may be coming true…
With Christy and Seb needing a few days alone, Alix and Zac proceed with the holiday trip to Lapland with Holly. They can’t stand each other, but are determined to do right by Holly…
What could possibly go wrong?
Sarah Morgan is one of my very favorite contemporary fiction writers, these days, but I missed out on her holiday offerings in 2020, so I wanted to be sure to add her latest Christmas book to my list this year.
This is an ambitious story, with three threads, three couples, a child, dogs, and the holidays to navigate, but Morgan manages to make it look easy.
For a while, I was beginning to wonder if Robyn’s thread would ever fully develop, but once she had the floor, I was blown away.
Alix was hysterically funny, but in a poignant and bittersweet way.
Life moves on, and people change and grow, relationships wax and wane and take on new dimensions and the friendship between Christy and Alix showcases the need to accept those changes, but also the importance of communication and empathy. Christy’s role, though, may have been the most important of all, as she is finally able to break the chain of unhealthy family tendencies, to live a more balanced life and set a great example for her children.
At first, I was a bit concerned the drama would outweigh the holiday cheer, which was my chief complaint about last year’s crop of holiday fare, but once again Morgan manages to give me exactly what I wanted- reindeer, snow, hot cocoa, beautiful scenery, an adorable, precocious little girl, long overdue happy ever after’s, and the promise of new holiday traditions to come. What more could I possibly ask for?
August 12, 2021
Robyn lives in Lapland with husband Erik and they own a snow spa. She is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her niece Christy who she hasn’t seen for years following estrangement from Christy's mother Elizabeth, now deceased. Christy is married to Seb and they have a lively young daughter Holly. Seb claims he has to work and won’t make the holiday start date but will travel on in a few days time. A suspicious Christy decides to stay with Seb and arranges for her best friend Alix and Seb’s best friend Zac to go ahead as planned taking Holly with them and the couple will join them as soon as possible. The scene is set for confronting issues both in the past and in relationships against a backdrop of the festive season.
It has become a bit of a tradition with me to read a Sarah Morgan festive offering, though not always in August!!! She weaves a good yarn although I don’t find this one draws you in as immediately as previous books but once we’re in Lapland we’re off! The setting is the best part of the novel, it’s just wonderful as it evokes everything that makes Christmas magical. The snow spa is wonderful and enticing - when can I book??!! You have everything you associate such as dog sleds, the hot chocolate, the Aurora, the snow and cold, the hot chocolate, the food and obviously the hot chocolate! I really enjoy the inclusion and information about the traditions such as Falu Rödfärg, Falun Red the colour of houses in the far north of Sweden.
The novel has the right mix of complex relationships and confronting issues such as lack of communication, friendship, family and parenthood as with some characters it sure is a case of ‘they [mess] you up your mum and dad..’.. The ups and downs of marriage and so on is done well, with a lot of eggshell treading but as Christmas is, amongst other things, a time of reflection it leads to fences being mended. There are a lot of characters to get your head around which means that some are not as well developed as others though the four main ones are done well and Holly livens up the pages. You do feel some exasperation at the beginning of the book with both Alix and Christy but Lapland and Christmas work their magic!,
Once you get into this it’s an enjoyable read in the most enchanting of settings.
3.5 rounded up
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
It has become a bit of a tradition with me to read a Sarah Morgan festive offering, though not always in August!!! She weaves a good yarn although I don’t find this one draws you in as immediately as previous books but once we’re in Lapland we’re off! The setting is the best part of the novel, it’s just wonderful as it evokes everything that makes Christmas magical. The snow spa is wonderful and enticing - when can I book??!! You have everything you associate such as dog sleds, the hot chocolate, the Aurora, the snow and cold, the hot chocolate, the food and obviously the hot chocolate! I really enjoy the inclusion and information about the traditions such as Falu Rödfärg, Falun Red the colour of houses in the far north of Sweden.
The novel has the right mix of complex relationships and confronting issues such as lack of communication, friendship, family and parenthood as with some characters it sure is a case of ‘they [mess] you up your mum and dad..’.. The ups and downs of marriage and so on is done well, with a lot of eggshell treading but as Christmas is, amongst other things, a time of reflection it leads to fences being mended. There are a lot of characters to get your head around which means that some are not as well developed as others though the four main ones are done well and Holly livens up the pages. You do feel some exasperation at the beginning of the book with both Alix and Christy but Lapland and Christmas work their magic!,
Once you get into this it’s an enjoyable read in the most enchanting of settings.
3.5 rounded up
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 2, 2024
I greedily look forward to Sarah Morgan’s Christmas book every year. The setting is always the most fun for me, and this year we are going to Lapland in the Arctic Circle in northern Sweden! But first, we have to get there, and that involves quite a bit of drama (which I enjoyed, too.) Christy and her husband Seb have been having issues. They’re stretched too thin financially. Christy believes Seb is having an affair. Christy’s best friend Alex has always disliked Seb and made no secret of it. Christy has difficulty speaking up and just pretends things are fine when they are not. The family is supposed to go on a big vacation to Lapland, but Seb decides to send Christy and their daughter ahead alone, saying he has to work. A few questionable decisions by Christy/Seb in the parenting department made me more of an Alex fan TBH by this point. Fortunately, we soon get to Lapland and the setting was awesome! Northern lights. Snow. Pine forests. Reindeer. Saunas. Also, things are heating up between Alex and Zach--Seb’s best friend, who she professes to hate just a little too much. An absolutely charming Christmas story as always!
December 5, 2021
It’s been two years since Christy Sullivan’s mother died in a car accident. Her only remaining relative is an aunt, Robyn Svennson, who she’s never met as she and her sister were estranged. Christy needs an escape from the country cottage she and husband Seb purchased that’s become more like a money pit so she reaches out to her Aunt Robyn and husband Erik who own a lodge in the Swedish Lapland and makes plans to spend the Christmas holiday with them. It is an idyllic location for her, Seb and daughter Holly to getaway. She’s also invited her best friend Alix Carpenter to join them. However, a few days before the scheduled trip, Christy and Seb have a marriage crisis and Alix agrees to go ahead with Holly. Seb’s best friend Zac is also accompanying them (unknown to Alix) to provide much need help with the four year old.
The story is told from the points of view of Robyn, Christy and Alix though Christy carries much of the heft of the narratives. Each of these women are burdened by their pasts, but Robyn and Alix’s histories are the saddest. Until Christy married Seb, she and Alix shared everything but her friend’s opposition to her marriage has put some topics out of bounds. Alix’s parents are highly successful and never wanted a child, thus raising her with indifference. She began spending more time with Christy’s family, which became the family of her heart. The distance she’s experiencing from Christy is traumatizing as she’s all she has. But she’s holding back, too, and it involves Zac. The reason for Robyn’s estrangement from Christy’s mother has never been shared with Christy and Robyn’s unsure whether that truth will permanently sever the relationship.
You would think that these three plot lines would upend the seasonal aspect of the story and laden it with too much drama. It was quite the opposite as the issues were seamlessly woven into the threads of the relationships and Holly kept the spirit of the season front and center throughout. I loved how Christy and Alix dealt with the issues that almost tore their friendship to threads. It wasn’t pretty but it also brought out the best from their partners, Seb and Zac, who recognized the importance of their relationship. We had to wait a long time to get Robyn’s story but it was well worth the delay. The setting put me in the holiday mode as the sleighs, reindeer and snow covered vistas were easy to visualize and imagine. I felt like I was there. I listened to the story and the narrator did a wonderful job in providing distinctive voices for the three points of view. She delivered a fine performance, even capturing Holly’s excitement throughout. I always enjoy the holiday stories by this author and she’s kept the tradition going with this one.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
The story is told from the points of view of Robyn, Christy and Alix though Christy carries much of the heft of the narratives. Each of these women are burdened by their pasts, but Robyn and Alix’s histories are the saddest. Until Christy married Seb, she and Alix shared everything but her friend’s opposition to her marriage has put some topics out of bounds. Alix’s parents are highly successful and never wanted a child, thus raising her with indifference. She began spending more time with Christy’s family, which became the family of her heart. The distance she’s experiencing from Christy is traumatizing as she’s all she has. But she’s holding back, too, and it involves Zac. The reason for Robyn’s estrangement from Christy’s mother has never been shared with Christy and Robyn’s unsure whether that truth will permanently sever the relationship.
You would think that these three plot lines would upend the seasonal aspect of the story and laden it with too much drama. It was quite the opposite as the issues were seamlessly woven into the threads of the relationships and Holly kept the spirit of the season front and center throughout. I loved how Christy and Alix dealt with the issues that almost tore their friendship to threads. It wasn’t pretty but it also brought out the best from their partners, Seb and Zac, who recognized the importance of their relationship. We had to wait a long time to get Robyn’s story but it was well worth the delay. The setting put me in the holiday mode as the sleighs, reindeer and snow covered vistas were easy to visualize and imagine. I felt like I was there. I listened to the story and the narrator did a wonderful job in providing distinctive voices for the three points of view. She delivered a fine performance, even capturing Holly’s excitement throughout. I always enjoy the holiday stories by this author and she’s kept the tradition going with this one.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
February 24, 2022
This is a Christmas Women's Fiction/Romance. This is about two friends learning be open up, and they learn change is good. This book was one that I had trouble getting into, but it slowly grow on me. There was some twist I did not see coming. I loved the last part of this book, and the little girl in this book was so cute. I love the things that little said, and it made me remember when my daughter was little. This book had a lot of Christmas vibes in it. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin) or author (Sarah Morgan) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
January 11, 2022
The Christmas Escape by Sarah Morgan is a contemporary romance set during the holiday season. This one features more than one relationship in the story with romance also being mixed in with familial relations and friendship.
After Christy Sullivan’s mother died suddenly Christy decided that she wanted to track down her only other relative. Christy’s aunt, Robyn Svennson, was estranged from Christy’s mother so Christy really has no memory of her and is curious what kept the sisters apart for all these years. Finding that Robyn lives in Lapland Christy plans a trip that she feels will also make the perfect Christmas.
Right before the trip Christy learns some news from her husband, Seb, that will delay their departure so Christy turns to her best friend, Alix Carpenter, to keep the holiday on track. Alix will take Christy’s daughter to Lapland ahead of Christy and her husband but traveling along will be Seb’s best friend Zac who Alix hasn’t had the best track record with in the past so Alix isn’t sure how jolly the vacation will be.
The Christmas Escape by Sarah Morgan had a lot going on in the story and after beginning I had a hard time trying to put this one down just wanting to keep the pages turning. There’s not only the enemies to lovers new romance with Alix and Zac but Christy’s relationship with her husband and then later on with her estranged aunt Robyn with lots of secrets surfacing. Don’t worry though amidst all of the relationship building in the story there was also plenty of Christmas cheer thrown into the mix making this one a lovely holiday tale set wonderful place to be during the holiday season. Definitely one to check out and I will happily read more of this author in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
After Christy Sullivan’s mother died suddenly Christy decided that she wanted to track down her only other relative. Christy’s aunt, Robyn Svennson, was estranged from Christy’s mother so Christy really has no memory of her and is curious what kept the sisters apart for all these years. Finding that Robyn lives in Lapland Christy plans a trip that she feels will also make the perfect Christmas.
Right before the trip Christy learns some news from her husband, Seb, that will delay their departure so Christy turns to her best friend, Alix Carpenter, to keep the holiday on track. Alix will take Christy’s daughter to Lapland ahead of Christy and her husband but traveling along will be Seb’s best friend Zac who Alix hasn’t had the best track record with in the past so Alix isn’t sure how jolly the vacation will be.
The Christmas Escape by Sarah Morgan had a lot going on in the story and after beginning I had a hard time trying to put this one down just wanting to keep the pages turning. There’s not only the enemies to lovers new romance with Alix and Zac but Christy’s relationship with her husband and then later on with her estranged aunt Robyn with lots of secrets surfacing. Don’t worry though amidst all of the relationship building in the story there was also plenty of Christmas cheer thrown into the mix making this one a lovely holiday tale set wonderful place to be during the holiday season. Definitely one to check out and I will happily read more of this author in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
November 13, 2021
Christy Sullivan and her best friend Alix have spent Christmas together since they were children. This year they are planning to go to Lapland, a snowy wonderland. The trip will include Christy's husband and their young daughter, Holly. But when Christy faces trouble with her marriage, she asks Alix to take Holly to Lapland without her. She'll be joined by their family friend, Zac--whom Alix has been avoiding ever since Christy's wedding. But as Alix, Zac, and Holly enjoy their time in Lapland, Alix realizes she may have made a mistake in avoiding him. Meanwhile, Christy starts to wonder if her friendship with Alix and marriage will survive the holidays.
I hate rating books low, but this just did not work for me. It was a sweet enough story and I liked the fun, snowy Arctic setting, but, oh, this book could have been so much shorter and enjoyable. The repetition is intense, to the point I found myself skimming sections. We are constantly bombarded by everyone's thoughts and issues. Did you know Alix has commitment issues? Oh you will. Christy struggles with perfection? The overwhelming focus on the characters' tropes and the rehashing and pontificating on thoughts and feelings was incredibly frustrating. It was very slow moving with far more telling than showing. I was not that invested in Alix and Zac's relationship.
There's a sweet storyline involving Christy's aunt, who lives at Lapland, which I enjoyed, and others have enjoyed the overall story more, so take my review with a grain of salt, but most of this book was just too repetitive and trite for me. 2.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Harlequin and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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I hate rating books low, but this just did not work for me. It was a sweet enough story and I liked the fun, snowy Arctic setting, but, oh, this book could have been so much shorter and enjoyable. The repetition is intense, to the point I found myself skimming sections. We are constantly bombarded by everyone's thoughts and issues. Did you know Alix has commitment issues? Oh you will. Christy struggles with perfection? The overwhelming focus on the characters' tropes and the rehashing and pontificating on thoughts and feelings was incredibly frustrating. It was very slow moving with far more telling than showing. I was not that invested in Alix and Zac's relationship.
There's a sweet storyline involving Christy's aunt, who lives at Lapland, which I enjoyed, and others have enjoyed the overall story more, so take my review with a grain of salt, but most of this book was just too repetitive and trite for me. 2.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Harlequin and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Smashbomb ~ Instagram
December 7, 2021
Christy has the life she dreamed of: married with a child living in a charming cottage in the English Countryside, but somehow things aren’t right. Her husband, Seb, has been spending more and more time away on business, and the cottage she found delightful is falling apart around her. Christy was raised in to embrace order and schedules, never feeling comfortable to rock the boat or confront problems and that’s worked for her until now. Christy knows she needs to face facts and find out if her marriage is in trouble and maybe life in the country isn’t all she thought it would be. However, she doesn’t feel comfortable discussing her doubts with her best friend, Alix, since she was against marrying Christy marrying Seb in the first place. Christy hopes their upcoming trip her estranged Aunt Robyn’s Swedish retreat will provide some downtime to get everything sorted out.
Alix was raised by career minded parents, careless and neglectful, so that she never felt loved by them. She didn’t know what it felt to be in a loving family until she met Christy and was taken in as a sister and daughter. Alix loves Christy and wants the best for her which is why she spoke up at the wedding, and even though Christy says all is forgiven, things haven’t quite been the same since. However, their lifelong dream of spending Christmas at Lapland should allow them to mend fences. Nevermind Seb’s best friend Zac, Alix’s nemesis being thrown into the mix!
The Christmas Escape was magical! The descriptions, even of the rundown country cottage sounded so lovely! Spending Christmas in the Swedish retreat north of the Artic Circle where the Northern Lights sweep by regularly, ensconced in rustic cabins that invite nature in with large windows and natural materials throughout sounded dreamy!
As enchanting and perfect as the setting sounded, the story of Christy, Alix and Robyn was the main attraction for me. Each of these women had their own struggles, Christy and Alix were more at the forefront, but Robyn’s story was just as poignant and touching. There’s romance and laughs, the joy of reaffirming love, coming to grips with the past, grabbing up happiness for the future and holding family and friends close. I loved every minute of this emotional and heartwarming story! Five stars all the way!
A copy was kindly provided by HQN in exchange for an honest review.
Alix was raised by career minded parents, careless and neglectful, so that she never felt loved by them. She didn’t know what it felt to be in a loving family until she met Christy and was taken in as a sister and daughter. Alix loves Christy and wants the best for her which is why she spoke up at the wedding, and even though Christy says all is forgiven, things haven’t quite been the same since. However, their lifelong dream of spending Christmas at Lapland should allow them to mend fences. Nevermind Seb’s best friend Zac, Alix’s nemesis being thrown into the mix!
The Christmas Escape was magical! The descriptions, even of the rundown country cottage sounded so lovely! Spending Christmas in the Swedish retreat north of the Artic Circle where the Northern Lights sweep by regularly, ensconced in rustic cabins that invite nature in with large windows and natural materials throughout sounded dreamy!
As enchanting and perfect as the setting sounded, the story of Christy, Alix and Robyn was the main attraction for me. Each of these women had their own struggles, Christy and Alix were more at the forefront, but Robyn’s story was just as poignant and touching. There’s romance and laughs, the joy of reaffirming love, coming to grips with the past, grabbing up happiness for the future and holding family and friends close. I loved every minute of this emotional and heartwarming story! Five stars all the way!
A copy was kindly provided by HQN in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2021
didn't care about the characters and I couldn't get invested in their journey
2,5⭐
2,5⭐
September 25, 2021
Ah the Queen of a Christmas romance is back, and once more delivers in auroras!
Set to stunning backdrop of Swedish Lapland this is a story of friendship, of hidden family secrets, of various relationships and also of new beginnings.
And it really is a magical week in Lapland that changes the lives of all the main characters.
I was enchanted from the first few pages and could really picture everything that was happening very vividly.
Sarah Morgan has a way of describing snowy scenes and winter activities that make you want to ignore your own life and just jump into the pages of the book.
I devoured this latest book in only a few hours while poolside, on the hottest day of my holiday, and it did slightly cool me off, reading about such wintery activities, while completely absorbing me within the pages, which I was reading happily.
I couldn't get enough of this book, and already gutted that I'll have to wait ages for the next Sarah Morgan release, as I love her books so much.
From dog sledding to the Northern Lights, from estranged long lost aunts to a fractured friendship, this book has it all and more and is well worth reading if you enjoy a fabulous story.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Set to stunning backdrop of Swedish Lapland this is a story of friendship, of hidden family secrets, of various relationships and also of new beginnings.
And it really is a magical week in Lapland that changes the lives of all the main characters.
I was enchanted from the first few pages and could really picture everything that was happening very vividly.
Sarah Morgan has a way of describing snowy scenes and winter activities that make you want to ignore your own life and just jump into the pages of the book.
I devoured this latest book in only a few hours while poolside, on the hottest day of my holiday, and it did slightly cool me off, reading about such wintery activities, while completely absorbing me within the pages, which I was reading happily.
I couldn't get enough of this book, and already gutted that I'll have to wait ages for the next Sarah Morgan release, as I love her books so much.
From dog sledding to the Northern Lights, from estranged long lost aunts to a fractured friendship, this book has it all and more and is well worth reading if you enjoy a fabulous story.
Thank you to HQ and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 27, 2022
Перфектната коледна книга! Типично коледна, снежна, но топла. Разпознах се в главната героиня и нейната мания за съвършенство, която за нея е бягство от проблемите й, но застрашава връзката с партньора и приятелката й. Колко са крехки човешките отношения, дори между най-близки, колко лесно е да живееш в твоята версия, ако не я споделиш с никого и как затъваш в нея. Ще ви предизвика, но по нежен и уютен начин. Приютяваща книга:)
October 29, 2021
Normally I really enjoy reading holiday themed books but this one just exhausted me. I think there was just too much going on so that none was developed as fully as it should have been. I would, however, love to go to Lapland!!
November 25, 2022
Eh bah j’ai adoré ! J’ai envie de tout claquer pour partir en Laponie, tout va bien 🤌❤️
December 23, 2024
Поредната 3-звездна коледна книга. Чудя се дали някога ще открия такава, която истински да спечели сърцето ми. Не се отказвам обаче.
Бягство по Коледа има потенциала на книгите на Емири Хенри, но нещо в начина на писане не ми достигна. Конфликтите бяха много добре изградени, но ми дойдоха малко в повече като за коледна книга. Иска ми се да имаше една идея повече коледни активности и позитивни моменти.
🥰 Кой би я харесал?
Човек, който харесва контемпорари романтика и иска да пробва нейната коледна версия.
Бягство по Коледа има потенциала на книгите на Емири Хенри, но нещо в начина на писане не ми достигна. Конфликтите бяха много добре изградени, но ми дойдоха малко в повече като за коледна книга. Иска ми се да имаше една идея повече коледни активности и позитивни моменти.
🥰 Кой би я харесал?
Човек, който харесва контемпорари романтика и иска да пробва нейната коледна версия.
December 21, 2021
Sarah Morgan does it again! I laughed, I cried, I felt all the cozy Christmas vibes....The Christmas Escape is the perfect seasonal read. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I think Morgan is one of the best authors out there for character development and writing complex relationships that feel real. She seamlessly blends romance with the complicated dynamics of family and friendship. This book follows two childhood best friends who have grown a bit apart. One is single with walls around her heart and the other is married with a young child, but going through a rough patch. They spend Christmas together in the Swedish Lapland and the friend may just find love... This was perfection.
December 14, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
It turned out that you could reinvent yourself if you moved far enough away from everyone who knew you.
Her life was unraveling so fast she expected to find nothing but strands of it at her feet.
“It’s not sentiment, Alix. It’s emotion. And unlike you, I’m not afraid of emotion.” She was pretty sure that if she took the lid off hers right now, he’d be afraid.
No way am I staying in that confined space with you… It’s more of a health and safety issue. My health. Your safety.
My Review:
This was a hybrid mix of genres of women’s fiction, romance, and family drama with a holiday theme with the added bonus of generous lashings of amusing wry wit and humor. I always enjoy a Sarah Morgan read, as she is a skilled storyteller who can certainly weave a perceptive and entertaining tale with original yet knowable characters while hitting all the feels.
It turned out that you could reinvent yourself if you moved far enough away from everyone who knew you.
Her life was unraveling so fast she expected to find nothing but strands of it at her feet.
“It’s not sentiment, Alix. It’s emotion. And unlike you, I’m not afraid of emotion.” She was pretty sure that if she took the lid off hers right now, he’d be afraid.
No way am I staying in that confined space with you… It’s more of a health and safety issue. My health. Your safety.
My Review:
This was a hybrid mix of genres of women’s fiction, romance, and family drama with a holiday theme with the added bonus of generous lashings of amusing wry wit and humor. I always enjoy a Sarah Morgan read, as she is a skilled storyteller who can certainly weave a perceptive and entertaining tale with original yet knowable characters while hitting all the feels.
December 19, 2021
So glad I discovered Sarah Morgan's books! I loved this and One More For Christmas so much!!
January 6, 2022
Okay so this is the third review I've written on this book beause everytime I go to save it, it kept getting deleted... This book was such a cute christmas book for me to read and I recieved this book as a gift over christmas. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I loved the Christmas scenes written and it gave me such a christmas vibe and feel. I liked the romance between the two couples in this book who were all friends by the way. The epilogue was also cute and I would've liked a little bit more but I guess you could see where it was going. This author also has written other christmas books but I've not read them.. but I will re read this one again in the future and it is a cute simple cosy christmas book to read. I would recommend it.
A four stars from me.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📧E: nikkisugarvogue@gmail.com
✎W:sugarvoguenikki.blogspot.com/
* https://linktr.ee/Sugarvogue
A four stars from me.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📧E: nikkisugarvogue@gmail.com
✎W:sugarvoguenikki.blogspot.com/
* https://linktr.ee/Sugarvogue
November 1, 2021
I know that I am in for a treat when I pick up a book by Sarah Morgan. She is my go-to author for feel-good fiction and I always enjoy her books. Having read several now, I was excited for this new Christmas tale. And it definitely did not disappoint!
Not only do Christy and Alix have romance issues, but friendship is clearly being tested. Despite being friends since they were children, both women have noticed that things are not what they used to be: with-holding personal details and not indulging in secrets, both Alix and Christy feel increasingly detached from one another. The Lapland trip promises magic for Christy’s daughter, but when her husband, Seb, cannot make it from day one, Christy asks her best friend to babysit for a few days. This leads Christy discovering important home-truths about herself and her marriage, whilst Alix also experiences the ‘Lapland effect’ and realises that her current way of life is not as satisfying as she portrays.
The theme of family connections runs throughout this book. Heading to Lapland gives Christy the opportunity to reconnect with her estranged aunt. It’s a daunting time, especially as Christy and her friend have predicted many outrageous reasons as to why Christy’s mother never acknowledged Robyn. Yet, the warm welcome that Robyn provides and the ensuing revealing conversation between the two, demonstrates the importance of love and family. Christy and Robyn have to move past the estrangement, and building bridges is a parallel that is reflected in Christy and Alix’s friendship. Both women do not realise how their behaviour is impacting the other – an honest conversation is well-overdue! Although this leads to pain and sorrow, it was nice to see them moving through it and to a stronger connection afterwards. The parallels between the characters show how even the closest of connections can come under strain when communication is not always honest.
This is a delightful Christmas book, made even better with the setting. Huskies, hot chocolate and buckets of snow, Lapland enticed me into this book even more. Although I really enjoyed the plot development, I thought Morgan’s portrayal of the setting added to the cosiness of this story. The descriptions of the woodland, the northern lights, the cabins… it made me envious about Christy’s festive holiday. It was all so vivid that I could easily picture being snuggled up in one of Robyn’s delightful cabins and watching the stars overhead.
Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, if you have yet to discover her writing, then give this one a go! It is a sweet, innocent story that is a match made with Christmas-time: it would make the perfect Christmas Eve read. There is so much love in these pages and such a positive vibe, that I think it would even cheer up the grumpiest of festive scrooges!
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Not only do Christy and Alix have romance issues, but friendship is clearly being tested. Despite being friends since they were children, both women have noticed that things are not what they used to be: with-holding personal details and not indulging in secrets, both Alix and Christy feel increasingly detached from one another. The Lapland trip promises magic for Christy’s daughter, but when her husband, Seb, cannot make it from day one, Christy asks her best friend to babysit for a few days. This leads Christy discovering important home-truths about herself and her marriage, whilst Alix also experiences the ‘Lapland effect’ and realises that her current way of life is not as satisfying as she portrays.
The theme of family connections runs throughout this book. Heading to Lapland gives Christy the opportunity to reconnect with her estranged aunt. It’s a daunting time, especially as Christy and her friend have predicted many outrageous reasons as to why Christy’s mother never acknowledged Robyn. Yet, the warm welcome that Robyn provides and the ensuing revealing conversation between the two, demonstrates the importance of love and family. Christy and Robyn have to move past the estrangement, and building bridges is a parallel that is reflected in Christy and Alix’s friendship. Both women do not realise how their behaviour is impacting the other – an honest conversation is well-overdue! Although this leads to pain and sorrow, it was nice to see them moving through it and to a stronger connection afterwards. The parallels between the characters show how even the closest of connections can come under strain when communication is not always honest.
This is a delightful Christmas book, made even better with the setting. Huskies, hot chocolate and buckets of snow, Lapland enticed me into this book even more. Although I really enjoyed the plot development, I thought Morgan’s portrayal of the setting added to the cosiness of this story. The descriptions of the woodland, the northern lights, the cabins… it made me envious about Christy’s festive holiday. It was all so vivid that I could easily picture being snuggled up in one of Robyn’s delightful cabins and watching the stars overhead.
Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, if you have yet to discover her writing, then give this one a go! It is a sweet, innocent story that is a match made with Christmas-time: it would make the perfect Christmas Eve read. There is so much love in these pages and such a positive vibe, that I think it would even cheer up the grumpiest of festive scrooges!
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2021
This was a nice easy osy read but I felt that it lacked Christmassy feels, and I found some of the characters a bit annoying too. I don’t know anyone that would let friends take their 4 year old abroad (let alone for the first time) alone, AND with people that don’t get along. I see the ‘issues’ visited throughout the story, but to be married to someone for 5 years and not actually know them is a bit far fetched. I enjoyed the coming together of family towards the end, but I just felt there was an awful lot of waffle throughout this book. I love the cover, it’s very pretty and definitely sells the book more than the story itself.
November 1, 2021
I really enjoy Morgan's Christmas books. And this one I feel in love with Holly and all the fun she had in the snow. What a great Christmas they all had together. The story line was great and the family dynamics was even better. This is a must read this holiday season. I hope you get the chance to getaway in The Christmas Escape.
I highly recommend this 4 star getaway.
I highly recommend this 4 star getaway.
October 23, 2022
Много приятна, но прекалено обстоятелствена за моя вкус. Започва коледното захаросване, не че имам нещо напротив. Дано не хванем захарна болест ;)
November 1, 2021
Read this review on
Fresh Fiction
I’m a big fan of Sarah Morgan’s Contemporary Romances and so I was very eager to read this book. However, I went into this book thinking that it was going to be a cute and Christmassy novel. In the end, I think I got something very different but it wasn’t necessarily bad either.
THE CHRISTMAS ESCAPE is more of an uplifting story rather than one that will charm your pants off. It’s got a more laidback vibe, which is much for fitting to the Women’s Fiction genre than Romance. So although there is a romance in it and it’s very prominent, it didn’t feel like the charming stories that Morgan has written for her other series. This one blends Romance and Women’s Fiction genres a little more seamlessly, so that was something different for me.
If you’re looking for an inspiring holiday read, then look no further. THE CHRISTMAS ESCAPE will definitely be a great escape from reality.
I’m a big fan of Sarah Morgan’s Contemporary Romances and so I was very eager to read this book. However, I went into this book thinking that it was going to be a cute and Christmassy novel. In the end, I think I got something very different but it wasn’t necessarily bad either.
THE CHRISTMAS ESCAPE is more of an uplifting story rather than one that will charm your pants off. It’s got a more laidback vibe, which is much for fitting to the Women’s Fiction genre than Romance. So although there is a romance in it and it’s very prominent, it didn’t feel like the charming stories that Morgan has written for her other series. This one blends Romance and Women’s Fiction genres a little more seamlessly, so that was something different for me.
If you’re looking for an inspiring holiday read, then look no further. THE CHRISTMAS ESCAPE will definitely be a great escape from reality.
November 7, 2021
The last two years I’ve read and adored the authors holidays releases, so I’ve definitely been eagerly awaiting her newest and I know I’m guaranteed a cozy and festive read. She has a magical way of creating the best Christmassy settings and her books always leave me with a sense of hope and warmth.
One of the best things about a SM book is you’re getting a mix of romance and female relationships and this time it’s a friendship between Christy and Alix as well as Christy and Seb’s marriage and Alix’s new potential romance with Zac. There’s also Robyn, Christy’s estranged aunt so there’s complicated family dynamics everywhere. Definitely a lot going on and plenty to keep you engaged, and of course there is also Christmas cheer in a beautiful setting. Rose Robinson is a delightful narrator and has a beautiful and melodic voice, she really swept me away and made the story that much more perfect. Add to your holiday TBR for sure!
One of the best things about a SM book is you’re getting a mix of romance and female relationships and this time it’s a friendship between Christy and Alix as well as Christy and Seb’s marriage and Alix’s new potential romance with Zac. There’s also Robyn, Christy’s estranged aunt so there’s complicated family dynamics everywhere. Definitely a lot going on and plenty to keep you engaged, and of course there is also Christmas cheer in a beautiful setting. Rose Robinson is a delightful narrator and has a beautiful and melodic voice, she really swept me away and made the story that much more perfect. Add to your holiday TBR for sure!
October 30, 2021
Christy is a super regimented planner and her best friend Alix is a free spirit. A true case of opposites attract. When Christy does something wild for omce, it has a lasting effect on both their lives and changes the nature of their friendship. Years later, they’re dealing with life together but apart when they decide to plan a special Christmas trip for Christy’s daughter Holly and hope to reconnect with some of Christy’s estranged family so they go visit them in beautiful Lapland, where the holidays are magical and have the possibility of healing the wounds if the past for them all.
Cute story. Wish it had a little more holiday and a little less drama, but it was a nice escape for the evening.
Thanks to HQN and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
Cute story. Wish it had a little more holiday and a little less drama, but it was a nice escape for the evening.
Thanks to HQN and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
November 29, 2021
A charming Christmas story with a fun, unique setting. The characters were likable and I liked that they had some depth to them. However, the story and the dialogue just dragged on and I lost interest. We don’t need as much backstory, and we certainly didn’t need to be reminded of the backstory so many times. The dialogue was so stretched out that I started skimming. Overall, a fun Christmas read but needs a heavy edit. My thanks to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
September 23, 2021
A wonderful Christmas story about friendship, family and love. Set in Lapland, the home of the Aurora Borealis and Santa. We have lifelong girlfriends, an Aunt that has been estranged for a couple of decades and a delightful child to keep us fully entertained. I was sorry when it ended.
December 22, 2021
Alix has really been looking forward to a vacation in Lapland with her best friend Christy. However, she soon learns that plans have changed. Christy is worried about her marriage and realizes that she needs time alone with her husband. But she doesn't leave Alix in the lurch. Sort of. Christy asks Alix to take her young daughter Holly to Lapland instead. She promises to meet them in Lapland in time for Christmas Day.
Of course Alix says yes. But she is quite concerned. How is she going to enterain a little girl? What about her need for a getaway? And will Christy and her husband be all right? Then factor in Zac who is there in Lapland and Alix soon finds herself involved in a romance that just might end up becoming more than a fling.
Alix and Zac have a history. They met at Christy's wedding but have long since gone their separate ways. Will their time together in a veritable winter wonderland give the two a chance to revive feelings that did not get a chance to take off before? And, what of Christy. Will her marriage survive, as well as her friendship with Alex?
What a sweet and engaging story. Not only did I enjoy the developing stories with the primary protagonists, I enjoyed meeting Robyn, Christy's aunt and loved her parts in this story.
Many thanks to HQN and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Of course Alix says yes. But she is quite concerned. How is she going to enterain a little girl? What about her need for a getaway? And will Christy and her husband be all right? Then factor in Zac who is there in Lapland and Alix soon finds herself involved in a romance that just might end up becoming more than a fling.
Alix and Zac have a history. They met at Christy's wedding but have long since gone their separate ways. Will their time together in a veritable winter wonderland give the two a chance to revive feelings that did not get a chance to take off before? And, what of Christy. Will her marriage survive, as well as her friendship with Alex?
What a sweet and engaging story. Not only did I enjoy the developing stories with the primary protagonists, I enjoyed meeting Robyn, Christy's aunt and loved her parts in this story.
Many thanks to HQN and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
January 22, 2023
È sempre un piacere leggere la Morgan
November 23, 2021
I love Sarah Morgan and her writing style just this did not live up to my usual love of her books. I struggled to get into it not relating to the characters too well. I feel it repeated the storyline over and over for much of the middle of the book, took too long to get into and did not end on a particular high or of any surprise to me. I do however love the main focus is on friendship over love 2.5 just for that.
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