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Bluestar Island #3
A Lighthouse Café Christmas
As Bluestar Island prepares for a very special Christmas wedding, Santa’s sleigh crashes into The Lighthouse Café, reuniting Bluestar’s beloved waitress with her former fiancé.
In this holiday novella, Darla Evans has carved out a quiet life for herself as a waitress at The Lighthouse Café. Up until this point, she’s conveniently avoided the one man who shattered her heart and her dreams. But when a wedding draws him back to the island, she knows their meetup is unavoidable.
Tech entrepreneur William “Will” Campbell has returned to his childhood home to be the best man in his father’s wedding. But first his father has a very special task for him—to restore a sleigh in time for the wedding. However, there’s not much time until Christmas. He just might need some help.
As snowflakes cover the small town of Bluestar, Will and Darla work together to make it a very special holiday wedding. With the past looming between them, will the magic of the season open their hearts and allow them to find love again?
Includes a holiday recipe for Darla’s frosted sugar cookies!
In this holiday novella, Darla Evans has carved out a quiet life for herself as a waitress at The Lighthouse Café. Up until this point, she’s conveniently avoided the one man who shattered her heart and her dreams. But when a wedding draws him back to the island, she knows their meetup is unavoidable.
Tech entrepreneur William “Will” Campbell has returned to his childhood home to be the best man in his father’s wedding. But first his father has a very special task for him—to restore a sleigh in time for the wedding. However, there’s not much time until Christmas. He just might need some help.
As snowflakes cover the small town of Bluestar, Will and Darla work together to make it a very special holiday wedding. With the past looming between them, will the magic of the season open their hearts and allow them to find love again?
Includes a holiday recipe for Darla’s frosted sugar cookies!
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2021
856 people are currently reading
675 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Faye
301 books2,293 followersAward-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. With more than a million books sold, she is internationally published with books translated into more than a dozen languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards. Now living her dream, she resides with her very patient husband and two spoiled cats. When she's not plotting out her next romance, you can find her curled up with a mug of tea and a book. Jennifer loves to hear from readers—you can contact her via her website.
And be sure to follow Jennifer for the latest on sales via Bookbub.
And be sure to follow Jennifer for the latest on sales via Bookbub.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 1, 2021
This is a great novella for getting into the Christmas spirit! If you haven’t read the other Bluestar Island books, you can still enjoy this novella.
I liked that it was a second chance at love story. Darla and Will had a broken engagement in their past and Darla had a lot of hurt that had been building up for the past several years. She was still confused about why Will had broken off their engagement. She felt that one day they had been in love and the next day, Will had wanted out.
Even though this story was told in novella form, I felt that Will and Darla’s characters were fully developed. I could feel the tension, hurt, and even attraction that hovered between the two and I hoped that they could work things out as the story progressed.
The many Christmas activities and the preparations needed for Will’s father’s Christmas wedding made it truly feel like the Christmas season as I read this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I liked that it was a second chance at love story. Darla and Will had a broken engagement in their past and Darla had a lot of hurt that had been building up for the past several years. She was still confused about why Will had broken off their engagement. She felt that one day they had been in love and the next day, Will had wanted out.
Even though this story was told in novella form, I felt that Will and Darla’s characters were fully developed. I could feel the tension, hurt, and even attraction that hovered between the two and I hoped that they could work things out as the story progressed.
The many Christmas activities and the preparations needed for Will’s father’s Christmas wedding made it truly feel like the Christmas season as I read this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 17, 2022
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Santa’s sleigh crashes through The Lighthouse Café? Yep thats what happens in this sweet and clean romance by Jennifer Faye. Darla Evans knew Will Campbell would come home for his dad’s wedding but she planned to dodge him for the time he is here. But that didn’t happen. And oh what a scene they made. You don’t want to miss this Christmas read.
It is easy to fall in love with these characters who play their parts so well as the story unfolds. The wedding for Will’s dad brings the community out to help out. I love the excitement leading up to the wedding, and Will’s Dad was so cute showing his romantic side. I also like the attraction that shows up between Will and Darla, but the were frustrating because they couldn’t see what everyone else was seeing, the love they had for each other. Will they finally figure it all out? You need to read this book to find out. If you love a sweet clean romance to read during the Christmas holidays, this one will be perfect for you. It’s not a long story so it doesn’t take as long to read as a full novel does. I know you will want to check this one out. It’s a Five Stars for me!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Santa’s sleigh crashes through The Lighthouse Café? Yep thats what happens in this sweet and clean romance by Jennifer Faye. Darla Evans knew Will Campbell would come home for his dad’s wedding but she planned to dodge him for the time he is here. But that didn’t happen. And oh what a scene they made. You don’t want to miss this Christmas read.
It is easy to fall in love with these characters who play their parts so well as the story unfolds. The wedding for Will’s dad brings the community out to help out. I love the excitement leading up to the wedding, and Will’s Dad was so cute showing his romantic side. I also like the attraction that shows up between Will and Darla, but the were frustrating because they couldn’t see what everyone else was seeing, the love they had for each other. Will they finally figure it all out? You need to read this book to find out. If you love a sweet clean romance to read during the Christmas holidays, this one will be perfect for you. It’s not a long story so it doesn’t take as long to read as a full novel does. I know you will want to check this one out. It’s a Five Stars for me!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
December 2, 2021
This was a very sweet story about Will and Darla, who once loved each other and are brought together again in their hometown of Bluestar. If you are a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies, you will love this book…reading the story was such a cozy experience. Bluestar was such a delightful place to visit…a town in which golf carts are the only mode of transportation seems like my kind of place! The romance between Darla and Will was sweet but I actually liked the romance between Will’s father and his future wife even more. I appreciated that the content of the story and the romances were clean. Overall, this was a perfect story for those busy December days when you need a break and want some cozy Christmas feels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book per FTC’s rules. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book per FTC’s rules. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 21, 2021
A Lighthouse Cafe Christmas was such a cute second chance romance! I read this in a night and it was the perfect sweet companion story to the second book in the series, Harvest Dance. You got to know Darla in that book and Jennifer made you wonder what happened between her and her ex-fiance Will. You get to find out in this book and get to enjoy a Christmas Eve wedding between two important characters in the series. If you are looking for a sweet, loving, clean Christmas romance, you can't go wrong with A Lighthouse Cafe Christmas.
January 6, 2022
A heartwarming Christmas story that will melt your heart.
December 18, 2023
I loved Darla & Wills love story! I’m not going to tell you the end and how it came out that way! But, there was a beautiful wedding, not theirs that brought things together!I would certainly recommend this book, I received it free but, that didn’t change my review! Make it your next book to read and write the review!
December 4, 2022
If you need a break from all the holiday craziness this is a read for you. Pour a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and enjoy the story of finding love the second time around.
December 2, 2021
Thank you in advance to the author, Jennifer Faye, for providing a complimentary review copy through Prism Book Tours. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
Next to Debbie Macomber, Jennifer Faye is the MOST read author in my library so far. This is a special book for me. Not just because it is a Christmas book – it marks the tenth (10th) book by Faye that I have read.
I love SO many authors (new and “old friends”), but I definitely have read more of her books.
Anyway …
I’m sure by now readers of my reviews and blog will likely have figured one thing – I LOVE CHRISTMAS. I know, can I be ANY less obvious?
There is something magical about the season. Just absolutely delightful about it. I love setting up my decorations in what little room I have, I love hanging ornaments on the tree (lights not so much being as short as I am) – those things. So, when I get the chance to read a Christmas book – I’m all in. And, the cuter it is, the less I can resist. That cover is just so cute and adorable!
I definitely suggest reading the first two books (Love Blooms and Harvest Dance) to catch up on the series, especially given the event in this book.
As of note, this is a “novella” and is shorter that the previous two books. The story portion is only 167 pages, so it is pretty much a “day” read if you start it early enough. The short chapters really help move the story along, and it doesn’t hurt that it begins roughly about two weeks before Christmas. Faye definitely keeps the story on pace and doesn’t let it meander and roam much. She keeps it focused on the two main characters for the most part with brief interactions from the other characters.
Some characters from the previous two books return: Hannah and Ethan (Love Blooms) and Aster and Sam (Harvest Dance). Though there is less of Sam than Ethan in the book. Nikki makes a short appearance and there are no “seen” hijinks from Dash the goat. That’s a bit disappointing because I really wanted to know what he’s been up to. Those who read those books, especially Harvest Dance will KNOW what I am referring to.
Aster is featured a bit more than Hannah despite the wedding of Hannah and Sam’s mom (Helen) to the Fire Chief Walter Campbell. That will bring Will Campbell, Darla’s former fiancé, to the island. [I absolutely LOVE the idea of a Christmas wedding].
Will and Darla could be heading for a second chance romance – if that is what they want. But, it is clear that Will broke Darla’s heart and she doesn’t want to go down that road. Will, for his part, doesn’t either – but why? It is clear he still has feelings for Darla.
Agnes Dewey also makes a return in this book. Honestly? This woman has NOTHING nice to say at all. Slight spoiler – she shows up at a wedding in a black outfit! The one character that is seemingly absent – Birdie. She was an integral part of both Love Blooms and Harvest Dance. Yet, in this book, there is no mention of her. Honestly, could we leave her out of the next one?
Moving on …
As luck would have it, Will almost runs down Darla. Of course, Darla is okay, but just as she avoids disaster, the café doesn’t when the sleigh ends up in the café when the truck Wills is using to haul a sleigh away has a bit of an accident. Poor Will doesn’t have a day pass and ends up with a ticket. That is the least of his worries. Now, he has to repair the sleigh for his father’s wedding surprise.
The trick now – keep the secret from the bride to be.
Will needs Darla’s help with the repairs; and that is definitely going to stir up some old memories and feelings. Darla is fairly certain that the relationship is over, though she wants an explanation as to why Will ended things with her.
And, despite the break-up, it is Will who pushes Darla to act on her book submission.
The more time they spend together, the more friendly they become, but the romance just isn’t there. Though it isn’t like there isn’t potential for it to be quite honest.
It seems that while they’re the only ones thinking they don’t have a future together, everyone else around them (or at least Darla) is pushing them together – his father Walter, Darla’s friend Aster, and even bride-to-be Helen. I love how Walter even set his own son up with Darla to get a tree. Smooth move from the older gentleman! I always love when the older folks get there.
Walter actually knows why Will broke up with Darla – it has to do with Walter’s first wife (Will’s mother). Even his father’s heartfelt plea falls on the younger man’s deaf ears. Men! I absolutely adored the romance between Will and Helen.
The author keeps the reader engaged until the very end, and given the length of the novel, everything happens nearly at the end. It does tie the “romance” up quite nicely setting up the segue into book #4.
The only part I really found a bit uncomfortable was not Will’s revelation, more or less the way he’d drone on about there not being a future for him and Darla. As much as they’d have a good time, he kept pushing her away.
I understand completely how Darla felt about putting her book out there. I have a finished story, but would definitely be afraid to get it out there and be “vulnerable”. Her character growth from the beginning to the end was the most surprising, but also heartwarming.
While worthy of five (5) stars on SO many fronts, this does have some issues that plague series – continuity and follow through from previous storylines.
One was the lack of following up from book #1 with Hannah and Ethan. Obviously still together, but are they married or still dating? This also brings us to Sam and Aster. The second book ended with a proposal, but in this book, Aster has her own apartment.
Given the shortness of this book and how closely it was released to the previous one, and not to mention it being a Christmas novella that the author wanted released BEFORE the holiday – I will let the continuity issues slide. Rarely do, I but, it is Christmas.
Another reason? Book #4 (Rising Star) will be released next year and focus on the youngest Bell sibling Emma. I am hoping we readers will see SOME resolution with the Hannah/Ethan and Aster/Sam romances. I’m also hoping to see Birdie again. And, perhaps Faye will clue us into why Agnes is the miser she is.
If you enjoy some of Debbie Macomber’s more recent holiday offerings, you won’t be disappointed by Jennifer Faye’s books either. They are not Christian or faith-themed, but they don’t have any bad language or “graphic” intimate scenes”.
On Faye’s website she even marks the ones that are “clean & wholesome” (this series among others) different from “sweet romance” (contain closed door “love” scenes). You can even find a printed list there too.
Fans of the author and those who’ve read the first two books in this series should definitely check this one out. Those who enjoy clean and wholesome reads should check out the author’s books.
Next to Debbie Macomber, Jennifer Faye is the MOST read author in my library so far. This is a special book for me. Not just because it is a Christmas book – it marks the tenth (10th) book by Faye that I have read.
I love SO many authors (new and “old friends”), but I definitely have read more of her books.
Anyway …
I’m sure by now readers of my reviews and blog will likely have figured one thing – I LOVE CHRISTMAS. I know, can I be ANY less obvious?
There is something magical about the season. Just absolutely delightful about it. I love setting up my decorations in what little room I have, I love hanging ornaments on the tree (lights not so much being as short as I am) – those things. So, when I get the chance to read a Christmas book – I’m all in. And, the cuter it is, the less I can resist. That cover is just so cute and adorable!
I definitely suggest reading the first two books (Love Blooms and Harvest Dance) to catch up on the series, especially given the event in this book.
As of note, this is a “novella” and is shorter that the previous two books. The story portion is only 167 pages, so it is pretty much a “day” read if you start it early enough. The short chapters really help move the story along, and it doesn’t hurt that it begins roughly about two weeks before Christmas. Faye definitely keeps the story on pace and doesn’t let it meander and roam much. She keeps it focused on the two main characters for the most part with brief interactions from the other characters.
Some characters from the previous two books return: Hannah and Ethan (Love Blooms) and Aster and Sam (Harvest Dance). Though there is less of Sam than Ethan in the book. Nikki makes a short appearance and there are no “seen” hijinks from Dash the goat. That’s a bit disappointing because I really wanted to know what he’s been up to. Those who read those books, especially Harvest Dance will KNOW what I am referring to.
Aster is featured a bit more than Hannah despite the wedding of Hannah and Sam’s mom (Helen) to the Fire Chief Walter Campbell. That will bring Will Campbell, Darla’s former fiancé, to the island. [I absolutely LOVE the idea of a Christmas wedding].
Will and Darla could be heading for a second chance romance – if that is what they want. But, it is clear that Will broke Darla’s heart and she doesn’t want to go down that road. Will, for his part, doesn’t either – but why? It is clear he still has feelings for Darla.
Agnes Dewey also makes a return in this book. Honestly? This woman has NOTHING nice to say at all. Slight spoiler – she shows up at a wedding in a black outfit! The one character that is seemingly absent – Birdie. She was an integral part of both Love Blooms and Harvest Dance. Yet, in this book, there is no mention of her. Honestly, could we leave her out of the next one?
Moving on …
As luck would have it, Will almost runs down Darla. Of course, Darla is okay, but just as she avoids disaster, the café doesn’t when the sleigh ends up in the café when the truck Wills is using to haul a sleigh away has a bit of an accident. Poor Will doesn’t have a day pass and ends up with a ticket. That is the least of his worries. Now, he has to repair the sleigh for his father’s wedding surprise.
The trick now – keep the secret from the bride to be.
Will needs Darla’s help with the repairs; and that is definitely going to stir up some old memories and feelings. Darla is fairly certain that the relationship is over, though she wants an explanation as to why Will ended things with her.
And, despite the break-up, it is Will who pushes Darla to act on her book submission.
The more time they spend together, the more friendly they become, but the romance just isn’t there. Though it isn’t like there isn’t potential for it to be quite honest.
It seems that while they’re the only ones thinking they don’t have a future together, everyone else around them (or at least Darla) is pushing them together – his father Walter, Darla’s friend Aster, and even bride-to-be Helen. I love how Walter even set his own son up with Darla to get a tree. Smooth move from the older gentleman! I always love when the older folks get there.
Walter actually knows why Will broke up with Darla – it has to do with Walter’s first wife (Will’s mother). Even his father’s heartfelt plea falls on the younger man’s deaf ears. Men! I absolutely adored the romance between Will and Helen.
The author keeps the reader engaged until the very end, and given the length of the novel, everything happens nearly at the end. It does tie the “romance” up quite nicely setting up the segue into book #4.
The only part I really found a bit uncomfortable was not Will’s revelation, more or less the way he’d drone on about there not being a future for him and Darla. As much as they’d have a good time, he kept pushing her away.
I understand completely how Darla felt about putting her book out there. I have a finished story, but would definitely be afraid to get it out there and be “vulnerable”. Her character growth from the beginning to the end was the most surprising, but also heartwarming.
While worthy of five (5) stars on SO many fronts, this does have some issues that plague series – continuity and follow through from previous storylines.
One was the lack of following up from book #1 with Hannah and Ethan. Obviously still together, but are they married or still dating? This also brings us to Sam and Aster. The second book ended with a proposal, but in this book, Aster has her own apartment.
Given the shortness of this book and how closely it was released to the previous one, and not to mention it being a Christmas novella that the author wanted released BEFORE the holiday – I will let the continuity issues slide. Rarely do, I but, it is Christmas.
Another reason? Book #4 (Rising Star) will be released next year and focus on the youngest Bell sibling Emma. I am hoping we readers will see SOME resolution with the Hannah/Ethan and Aster/Sam romances. I’m also hoping to see Birdie again. And, perhaps Faye will clue us into why Agnes is the miser she is.
If you enjoy some of Debbie Macomber’s more recent holiday offerings, you won’t be disappointed by Jennifer Faye’s books either. They are not Christian or faith-themed, but they don’t have any bad language or “graphic” intimate scenes”.
On Faye’s website she even marks the ones that are “clean & wholesome” (this series among others) different from “sweet romance” (contain closed door “love” scenes). You can even find a printed list there too.
Fans of the author and those who’ve read the first two books in this series should definitely check this one out. Those who enjoy clean and wholesome reads should check out the author’s books.
December 7, 2021
Darla Evans is working as a waitress at The Lighthouse Cafe and has not had a serious relationship since her wedding to Will Campbell was canceled.
Will had returned to Bluestar Island since the breakup but Darla has always managed to be away when he was coming. This time she could not hide as Will was coming home to see his father remarry.
Will's father has a special job for him and it is to restore a sleigh in time for his wedding. With only a few weeks to the wedding, he is not sure he can accomplish this and Darla offers to help.
As they both work on the sleigh they have some disagreements but Darla feels obligated to complete the renovation of the sleigh as she promised.
What Darla never really knew is why Will called off the wedding and the big secret he has been keeping from her. They start talking and realize they each were a little to blame for the breakup.
Leave it to Ms.Faye to write another happily ever after Christmas book. a very enjoyable read.
Will had returned to Bluestar Island since the breakup but Darla has always managed to be away when he was coming. This time she could not hide as Will was coming home to see his father remarry.
Will's father has a special job for him and it is to restore a sleigh in time for his wedding. With only a few weeks to the wedding, he is not sure he can accomplish this and Darla offers to help.
As they both work on the sleigh they have some disagreements but Darla feels obligated to complete the renovation of the sleigh as she promised.
What Darla never really knew is why Will called off the wedding and the big secret he has been keeping from her. They start talking and realize they each were a little to blame for the breakup.
Leave it to Ms.Faye to write another happily ever after Christmas book. a very enjoyable read.
November 17, 2021
This latest addition to the series is a sweet, clean touching romance about two individuals who years ago had planned a future together and after a devastating breakup, went their separate ways.
Darla Evans went back to Bluestar Island, to a job she enjoyed, and tech businessman Will Campbell, stayed in San Francisco with his company and his secrets. But neither forgot the other not did they find anyone to fill their hearts.
Will is back home for his father’s wedding and Darla is forced to not only see him, but spend time together restoring a sled.
Will the magic of Christmas heal them and give them a second chance ? Will Will reveal his secret?
This is a story about hope, trust, family and second chances in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Darla Evans went back to Bluestar Island, to a job she enjoyed, and tech businessman Will Campbell, stayed in San Francisco with his company and his secrets. But neither forgot the other not did they find anyone to fill their hearts.
Will is back home for his father’s wedding and Darla is forced to not only see him, but spend time together restoring a sled.
Will the magic of Christmas heal them and give them a second chance ? Will Will reveal his secret?
This is a story about hope, trust, family and second chances in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
November 18, 2021
What a very sweet holiday surprise! Darla and Will are an adorable couple – just two people that have lost their way for a wee bit. No spoilers from me but know that these two are just adorable, and adorably thick-headed when it comes to their own happiness.
Bluestar Island is just the most magical place anyway but this Christmas novella really makes it special. I truly enjoyed all the folks, from the previous two books, who stopped by and added a touch of magic to this story. I loved how vulnerable both Darla and Will were; I think it made their story more special. And Will’s dad? SO sweet! He made the best-est groom, imho. Really enjoyed the story. It will make you smile during an evening read. And the dedication at the beginning of the book was special, too.
Bluestar Island is just the most magical place anyway but this Christmas novella really makes it special. I truly enjoyed all the folks, from the previous two books, who stopped by and added a touch of magic to this story. I loved how vulnerable both Darla and Will were; I think it made their story more special. And Will’s dad? SO sweet! He made the best-est groom, imho. Really enjoyed the story. It will make you smile during an evening read. And the dedication at the beginning of the book was special, too.
August 2, 2024
A LIGHTHOUSE CAFE CHRISTMAS is the most romantic love story, I’ve read this year!
It has a sleigh, a Christmas Wedding and Will and Darla. They will find the magic of Christmas is the perfect time of the year for second chances.
I ❤️ second chance romances! I’m living my best life now with my second chance love.
Highly recommend every book written by Jennifer Faye!
It has a sleigh, a Christmas Wedding and Will and Darla. They will find the magic of Christmas is the perfect time of the year for second chances.
I ❤️ second chance romances! I’m living my best life now with my second chance love.
Highly recommend every book written by Jennifer Faye!
November 24, 2021
Sweet holiday romance! Love all books by this author. This one just takes you along on a sweet Santa sleigh ride. Please keep them coming.
December 24, 2022
A Lighthouse Café Christmas by Jennifer Faye is a sweet second chance at love holiday romance. Sometimes it takes an island to rekindle a flame.
Can Darla and Will find love again this holiday season?
Darla
Darla is a waitress at the Lighthouse Cafe, but she is also an inspiring author. Yet, I feel her best trait is her ability to put people at ease. She truly listens to what they say and allows them to be themselves without judgment. Years ago, she and Will called off their engagement, and Darla hasn't honestly gotten over it. This holiday season, though, the whole town is pushing her and Will together.
I love Darla as a character. She gives her all even when she doesn't feel like it. Darla has that feel-good way about her. We see her character in the books before this one. It was nice to get to know Darla and how she thinks.
Will
Will is a nice guy, but he seems to have matured since the days before he broke it off with Darla. We find out why he felt the need to break up, even if that was only part of the problem. One thing for sure is that he still loves Darla a lot.
I like Will. He is a nice guy, even if he is a tech genius with lots of money. Will doesn't throw it around, but his inner self brings it up a few times. We see much more maturity in Will's part during the story.
Five Stars
My rating for A Lighthouse Café Christmas by Jennifer Faye is five stars. I truly enjoyed the story. Darla needed to find her heart again, and apparently, Will kept it safe all this time. I highly recommend this and all of Jennifer Faye's books. They are those sweet, feel-good types of romances.
There is a recipe at the end of the book for Darla's Frosted Sugar Cookies. I plan to check it out.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of A Lighthouse Café Christmas by Jennifer Faye.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Can Darla and Will find love again this holiday season?
Darla
Darla is a waitress at the Lighthouse Cafe, but she is also an inspiring author. Yet, I feel her best trait is her ability to put people at ease. She truly listens to what they say and allows them to be themselves without judgment. Years ago, she and Will called off their engagement, and Darla hasn't honestly gotten over it. This holiday season, though, the whole town is pushing her and Will together.
I love Darla as a character. She gives her all even when she doesn't feel like it. Darla has that feel-good way about her. We see her character in the books before this one. It was nice to get to know Darla and how she thinks.
Will
Will is a nice guy, but he seems to have matured since the days before he broke it off with Darla. We find out why he felt the need to break up, even if that was only part of the problem. One thing for sure is that he still loves Darla a lot.I like Will. He is a nice guy, even if he is a tech genius with lots of money. Will doesn't throw it around, but his inner self brings it up a few times. We see much more maturity in Will's part during the story.
Five Stars
My rating for A Lighthouse Café Christmas by Jennifer Faye is five stars. I truly enjoyed the story. Darla needed to find her heart again, and apparently, Will kept it safe all this time. I highly recommend this and all of Jennifer Faye's books. They are those sweet, feel-good types of romances.
There is a recipe at the end of the book for Darla's Frosted Sugar Cookies. I plan to check it out.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of A Lighthouse Café Christmas by Jennifer Faye.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
December 1, 2021
If you're a regular reader of my blog, Christy's Cozy Corners, you know that I adore Jennifer Faye's books. She writes many romance books - some squeaky clean and others a little less squeaky. A Lighthouse Cafe Christmas, along with the other Bluestar Island books, is one of the squeaky clean books. I totally adored this novella about Darla and Will. I couldn't put it down and finished it in less than a couple of hours. In my earlier review of Love Blooms, I mentioned a side character who is always negative. Her glass is half empty all of the time! I thought that this character needed a novella about her backstory, and though this isn't it, we do learn a little more about her. If you pay attention, you'll notice what might just be a hint. I'm still waiting for her story!
A Lighthouse Christmas Cafe will melt your heart! It's one of those second chance stories that will have you cheering on main characters Darla and Will. You'll remember Darla from the previous books if you've read them. She works at The Lighthouse Cafe and loves her job and her friends. Her best friend from college, Aster, was the main character in Harvest Dance. Be sure to read that one if you haven't! The Bluestar Island books can totally be read as stand-alone books, but I love getting the big picture! I love that Darla gets her turn in this novella. Though she wants to avoid the man who broke her heart, she and Will can't seem to avoid each other. Of course, that's a good thing for us, or where would the story be?!
A Lighthouse Christmas Cafe is such a charming novella with wonderful characters that I've grown to love throughout this series. As I mentioned before, it's a book you won't want to put down. Jennifer Faye weaves Darla and Will's complete love story throughout the novella. You'll discover their past mistakes and observe how they mend what was broken.
I absolutely recommend this book to all romance lovers. It'll make your day a little bit brighter and leave a smile on your face!
A Lighthouse Christmas Cafe will melt your heart! It's one of those second chance stories that will have you cheering on main characters Darla and Will. You'll remember Darla from the previous books if you've read them. She works at The Lighthouse Cafe and loves her job and her friends. Her best friend from college, Aster, was the main character in Harvest Dance. Be sure to read that one if you haven't! The Bluestar Island books can totally be read as stand-alone books, but I love getting the big picture! I love that Darla gets her turn in this novella. Though she wants to avoid the man who broke her heart, she and Will can't seem to avoid each other. Of course, that's a good thing for us, or where would the story be?!
A Lighthouse Christmas Cafe is such a charming novella with wonderful characters that I've grown to love throughout this series. As I mentioned before, it's a book you won't want to put down. Jennifer Faye weaves Darla and Will's complete love story throughout the novella. You'll discover their past mistakes and observe how they mend what was broken.
I absolutely recommend this book to all romance lovers. It'll make your day a little bit brighter and leave a smile on your face!
December 4, 2021
Darla and Will haven't seen each other in years. Darla has been actively avoiding Will since he broke off their engagement in San Francisco. But Will's father is getting remarried and he has come back to Bluestar Island, much to Darla's dismay.
Will wants to make amends with Darla. They used to be good friends before they were a couple and he wants to be able to move on. Neither one of them have moved on and Will has never told Darla the real reason he decided to break off their engagement.
This Christmas and with the wedding, Will and Darla are teaming up to make his dad's wishes come true in a surprise for his soon to be wife. This puts Will and Darla together a lot and begins the slow melting of their hearts. Can they just be friends again or is the reason Will broke up with Darla too much for her or too much for him?
I enjoyed this wonderful, moving romance as these two come together to help others despite their own feelings. Their first meet after so many years was a bit funny and jaw dropping at the same time. This was a nice holiday read.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Will wants to make amends with Darla. They used to be good friends before they were a couple and he wants to be able to move on. Neither one of them have moved on and Will has never told Darla the real reason he decided to break off their engagement.
This Christmas and with the wedding, Will and Darla are teaming up to make his dad's wishes come true in a surprise for his soon to be wife. This puts Will and Darla together a lot and begins the slow melting of their hearts. Can they just be friends again or is the reason Will broke up with Darla too much for her or too much for him?
I enjoyed this wonderful, moving romance as these two come together to help others despite their own feelings. Their first meet after so many years was a bit funny and jaw dropping at the same time. This was a nice holiday read.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
January 5, 2024
If you love a Christmas story and a quick read, this one is for you. Will Campbell is returning to his hometown, Bluestar Island. His father is getting married. Will is happy for him especially since his father has be alone for a long time after the passing of Will’s mother. Will wonders if he’ll run into his ex Darla, the only one he’s ever loved. She works as a waitress and loves her job. She loves Christmas and this is an exciting time. When Will broke off their engagement, she was devastated. Time heals, right? When the two have to work on a sled for his father, maybe just maybe she’ll find out why he broke her heart. He has a big secret. Will he tell her? Will she finally realize the two were drifting apart, she was homesick, he was working long hours. Neither one communicated with each other. Will they finally move on with their lives? They are two different people now. Will there be Christmas Magic. The characters are wonderful and need to learn to talk to each other, grow and move forward from the past. Cute story. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily
December 9, 2025
Continuing on with the series! I've been excited about this one...mainly because of the cover lol.
Here we have Darla and Will. Darla has been living a nice and simple and quiet life as a waitress. She has successfully avoided Will since he broke her heart years ago. However, there is a wedding coming and she knows Will will be there. Will is back to be the best man at his father's wedding. His father has tasked him to restore a sleigh for the wedding. There isn't much time, so he will need some help. Will and Darla must work together but their past is looming around them. Will the magic of the season help erase the old hurts and let them try again?
Oh no. I am in the minority here...............
I didn't really like this one. I struggled to like Darla or Will. I struggled to care. I think it would've been better if they just stayed friends.
I managed to push through because I was curious to see how they would fix everything (sleigh and their broken hearts). I also have liked the series up until now so I was hopeful it would eventually suck me in.
Sadly......not for me. But I love the cover!
2 stars from me.
Here we have Darla and Will. Darla has been living a nice and simple and quiet life as a waitress. She has successfully avoided Will since he broke her heart years ago. However, there is a wedding coming and she knows Will will be there. Will is back to be the best man at his father's wedding. His father has tasked him to restore a sleigh for the wedding. There isn't much time, so he will need some help. Will and Darla must work together but their past is looming around them. Will the magic of the season help erase the old hurts and let them try again?
Oh no. I am in the minority here...............
I didn't really like this one. I struggled to like Darla or Will. I struggled to care. I think it would've been better if they just stayed friends.
I managed to push through because I was curious to see how they would fix everything (sleigh and their broken hearts). I also have liked the series up until now so I was hopeful it would eventually suck me in.
Sadly......not for me. But I love the cover!
2 stars from me.
reviewed
January 27, 2022A fun, little Christmas story from Bluestar Island!
Darla Evans is content with her quiet life on Bluestar Island—except this Christmas, a wedding has her past coming back to disrupt her present. When Will Campbell returns to Bluestar Island, he is tasked with restoring a sleigh for the wedding, and naturally, Darla must help them. Sparks fly, of course, and as they work together, they just might discover a way to start again.
Jennifer Faye's A Lighthouse Café Christmas is a delightful novella, full of second chances and Christmas magic. I so enjoyed my time with Darla, Will, and Bluestar Island, and I am sure other fans of contemporary romance and Christmastime will enjoy it, too.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Darla Evans is content with her quiet life on Bluestar Island—except this Christmas, a wedding has her past coming back to disrupt her present. When Will Campbell returns to Bluestar Island, he is tasked with restoring a sleigh for the wedding, and naturally, Darla must help them. Sparks fly, of course, and as they work together, they just might discover a way to start again.
Jennifer Faye's A Lighthouse Café Christmas is a delightful novella, full of second chances and Christmas magic. I so enjoyed my time with Darla, Will, and Bluestar Island, and I am sure other fans of contemporary romance and Christmastime will enjoy it, too.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 12, 2023
A Lighthouse Cafe Christmas is a companion novella to Harvest Dance. Darla is a popular waitress in town and is still suffering from her broken engagement to Will years before. She has always traveled when she knew he was coming back town but this time she can't. He's coming back for a wedding that is important to everyone. Avoiding him becomes even more difficult when he crashes the trailer he is towing into her cafe. It's cargo- a sleigh. He is charged to restore it as a surprise for the bride in the upcoming wedding. Against her best instinct, Darla agrees to help. When he confesses why he really broke the engagement will that change anything?
November 5, 2023
Darla is a waitress at the Lighthouse Cafe on a small island, and she finds out that her ex will be returning for his dad's wedding. Darla is still a bit angry about being dumped, and finds it awkward when Will shows up. Apparently, there were reasons why he broke their engagement that he never bothered to communicate. As they work on together fixing up an old sleigh, some of the old feelings return, and when they are finally able to communicate, things take a positive turn in this happily ever after Christmas novella.
November 11, 2023
In the mood for a sweet Christmas novel?
Quick read ( 171 pages)… Will and Darla were about to be married when Will called it off and Darla left San Francisco and returned home to their hometown on the East Coast.
It’s been years and the two have managed to avoid each other when Will has come home to visit his father. Now Will is back in town for his father’s wedding and Darla is invited. They won’t have to see each other until the wedding, but then Will crashes Santa’s sleigh into the cafe Darla works at……
Quick read ( 171 pages)… Will and Darla were about to be married when Will called it off and Darla left San Francisco and returned home to their hometown on the East Coast.
It’s been years and the two have managed to avoid each other when Will has come home to visit his father. Now Will is back in town for his father’s wedding and Darla is invited. They won’t have to see each other until the wedding, but then Will crashes Santa’s sleigh into the cafe Darla works at……
November 16, 2024
Sweet Christmas Love story
Will meets Darla very unexpectedly when a sleigh that he has to work on crashes into Darla. The two of them were engaged before, but are no longer together because of events ten years back.
Slowly the reason why Will wants to repair the sleigh comes and Darla reluctantly agrees to help him. That brings in their backstory on how they moved apart.
The book takes the couple's journey through Christmas and Will’s father’s wedding.
Cute simple short romance keeping with the Christmas festive mood. Good read.
Will meets Darla very unexpectedly when a sleigh that he has to work on crashes into Darla. The two of them were engaged before, but are no longer together because of events ten years back.
Slowly the reason why Will wants to repair the sleigh comes and Darla reluctantly agrees to help him. That brings in their backstory on how they moved apart.
The book takes the couple's journey through Christmas and Will’s father’s wedding.
Cute simple short romance keeping with the Christmas festive mood. Good read.
January 6, 2025
It was quite a quick read and I also felt it was missing much of the back story and we didn't have much connect with the characters in those few pages, so I felt like I kind of didn't get to know them or their backstory properly. Would have loved to learn more about them as a individuals and as a couple in the past. An alternating timeline would have been helpful to especially connect with these characters. And I also think in the context of multiple other things coming in, we didn't get to know a bit more about the MMCs life back in his home away from home and also the FMC's book.
November 9, 2023
This is a short and clean romance. I believe more are set on this island community. Years ago they were engaged and had moved to San Francisco for her college and his new job and their wedding planning. Although this is a very small community, this is the first time they will have contact since then. Parents have them working together to restore her grandfather’s santa sleigh for his widowed dad’s 2nd marriage. The story is how they untangle all the misunderstandings from the breakup.
December 21, 2025
2.5 bumped to 3. I’m in the minority with this one. It is a sweet second-chance romance set on a quaint island. It sounded picture perfect. In a way, it was. Will and Darla called off their engagement a decade ago. There were mistakes made. There is a lot of repetition in this story, which became annoying for me. What should have been an afternoon read turned into a two-day read. Did I mention the rinse and repeat ad nauseam?
May 10, 2022
Will and Darla’s story
Enjoyable read. Absolutely loved how story began and how the two reunite.
It was also nicely written about the “C” word from a male prospective on how he dealt with it. One seldom reads of cancer from a guys side of the story, and how it made/makes him feel and deal with living on.
Thank you, Jennifer, for this.
Enjoyable read. Absolutely loved how story began and how the two reunite.
It was also nicely written about the “C” word from a male prospective on how he dealt with it. One seldom reads of cancer from a guys side of the story, and how it made/makes him feel and deal with living on.
Thank you, Jennifer, for this.
November 26, 2023
Wow what an awesome read
Once I started reading I just couldn't put it down. Darla knew she'd have to see Will at his Dads wedding but she had no idea she would almost be run over by Will and Santa's sleigh.
If you like Christmas romances with a wedding and a second chance romance this is the book to read. Check out this story
Once I started reading I just couldn't put it down. Darla knew she'd have to see Will at his Dads wedding but she had no idea she would almost be run over by Will and Santa's sleigh.
If you like Christmas romances with a wedding and a second chance romance this is the book to read. Check out this story
December 20, 2023
Bell Family of Blue star Island #3
A lively holiday romance by Jennifer Faye. A short chapter of finding love and reuniting with one's soulmate. Both Will and Darla had all but given up but when both were on the island for his dad's marriage they two were given a second chance. A delightful story to read during the holiday season.
A lively holiday romance by Jennifer Faye. A short chapter of finding love and reuniting with one's soulmate. Both Will and Darla had all but given up but when both were on the island for his dad's marriage they two were given a second chance. A delightful story to read during the holiday season.
Read
January 3, 2024A nice Christmas read.
The story of Will and Darla, of love lost and found. A story of love found no matter the age. A story of how preconceived ideas can harm a relationship and how honest communication can heal. Also the story of small towns and community. Recommended reading for the romantic.
The story of Will and Darla, of love lost and found. A story of love found no matter the age. A story of how preconceived ideas can harm a relationship and how honest communication can heal. Also the story of small towns and community. Recommended reading for the romantic.
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