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The Holiday Plan
From one of the freshest new voices in clean and wholesome romantic fiction, The Holiday Plan is the perfect escape for fans of Courtney Walsh, Annie Rains, and Debbie Mason.
Native New Yorker and author Verona Scott is battling heartbreak, both personally and professionally. Coming off a disastrous split with her ex, she’s struggling for inspiration to write her next book. And she’s lost without her favorite Aunt Theoni’s wisdom and guidance.
Hoping for a fresh start and to avoid the holiday completely, she’s planned a Valentine’s detox: a luxurious trip alone to the historic Courtington Castle hotel, near the adorably quaint town of Camelot Creek, tucked into a picturesque valley in the Adirondacks.
But escaping the heart-shaped balloons and red roses isn’t as easy as she thought.
This won’t be the restful retreat she’d imagined. Instead, she’s just walked into one of the biggest matchmaking events of the year. Not to mention, the incredibly attractive single dad and dating coach Troy Turner is heading the whole thing up, and he’s on a mission to include Verona in the festivities.
Troy is in the midst of a professional crisis of his own. After a bit of unfounded bad press, the very last thing he needs is a guest to cast doubt in the minds of his attendees.
Will Troy change Verona’s mind about the most romantic day of the year? Just when sparks begin to fly, an unexpected visitor checks into the castle, stirring up the past. No matter what, for Verona, Valentine’s Day is the day where everything changes.
A heartwarming, sweet romance that will whisk you away to a magical winter wonderland, and have you reaching for the hot cocoa and box of chocolates long after the holidays.
Native New Yorker and author Verona Scott is battling heartbreak, both personally and professionally. Coming off a disastrous split with her ex, she’s struggling for inspiration to write her next book. And she’s lost without her favorite Aunt Theoni’s wisdom and guidance.
Hoping for a fresh start and to avoid the holiday completely, she’s planned a Valentine’s detox: a luxurious trip alone to the historic Courtington Castle hotel, near the adorably quaint town of Camelot Creek, tucked into a picturesque valley in the Adirondacks.
But escaping the heart-shaped balloons and red roses isn’t as easy as she thought.
This won’t be the restful retreat she’d imagined. Instead, she’s just walked into one of the biggest matchmaking events of the year. Not to mention, the incredibly attractive single dad and dating coach Troy Turner is heading the whole thing up, and he’s on a mission to include Verona in the festivities.
Troy is in the midst of a professional crisis of his own. After a bit of unfounded bad press, the very last thing he needs is a guest to cast doubt in the minds of his attendees.
Will Troy change Verona’s mind about the most romantic day of the year? Just when sparks begin to fly, an unexpected visitor checks into the castle, stirring up the past. No matter what, for Verona, Valentine’s Day is the day where everything changes.
A heartwarming, sweet romance that will whisk you away to a magical winter wonderland, and have you reaching for the hot cocoa and box of chocolates long after the holidays.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 3, 2022
63 people are currently reading
4338 people want to read
About the author
Emma Lynden
1 book49 followersGrowing up you would've been hard-pressed to spot Emma Lynden without her nose in a book, drawn towards uplifting fiction full of hope and heart, and always imagining stories of her own. Looking back, it was no coincidence that so many heroines in those childhood favourites were aspiring authors; it was then that her someday dream of becoming a writer first took root.
But it wasn't until years later, when a close friend chanced to remark, "I bet you could write a really nice romance", that those long-tucked-away dreams finally found the direction they'd been destined for. After a stretch of late nights, a whole lot of scribbling, and the spark of a holiday surprise, she penned The End on her debut novel... and so this adventure began.
When she’s not clicking away at her keyboard spinning heartwarming stories about family, friendship, and finding true love, you can usually catch Emma soaking up the sunshine (or snowfalls) outdoors, capturing the beauty of everyday life behind her camera lens, or cozily curled up with her first passion – reading – a hot mug of something sweet in one hand and the promise of a happily-ever-after in the other.
Visit www.authoremmalynden.com to get my latest book! You can also connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/authoremmalynden, Twitter: www.twitter.com/authoremlynden, and IG: www.instagram.com/authoremmalynden
But it wasn't until years later, when a close friend chanced to remark, "I bet you could write a really nice romance", that those long-tucked-away dreams finally found the direction they'd been destined for. After a stretch of late nights, a whole lot of scribbling, and the spark of a holiday surprise, she penned The End on her debut novel... and so this adventure began.
When she’s not clicking away at her keyboard spinning heartwarming stories about family, friendship, and finding true love, you can usually catch Emma soaking up the sunshine (or snowfalls) outdoors, capturing the beauty of everyday life behind her camera lens, or cozily curled up with her first passion – reading – a hot mug of something sweet in one hand and the promise of a happily-ever-after in the other.
Visit www.authoremmalynden.com to get my latest book! You can also connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/authoremmalynden, Twitter: www.twitter.com/authoremlynden, and IG: www.instagram.com/authoremmalynden
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
February 11, 2022
It was a nice smooth read. Things moved along nicely.
I never thought, “Hey, what did I miss?”
The characters were very likable and relatable.
It would 100% make a perfect Hallmark movie.
I never thought, “Hey, what did I miss?”
The characters were very likable and relatable.
It would 100% make a perfect Hallmark movie.
May 27, 2022
I don't know if I just didn't like this, or the last two books of the Zodiac Academy staring me down from across my room are the reason I couldn't get much into this. I did like the grumpy/sunshine trope switched around for the guy and the girl, though.
January 17, 2022
A super strong debut! This book is guaranteed to leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling that will carry you well beyond the holiday and into the next one!
February 8, 2025
An overly generous 3. Because I went in for the Valentines Day/Hallmark feels, and those delivered. But in such a shallow way it almost felt juvenile? Also: how in the world is everyone at this remote castle at the same time…
February 29, 2024
This book was absolutely beautifully written. It was a mixture of emotions that had me crying one minute and laughing the next. The way the author was able to write in such a sweet, beautiful way about such a hard subject as grief. The dynamics between all the characters was done in such an amazing way by the author. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for the author to write her next book!!! I am definitely a fan!!
January 26, 2022
The Holiday Plan
by Emma Lynden
First, I'm so happy to say this is one of the best books I've ever read!
I was swooning over Verona & Troy.
Emma's writing is everything. It's beautiful and so easy to get lost in so I absolutely flew through this story.
And she had me wanting more of these beautiful characters.
Had me like "I need more of this please"
I loved the setting, the seclusion and the romantic spark between the main characters.
The characters in the book were endearing, and very well described making the story very much realistic. They were so delightful and memorable.
This fairytale is story is unlike anything I've ever read before.
The entire story was just phenomenal. It made me feel all nice and fuzzy on the inside.
I can't wait to read more of Emma's work in the future.
Yall go right now and get a copy of this amazing book!
This is one you didn't know you needed until you read it.
Thank You @HarpethRoadPress and Emma Lynden for this ebook copy
by Emma Lynden
First, I'm so happy to say this is one of the best books I've ever read!
I was swooning over Verona & Troy.
Emma's writing is everything. It's beautiful and so easy to get lost in so I absolutely flew through this story.
And she had me wanting more of these beautiful characters.
Had me like "I need more of this please"
I loved the setting, the seclusion and the romantic spark between the main characters.
The characters in the book were endearing, and very well described making the story very much realistic. They were so delightful and memorable.
This fairytale is story is unlike anything I've ever read before.
The entire story was just phenomenal. It made me feel all nice and fuzzy on the inside.
I can't wait to read more of Emma's work in the future.
Yall go right now and get a copy of this amazing book!
This is one you didn't know you needed until you read it.
Thank You @HarpethRoadPress and Emma Lynden for this ebook copy
June 3, 2022
Okay wow this was adorable! This really is one of those feel good romance books. It makes you want to fall in love, if you haven't already.
This book is about finding your true self and what you want in life. It's about mending broken roads and piecing things back together. It's about love between parents and their kids.
If you want a love story that is simple in the sense of not a lot of drama, this is the one for you! It was a super easy read, got through it in a 24 hour period.
I want to say so much more, but the book just speaks for it's self. I think if you are new to romance, or trying to find what you like in the romance genre (like me lol), than this is a GREAT stepping stone. There are some cheesy moments, but nothing explicit! Definitely a romance book people under 18 can read!
This book is about finding your true self and what you want in life. It's about mending broken roads and piecing things back together. It's about love between parents and their kids.
If you want a love story that is simple in the sense of not a lot of drama, this is the one for you! It was a super easy read, got through it in a 24 hour period.
I want to say so much more, but the book just speaks for it's self. I think if you are new to romance, or trying to find what you like in the romance genre (like me lol), than this is a GREAT stepping stone. There are some cheesy moments, but nothing explicit! Definitely a romance book people under 18 can read!
January 11, 2022
What a wonderful debut! The Holiday Plan kicks off with a scene that no one wants to happen in real life and it changed everything for our heroine…and makes her despise Valentine’s Day. To add irony to insult…she’s a big deal romance writer. Fast forward a year later and she has a book due. She’s sent to a hotel for a bit of a writer’s retreat and just her luck there is like a single’s convention going on hosted by this guy who believes in happy ever after’s for all and helps people get back out there and find love.
Because of romance circumstance reasons..Verona our heroine winds up attending in the name of novel writing research and this is their romance.
This was exactly what I needed when I read it. It has family elements, the right amount of drama, I love some close proximity. It was just a really good read! Looking forward to more from this author!
Because of romance circumstance reasons..Verona our heroine winds up attending in the name of novel writing research and this is their romance.
This was exactly what I needed when I read it. It has family elements, the right amount of drama, I love some close proximity. It was just a really good read! Looking forward to more from this author!
January 20, 2022
Sweet romance fans will be completely charmed by Emma Lynden’s emotional and uplifting debut novel, The Holiday Plan.
Celebrating Valentine’s Day is the last thing on Verona Scott’s mind at the moment. Her last relationship ended in complete disaster, she has writers’ block and is missing her Aunt Theoni’s wisdom and guidance. Romance is the last thing on Verona’s mind, so she books the ultimate Valentine’s Day detox at the historic Courtington Castle Hotel in the picturesque town of Camelot Creek. Verona has come to Courtington Hotel hoping to escape all the romance of February 14th, however, it seems that fate has got other ideas in store for her as she finds herself walking into one of biggest match-making events of the year!
Verona is planning on giving the event a very wide berth, but single dad and dating coach Troy Turner is not going to let her spend Valentine’s Day on her own. The handsome relationships expert is determined to change her mind about the most romantic day of the year and to prove that the right guy for Verona is out there somewhere. However, the more time Troy spends in Verona’s company, the more he finds himself drawn to her…
The chemistry between Verona and Troy is absolutely electric, but when a face from Verona’s past shows up unexpectedly, will she let her doubts and insecurities get in the way of her promising new future? Or will she find everything that she has been looking for at the Courtington Hotel?
The literary equivalent of a mug of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s day, Emma Lynden’s debut novel The Holiday Plan is full of charm, humor and heart and will enchant readers as they find themselves completely gripped by Verona and Troy’s love story. Sparling with magic, wit and warmth, The Holiday Plan is a spellbinding sweet romance that will leave readers with a huge smile on their faces.
Emma Lynden is a writer with a very bright future ahead of her and I look forward to what she writes next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Celebrating Valentine’s Day is the last thing on Verona Scott’s mind at the moment. Her last relationship ended in complete disaster, she has writers’ block and is missing her Aunt Theoni’s wisdom and guidance. Romance is the last thing on Verona’s mind, so she books the ultimate Valentine’s Day detox at the historic Courtington Castle Hotel in the picturesque town of Camelot Creek. Verona has come to Courtington Hotel hoping to escape all the romance of February 14th, however, it seems that fate has got other ideas in store for her as she finds herself walking into one of biggest match-making events of the year!
Verona is planning on giving the event a very wide berth, but single dad and dating coach Troy Turner is not going to let her spend Valentine’s Day on her own. The handsome relationships expert is determined to change her mind about the most romantic day of the year and to prove that the right guy for Verona is out there somewhere. However, the more time Troy spends in Verona’s company, the more he finds himself drawn to her…
The chemistry between Verona and Troy is absolutely electric, but when a face from Verona’s past shows up unexpectedly, will she let her doubts and insecurities get in the way of her promising new future? Or will she find everything that she has been looking for at the Courtington Hotel?
The literary equivalent of a mug of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s day, Emma Lynden’s debut novel The Holiday Plan is full of charm, humor and heart and will enchant readers as they find themselves completely gripped by Verona and Troy’s love story. Sparling with magic, wit and warmth, The Holiday Plan is a spellbinding sweet romance that will leave readers with a huge smile on their faces.
Emma Lynden is a writer with a very bright future ahead of her and I look forward to what she writes next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2025
This is a Hallmark movie in a book! Loved it! The front of the book says “An utterly charming, feel-good romance”- this couldn’t be more true! Perfect book to read in February and/or for Valentine’s Day!
January 31, 2022
Once in a while comes along a sensational romance from a debut author. Emma Lynden’s “The Holiday Plan” is such a novel!
Thirty-year-old Verona “Roni” Scott is down on her luck. An accomplished romance writer, she’s suffering from writer’s block, is fresh from a devastating breakup with her ex, despises Valentine’s Day, still is grieving over her great-Aunt Theoni’s passing last year, and needs to get away.
Never did Verona expect, though, to encounter thirty-three-year-old widower, and psychotherapist turned romance guru, Troy Turner at the Courtington Castle hotel in the Adirondacks—the special lodge in Verona’s youth where Theoni had often taken her.
Famous for his company's romance gatherings for the last four years, Troy’s juggling to make his latest “Looking for Love Valentine’s Week” retreat a hit at the hotel. That’s all while trying to convince a doubting public he’s not a matchmaking fraud—even though he’s single, not looking for love, and Internet superstar Madison Blake says he’s a phony.
Accidently meeting Verona, Troy sets to restore her faith in Cupid’s ability—never figuring that Cupid would strike him with a romance arrow for a love connection with Verona.
Lynden skillfully handles this engaging, sweet story. Her beautifully-described scenes put the reader directly in them; her cutesy amuses; her dramatic touches so heartfelt that a tear often wells in your eye. She has a heavy hand when it comes to descriptive pros, but so well spread, it makes for an even more magical, captivating read.
I thought Lynden having Verona’s bff, ER nurse Luz Delgado, calling in her part—for most of the book, after having had her, initially, “on the page”—was a tough character “Galentine” pill for me to swallow. Other story characters had always been physically on the page, when it came to interacting with Verona and Troy.
I also thought Troy not going after Verona more, when romance bumps forced them apart, was a disappointment. Lynden had other characters, instead, do that for him. Emily—Troy’s six-year-old daughter—also, I thought a bit too precocious. Although she, who’s still dealing with her mother's death from four years ago, does add to the Verona-Troy story, the child often came across as being too wise and influential.
Lynden knows well how to cliffhang a chapter, and to completely surprise within one. Her words are smooth, fresh, and lively. She also has an uncanny ability to weave fairy tale with Valentine's Day romance that brings about many fun, memorable scenes. So seasoned a storyteller is she, even at this early stage, you actually forget while reading this book that it’s her first published title.
Continuously unwrapping her characters, and consistently layering her plot like a pro, Lynden is quite adept at keeping you interested, and reading page after page without pause.
*I had received an e-copy from the publisher via BookFunnel, in exchange for my honest review.
Thirty-year-old Verona “Roni” Scott is down on her luck. An accomplished romance writer, she’s suffering from writer’s block, is fresh from a devastating breakup with her ex, despises Valentine’s Day, still is grieving over her great-Aunt Theoni’s passing last year, and needs to get away.
Never did Verona expect, though, to encounter thirty-three-year-old widower, and psychotherapist turned romance guru, Troy Turner at the Courtington Castle hotel in the Adirondacks—the special lodge in Verona’s youth where Theoni had often taken her.
Famous for his company's romance gatherings for the last four years, Troy’s juggling to make his latest “Looking for Love Valentine’s Week” retreat a hit at the hotel. That’s all while trying to convince a doubting public he’s not a matchmaking fraud—even though he’s single, not looking for love, and Internet superstar Madison Blake says he’s a phony.
Accidently meeting Verona, Troy sets to restore her faith in Cupid’s ability—never figuring that Cupid would strike him with a romance arrow for a love connection with Verona.
Lynden skillfully handles this engaging, sweet story. Her beautifully-described scenes put the reader directly in them; her cutesy amuses; her dramatic touches so heartfelt that a tear often wells in your eye. She has a heavy hand when it comes to descriptive pros, but so well spread, it makes for an even more magical, captivating read.
I thought Lynden having Verona’s bff, ER nurse Luz Delgado, calling in her part—for most of the book, after having had her, initially, “on the page”—was a tough character “Galentine” pill for me to swallow. Other story characters had always been physically on the page, when it came to interacting with Verona and Troy.
I also thought Troy not going after Verona more, when romance bumps forced them apart, was a disappointment. Lynden had other characters, instead, do that for him. Emily—Troy’s six-year-old daughter—also, I thought a bit too precocious. Although she, who’s still dealing with her mother's death from four years ago, does add to the Verona-Troy story, the child often came across as being too wise and influential.
Lynden knows well how to cliffhang a chapter, and to completely surprise within one. Her words are smooth, fresh, and lively. She also has an uncanny ability to weave fairy tale with Valentine's Day romance that brings about many fun, memorable scenes. So seasoned a storyteller is she, even at this early stage, you actually forget while reading this book that it’s her first published title.
Continuously unwrapping her characters, and consistently layering her plot like a pro, Lynden is quite adept at keeping you interested, and reading page after page without pause.
*I had received an e-copy from the publisher via BookFunnel, in exchange for my honest review.
February 13, 2022
Perfectly Romantic & Beautiful Read! The setting, along with the main character Verona Scott - drew me in instantly. After hitting a wall in her successful writing career and a rough break-up, romance author Verona needed to re-group. A week-long escape to a castle resort in upstate New York was the perfect getaway to help Verona relax, find inspiration for her next novel and avoid all things "Valentine" so she could really take time to herself...or so she thought. Upon arriving, red balloons overwhelmed her and to her unfortunate surprise - so did a Valentine's Day retreat for singles, hosted right where she planned on her quiet escape - at the castle.
The surprises didn't end there. Before Verona could find her way out of the abundance of Valentine red and all the retreat had to offer - she found herself face to face with the man responsible for it all: the handsome and incredibly charming Troy Turner - the hottest "matchmaker" out there. Except, Verona didn't get the memo on who Troy was, but that didn't stop the budding sparks between them.
Emma did a spectacular job developing these characters and plot, which made it hard to put down from page one to the end! This swoon worthy romance brought a variety of feels from loss, healing to love. I can't wait for Emma's next book!
The surprises didn't end there. Before Verona could find her way out of the abundance of Valentine red and all the retreat had to offer - she found herself face to face with the man responsible for it all: the handsome and incredibly charming Troy Turner - the hottest "matchmaker" out there. Except, Verona didn't get the memo on who Troy was, but that didn't stop the budding sparks between them.
Emma did a spectacular job developing these characters and plot, which made it hard to put down from page one to the end! This swoon worthy romance brought a variety of feels from loss, healing to love. I can't wait for Emma's next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2023
1.5 stars. If you are looking for a Hallmark movie in book form, ignore my review and look no further because this book is exactly what you’re looking for. Otherwise, this is a story that has been told to excess and it is neither insightful nor unique. So if you’re looking a story that will teach and move you, this is not what you’re looking for.
June 9, 2023
Gorgeous cover sucked me in.
This is basically a Hallmark movie in book form. Started out alright, the ending....meh. the whole thing was a bit too insta-lovey for me.
This is basically a Hallmark movie in book form. Started out alright, the ending....meh. the whole thing was a bit too insta-lovey for me.
January 14, 2022
The Holiday Plan by Emma Lynden
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________-
Story Notes
I loved this beautiful story! The reality of the plot, the reactions of the characters and the sweet romance came together to build a story that didn’t seem at all like a debut book. Verona was a character most people can relate to in some way. She’d been hurt by several very important people in her life and lost one of her biggest cheerleaders for her career, her Aunt Theoni, and was just feeling a bit lost in life. Plus, her writing career has taken a tough hit with her latest manuscript being passed over by her publisher. A cross-roads was before her and she made a good choice – getting away from the norm and seeking new inspiration. She found way more than she expected and right in the middle of her least favorite holiday ever: Valentine’s Day. Who would have thought that her most dreaded holiday would bring her the inspiration she needed so badly and a chance at true romance too? Emma wrote Verona with so many good and legitimate emotions nearly everyone would feel given these situations. I was pleased to see that she gave Verona space to not only feel everything but work through it all and find the peace and forgiveness she needed. And Troy was a great “hero” for the story. His approach to helping others find love was so wonderful and I definitely enjoyed hearing some of his conference speeches. The way he was described made me think of Dan Stevens or Chris Pine and imagining Troy looking like either of them certainly made the story even better, haha! The intentional daily interactions that he had with his daughter while also giving good attention to his work were more points in his favor and made him much more realistic to me. But it was Verona and Troy together that made this book so good. Their quietly growing romance from beginning to end was just right, with no outlandish plot devices or kitschy one-liners. They were honest with each other and communicated well, which is not a regular occurrence in most romance books. And the kisses they shared were sweet and swoony too! I did get a bit put out with Verona towards the end when she didn’t talk to Troy about the newspaper article. Everyone knows that what’s printed in the news is false nine times out of ten so why didn’t she just ask him about it? They had been very open and honest thus far, why would he have just thrown that all away? But, I digress. This book will remind readers to keep their hearts open to love because you never know where it might come from next. This is a lesson we all could take to heart and remember on the toughest days.
Emma is certainly an author that is going on my “to read” list for the future. I am very much looking forward to what she will release next; perhaps it will feature Verona’s friend Luz? Be sure to grab your own copy of this story for your own bookshelves. I definitely will and will also be highly recommending this story to others who love sweet romance too.
I received this complimentary E-book from Emma via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________-
Story Notes
I loved this beautiful story! The reality of the plot, the reactions of the characters and the sweet romance came together to build a story that didn’t seem at all like a debut book. Verona was a character most people can relate to in some way. She’d been hurt by several very important people in her life and lost one of her biggest cheerleaders for her career, her Aunt Theoni, and was just feeling a bit lost in life. Plus, her writing career has taken a tough hit with her latest manuscript being passed over by her publisher. A cross-roads was before her and she made a good choice – getting away from the norm and seeking new inspiration. She found way more than she expected and right in the middle of her least favorite holiday ever: Valentine’s Day. Who would have thought that her most dreaded holiday would bring her the inspiration she needed so badly and a chance at true romance too? Emma wrote Verona with so many good and legitimate emotions nearly everyone would feel given these situations. I was pleased to see that she gave Verona space to not only feel everything but work through it all and find the peace and forgiveness she needed. And Troy was a great “hero” for the story. His approach to helping others find love was so wonderful and I definitely enjoyed hearing some of his conference speeches. The way he was described made me think of Dan Stevens or Chris Pine and imagining Troy looking like either of them certainly made the story even better, haha! The intentional daily interactions that he had with his daughter while also giving good attention to his work were more points in his favor and made him much more realistic to me. But it was Verona and Troy together that made this book so good. Their quietly growing romance from beginning to end was just right, with no outlandish plot devices or kitschy one-liners. They were honest with each other and communicated well, which is not a regular occurrence in most romance books. And the kisses they shared were sweet and swoony too! I did get a bit put out with Verona towards the end when she didn’t talk to Troy about the newspaper article. Everyone knows that what’s printed in the news is false nine times out of ten so why didn’t she just ask him about it? They had been very open and honest thus far, why would he have just thrown that all away? But, I digress. This book will remind readers to keep their hearts open to love because you never know where it might come from next. This is a lesson we all could take to heart and remember on the toughest days.
Emma is certainly an author that is going on my “to read” list for the future. I am very much looking forward to what she will release next; perhaps it will feature Verona’s friend Luz? Be sure to grab your own copy of this story for your own bookshelves. I definitely will and will also be highly recommending this story to others who love sweet romance too.
I received this complimentary E-book from Emma via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
February 7, 2023
It’s February 14th and Verona Scott, the Queen of Romance novels, knows this is the year that her boyfriend, Alex, will propose for them to have a happily ever after, but Alex breaks up with her as he’s not ready to settle down.
She receives an email from work saying that Woodmont Press will pass on her book. Her last book had flopped and because of that, Verona is struggling with writing another book.
With all this bad luck, Verona decides to book a vacation where she can be inspired by her next romance book.
Troy Turner is a single dad who runs a company that helps single people find love. This year’s Looking for Love event is during Valentine’s Day at a castle like establishment.
Verona makes it to her vacation only to find out that her vacation is a with a bunch of single people looking for love. She is so upset that the spot even covers her stay and even invites her to stay for the events. Verona really needs this vacation, so she decides to stay.
What will Verona accomplish at this Looking For Love event? Will she be able to write her next romance novel?
She receives an email from work saying that Woodmont Press will pass on her book. Her last book had flopped and because of that, Verona is struggling with writing another book.
With all this bad luck, Verona decides to book a vacation where she can be inspired by her next romance book.
Troy Turner is a single dad who runs a company that helps single people find love. This year’s Looking for Love event is during Valentine’s Day at a castle like establishment.
Verona makes it to her vacation only to find out that her vacation is a with a bunch of single people looking for love. She is so upset that the spot even covers her stay and even invites her to stay for the events. Verona really needs this vacation, so she decides to stay.
What will Verona accomplish at this Looking For Love event? Will she be able to write her next romance novel?
January 24, 2022
The Holiday Plan is Emma Lynden’s debut novel and it’s a promising start for this new romance novelist. It is a sweet, feel-good romance that delivers on its promise of escapism and happy-endings.
Overall, I enjoyed this romantic read. The characters are relatable and the development felt realistic for the most part (I’m still on the fence about declaring "true love" after 7 days of meeting someone, but hey, it’s fiction, so let’s roll with it!). I did think some descriptions were a bit too much sometimes though, but it is still a lovely book that flows well. I mean, it does the job and you have a good time, so I’m all for it.
I recommend it if you’re looking for something light and fun that meets the codes of the genre. It has all the Hallmark movie vibes. Looking forward to Lynden’s next piece.
Overall, I enjoyed this romantic read. The characters are relatable and the development felt realistic for the most part (I’m still on the fence about declaring "true love" after 7 days of meeting someone, but hey, it’s fiction, so let’s roll with it!). I did think some descriptions were a bit too much sometimes though, but it is still a lovely book that flows well. I mean, it does the job and you have a good time, so I’m all for it.
I recommend it if you’re looking for something light and fun that meets the codes of the genre. It has all the Hallmark movie vibes. Looking forward to Lynden’s next piece.
March 22, 2022
the softest and sweetest book ever. just vibes and fluff and everything good💗
the writing was amazing and atmospheric, took you right into the lovely location of Courtington Castle and Camelot Creek! so so pretty.
can’t wait to read more from emma lynden, she’s definitely one to look out for🥰
the writing was amazing and atmospheric, took you right into the lovely location of Courtington Castle and Camelot Creek! so so pretty.
can’t wait to read more from emma lynden, she’s definitely one to look out for🥰
February 28, 2023
Predictable but fun.
January 10, 2022
When two love experts struggle to follow their hearts.
This lovely rom-com features a romance writer recently jilted by her boyfriend, who ended up involuntarily attending a Valentine's Day matchmaking conference and falling for the event's presenter.
The story is sweet, cozy, and full of snowy moments and romantic tension.
It was fun to watch two people so used to talking and writing about romantic relationships struggle to open their hearts and overcome past hurts.
Light-hearted and charming!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley for an honest review.
This lovely rom-com features a romance writer recently jilted by her boyfriend, who ended up involuntarily attending a Valentine's Day matchmaking conference and falling for the event's presenter.
The story is sweet, cozy, and full of snowy moments and romantic tension.
It was fun to watch two people so used to talking and writing about romantic relationships struggle to open their hearts and overcome past hurts.
Light-hearted and charming!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley for an honest review.
January 9, 2022
Emma Lynden's debut romance novel is sure to leave you with all the feels! Set against the backdrop of a real-life castle during one of the most romantic holidays of the year, The Holiday Plan is definitely "feel-good".
Verona Scott accidentally attends a romance retreat while she's trying to do everything possible to escape the holiday of Valentine's Day. Being dumped and watching your ex propose to his new lady on Valentine's would do that to a person. So she decides to retreat to her favorite place and try to salvage her writing career. In the process, she meets Troy Turner, a single's coach who just so happens to be hosting a romance retreat at the very same castle/hotel.
Watching Verona struggle through her past romantic and parental abandonment issues was, at times, heartbreaking. But I also watched both her and Troy - a single parent trying to raise his young daughter - open up to each other and build a relationship.
This is definitely what you'd call a slow-burn. You won't get kisses on page one or even page 100. But you get a front-row seat to their tentative flirting and the love that blooms from it. I recommend The Holiday Plan to any feel-good romance lovers looking to be inspired!
*I received a complementary copy from Emma Lynden and Harpeth Road Press in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are my own and unbiased by the gifting of this ebook*
Verona Scott accidentally attends a romance retreat while she's trying to do everything possible to escape the holiday of Valentine's Day. Being dumped and watching your ex propose to his new lady on Valentine's would do that to a person. So she decides to retreat to her favorite place and try to salvage her writing career. In the process, she meets Troy Turner, a single's coach who just so happens to be hosting a romance retreat at the very same castle/hotel.
Watching Verona struggle through her past romantic and parental abandonment issues was, at times, heartbreaking. But I also watched both her and Troy - a single parent trying to raise his young daughter - open up to each other and build a relationship.
This is definitely what you'd call a slow-burn. You won't get kisses on page one or even page 100. But you get a front-row seat to their tentative flirting and the love that blooms from it. I recommend The Holiday Plan to any feel-good romance lovers looking to be inspired!
*I received a complementary copy from Emma Lynden and Harpeth Road Press in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are my own and unbiased by the gifting of this ebook*
March 30, 2023
This is our March book discussion read. I couldn’t stick to the reading schedule. The book was so good I had to continue until I finished. It’s such a charming story that has all the feels.” I can’t say too much until the rest of the group finishes reading. Pick this one up. I was sad when I finished the book. I wanted more!
September 4, 2023
A charming romance set during the Valentine season.
March 10, 2023
DNF A very Hallmark-like book. Very predictable. No character growth and very little or boring conflict.
January 11, 2022
The Holiday Plan is a heart-warming and cheerful debut romance!
Verona is as happy as the cat who the cream, she has a wonderful fella and is on the way to writing her way to being the queen of romantic fiction. But, everything goes wrong! She is shocked to learn her editor who has loved her work previously, doesn’t want her latest book…nooo!! All that hard work! And her much loved-up bliss is shattered when she is jilted by her boyfriend and learn he has then proposed to someone else. Verona has found herself in a deep dark pit of self-loathing, hurt, confusion and heartbreak, so she does what any jiltee would do and take herself away, to her favourite holiday destination to heal her wounded heart.
But…I do seem to be saying that quite a bit…there is another fly in the works, for when she reaches Courtington Castle hotel for her quiet and relaxing getaway/detoxing holiday where she forgets her troubles and works on her future only to find that the Castle is holding a Valentine’s Day, romantic weekend….imagine it, you are trying to get away from anything romantic and suddenly you are faced with nothing but happy couples and ….even worse, an events organiser who has his sights on including Veron into his romantic weekend. Groans!!!
This book has all the cheerful, overly cute factors you look for in a sweet romance, the actual romance itself between Verona and Tory is a slow-burner, to be perfectly honest it is a little too slow for my liking, I liked Troy and Verona they are both running away from real life and trying to move past hurt, they both have a past which has impacted them in a way which will take time to heal. But my issue with their relationship is that there is a lot of talks and flirting but it takes them so long to actually make a move, I saw them more as friends right up until the last part of the book.
Overall, The Holiday Plan is a delightful story of friendship and moving on, it’s certainly feel-good and heartwarming but it doesn’t dazzle in the romance stakes. This makes me think of those cute afternoon films, you know the one’s I am talking about, we all watch them while curled up with hot chocolate, sweet and cheerful.
What more could you want for a cold winter evening!
Verona is as happy as the cat who the cream, she has a wonderful fella and is on the way to writing her way to being the queen of romantic fiction. But, everything goes wrong! She is shocked to learn her editor who has loved her work previously, doesn’t want her latest book…nooo!! All that hard work! And her much loved-up bliss is shattered when she is jilted by her boyfriend and learn he has then proposed to someone else. Verona has found herself in a deep dark pit of self-loathing, hurt, confusion and heartbreak, so she does what any jiltee would do and take herself away, to her favourite holiday destination to heal her wounded heart.
But…I do seem to be saying that quite a bit…there is another fly in the works, for when she reaches Courtington Castle hotel for her quiet and relaxing getaway/detoxing holiday where she forgets her troubles and works on her future only to find that the Castle is holding a Valentine’s Day, romantic weekend….imagine it, you are trying to get away from anything romantic and suddenly you are faced with nothing but happy couples and ….even worse, an events organiser who has his sights on including Veron into his romantic weekend. Groans!!!
This book has all the cheerful, overly cute factors you look for in a sweet romance, the actual romance itself between Verona and Tory is a slow-burner, to be perfectly honest it is a little too slow for my liking, I liked Troy and Verona they are both running away from real life and trying to move past hurt, they both have a past which has impacted them in a way which will take time to heal. But my issue with their relationship is that there is a lot of talks and flirting but it takes them so long to actually make a move, I saw them more as friends right up until the last part of the book.
Overall, The Holiday Plan is a delightful story of friendship and moving on, it’s certainly feel-good and heartwarming but it doesn’t dazzle in the romance stakes. This makes me think of those cute afternoon films, you know the one’s I am talking about, we all watch them while curled up with hot chocolate, sweet and cheerful.
What more could you want for a cold winter evening!
January 10, 2022
Author Verona Scott has a horrible case of heartbreak not only in her personal life but also in her professional life. She is trying to overcome a terrible breakup from her boyfriend, whom she thought was going to propose but instead broke up with her. She is also having a hard time writing her next novel and needs some inspiration. Verona just needs to “get away from it all” and definitely needs a fresh start, so she books a trip alone during the Valentine holiday. She just wants to bypass the holiday completely. But when she arrives at the historic Courtington Castle Hotel, in the beautiful town of Camelot Creek in the Adirondacks, she never expected she would be in the middle of the biggest matchmaking event of the year. When she meets single dad and dating coach Troy Turner, her restful retreat is totally derailed. Just when Verona begins to think Valentines may still offer love and the hope of her happily ever after, someone from her past arrives at the castle. This heartwarming, sweet romance is so much better than a heart shaped box of chocolates. If you don’t believe in finding love at Valentines read this story and it will change your heart. The detailed description of the Adirondacks was a much needed escape. This is one book that has all the feels, and will stay in your heart long after the last page is turned. So, grab your champagne, your box of chocolates and fuzzy slippers, curl up with this must read and enjoy your escape.
Emma Lynden is a brand new author and one that just soared to the top of my favorite author list. This must read novel, is sure to become one of your all time favorites. I loved this story and the author’s writing style so much, that she is now on my auto buy list. I am in awe that this is a debut novel…she writes like a seasoned author. This is one that will hopefully be a Hallmark movie.
Thank you Emma Lynden for such a wonderful and amazing debut novel. I absolutely loved this wonderfully written story, and I can’t wait to read more books from you. This phenomenal book is one that I highly recommend.
Emma Lynden is a brand new author and one that just soared to the top of my favorite author list. This must read novel, is sure to become one of your all time favorites. I loved this story and the author’s writing style so much, that she is now on my auto buy list. I am in awe that this is a debut novel…she writes like a seasoned author. This is one that will hopefully be a Hallmark movie.
Thank you Emma Lynden for such a wonderful and amazing debut novel. I absolutely loved this wonderfully written story, and I can’t wait to read more books from you. This phenomenal book is one that I highly recommend.
January 10, 2022
First, I want to thank Emma Lynden and Harpeth Road Press for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
Emma Lynden is an author you are going to want to keep an eye out for this year!! Her debut romance novel The Holiday Plan put an everlasting smile on my face and love in my heart! It was a beautifully written story that gave me all the feels and then some. It was one of those storylines that Emma thought outside of the box to create something very deep and meaningful. I loved it so much that I think you should go out and put it on your TBR list!!
I absolutely fell head over heels in love with the cover that Kristen Ingebretson designed! She truly captured the sentiment behind the story. Beautiful job!
Directly from the first page of the book I fell in love with the book! How could I not?! The setting of the book was Valentine’s Day!! Of course I am going to be happy that the main character is a strawberry blonde like me! I loved that she was a romance author! They always say that you should write about what you know and what you are passionate about and Emma did just that. Luckily it really worked out in her favor. As a reader I connected to that storyline.
There were so many moments within the storyline that I couldn’t stop laughing!
Emma did an incredible job with her picturesque scenery descriptions. They were just breathtaking.
Emily was the one character out of all of them that pulled on my heart strings the most! She was so sweet, adorable, loveable, and so cute!! I loved how much she adored her Daddy and wanted what was best for him. That storyline just melted my heart!
There is a lot of great advice for us single women in this book. There were two lines that kept repeating that touched me and affected me deeply.
Emma’s Book is a solid 5 star read and the best romance book that I have read in a long time. She has an instant fan who can’t wait to see how far she will go! 2022 is her year to shine!
Emma Lynden is an author you are going to want to keep an eye out for this year!! Her debut romance novel The Holiday Plan put an everlasting smile on my face and love in my heart! It was a beautifully written story that gave me all the feels and then some. It was one of those storylines that Emma thought outside of the box to create something very deep and meaningful. I loved it so much that I think you should go out and put it on your TBR list!!
I absolutely fell head over heels in love with the cover that Kristen Ingebretson designed! She truly captured the sentiment behind the story. Beautiful job!
Directly from the first page of the book I fell in love with the book! How could I not?! The setting of the book was Valentine’s Day!! Of course I am going to be happy that the main character is a strawberry blonde like me! I loved that she was a romance author! They always say that you should write about what you know and what you are passionate about and Emma did just that. Luckily it really worked out in her favor. As a reader I connected to that storyline.
There were so many moments within the storyline that I couldn’t stop laughing!
Emma did an incredible job with her picturesque scenery descriptions. They were just breathtaking.
Emily was the one character out of all of them that pulled on my heart strings the most! She was so sweet, adorable, loveable, and so cute!! I loved how much she adored her Daddy and wanted what was best for him. That storyline just melted my heart!
There is a lot of great advice for us single women in this book. There were two lines that kept repeating that touched me and affected me deeply.
Emma’s Book is a solid 5 star read and the best romance book that I have read in a long time. She has an instant fan who can’t wait to see how far she will go! 2022 is her year to shine!
January 24, 2022
I knew I was in for a treat when I saw this cover!! A pink typewriter, why, Yes!
Well known romance author Verona Scott doesn't realize her long time boyfriend wants to move on, without her, and no signs of this happening, none. With a broken heart and months later, she's on her way to a place that is very special to her. 'Courtington Castle, formerly the private residence of a wealthy railroad baron, the castle-like mansion and surrounding estate converted into a sprawling lodge nestled in a quiet valley of the Adirondacks, just outside the small town of Camelot Creek'. The place she would go with her beloved Aunt, who is now gone. Memories of her childhood growing up with her Aunt now give her strength, hope and determination. With her heart broken and a deadline for a new book or facing her publisher's wrath, off she goes for a winter getaway. It's Valentine's weekend of all weekends, and she meets the dashing (she believes him to be annoying) Troy Turner. I'm not one to tell the whole story in a book review, but I will say that the author, Emma Lynden does a wonderful job weaving a charming and beautifully written, touching story of family, friendship, hope, losing love, finding love and all with some really fun characters along the way. Can she resist the single man with the adorable daughter? Because she doesn't believe in true love any longer.. or.. does she?
I really loved these characters and enjoyed reading this debut novel by Emma Lynden and I look forward to many more books written by her.
Well known romance author Verona Scott doesn't realize her long time boyfriend wants to move on, without her, and no signs of this happening, none. With a broken heart and months later, she's on her way to a place that is very special to her. 'Courtington Castle, formerly the private residence of a wealthy railroad baron, the castle-like mansion and surrounding estate converted into a sprawling lodge nestled in a quiet valley of the Adirondacks, just outside the small town of Camelot Creek'. The place she would go with her beloved Aunt, who is now gone. Memories of her childhood growing up with her Aunt now give her strength, hope and determination. With her heart broken and a deadline for a new book or facing her publisher's wrath, off she goes for a winter getaway. It's Valentine's weekend of all weekends, and she meets the dashing (she believes him to be annoying) Troy Turner. I'm not one to tell the whole story in a book review, but I will say that the author, Emma Lynden does a wonderful job weaving a charming and beautifully written, touching story of family, friendship, hope, losing love, finding love and all with some really fun characters along the way. Can she resist the single man with the adorable daughter? Because she doesn't believe in true love any longer.. or.. does she?
I really loved these characters and enjoyed reading this debut novel by Emma Lynden and I look forward to many more books written by her.
January 28, 2022
Emma Lynden’s debut novel The Holiday Plan has oodles of charm and so much heart.
Okay, so get ready for some major gushing on my part. The Holiday Plan is the book of my wintery romantic dreams. There is just so much happiness, love, and positivity in its pages, that left me feeling so oh so happy and dreaming of happily ever afters.
There is a real Hallmark feel to this book, which I adored. I must admit I am going through some Christmas Hallmark withdrawals right now. So this book was just what I was looking for. The flow and pacing were just perfect, and Emma added enough twists and turns to the story to keep me interested and wanting more. There is this message of the importance of forgiveness and opening one’s heart to the possibility of love. There were plenty of opportunities for Verona and Troy to act in vengeful and hateful ways towards each other and others in their lives. But they didn’t. Their willingness to listen to each other and put the work into trying to understand where the other person was coming from really won me over. There were no underhanded tactics or hateful words in this book; it was just honest to goodness positivity that these characters embodied.
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2022/01/...
Okay, so get ready for some major gushing on my part. The Holiday Plan is the book of my wintery romantic dreams. There is just so much happiness, love, and positivity in its pages, that left me feeling so oh so happy and dreaming of happily ever afters.
There is a real Hallmark feel to this book, which I adored. I must admit I am going through some Christmas Hallmark withdrawals right now. So this book was just what I was looking for. The flow and pacing were just perfect, and Emma added enough twists and turns to the story to keep me interested and wanting more. There is this message of the importance of forgiveness and opening one’s heart to the possibility of love. There were plenty of opportunities for Verona and Troy to act in vengeful and hateful ways towards each other and others in their lives. But they didn’t. Their willingness to listen to each other and put the work into trying to understand where the other person was coming from really won me over. There were no underhanded tactics or hateful words in this book; it was just honest to goodness positivity that these characters embodied.
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2022/01/...
January 20, 2022
The Holiday Plan by Emma Lynden
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to Harpeth Road Press
Native New Yorker and author Verona Scott is battling heartbreak, both personally and professionally. Coming off a disastrous split with her ex, she’s struggling for inspiration to write her next book. And she’s lost without her favorite Aunt Theoni’s wisdom and guidance.
Hoping for a fresh start and to avoid the holiday completely, she’s planned a Valentine’s detox: a luxurious trip alone to the historic Courtington Castle hotel, near the adorably quaint town of Camelot Creek, tucked into a picturesque valley in the Adirondacks.
First of all I would like to start my review by saying that I was drawn in by the beautiful cover. This is a marvellous debut novel! This book will not fail to leave you with that warm and fuzzy feeling that can only be obtained from reading a lovely book. A sweet, cosy and romantic novel.
At the start of the book, I really felt for Verona - when everything is going wrong for her. I found myself needing to read on to find out when her fortune would change. Following this debut, Emma Lynden is an author that I will be keeping an eye on for future releases.
Rating 5/5
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to Harpeth Road Press
Native New Yorker and author Verona Scott is battling heartbreak, both personally and professionally. Coming off a disastrous split with her ex, she’s struggling for inspiration to write her next book. And she’s lost without her favorite Aunt Theoni’s wisdom and guidance.
Hoping for a fresh start and to avoid the holiday completely, she’s planned a Valentine’s detox: a luxurious trip alone to the historic Courtington Castle hotel, near the adorably quaint town of Camelot Creek, tucked into a picturesque valley in the Adirondacks.
First of all I would like to start my review by saying that I was drawn in by the beautiful cover. This is a marvellous debut novel! This book will not fail to leave you with that warm and fuzzy feeling that can only be obtained from reading a lovely book. A sweet, cosy and romantic novel.
At the start of the book, I really felt for Verona - when everything is going wrong for her. I found myself needing to read on to find out when her fortune would change. Following this debut, Emma Lynden is an author that I will be keeping an eye on for future releases.
Rating 5/5
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