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Silver Springs #2
A Christmas House Wedding
‘Tis the season at The Christmas House, and Ruby Harris is getting married—but a winter storm of emotion could derail the whole affair in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Victoria James’s second Christmas House novel.
Ruby Harris, longtime owner of the historic B&B, The Christmas House, is tying the knot—on Christmas Eve! Olivia Harris is thrilled for her grandmother and can’t wait to help plan the event.
Newly divorced, with an adorable baby girl, Olivia has spent the last year starting a new life in Silver Springs. First on her list is to renovate the old warehouse she’s purchased and launch her dance studio. Second is to find a date for the wedding. And third is to not fall for that date, because she’s sworn off relationships forever.
When Olivia’s meets Scott, a talented contractor, she hires him for the renovation. She also tries to ignore the sparks that fly between them. Then, an unexpected Christmas guest arrives: Olivia’s ex, Will, who’s come to rekindle their relationship. Now, Olivia must decide if she has it in her heart to forgive Will, or if she should pursue an exciting new relationship with Scott.
Packed with Christmas cheer, this “heartwarming holiday romance” (Jenny Hale, on The Christmas House) will have you believing in the magic of the season.
Ruby Harris, longtime owner of the historic B&B, The Christmas House, is tying the knot—on Christmas Eve! Olivia Harris is thrilled for her grandmother and can’t wait to help plan the event.
Newly divorced, with an adorable baby girl, Olivia has spent the last year starting a new life in Silver Springs. First on her list is to renovate the old warehouse she’s purchased and launch her dance studio. Second is to find a date for the wedding. And third is to not fall for that date, because she’s sworn off relationships forever.
When Olivia’s meets Scott, a talented contractor, she hires him for the renovation. She also tries to ignore the sparks that fly between them. Then, an unexpected Christmas guest arrives: Olivia’s ex, Will, who’s come to rekindle their relationship. Now, Olivia must decide if she has it in her heart to forgive Will, or if she should pursue an exciting new relationship with Scott.
Packed with Christmas cheer, this “heartwarming holiday romance” (Jenny Hale, on The Christmas House) will have you believing in the magic of the season.
288 pages, Paperback
Published October 11, 2022
34 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Victoria James
30 books1,025 followersVictoria James is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance.
She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.
She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
dnf
December 14, 2023This is a Christmas Romance, and this is the second book in A Christmas House series. I have read and reviewed the first book in this series, and I loved the first book. I just could not connect with this book, and I just do not feel this was the book for me. I also found it super slow moving, and it just could not pull me into the story. I try to read this book several times. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
April 2, 2022
This story is a continuation of Victoria James's 'A Christmas House'. In the first installment we meet Ruby Harris, grandmother to both Charlotte and Olivia. Ruby has had a difficult and lonely life. She raised both her granddaughters when her daughter left them on her doorstep. Throughout it all she learned to give to those less fortunate than herself. As such, every Christmas, Ruby opens her door to those in need of a place to be for dinner. At the end of the first book a long lost love showed up on her door step Christmas Day. Now her and Harry are getting engaged to be married on Christmas Eve.
Olivia struggled with the abandonment by both her father and then her mother. She never developed her self-worth. Her ex-husband, Will, only perpetuated her issues by being mentally and emotionally abusive. To compound issues he cheated on her with so many different women. Once Olivia gave birth to her daughter Dawn she realized she needed to leave her current situation or run the risk of her daughter thinking it was alright for a man to mistreat a woman. A year later Olivia decides to use the settlement money from her divorce to purchase and renovate an old warehouse and turn it into a dance studio. The problem is her contractor has ditched on her. In steps local contractor Scott. He is best friend to Olivia's brother-in-law Wyatt. Olivia feels drawn to Scott but is afraid to let him get close, it doesn't help that Charlotte and Wyatt both are playing match maker with the couple. Her past with Will and her father makes it difficult for Olivia to open up and trust any man. Can Olivia learn to accept herself as she is, find value in the person she has become, and open up to a new relationship?
Victoria James writes truly amazing, heart warming, happily ever after stories. If you are looking for a romance that contains sexual encounters and/or love scenes you will not find them in her books but this by no means leaves the romance and intensity between the couples her stories lacking. James understands the value of a slow build between a couple using growth of character. In the first story we learn enough about Olivia to feel for the deeply abused woman and her beautiful daughter. In this book we find out that Scott has his own demons he has battled. Over the years he has had time to overcome them, he has built a nice life for himself and his daughter. His past struggles and who he is now makes him a relatable character. Ruby and Harry's current love story is scattered throughout the book. It is wonderful for both Ruby and Olivia to finally get their happily ever afters. This story is well written, the cover is gorgeous, and the characters are real and relatable. I fully recommend this book as well as any other book by Victoria James.
Olivia struggled with the abandonment by both her father and then her mother. She never developed her self-worth. Her ex-husband, Will, only perpetuated her issues by being mentally and emotionally abusive. To compound issues he cheated on her with so many different women. Once Olivia gave birth to her daughter Dawn she realized she needed to leave her current situation or run the risk of her daughter thinking it was alright for a man to mistreat a woman. A year later Olivia decides to use the settlement money from her divorce to purchase and renovate an old warehouse and turn it into a dance studio. The problem is her contractor has ditched on her. In steps local contractor Scott. He is best friend to Olivia's brother-in-law Wyatt. Olivia feels drawn to Scott but is afraid to let him get close, it doesn't help that Charlotte and Wyatt both are playing match maker with the couple. Her past with Will and her father makes it difficult for Olivia to open up and trust any man. Can Olivia learn to accept herself as she is, find value in the person she has become, and open up to a new relationship?
Victoria James writes truly amazing, heart warming, happily ever after stories. If you are looking for a romance that contains sexual encounters and/or love scenes you will not find them in her books but this by no means leaves the romance and intensity between the couples her stories lacking. James understands the value of a slow build between a couple using growth of character. In the first story we learn enough about Olivia to feel for the deeply abused woman and her beautiful daughter. In this book we find out that Scott has his own demons he has battled. Over the years he has had time to overcome them, he has built a nice life for himself and his daughter. His past struggles and who he is now makes him a relatable character. Ruby and Harry's current love story is scattered throughout the book. It is wonderful for both Ruby and Olivia to finally get their happily ever afters. This story is well written, the cover is gorgeous, and the characters are real and relatable. I fully recommend this book as well as any other book by Victoria James.
October 16, 2022
I loved being back with this family for another Christmas season! This book focused on Olivia and her journey to be happy again after a terrible marriage/divorce. I really enjoyed her character development -it wasn't a quick journey and you could really feel her hesitation as Scott became more predominant in her life. She didn't make impulsive decisions and, rather, was very cautious. I loved how the author focused on her role as a mother and how emotional her character was. After being emotionally abused in her former marriage she often times had intrusive thoughts that, I can only image, would be very debilitating but SHE was strong and worked through them. Her grandma, Ruby, was also always there guiding her and I loved their wonderful relationship.
I do recommend reading this series in order. Book 1 is about Charlotte, Olivia's sister, and reading about Olivia's story would spoil book 1 if you were to go back and read it.
I wished there had been an epilogue with this one -just a little something more after the *kiss*.
3.5 rounded up to 4.
TW: emotional abuse
I do recommend reading this series in order. Book 1 is about Charlotte, Olivia's sister, and reading about Olivia's story would spoil book 1 if you were to go back and read it.
I wished there had been an epilogue with this one -just a little something more after the *kiss*.
3.5 rounded up to 4.
TW: emotional abuse
October 8, 2022
We all know just how much I love reading holiday romances. The holidays are my jam so when I see books that are holiday related I have to give them a try. More the merrier. I know I've read James before but it's been a while. I will say what I didn't notice was that this was book two in the series.
I figured that it wouldn't be too bad to start with the second book but for me, it turned out to be a bit confusing. I kinda got the idea that this is more like a part two than a book two. It could be that there is just so much overlap from the first book that it felt that way to me.
As I got into the story I started to really enjoy parts of it. The parts that felt newer worked for me. I'm talking about the relationship between Scott and Olivia. I felted for Olivia. Her life hasn't turned out as she planned but then again life doesn't often go as we plan. I really enjoyed Scott. He's a nice guy that is willing to help out a friend.
I did like her grandmother and sister. But her mother is another thing. That woman is all hate. She's so unhappy with herself that she feels she needs to take it out on others.
I wish I enjoyed this more but I just couldn't totally like it. I felt like I was always missing something. Maybe if you read book one you won't feel that way. It's not a horrible story just one that feels slightly off. Good characters take it from me not liking it and push it to like but not loving.
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ARC received for an honest review
September 24, 2022
I love The Christmas House and loved this book which is a sort of follow up. I found again the festive atmosphere, the well developed characters, and the lovely setting.
It's poignant and heart warming story about accepting changes and forgiving oneself. I like how the author dealt with the emotional part.
A story I thoroughly enjoyed.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's poignant and heart warming story about accepting changes and forgiving oneself. I like how the author dealt with the emotional part.
A story I thoroughly enjoyed.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 3, 2022
I enjoy stories of multi-generations of the same family which drew me to read this book. The story primarily focuses on Olivia and her Grandmother Ruby but Olivia’s mother and sister play a small role in the book as well.
This is the second book in the author’s Christmas House series but I read this book as a standalone. Although I may have missed a bit of the backstory, I was able to get the history of the family from this book. Having read this book I now want to go back and read the first book in the series, The Christmas House.
Olivia and her toddler daughter are living with Ruby and starting a new life after Olivia’s divorce. She’s in the midst of renovations for her own dance studio when the contractor backs out of the project. She’s introduced to Scott, a contractor who is also a single parent and who appreciates the situation Olivia is in. He agrees to complete the work and soon they become friends. As the weeks pass and the relationship flourishes, Olivia determines she is not ready for anything more. Or is she?
The characters in the book have all faced challenges in life but it’s Olivia’s story of the emotional abuse she experienced in her marriage that was especially heartbreaking to me. The relationship she has with Ruby is more mother and daughter and it’s because of this bond that Olivia had the strength to leave the marriage. Thank goodness for those special women in our lives.
Ruby has an endearing story of her own and it’s lovely to see her find her happy ever after with her Christmas Eve wedding. Scott’s story is heartbreaking as well and I love when an author writes about the importance of fathers in raising their children.
All in all, this is an engaging, joyful story with that reflects the upcoming holiday season. The characters were well-developed and likeable. I recommend this book to those readers that enjoy General Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Romance.
I received an early copy of this book but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
This is the second book in the author’s Christmas House series but I read this book as a standalone. Although I may have missed a bit of the backstory, I was able to get the history of the family from this book. Having read this book I now want to go back and read the first book in the series, The Christmas House.
Olivia and her toddler daughter are living with Ruby and starting a new life after Olivia’s divorce. She’s in the midst of renovations for her own dance studio when the contractor backs out of the project. She’s introduced to Scott, a contractor who is also a single parent and who appreciates the situation Olivia is in. He agrees to complete the work and soon they become friends. As the weeks pass and the relationship flourishes, Olivia determines she is not ready for anything more. Or is she?
The characters in the book have all faced challenges in life but it’s Olivia’s story of the emotional abuse she experienced in her marriage that was especially heartbreaking to me. The relationship she has with Ruby is more mother and daughter and it’s because of this bond that Olivia had the strength to leave the marriage. Thank goodness for those special women in our lives.
Ruby has an endearing story of her own and it’s lovely to see her find her happy ever after with her Christmas Eve wedding. Scott’s story is heartbreaking as well and I love when an author writes about the importance of fathers in raising their children.
All in all, this is an engaging, joyful story with that reflects the upcoming holiday season. The characters were well-developed and likeable. I recommend this book to those readers that enjoy General Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Romance.
I received an early copy of this book but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
April 21, 2022
I received an ARC of, A Christmas House Wedding, by Victoria James. I really enjoyed Olivia, her mother not so much. This is a lovely Christmas read.
October 3, 2022
Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me and I had a really hard time connecting with the characters. The same problems kept coming up without anything changing, at least on Olivia's part. Scott certainly had the patience of a saint to keep waiting for Olivia to figure out her life. I think she needed therapy more than anything since she kept letting her ex-husband's past words infiltrate her thoughts. Scott really was the perfect Hero and dad. I have no complaints about him.
The worst part of the book was the ending. It ends with them agreeing to give a relationship a go. A few kisses have happened, they've declared their love and that's about it. No glimpse into their future as a couple, no plans to move in together in the near future. No talk of a wedding, nothing. We get more romance from Harry and Ruby, the grandmother of Olivia. This was a pretty PG book with no heat. I'm okay with that, as long as the story is great and keeps me engaged. That didn't happen.
I swear I've read Book 1 in the series, but I can't seem to find my review - I think this book just seemed too similar to another I've read in the last year and that's probably the source of my confusion. That being said, you can follow along pretty easily without having read the first book.
The worst part of the book was the ending. It ends with them agreeing to give a relationship a go. A few kisses have happened, they've declared their love and that's about it. No glimpse into their future as a couple, no plans to move in together in the near future. No talk of a wedding, nothing. We get more romance from Harry and Ruby, the grandmother of Olivia. This was a pretty PG book with no heat. I'm okay with that, as long as the story is great and keeps me engaged. That didn't happen.
I swear I've read Book 1 in the series, but I can't seem to find my review - I think this book just seemed too similar to another I've read in the last year and that's probably the source of my confusion. That being said, you can follow along pretty easily without having read the first book.
April 8, 2023
I loved the first book and didn't think I could love the sequel as much or more than the first. To my surprise, I definitely enjoyed this one just as much or arguably even more. Olivia and Scott's relationship was so beautifully written. Their chemistry and the pacing was just so good-just like Charlotte and Wyatt's. I've read many books/listened to many audiobooks and Victoria James really amazed me with this series.
Same as my comment for the first book, the only thing I would like to point out about this book is it being written in first instead of third person. But again, this is just me as a reader wanting to connect/understand the characters more and with so many characters, I understand why it was written in third. Nonetheless, the storyline and the feels were all there. I would definitely recommend reading this book and/or listening to the audiobook since Jesse Vilinsky narrated the sequel too and it is absolutely fantastic.
Same as my comment for the first book, the only thing I would like to point out about this book is it being written in first instead of third person. But again, this is just me as a reader wanting to connect/understand the characters more and with so many characters, I understand why it was written in third. Nonetheless, the storyline and the feels were all there. I would definitely recommend reading this book and/or listening to the audiobook since Jesse Vilinsky narrated the sequel too and it is absolutely fantastic.
December 26, 2022
I enjoy reading the stories about this family. Hopefully there will be a #3!
One wish… not to do the Ruby chapters in italics. It’s kind of distracting and gives it the wrong feel.
One wish… not to do the Ruby chapters in italics. It’s kind of distracting and gives it the wrong feel.
December 9, 2023
I wanted a fun Christmas story. This one had a little too much generational trauma and emotional abuse to fit the bill.
October 11, 2022
Unpredictable and entertaining. Emotional and dramatic. Full of love and sage advice. Victoria James has done it again.
The love between Grandma Ruby and her granddaughters reminded me so much of my grandmother.
Olivia and Charlotte's parents were dysfunctional, and the girls eventually went to live with their Grandma Ruby at the Christmas House, a bed and breakfast.
Olivia's marriage was over. She had finally summoned the courage to leave her abusive husband and with nowhere else to go, she returned to Christmas House and her Grandma Ruby just in time to help Grandma Ruby plan the wedding of her dreams to the love of her life. Olivia was determined to start over and make a life for her and her daughter Dawn. With her self-esteem at rock bottom, she was determined to start her own dance studio. Scott, a local contractor agreed to step in when the last contractor bailed on her just weeks before the scheduled opening. A widower with a teenage daughter, Scott is exactly what she needs but she is so determined to make it on her own that she can't see what's right in front of her - a rock steady family man and just what she and Dawn so desperately need.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for this advanced review copy. In return, I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
The love between Grandma Ruby and her granddaughters reminded me so much of my grandmother.
Olivia and Charlotte's parents were dysfunctional, and the girls eventually went to live with their Grandma Ruby at the Christmas House, a bed and breakfast.
Olivia's marriage was over. She had finally summoned the courage to leave her abusive husband and with nowhere else to go, she returned to Christmas House and her Grandma Ruby just in time to help Grandma Ruby plan the wedding of her dreams to the love of her life. Olivia was determined to start over and make a life for her and her daughter Dawn. With her self-esteem at rock bottom, she was determined to start her own dance studio. Scott, a local contractor agreed to step in when the last contractor bailed on her just weeks before the scheduled opening. A widower with a teenage daughter, Scott is exactly what she needs but she is so determined to make it on her own that she can't see what's right in front of her - a rock steady family man and just what she and Dawn so desperately need.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for this advanced review copy. In return, I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
August 7, 2022
Thank you NetGalley, Victoria James and Alcove Press for the ARC of
A Christmas House Wedding. This is my personal review.
I enjoyed the first book in the series and enjoyed reading this one just as much as the first one.
I liked the entire story from start to finish. I would love to meet everyone in this book in real life. The author did a great job or writing this story to make it feel so real for me.
A Christmas House Wedding. This is my personal review.
I enjoyed the first book in the series and enjoyed reading this one just as much as the first one.
I liked the entire story from start to finish. I would love to meet everyone in this book in real life. The author did a great job or writing this story to make it feel so real for me.
September 12, 2022
A Christmas House Wedding by Victoria James, is an emotional and enjoyable story full of love, family, and wise advice. The love between Grandma Ruby and her granddaughters, Olivia and Charlotte, was one of love, nurturing, and understanding; providing a safe haven from their dysfunctional parents. Eventually these girls lived with their Grandma Ruby at the Christmas House, a bed and breakfast.
Olivia's marriage was over after she had finally gathered the courage to leave her abusive husband. Needing a place to live, Olivia, with her small daughter, Dawn, returned to the Christmas House and her Grandma Ruby just in time to help Grandma Ruby plan the wedding of her dreams to the love of her life. Olivia was determined to start over and make a life for her and her daughter Dawn. With her self-esteem at rock bottom, she was determined to start her own dance studio. Scott, a local contractor agreed to step in when the last contractor bailed on her just weeks before the scheduled opening. A widower with a teenage daughter, Cat, Scott is exactly what she needs but she is so determined to make it on her own that she can't see what's right in front of her; a rock solid family man. Just what she and Dawn so greatly need.
A Christmas House Wedding is about forgiving, rediscovering who you are and moving forward. Victoria James put together a beautiful dual plot of Olivia and Scott beginning a new relationship and Olivia’s grandmother, Ruby, and Harry rekindling a relationship that began fifty years ago, and are finally moving toward marriage. I loved Scott and his endless patience and understanding for Olivia. I highly recommend A Christmas House to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Olivia's marriage was over after she had finally gathered the courage to leave her abusive husband. Needing a place to live, Olivia, with her small daughter, Dawn, returned to the Christmas House and her Grandma Ruby just in time to help Grandma Ruby plan the wedding of her dreams to the love of her life. Olivia was determined to start over and make a life for her and her daughter Dawn. With her self-esteem at rock bottom, she was determined to start her own dance studio. Scott, a local contractor agreed to step in when the last contractor bailed on her just weeks before the scheduled opening. A widower with a teenage daughter, Cat, Scott is exactly what she needs but she is so determined to make it on her own that she can't see what's right in front of her; a rock solid family man. Just what she and Dawn so greatly need.
A Christmas House Wedding is about forgiving, rediscovering who you are and moving forward. Victoria James put together a beautiful dual plot of Olivia and Scott beginning a new relationship and Olivia’s grandmother, Ruby, and Harry rekindling a relationship that began fifty years ago, and are finally moving toward marriage. I loved Scott and his endless patience and understanding for Olivia. I highly recommend A Christmas House to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 19, 2025
This story had a different feel or way of telling it than the first book did to me. I felt more emotionally invested in the first one, not that this one didn't tug at my heart either. This book is NOT as sad as the first, and that's what is important.
While the first book focused a lot on Charlotte and her grandmother, Ruby, this one continues a slight bit of the grandmother's story and focuses on Olivia (Charlotte's sister). The family drama continues in it, but at least not between the sister (except that Charlotte is trying to match Olivia up with her husband's best friend Scott).
Here's the plot:
Olivia is a single mother since her divorce to her not-so-kind ex. Learning more about their story is very heartbreaking. I could see this being realistic for a lot of women, unfortunately. She is trying to start up a business of her own. She is raising her daughter the best she can. The brother-in-law's best friend Scott is helping her out with the place of her business (with fixing it up). He also has a daughter, and he is a widower. They get to know one another slowly after not liking the other really much at all (but being attracted to each other). They both have to get through their own relationship issues that they are holding on to in order to move forward.
Christmas is a theme throughout this book, but not as strongly as the first book, in my opinion. The good old Christmas House is going to have a wedding in it, but I won't say who's wedding!
I feel this is a sweet story, but it didn't hold me in enough, as I hoped for. The characters had likeable qualities and growth, which is important though.
content: there is a lot of usage of the d word, s word, incorrect usage of the b word and hell.
While the first book focused a lot on Charlotte and her grandmother, Ruby, this one continues a slight bit of the grandmother's story and focuses on Olivia (Charlotte's sister). The family drama continues in it, but at least not between the sister (except that Charlotte is trying to match Olivia up with her husband's best friend Scott).
Here's the plot:
Olivia is a single mother since her divorce to her not-so-kind ex. Learning more about their story is very heartbreaking. I could see this being realistic for a lot of women, unfortunately. She is trying to start up a business of her own. She is raising her daughter the best she can. The brother-in-law's best friend Scott is helping her out with the place of her business (with fixing it up). He also has a daughter, and he is a widower. They get to know one another slowly after not liking the other really much at all (but being attracted to each other). They both have to get through their own relationship issues that they are holding on to in order to move forward.
Christmas is a theme throughout this book, but not as strongly as the first book, in my opinion. The good old Christmas House is going to have a wedding in it, but I won't say who's wedding!
I feel this is a sweet story, but it didn't hold me in enough, as I hoped for. The characters had likeable qualities and growth, which is important though.
content: there is a lot of usage of the d word, s word, incorrect usage of the b word and hell.
December 14, 2023
A Christmas House Wedding is the second book in the delightful and emotional Silver Springs series by Victoria James.
In the first book, A Christmas House we had our introduction to Ruby, proprietor of historic B&B, The Christmas House. Grandma Ruby has been at this business a long time, over 50 years and she has two granddaughters, Olivia and Charlotte. Olivia is newly divorced with an eighteen-month-old. She lacks self-confidence because after marrying young her husband was mentally and verbally abusive towards her. She knew it was time to leave and get herself and her daughter into a better situation. A Christmas House is beautifully decorated, and you can feel the joy it emits to all who look at it. We all know it's not the beauty of the decorations at Christmas time that bring happiness, it's being with the right people. Olivia, with her lack of confidence has also not had the best upbringing because her mother was too busy with her, so her grandmother has brought her up, and she is forever grateful to her. Meeting contractor Scott, she hires him to do a renovation on a building she's about to turn into a studio. He is kind, caring and respectful. He really takes the time to listen to what she has to say and would never treat her like her ex does. Still, she doesn't feel worthy of his love. Will he be able to show her what love is the holiday season so they can have the happiest of holidays together? Eye opening, sweet and emotional. I really enjoyed it.
Pub Date 11 Oct 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
In the first book, A Christmas House we had our introduction to Ruby, proprietor of historic B&B, The Christmas House. Grandma Ruby has been at this business a long time, over 50 years and she has two granddaughters, Olivia and Charlotte. Olivia is newly divorced with an eighteen-month-old. She lacks self-confidence because after marrying young her husband was mentally and verbally abusive towards her. She knew it was time to leave and get herself and her daughter into a better situation. A Christmas House is beautifully decorated, and you can feel the joy it emits to all who look at it. We all know it's not the beauty of the decorations at Christmas time that bring happiness, it's being with the right people. Olivia, with her lack of confidence has also not had the best upbringing because her mother was too busy with her, so her grandmother has brought her up, and she is forever grateful to her. Meeting contractor Scott, she hires him to do a renovation on a building she's about to turn into a studio. He is kind, caring and respectful. He really takes the time to listen to what she has to say and would never treat her like her ex does. Still, she doesn't feel worthy of his love. Will he be able to show her what love is the holiday season so they can have the happiest of holidays together? Eye opening, sweet and emotional. I really enjoyed it.
Pub Date 11 Oct 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 23, 2022
An interesting Christmas Story
Victoria James, New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of contemporary romance, is presenting her second Christmas House novel under the title "A Christmas House Wedding", published by Alcove Press. The novel starts out with newly divorced Olivia Harris standing outside her Grandmother Ruby's Christmas House Bed & Breakfast in Silver Springs with her eighteen month old daughter Dawn. She has a lot of plans, like helping with the wedding preparations for her grandmother, renovating a warehouse and turning it into a dance studio, having a Christmas that is different this year, and most of all, no relationships. The last one is not easy since she needs a date for her Grandmother's wedding and overall things don't go like they are planned. Enter Scott, her new contractor for the warehouse renovation and Will, her ex-husband. What will the outcome of Olivia's plans be?
This was the first book by this author which I read. It is honest about the challenges that Olivia faces, especially in regard to her relationships, her divorce, and the verbal abuse from her ex-husband. It is a heartwarming romance that centers around Christmas and I highly recommend it to readers who like these type of stories.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#AChristmasHouseWedding #Netgalley
Victoria James, New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of contemporary romance, is presenting her second Christmas House novel under the title "A Christmas House Wedding", published by Alcove Press. The novel starts out with newly divorced Olivia Harris standing outside her Grandmother Ruby's Christmas House Bed & Breakfast in Silver Springs with her eighteen month old daughter Dawn. She has a lot of plans, like helping with the wedding preparations for her grandmother, renovating a warehouse and turning it into a dance studio, having a Christmas that is different this year, and most of all, no relationships. The last one is not easy since she needs a date for her Grandmother's wedding and overall things don't go like they are planned. Enter Scott, her new contractor for the warehouse renovation and Will, her ex-husband. What will the outcome of Olivia's plans be?
This was the first book by this author which I read. It is honest about the challenges that Olivia faces, especially in regard to her relationships, her divorce, and the verbal abuse from her ex-husband. It is a heartwarming romance that centers around Christmas and I highly recommend it to readers who like these type of stories.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#AChristmasHouseWedding #Netgalley
November 16, 2022
“I’m reminding you that there are good men out there. And I’m showing you that you can feel again, just like I can. And I’m hoping, from the tremor in your hand, that you’ll let me take you out for dinner.”
A Christmas House Wedding takes place one year after The Christmas House and I definitely think you need to read the first book to understand the sequel. This time, we're focusing on Charlotte's sister, Olivia, who's moved back to town with her toddler daughter, Dawn, after divorcing her emotionally abusive husband. She's establishing a dance studio and Wyatt's best friend (and fellow single dad to a teenage daughter), Scott is a contractor that helps bring the space to life. As the pair work closely together, sparks fly, even though they both say they're not looking for a relationship.
We get three perspectives in the book: Scott, Olivia and Ruby, her grandmother... and the bride in question. Scott is a great MMC. He's protective, patient, swoony and a total charmer (with a cute kid to boot). But Olivia's character growth was also amazing for a relatively short book. I loved seeing her slowly open up to Scott and be vulnerable about her past. Along the way, she also confronted her past and stood up to her parents for once.
Overall, if you're looking for a cosy yet captivating closed-door holiday romance series, I couldn't recommend this one more.
Thank you to Alcove Press and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
A Christmas House Wedding takes place one year after The Christmas House and I definitely think you need to read the first book to understand the sequel. This time, we're focusing on Charlotte's sister, Olivia, who's moved back to town with her toddler daughter, Dawn, after divorcing her emotionally abusive husband. She's establishing a dance studio and Wyatt's best friend (and fellow single dad to a teenage daughter), Scott is a contractor that helps bring the space to life. As the pair work closely together, sparks fly, even though they both say they're not looking for a relationship.
We get three perspectives in the book: Scott, Olivia and Ruby, her grandmother... and the bride in question. Scott is a great MMC. He's protective, patient, swoony and a total charmer (with a cute kid to boot). But Olivia's character growth was also amazing for a relatively short book. I loved seeing her slowly open up to Scott and be vulnerable about her past. Along the way, she also confronted her past and stood up to her parents for once.
Overall, if you're looking for a cosy yet captivating closed-door holiday romance series, I couldn't recommend this one more.
Thank you to Alcove Press and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
October 15, 2022
🐚 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 🐚
4.5 ⭐
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: single mom, he falls first, slow burn, single dad, Christmas
𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀: cheating recounted, death of a love one recounted
This book is the continuation of the story of Ruby and Harry, which appears in the form of scenes at the beginning of the chapter, but also the beginning of Olivia and Scott.
Olivia is a single mother, who divorced her husband, because besides the fact that he cheated on her, but also because he was very verbally violent. In this book we see how she gains confidence and who reaches the end of the book to be a strong woman who does not allow herself to be influenced so easily by her insecurities.
Scott is a father of a thirteen-year-old girl. For him, his girl is the only priority. He is the one who falls hard and tries with all his strength to prove to Olivia that he is not at all like her ex-husband, and without triggering the announced memories.
I really liked how Olivia starts a new life with the little she has and how Scott gave her all the support she needed to make this change.
I will definitely reread this book during Christmas if I have free time.
Thank you NetGalley, Alcove Press and Victoria James for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 ⭐
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: single mom, he falls first, slow burn, single dad, Christmas
𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀: cheating recounted, death of a love one recounted
This book is the continuation of the story of Ruby and Harry, which appears in the form of scenes at the beginning of the chapter, but also the beginning of Olivia and Scott.
Olivia is a single mother, who divorced her husband, because besides the fact that he cheated on her, but also because he was very verbally violent. In this book we see how she gains confidence and who reaches the end of the book to be a strong woman who does not allow herself to be influenced so easily by her insecurities.
Scott is a father of a thirteen-year-old girl. For him, his girl is the only priority. He is the one who falls hard and tries with all his strength to prove to Olivia that he is not at all like her ex-husband, and without triggering the announced memories.
I really liked how Olivia starts a new life with the little she has and how Scott gave her all the support she needed to make this change.
I will definitely reread this book during Christmas if I have free time.
Thank you NetGalley, Alcove Press and Victoria James for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2022
What a wonderful Christmas romance - or two! Despite their completely dysfunctional upbringing, Olivia and Charlotte are working through their issues to become close friends, not just sisters. It was amazing to watch Olivia learn to take charge of her life and feelings, speaking out when she's hurt by words or actions. She still has to get over the doubts that she's "good enough". And that's where Scott comes in. He's so patient with her, not pushy, so respectful of her feelings and wishes, all while waiting for her to be ready for a real relationship with him. I can't say enough good things about all the children... smart, loving, mostly well-behaved. And I love Ruby and Harry's story, apart for so many years but finally getting the happy ending they so richly deserve. This is my first read from the author, and I'm looking forward to more. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
October 2, 2022
I truly loved Christmas House Wedding. It wasn't just one book, it was so much more. It was a story of a family going through their problems, yet finding love and happiness in the end.
Olivia couldn't made better decision than to come back to her loving grandma Ruby's house to start anew.
After her abusive marriage she finally starts to realize her dream to open her own dance studio and with the help of her sister plans the best wedding for her granny.
While she still searches for solid ground under her feet and doubts all her actions and decisions, she has been drawn to the the best friend of her sister's husband, the contractor, Scott.
She isn't ready for love yet she can't he help to fall in love.
Can she simply jump over her shadow and try to open her heart to Scott or will the protective walls she built get in her way?
Olivia couldn't made better decision than to come back to her loving grandma Ruby's house to start anew.
After her abusive marriage she finally starts to realize her dream to open her own dance studio and with the help of her sister plans the best wedding for her granny.
While she still searches for solid ground under her feet and doubts all her actions and decisions, she has been drawn to the the best friend of her sister's husband, the contractor, Scott.
She isn't ready for love yet she can't he help to fall in love.
Can she simply jump over her shadow and try to open her heart to Scott or will the protective walls she built get in her way?
November 6, 2022
I haven't read the first book in this series, although it does work as a standalone story and didn't affect my enjoyment of the book. The main storyline is between Olivia, a divorced mother with a young daughter, and Scott,a widower with a teenage daughter. There is a lovely side romance between Ruby, Olivia's grandmother, and Harry. Olivia has some serious issues from her marriage where she suffered from mental abuse. This is definitely a Hallmark movie type of book, with a snowy Christmas theme. It does show how mental abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, but balanced with some more positive messages such as Olivia's love for her daughter Dawn and hope for their future. A snuggle up on an autumnal or winter's evening type of book. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
October 23, 2023
Olivia has spent a year living with her grandmother Ruby and her toddler daughter Dawn feeling better after her divorce. she's opening up a dance studio and the contractor has bailed on her. running out of time, she reluctantly gets Scott, a friend of her BIL, and he begins work on it. She's attracted to him but she doesn't want to be. Dawn is her first priority and she still doesn't feel recovered enough from her abusive ex-husband to know how to deal with a relationship at this point.
I loved the dual storylines of Ruby planning her wedding and dealing with Harry's family. she's waited a long time but she still worries about her granddaughters. and then there is some drama with Charlotte. Overall it was a great story for these three women. Charlotte and Olivia have grown so much over the course of a year and they are reaching out to let love in and a happy future.
I loved the dual storylines of Ruby planning her wedding and dealing with Harry's family. she's waited a long time but she still worries about her granddaughters. and then there is some drama with Charlotte. Overall it was a great story for these three women. Charlotte and Olivia have grown so much over the course of a year and they are reaching out to let love in and a happy future.
October 16, 2022
More than just a warehouse is in need of a makeover in A Christmas House Wedding by Victoria James. Olivia Harris has sworn off men after her divorce, now focusing on her baby girl and her career. Weddings can play havoc with that when she is faced with finding the plus one for her grandmother’s wedding. Such a sweet, swoon worthy story.
A great read from beginning to end. Victoria James is always able to create characters that I care about, have opinions about what they should do and find myself wanting to give them advice so that their HEA is guaranteed. It is no different with Olivia and Scott.
A story I so enjoyed recommending it to others who enjoy great characters who are giving a chance to find a love romance worth the growth and struggle.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
A great read from beginning to end. Victoria James is always able to create characters that I care about, have opinions about what they should do and find myself wanting to give them advice so that their HEA is guaranteed. It is no different with Olivia and Scott.
A story I so enjoyed recommending it to others who enjoy great characters who are giving a chance to find a love romance worth the growth and struggle.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
December 12, 2023
A quick feel-good read about second chances and believing in oneself all surrounded by the quintessential Christmas spirit of Silver Springs. This book focuses on Charlotte's younger sister, Olivia and her search for independence, new career opportunities, and of course, romance. Olivia's hangups are understandable, having recently divorced a controlling, belittling, cheating husband, having suffered from the feelings of paternal abandonment and maternal neglect, and balancing the responsibilities of single motherhood to her toddler daughter.
At the same time, her grandmother, Ruby Harris, is planning and preparing for her upcoming marriage to friend from her past, all to transpire on Christmas Eve. This book was highly predictable, but a good read nonetheless.
At the same time, her grandmother, Ruby Harris, is planning and preparing for her upcoming marriage to friend from her past, all to transpire on Christmas Eve. This book was highly predictable, but a good read nonetheless.
April 28, 2022
A story about a gradmother who after many years she is marrying the man of her dreams . With her two granddaughters she is planing the wedding . Charlotte is happy with Wyatt but Olivia with toddler Dawn is ready for her new dreams to come to reality . The old warehouse where she will have her studio is in very bad contition and her contractor leave she has to find a new one . Scott is Wyatt best friend and contractor and will help her . Will these two lonely people find happiness together ?
I received this book from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this book from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 14, 2022
Having not read the first book in this series I can say it was still such a fun easy to follow read.
A romance book that covers more than one couple and generation. I liked the romance but I really loved the healing stories intertwined from different forms of abuse and neglect the characters had suffered. They over came different types of loss to show love can overcome it all!
I always appreciate a good romance book without the sexy scenes and this book was perfect. It focused on the relationships that came from friendship over sex.
While the story takes place at Christmas time it's not a Christmas story it would be a great read for anytime of year.
A romance book that covers more than one couple and generation. I liked the romance but I really loved the healing stories intertwined from different forms of abuse and neglect the characters had suffered. They over came different types of loss to show love can overcome it all!
I always appreciate a good romance book without the sexy scenes and this book was perfect. It focused on the relationships that came from friendship over sex.
While the story takes place at Christmas time it's not a Christmas story it would be a great read for anytime of year.
May 14, 2022
Having not read the first book in this series I can say it was still such a fun easy to follow read.
A romance book that covers more than one couple and generation. I liked the romance but I really loved the healing stories intertwined from different forms of abuse and neglect the characters had suffered. They over came different types of loss to show love can overcome it all!
I always appreciate a good romance book without the sexy scenes and this book was perfect. It focused on the relationships that came from friendship over sex.
While the story takes place at Christmas time it's not a Christmas story it would be a great read for anytime of year.
A romance book that covers more than one couple and generation. I liked the romance but I really loved the healing stories intertwined from different forms of abuse and neglect the characters had suffered. They over came different types of loss to show love can overcome it all!
I always appreciate a good romance book without the sexy scenes and this book was perfect. It focused on the relationships that came from friendship over sex.
While the story takes place at Christmas time it's not a Christmas story it would be a great read for anytime of year.
September 2, 2022
The Christmas House holds a special place in the hearts of Olivia, her sister Charlotte and their grandmother.
I loved the flow of the storyline, full of hope and family connections! The characters are warm and relatable, they unite to plan their futures, all wanting the best for each other!
This book is about finding yourself, growing as a person and believing in the future!
A Victoria James novel is a recommended read!
Thanks so much to the publisher, NetGalley and the wonderful Victoria James for a heartwarming read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. .
I loved the flow of the storyline, full of hope and family connections! The characters are warm and relatable, they unite to plan their futures, all wanting the best for each other!
This book is about finding yourself, growing as a person and believing in the future!
A Victoria James novel is a recommended read!
Thanks so much to the publisher, NetGalley and the wonderful Victoria James for a heartwarming read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. .
October 11, 2022
A sweet and fluffy Christmas romance perfect for the festive season.
What made this book quite interesting to read was the two story lines that were being told throughout the book - Olivia's story and Ruby, Olivia's grandmother's, story. The reader gets to see the similarities they share and their differences.
Likely the best part of this story for me was Dawn. She is such an adorable little girl, and seeing her interact with all the characters, specifically Scott and Olivia, made my heart melt. It gave me serious baby fever.
Scott and his daughter, Kat's, relationship was sweet to read about. They are both dealing with the loss of their wife and mother, respectively. It was fascinating to follow them through their path of accepting someone new into their family.
A Christmas House Wedding portrayed the realities of single parenthood, loss, and resilience in such a delicate but profound manner. I really enjoyed this aspect. However, I do think that there were too many single parents in this novel - not much diversity in terms of that. It seemed like every character mentioned was a single parent at some point in their lives - not very realistic.
Overall, I enjoyed this book profusely, however, I do have some comments that I think would have made this a 5 star read for me. Firstly, there was no spice or steamy scenes. Single parents can get it too right? Secondly, the novel is titled 'A Christmas House Wedding', yet there wasn't much on the actual wedding. It all felt rushed and overshadowed by the Will and Liv confrontation. Yes, that confrontation was important and needed to happen, but it seemed like the reason for the whole book (the wedding) was sort of left out.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced reader copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What made this book quite interesting to read was the two story lines that were being told throughout the book - Olivia's story and Ruby, Olivia's grandmother's, story. The reader gets to see the similarities they share and their differences.
Likely the best part of this story for me was Dawn. She is such an adorable little girl, and seeing her interact with all the characters, specifically Scott and Olivia, made my heart melt. It gave me serious baby fever.
Scott and his daughter, Kat's, relationship was sweet to read about. They are both dealing with the loss of their wife and mother, respectively. It was fascinating to follow them through their path of accepting someone new into their family.
A Christmas House Wedding portrayed the realities of single parenthood, loss, and resilience in such a delicate but profound manner. I really enjoyed this aspect. However, I do think that there were too many single parents in this novel - not much diversity in terms of that. It seemed like every character mentioned was a single parent at some point in their lives - not very realistic.
Overall, I enjoyed this book profusely, however, I do have some comments that I think would have made this a 5 star read for me. Firstly, there was no spice or steamy scenes. Single parents can get it too right? Secondly, the novel is titled 'A Christmas House Wedding', yet there wasn't much on the actual wedding. It all felt rushed and overshadowed by the Will and Liv confrontation. Yes, that confrontation was important and needed to happen, but it seemed like the reason for the whole book (the wedding) was sort of left out.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an advanced reader copy of this novel. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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