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Holidays in Applewood #1
A Real Christmas
Christmas hasn't been the same for Allison Voss since losing her husband, but she's determined to make it merry for her daughters' sake. But the odds are against her. She's between jobs and simply managing day to day is a struggle—until a stranger's act of kindness changes everything.
Ward Haysgard is not a fan of Christmas. He's seen plenty of greed and selfishness and not much good will toward men. But Allison's plight touches him. As he gets to know her and her girls, they work their way into his heart. A heart he thought had hardened long ago.
As the holiday approaches, an old secret threatens their growing closeness. Allison concentrates on giving her girls "a real Christmas" with gifts and treats, but she and Ward will both discover that the only thing that makes Christmas real is the love of family and friends.
*PLEASE NOTE* Though this is a sweet romance, it does contain a few instances of mild profanity.
Ward Haysgard is not a fan of Christmas. He's seen plenty of greed and selfishness and not much good will toward men. But Allison's plight touches him. As he gets to know her and her girls, they work their way into his heart. A heart he thought had hardened long ago.
As the holiday approaches, an old secret threatens their growing closeness. Allison concentrates on giving her girls "a real Christmas" with gifts and treats, but she and Ward will both discover that the only thing that makes Christmas real is the love of family and friends.
*PLEASE NOTE* Though this is a sweet romance, it does contain a few instances of mild profanity.
148 pages, Paperback
Published November 17, 2017
553 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Christie Logan
23 books54 followersChristie Logan writes sweet romance straight from the heart. She lives in upstate New York with too many pets, too many dust bunnies lurking under the bed, and too many plot bunnies bouncing around in her head. She thinks everyone deserves a happy ending and in her books, everyone gets one.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 27, 2022
Sweet story
Only one kiss and a nice hero and heroine. Really liked the book but it was a tad bit slow. I had to force myself to finish it. I wanted to know if they got together and.... I can't tell you. That would be spoiling things. But like I said a sweet story about a widow and her two little girls that ate having a hard time making ends meet when she meets the manager of a department store and gets a seasonal job and they eventually fall in love. I think. It doesn't really say but it looks like they will eventually. Clean and sweet
Only one kiss and a nice hero and heroine. Really liked the book but it was a tad bit slow. I had to force myself to finish it. I wanted to know if they got together and.... I can't tell you. That would be spoiling things. But like I said a sweet story about a widow and her two little girls that ate having a hard time making ends meet when she meets the manager of a department store and gets a seasonal job and they eventually fall in love. I think. It doesn't really say but it looks like they will eventually. Clean and sweet
December 27, 2017
❄💟🎁What a lovely, touching, and heartwarming Christmas 🎄🎅story! Not a thing to criticize, but keep a handkerchief or two handy as you bond with recently- widowed Allison, her cute as a button daughters Cami and Tessa, and her coworkers. Alison is a great character, trying to stay calm and strong for her girls as she fights to make ends meet. Ward, a kind Samaritan stranger, enters her life and finds himself reminded of the joys and hard times of his past. Ward's back story makes him a very likable guy despite him professing no great fondness for the holiday. Some interesting twists keep the romance from being too predictable. A great find that brings home the true virtues of the season! :-)
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 4, 2020
This is a great, heartfelt collection of winter stories. I liked that the three stories were related to each other but still can be read as stand alone. Christie Logan did a great job at difficult life topics that clench your heart and feel for the main character’s circumstances. These women each deserve a HEA with a man who will show her what real unconditional love means. The last story also demonstrated how a man who focused too much on success learned real love exists and is important and how to appreciate a kind hearted woman who needed someone to love her for who she really was on the inside. There were a few parts in this collection that brought out a chuckle. Christie does a great job of sneaking in a bit of humor amongst real-life topics, keeping it light and not too intense of a read.
December 20, 2022
A single mom at Christmas
Having lost her husband just before Christmas a year before, Alison gets a job at the local up scale department store. Her kindness and care makes customers and co-workers like her. But when she learns all seasonal employees will be let go January 13th, the few items shed put on layaway for her 6 and 9 year old daughters have to be returned. Finding a job had been difficult for her and shed have to budget every penny she made to stretch her earnings as long as she could into the new year. Though broken hearted to have nothing for the girls for Christmas, she made herself think of the things she could do for them.
A very sweet novel I recommend to all.
Having lost her husband just before Christmas a year before, Alison gets a job at the local up scale department store. Her kindness and care makes customers and co-workers like her. But when she learns all seasonal employees will be let go January 13th, the few items shed put on layaway for her 6 and 9 year old daughters have to be returned. Finding a job had been difficult for her and shed have to budget every penny she made to stretch her earnings as long as she could into the new year. Though broken hearted to have nothing for the girls for Christmas, she made herself think of the things she could do for them.
A very sweet novel I recommend to all.
January 6, 2020
This was a good book! Ms. Logan understands how kids act, things they say! A mom is a widow having lost her husband. She is raising 2 young daughters on her own & experiencing the normal stressors, I.e. short on money, time & energy. She finds a job for the holidays & meets her boss. He realizes her struggles & decides to help her out with a few things. Although the mother is grateful for the help, she doesn’t want his pity. She would like a romantic relationship. Is she wanting too much. You will have to read the book to find out!
December 17, 2022
Allison is a widow with two young daughters. They had an embarrassing moment at the grocery store, and her oldest daughter, Tessa, ran out. She took her youngest daughter, Cami, and followed her. While sitting in the car, a gentleman knocked on the window and told her she forgot her groceries. He gave her a business card through the slightly lowered window and told her the store, Sullivans, was hiring seasonal help. She applied and got the job. This is an inspirational story. Very well written.
I received a free book, and this is my honest opinion.
I received a free book, and this is my honest opinion.
December 4, 2019
Great Christmas story
This was a great story about a single mom with 2 daughters at Christmas,She lost her husband a little before Christmas & the story is about her struggle to provide a nice Christmas for them.The storyline is great. Ward & Allison make you feel for her.It points out appreciate what you have as others are struggling to make a life for her children.
This was a great story about a single mom with 2 daughters at Christmas,She lost her husband a little before Christmas & the story is about her struggle to provide a nice Christmas for them.The storyline is great. Ward & Allison make you feel for her.It points out appreciate what you have as others are struggling to make a life for her children.
August 14, 2021
The story was very poignant. Thru the story the true meaning of Christmas came out. The characters were a great spectrum across the board. I enjoyed this story my only complaint is I like epilogue to show me where some of the characters go from the ending. I always like to see how the plot goes further
September 11, 2021
The characters were really well done, even the kids.
The dialogue seemed natural, too.
The story itself was believable, right down to the open ending.
Will they get a romantic HEA?
They have friendship and the resolution is in sight for the thing that was holding him back from romance... and he found his Christmas spirit. Definitely a HFN.
The dialogue seemed natural, too.
The story itself was believable, right down to the open ending.
Will they get a romantic HEA?
They have friendship and the resolution is in sight for the thing that was holding him back from romance... and he found his Christmas spirit. Definitely a HFN.
November 4, 2021
A Real Christmas
A sweet and thoughtful book, it makes you take a second look at yourself as you're reading about Allison, her struggles and successes. Ward was an interesting fellow to unwrap and with two adorable little girls and some work friends, this book will give you all the feels.
A sweet and thoughtful book, it makes you take a second look at yourself as you're reading about Allison, her struggles and successes. Ward was an interesting fellow to unwrap and with two adorable little girls and some work friends, this book will give you all the feels.
April 9, 2022
I Still Believe In Christmas Magic
My only wish is that I wish it was longer. I would have loved to see Ward & Alison relationship progress. Alison’s daughters were so adorable. I loved the book but, I’m disappointed that certain stories weren’t completed. There are some holes I wish the Author filled.
Still it’s a good book.
My only wish is that I wish it was longer. I would have loved to see Ward & Alison relationship progress. Alison’s daughters were so adorable. I loved the book but, I’m disappointed that certain stories weren’t completed. There are some holes I wish the Author filled.
Still it’s a good book.
December 21, 2022
Sweet story
This was a cute story and a nice quick read. Our heroine is a young widow trying to make Christmas for her two young daughters. Things look bleak when her temp job doesn't turn into full time, but with a little help from the handsome boss and her co-workers there is a HEA to wrap it all up.
This was a cute story and a nice quick read. Our heroine is a young widow trying to make Christmas for her two young daughters. Things look bleak when her temp job doesn't turn into full time, but with a little help from the handsome boss and her co-workers there is a HEA to wrap it all up.
January 21, 2023
A inspiring romance with down to earth characters facing contemporary life challenges. Single mom Allison trying to provide for her family and make Christmas memories. Christie Logan is a talented writer - a page turning with just enough description and interaction of characters. As a mom and grandma I could relate to Allison's struggles when money is tight.
April 4, 2023
A Real Christmas
What a heartwarming story. A widowed mother of 2 daughters, trying her best to survive and keep food on the table only to be judged by others. Sadly people are critical in regards to what they don't like or understand. Yet there are those who are willing to help and give without expecting anything in return. Beautiful story ❤️
What a heartwarming story. A widowed mother of 2 daughters, trying her best to survive and keep food on the table only to be judged by others. Sadly people are critical in regards to what they don't like or understand. Yet there are those who are willing to help and give without expecting anything in return. Beautiful story ❤️
November 4, 2024
I was left wanting more. Which isn’t a bad thing, but there was a many things left unanswered. What about Nik? Does Ward confront his mother after all? Is Tommy going to end up being a good kid and befriend Tessa? I know this is a short story and elaboration isn’t always possible. But if this book was ever extended I would love to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2025
A Christmas to remember,
What a wonderful way to remember Christmas by your co workers and boss bringing the true meaning of Christmas to a single mom raising 2 daughters after their dad died. A story to help you get in the meaning of Christmas and bring cheer to the less fortunate.
What a wonderful way to remember Christmas by your co workers and boss bringing the true meaning of Christmas to a single mom raising 2 daughters after their dad died. A story to help you get in the meaning of Christmas and bring cheer to the less fortunate.
July 24, 2018
A sweet read
Loved it! A true what Christmas is all about. Funny too wish it was a bit longer. I am going to read more of Ms Logan's books. Got this thru another author's recommendation.
Loved it! A true what Christmas is all about. Funny too wish it was a bit longer. I am going to read more of Ms Logan's books. Got this thru another author's recommendation.
December 3, 2018
I had so much fun reading this book. It was the perfect cozy, quick holiday read, and it put a smile on my face. The characters are easy to care about. Plus, there's a real feel-good message to the story. I'd recommend it to anyone.
December 5, 2019
Christmas is for children
Allison is a widow with two little girls, no job and a grumpy car. Luckily she gets a temporary job in a store for Christmas. The pay will help but, it may not be enough to give the girls a normal Christmas.
Allison is a widow with two little girls, no job and a grumpy car. Luckily she gets a temporary job in a store for Christmas. The pay will help but, it may not be enough to give the girls a normal Christmas.
January 31, 2022
enjoyable story
The story was enjoyable, I wish there had been more character development and character details, you never really get a good picture of what the characters look like or are truly feeling, needed more relationship building.
The story was enjoyable, I wish there had been more character development and character details, you never really get a good picture of what the characters look like or are truly feeling, needed more relationship building.
February 26, 2022
A widow struggles at Christmas!
A lovely story about Christmas. How a chance meeting brings a group of people together to make Christmas special! Kids and Christmas, what could be better?
A lovely story about Christmas. How a chance meeting brings a group of people together to make Christmas special! Kids and Christmas, what could be better?
April 30, 2022
Never alone
A wonderful feel good story that reminds you that Christmas is more than gifts and a strong independent woman can sometimes need the help of friends to make herself, her children and her friends themselves feel the beauty of giving.
A wonderful feel good story that reminds you that Christmas is more than gifts and a strong independent woman can sometimes need the help of friends to make herself, her children and her friends themselves feel the beauty of giving.
December 18, 2022
This was a really cute holiday read. It did have lots of ups and downs. Life's good & bad when you are unemployed and have two daughters who get embarrassed when the SNAP card comes out, people start running at the mouth. This definitely is worthy of a Hallmark Holiday movie.
December 18, 2022
Beautiful Christmas story!
This book was absolutely phenomenal!!! I love Christmas stories and this one just had everything in it that I want in a story. It is all so believable. It just warms my heart all throughout but especially the ending! That was epic!!
This book was absolutely phenomenal!!! I love Christmas stories and this one just had everything in it that I want in a story. It is all so believable. It just warms my heart all throughout but especially the ending! That was epic!!
December 23, 2022
Entertaining
This is a story that demonstrates the meaning of friendship and learning to accept help from others. Life isn't easy for a widow with two young children but she is determined to provide for her girls yet, everything goes wrong.
This is a story that demonstrates the meaning of friendship and learning to accept help from others. Life isn't easy for a widow with two young children but she is determined to provide for her girls yet, everything goes wrong.
December 28, 2022
Sweet old fashioned story.
I really liked this book. Characters felt real and it had a happy ending. The mom struggled to give her children the best Christmas she could manage. Kids were not bratty and we're very sweet actually. Would like to follow the story further.
I really liked this book. Characters felt real and it had a happy ending. The mom struggled to give her children the best Christmas she could manage. Kids were not bratty and we're very sweet actually. Would like to follow the story further.
March 1, 2023
A Real Christmas!
Loved this well written book and will continue reading the rest of the series. I enjoyed the sweet storyline and the wonderful characters that entertained me as they found the way to their HEA. JudyE
Loved this well written book and will continue reading the rest of the series. I enjoyed the sweet storyline and the wonderful characters that entertained me as they found the way to their HEA. JudyE
April 18, 2023
Sweet Romance
This story was short but as entertaining as any book i have ever read. Characters were Believable and very well written. Great story of a widow and her children and how tough a single Mom,s life can be.
This story was short but as entertaining as any book i have ever read. Characters were Believable and very well written. Great story of a widow and her children and how tough a single Mom,s life can be.
June 29, 2023
LGJ
A very interested story; when life throw you lemons you make lemonade. But in the end the children have a Merry Christmas and their mother and her boss may be trying to develop a relationship. Time will tell if there is a continues in this series
A very interested story; when life throw you lemons you make lemonade. But in the end the children have a Merry Christmas and their mother and her boss may be trying to develop a relationship. Time will tell if there is a continues in this series
September 27, 2023
A great book
I think everyone will really enjoy reading this perfect story. It could give lots of hope that our world has many wonderful people in it. The author did a fantastic job.
I think everyone will really enjoy reading this perfect story. It could give lots of hope that our world has many wonderful people in it. The author did a fantastic job.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews