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The Road to Christmas
A multigenerational Christmas road trip story filled with humor and heart, set against the snowy mountains of Washington State.
Michelle and Max are not planning on a happy holiday. Their marriage is in shambles and the D word has entered their vocabulary. But now their youngest daughter, Julia, wants everyone to come to her new house in Idaho for Christmas, and she’s got the guest room all ready for Mom and Dad. Oh, joy.
Their other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, are driving up from California and hoping to meet a sexy rancher for Audrey along the way. What they don’t plan on is getting stranded on a ranch when the car breaks down.
The ones with the shortest drive are Grandma and Grandpa—also known as Hazel and Warren. It’s still a bit of a trek, and Hazel doesn’t like the idea of driving all that way in snow, but Warren knows they’ll have no problem. They have a reliable car—and snow tires and chains if they need them. They’ll be fine.
Surprises lie in store for all three sets of intrepid travelers as they set out on three very different adventures, all leading to one memorable family Christmas.
Michelle and Max are not planning on a happy holiday. Their marriage is in shambles and the D word has entered their vocabulary. But now their youngest daughter, Julia, wants everyone to come to her new house in Idaho for Christmas, and she’s got the guest room all ready for Mom and Dad. Oh, joy.
Their other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, are driving up from California and hoping to meet a sexy rancher for Audrey along the way. What they don’t plan on is getting stranded on a ranch when the car breaks down.
The ones with the shortest drive are Grandma and Grandpa—also known as Hazel and Warren. It’s still a bit of a trek, and Hazel doesn’t like the idea of driving all that way in snow, but Warren knows they’ll have no problem. They have a reliable car—and snow tires and chains if they need them. They’ll be fine.
Surprises lie in store for all three sets of intrepid travelers as they set out on three very different adventures, all leading to one memorable family Christmas.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2022
352 people are currently reading
2402 people want to read
About the author
Sheila Roberts
108 books1,974 followersWith fifty books to her credit, both fiction and non-fiction, Sheila Roberts is a frequent USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller - and a fan favorite. Her books have sold over three million copies and have been turned into movies for the Hallmark, Lifetime and Great American Family channels. Before settling into her writing career, Sheila owned a singing telegram company and played in band. When she's not traveling, Sheila can be found hanging out with friends, playing tennis, and, of course, writing and reading. Sometimes she even remembers to post books she's read!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 354 reviews
October 12, 2022
The Road to Christmas by Sheila Roberts is a contemporary novel that does have a bit of romance and is set during the Christmas season. The story in The Road to Christmas is one that changes the point of view between several characters during the book.
Michelle and Max are at a point in their marriage that divorce is being thought of by both now that their girls have all grown. Even with their marital troubles tough they can’t say no to their youngest, Julia, when she asks for the family to all come see her new home in Idaho.
Audrey and Shyla are Julia’s older siblings and of course they agree to Christmas with their younger sister and set out together to make the journey. And then Hazel and Warren, otherwise known as grandma and grandpa to the girls, also need to make a drive to get to Julia but are determined to do so too so that the whole family will be together for Christmas.
Even though I’ve read several books by Sheila Roberts and enjoyed them I think The Road to Christmas would have screamed read me regardless of the author as I love a good travel read and I love a good Christmas tale. With three pairs setting out on their own road trips I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see what would happen. As much as I loved the story and all the action that came along though I did kind of think to myself just how realistic would it be for all three pairs to have such an adventure so I settled on four stars although the adventures certainly had me hooked!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Michelle and Max are at a point in their marriage that divorce is being thought of by both now that their girls have all grown. Even with their marital troubles tough they can’t say no to their youngest, Julia, when she asks for the family to all come see her new home in Idaho.
Audrey and Shyla are Julia’s older siblings and of course they agree to Christmas with their younger sister and set out together to make the journey. And then Hazel and Warren, otherwise known as grandma and grandpa to the girls, also need to make a drive to get to Julia but are determined to do so too so that the whole family will be together for Christmas.
Even though I’ve read several books by Sheila Roberts and enjoyed them I think The Road to Christmas would have screamed read me regardless of the author as I love a good travel read and I love a good Christmas tale. With three pairs setting out on their own road trips I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see what would happen. As much as I loved the story and all the action that came along though I did kind of think to myself just how realistic would it be for all three pairs to have such an adventure so I settled on four stars although the adventures certainly had me hooked!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
September 20, 2022
It's Thanksgiving, and Michelle and Max are having marriage troubles. They have three daughters, their youngest, Julia, just had a baby so can't attend this year. They are trying to not let anyone know of their troubles and that Max is sleeping in another room. When Julia invites everyone including Max's parents to visit for Christmas in Idaho, it is quite an adventure! Can Michelle and Max work out their problems? You'll have to see by reading this great story.
This was my first book by Shelia Roberts. I really enjoyed this funny and sweet holiday story. There is really nothing not to like. It reminded me of a Hallmark movie, which I love. If you are looking for a great holiday book, I would highly recommend this one for your reading enjoyment!
Many thanks to UPLIT Reads and HTP for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted on my Instagram (@coffee. break.book.reviews ) in the near future.
This was my first book by Shelia Roberts. I really enjoyed this funny and sweet holiday story. There is really nothing not to like. It reminded me of a Hallmark movie, which I love. If you are looking for a great holiday book, I would highly recommend this one for your reading enjoyment!
Many thanks to UPLIT Reads and HTP for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted on my Instagram (@coffee. break.book.reviews ) in the near future.
September 28, 2022
“Life is about trying.”
*
*
The Road To Christmas had such a great focus on family -both good and bad. We had stories from grandparents, the parents, and the three adult children all wrapped up into one. The grandparents, Helen and Warren, were very much in love but to the point where they maybe needed a little bit of help. The parents, Michelle and Max, were on the fast track to divorce after this holiday season. The 3 sisters, Audrey, Shula, and Julia, were all dealing with different phases of life -motherhood, new love, and heartbreak. Julia invites everyone to her new home for Christmas and they all decide to go, some more reluctantly than others. A rogue deer, a closed road, and a flat tire all end up being life lessons for everyone traveling. Can a marriage be saved? I’d love at first sight real?
*
I really enjoyed the little “blasts from the past” memories sprinkled throughout this novel. We got to see some more depth to how everyone got to be in their current situations. There’s kind of a sense of sadness at the beginning learning about Michelle and Max but the author really cued us in behind the scenes that, perhaps, all love wasn’t lost. Yet. My favorite story line was Audrey’s. She had given up on relationships when “Santa” suddenly drops a handsome man in her world. The epilogue gave us the rest of that story that I needed and absolutely loved it. This story takes place at Christmas and ultimately that’s what brings everyone together but the overall theme was more of the familial relationships, I think. The Christmas could have lifted right out. 😬 Overall I really enjoyed this book and getting to know this family. Now, off to bake a recipe from the back of the book! 👩🏻🍳🍰🎄
*
*
*
The Road To Christmas had such a great focus on family -both good and bad. We had stories from grandparents, the parents, and the three adult children all wrapped up into one. The grandparents, Helen and Warren, were very much in love but to the point where they maybe needed a little bit of help. The parents, Michelle and Max, were on the fast track to divorce after this holiday season. The 3 sisters, Audrey, Shula, and Julia, were all dealing with different phases of life -motherhood, new love, and heartbreak. Julia invites everyone to her new home for Christmas and they all decide to go, some more reluctantly than others. A rogue deer, a closed road, and a flat tire all end up being life lessons for everyone traveling. Can a marriage be saved? I’d love at first sight real?
*
I really enjoyed the little “blasts from the past” memories sprinkled throughout this novel. We got to see some more depth to how everyone got to be in their current situations. There’s kind of a sense of sadness at the beginning learning about Michelle and Max but the author really cued us in behind the scenes that, perhaps, all love wasn’t lost. Yet. My favorite story line was Audrey’s. She had given up on relationships when “Santa” suddenly drops a handsome man in her world. The epilogue gave us the rest of that story that I needed and absolutely loved it. This story takes place at Christmas and ultimately that’s what brings everyone together but the overall theme was more of the familial relationships, I think. The Christmas could have lifted right out. 😬 Overall I really enjoyed this book and getting to know this family. Now, off to bake a recipe from the back of the book! 👩🏻🍳🍰🎄
*
December 16, 2022
Thanksgiving was rough for Max and Michelle. Their marriage is on the rocks but they put up a good front for their daughters and Max's parents. When their youngest daughter Julia invites all of them to her new home for Christmas it involves a road trip for all of them. Michelle is dreading the long drive with Max and the chance of snowy roads. Max's parents are experiencing some health issues but are determined to make the drive to see Julia and their great granddaughter. Daughters Audrey and Shyla are driving together and plan to enjoy some sisterly bonding. But along the way each couple encounters mishaps and new adventures leading to revelations and new beginnings.
An entertaining Christmas novel of love and second chances.
An entertaining Christmas novel of love and second chances.
September 2, 2022
Sheila Roberts has done it again!
What an awesome story. Very well written with great characters that draw you into the story. It will make you laugh and cry. A story of family, second chances and forgiveness.
I had to laugh at some of the similarities between Hazel and Walter and my husband and me.
I so hated to see the story end.
Thanks again Sheila for such an amazing story.
I think this is my new favorite book of yours.
What an awesome story. Very well written with great characters that draw you into the story. It will make you laugh and cry. A story of family, second chances and forgiveness.
I had to laugh at some of the similarities between Hazel and Walter and my husband and me.
I so hated to see the story end.
Thanks again Sheila for such an amazing story.
I think this is my new favorite book of yours.
November 15, 2022
It was good but the ending happened to quickly
December 17, 2022
Reading THE ROAD TO CHRISTMAS by Sheila Roberts was a great way to spring start the holiday season. This tale is a good mixture of merrymaking, mishaps, and subtle messages. It’s family at Christmastime, and we all know how emotionally messy that scene can get. There’s a road trip with unexpected chaos as everyone tries to get together.
The reader follows the individual stories of the six relatives driving to visit sister Julia in her new home in Idaho. Grandma and Grandpa take to the road…without Grandpa’s meds. Mom and Dad Michelle and Max are barely speaking, and now they are on a long trip together. Sisters Audrey and Shyla are headed to Julia’s home from California. Car troubles land them in a small town where they find some old-fashioned hospitality. This story is warm, comforting, and hopeful. And the road to Christmas is paved with miracles.
The seasoned author’s writing is sharp and clean, and the characters’ voices are unique and clearly defined. If you enjoy hallmark movies and happy endings, then put this book on Santa’s list.
The reader follows the individual stories of the six relatives driving to visit sister Julia in her new home in Idaho. Grandma and Grandpa take to the road…without Grandpa’s meds. Mom and Dad Michelle and Max are barely speaking, and now they are on a long trip together. Sisters Audrey and Shyla are headed to Julia’s home from California. Car troubles land them in a small town where they find some old-fashioned hospitality. This story is warm, comforting, and hopeful. And the road to Christmas is paved with miracles.
The seasoned author’s writing is sharp and clean, and the characters’ voices are unique and clearly defined. If you enjoy hallmark movies and happy endings, then put this book on Santa’s list.
November 21, 2022
I love a good family road trip story and this book provided me with three! It had funny moments, serious situations and romance. I enjoyed the individual stories of the three couples driving to visit Julia in her new home in Idaho.
Grandma and Grandpa are at an age where younger family members are concerned about them doing a road trip. But they still want their independence and decide to drive to visit their Granddaughter and her family. Grandpa forgets to pack his medication but luckily Grandma knows how to take care of him.
Michelle and Max are the sandwich generation and are on the verge of divorce. They too are driving to their daughter’s home and for the first time in quite some time will be sharing a bed in the guest bedroom. Will their journey bring them closer together or push them even further apart?
Audrey and Shyla are driving to Julia’s home from California. Car troubles bring them to a small town where they find a very warm welcome. Will they have more than just their car repaired while in this town?
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure in your holiday reading look no further. The Road to Christmas is a charming, engaging novel that I’m recommending to everyone.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book which was narrated by Ann Marie Gideon who gives a wonderful performance. I appreciated her enthusiasm and clear, crisp tone to her voice. I would not hesitate to recommend this format.
Grandma and Grandpa are at an age where younger family members are concerned about them doing a road trip. But they still want their independence and decide to drive to visit their Granddaughter and her family. Grandpa forgets to pack his medication but luckily Grandma knows how to take care of him.
Michelle and Max are the sandwich generation and are on the verge of divorce. They too are driving to their daughter’s home and for the first time in quite some time will be sharing a bed in the guest bedroom. Will their journey bring them closer together or push them even further apart?
Audrey and Shyla are driving to Julia’s home from California. Car troubles bring them to a small town where they find a very warm welcome. Will they have more than just their car repaired while in this town?
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure in your holiday reading look no further. The Road to Christmas is a charming, engaging novel that I’m recommending to everyone.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book which was narrated by Ann Marie Gideon who gives a wonderful performance. I appreciated her enthusiasm and clear, crisp tone to her voice. I would not hesitate to recommend this format.
December 11, 2022
The Road to Christmas
Author: Sheila Roberts
Narrator: Ann Marie Gideon
Harper Audio
Being with family during holidays is important, even if it means traveling on treacherous winter roads for it to happen. Roberts’ new Christmas book transports readers on a bonus of multiple adventurous road trips. Three generations of one family head in separate vehicles to the same destination for a Christmas gathering. The weather worsens as the wheels roll toward Idaho, and perils, risks, emergencies, and sweet surprises become part of the journey. Roberts' characters are ones that I enjoyed riding along with, learning their back stories as we went. Gideon's perfect, precise narration kept me enthralled in the audio narrative.
The marriage of Michelle and Max is in jeopardy, but they are travel partners from Washington State to Idaho, on the road to spend Christmas with their daughter, Julia. Their other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, drive together from California. Max's parents Warren and Hazel leave Oregon for the shortest drive.
The multi-generational story gives insight into how the occupants of each car handle both the adversity and joy awaiting them on their individual routes to be together. As each of them are at different stages in their lives and relationships, the book is richly layered with the realities of life that families face. Although you will need some hot chocolate and a warm blanket for the wintry excursion, Roberts' writing captures the warmth of the Christmas season.
Author: Sheila Roberts
Narrator: Ann Marie Gideon
Harper Audio
Being with family during holidays is important, even if it means traveling on treacherous winter roads for it to happen. Roberts’ new Christmas book transports readers on a bonus of multiple adventurous road trips. Three generations of one family head in separate vehicles to the same destination for a Christmas gathering. The weather worsens as the wheels roll toward Idaho, and perils, risks, emergencies, and sweet surprises become part of the journey. Roberts' characters are ones that I enjoyed riding along with, learning their back stories as we went. Gideon's perfect, precise narration kept me enthralled in the audio narrative.
The marriage of Michelle and Max is in jeopardy, but they are travel partners from Washington State to Idaho, on the road to spend Christmas with their daughter, Julia. Their other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, drive together from California. Max's parents Warren and Hazel leave Oregon for the shortest drive.
The multi-generational story gives insight into how the occupants of each car handle both the adversity and joy awaiting them on their individual routes to be together. As each of them are at different stages in their lives and relationships, the book is richly layered with the realities of life that families face. Although you will need some hot chocolate and a warm blanket for the wintry excursion, Roberts' writing captures the warmth of the Christmas season.
December 16, 2022
DNF 20% - this one isn’t for me. I know this genre is known for being sweet and predictable but I couldn’t handle the one dimensional characters or the shallow plot. There are too many other Christmas books to read to finish this one.
December 1, 2022
Fell in love with almost all of the characters!!!
September 15, 2022
I practically inhaled this book! Although it’s marketed as a Christmas book - and it IS that - it’s also a “signature Sheila Roberts book”, which means it’s sweet, funny, and heartwarming. The plot weaves throughout the hearts and lives of an assortment of characters that are SO relatable! We “know” these people; we ARE these people!! The story follows different family members as they all make their way - driving - to gather for Christmas. It’ll be fun, right?? Driving hundreds of miles in December, in the Pacific Northwest … what could go wrong? Every detail, every situation, every conversation resonates with the reader on different levels. Great dialog, a bit of tugging-at-the-heartstrings, sibling rivalry, a marriage headed for an unhappily-ever-after, and, oh yeah! Grandpa forgets his heart meds at home! Fasten your seatbelts, you don’t want to miss this road trip to Christmas!
September 19, 2022
If you want a great launch to the quintessential family gathering that we all have experienced from time to time, plus a trip to fun places filled with of course, miscommunication, and a whole lot of life lessons learned ... then this is the one to pick up.
Some people like football, but me? I like Pre-Season fun family books that I also HOPE get made into Hallmark movies.
Sheila writes characters who all seem to be related. You can see and hear them in your head. Some of them just can't be real if you don't have a life like these imaginary tales. But ... if you don't have a big family or bucket full of friends in the friend groups ... Sheila offers us a fun replacement.
NO spoilers when writing a review is a bit tricky but then, that's what book clubs are for.
Some people like football, but me? I like Pre-Season fun family books that I also HOPE get made into Hallmark movies.
Sheila writes characters who all seem to be related. You can see and hear them in your head. Some of them just can't be real if you don't have a life like these imaginary tales. But ... if you don't have a big family or bucket full of friends in the friend groups ... Sheila offers us a fun replacement.
NO spoilers when writing a review is a bit tricky but then, that's what book clubs are for.
September 18, 2022
Second chances, road trips and happy endings!
Grandparents, parents and two sisters all trying to get to the third sisters for Christmas. Untimely incidents that create havoc in getting to were they need to go brings challenges to each group but also the chance for happiness in the end.
A delightful up lifting Christmas story that everyone will love.
Sheila Roberts did it again with another wonderful story!
Grandparents, parents and two sisters all trying to get to the third sisters for Christmas. Untimely incidents that create havoc in getting to were they need to go brings challenges to each group but also the chance for happiness in the end.
A delightful up lifting Christmas story that everyone will love.
Sheila Roberts did it again with another wonderful story!
September 19, 2022
Oh my goodness, I never wanted this book to end. I loved how Shelia took three generations and told their stories. She made me laugh,cry and smile at the same time. Even though I am older I really felt I could identify with each of the characters. Max and Michelle-will have you wondering, as will, Warren and Hazel, and their granddaughters. I don’t want to spoil anything; I suggest you read The Road to Christmas for yourself.
November 29, 2022
Oh, man. This book was… not good. It was 90% rehashing of why two relationships had gone bad and so very repetitive. I can’t believe I finished it but I have a hard time not finishing books. 🤷🏻♀️
December 16, 2024
Fun Christmas love stories from all ages of life!
March 18, 2023
I listened to the audio version of this book and enjoyed the story!
Family, friendship and romance!
Family, friendship and romance!
September 13, 2022
I am a HUGE fan of Sheila Roberts’ books and perhaps more importantly, her sense of humor. I will never regret picking up a couple of her books years ago and reading them. I have since read every one of her books.
This book is about things that go wrong on road trips. Seeing as though I am a product of veteran road trippers I can relate. Early on, my Mom decided that we could camp our way to vacations. Our first camping trip occurred when I was maybe 5 or 6. To see if we liked camping, my parents rented a tent, mom bought a camping book of the time and off we went to Washington DC. One of our first campsites turned out to be not a public campground at all, but rather a boy scout camp. The director was very gracious and let us sleep in his house overnight. The next day, we were off to our campground and a most memorable trip. When I was 9 or 10, my uncle, who was in the AF, was stationed in Wyoming. Our family vacation that year was to travel to Wyoming to see that part of our family. My mother planned many interesting stops along the way. We went through Canada and toured the Ford plant on the US side of the border. In Illinois, we explored the land of Lincoln. In Missouri, we visited Mark Twain's (Samuel Clemens) birthplace and haunts. All this with four pre-teens and teens in a station wagon with a popup camper. What we didn't plan on was not being able to find a campground one night and ending up sleeping in the car at a rest stop. Mom remembered that that particular town had been in the news recently because of some serial killer, so, we rolled up the windows and locked the doors. By morning, the windows were down and our feet were hanging out of the windows because it was too hot to do otherwise. My father put the camper up and mom cooked us breakfast and fed the truckers stopped there as well. Prior to leaving on that trip, I was ill with what was then called tonsilitis. Our family doctor prescribed the usual treatment of penicillin and off we went. Unfortunately, the further along the route we got, I seemed only to be getting more ill, ultimately, I was talking through my nose and was steadily losing weight. When we arrived in WY, my aunt, who was a nurse said I either had a real bad case of strep throat or an abscess. I needed to go to the doctor. The regular GP said he could not handle my issue and sent me to an ENT. The ENT took one look in my throat and said what hospital do you want her in? It was indeed an abscess behind one tonsil, which was removed so that the abscess could be drained. We were supposed to be in Yellowstone for my sister’s birthday, but because I was hospitalized, we were delayed a day—I still remember my sister telling the rangers it was my fault we had not made it in time for her birthday. One of the highlights of this trip for me was that I’d done a report on Sacajawea that year in school and we traveled to her grave. My husband likes to say we’re having an adventure, and we have had many such adventures in the decades of our relationship! If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans, indeed!
Even if you have never had such adventures, you will surely find this book enjoyable!
In the interest of full disclosure, I got this book from the author as part of her street team. But I’d have gotten, read and reviewed it anyway!
This book is about things that go wrong on road trips. Seeing as though I am a product of veteran road trippers I can relate. Early on, my Mom decided that we could camp our way to vacations. Our first camping trip occurred when I was maybe 5 or 6. To see if we liked camping, my parents rented a tent, mom bought a camping book of the time and off we went to Washington DC. One of our first campsites turned out to be not a public campground at all, but rather a boy scout camp. The director was very gracious and let us sleep in his house overnight. The next day, we were off to our campground and a most memorable trip. When I was 9 or 10, my uncle, who was in the AF, was stationed in Wyoming. Our family vacation that year was to travel to Wyoming to see that part of our family. My mother planned many interesting stops along the way. We went through Canada and toured the Ford plant on the US side of the border. In Illinois, we explored the land of Lincoln. In Missouri, we visited Mark Twain's (Samuel Clemens) birthplace and haunts. All this with four pre-teens and teens in a station wagon with a popup camper. What we didn't plan on was not being able to find a campground one night and ending up sleeping in the car at a rest stop. Mom remembered that that particular town had been in the news recently because of some serial killer, so, we rolled up the windows and locked the doors. By morning, the windows were down and our feet were hanging out of the windows because it was too hot to do otherwise. My father put the camper up and mom cooked us breakfast and fed the truckers stopped there as well. Prior to leaving on that trip, I was ill with what was then called tonsilitis. Our family doctor prescribed the usual treatment of penicillin and off we went. Unfortunately, the further along the route we got, I seemed only to be getting more ill, ultimately, I was talking through my nose and was steadily losing weight. When we arrived in WY, my aunt, who was a nurse said I either had a real bad case of strep throat or an abscess. I needed to go to the doctor. The regular GP said he could not handle my issue and sent me to an ENT. The ENT took one look in my throat and said what hospital do you want her in? It was indeed an abscess behind one tonsil, which was removed so that the abscess could be drained. We were supposed to be in Yellowstone for my sister’s birthday, but because I was hospitalized, we were delayed a day—I still remember my sister telling the rangers it was my fault we had not made it in time for her birthday. One of the highlights of this trip for me was that I’d done a report on Sacajawea that year in school and we traveled to her grave. My husband likes to say we’re having an adventure, and we have had many such adventures in the decades of our relationship! If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans, indeed!
Even if you have never had such adventures, you will surely find this book enjoyable!
In the interest of full disclosure, I got this book from the author as part of her street team. But I’d have gotten, read and reviewed it anyway!
November 21, 2022
The Road to Christmas by Sheila Roberts is the perfect blend of heartwarming family drama, romance, and seasonal fun.
Julia, youngest daughter of Michelle and Max, invites everyone to her new house in Idaho for Christmas. Michelle and Max aren't thrilled about going, but with their marriage in shambles and divorce imminent, they want the family to have one last holiday together.
Michelle and Max's two other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, are driving in from California, hoping they might find Audrey a sexy rancher along the way. What they don't plan on is being stranded for the holidays when the car breaks down.
Grandma Hazel and Grandpa Warren have the shortest drive, but Hazel isn't thrilled about the idea of driving all that way in the snow.
As three generations of the family make their way out in the snow to visit Julia, their adventures lead to one memorable family Christmas.
This might just be my favorite Sheila Roberts Christmas story. It has drama. It has humor. It has romance. And it is all set during a snowy Christmas. What could be better? I loved getting to know this family. I could read this novel a second time.
With The Road to Christmas, Roberts proves once again why she is the queen of the Christmas novel. As each set of travelers comes up against their own obstacles, readers enjoy getting to know them, crying with them a little, and laughing with them. This is such a sweet story, and Roberts' keen eye for detail makes the reader feel like they are right there with these characters. My hope is that Hallmark or Lifetime Movie Network decides to turn this one into a movie, because it would be amazing to see this story unfold on the small screen.
If you enjoy sweet seasonal stories, The Road to Christmas is a perfect choice.
Julia, youngest daughter of Michelle and Max, invites everyone to her new house in Idaho for Christmas. Michelle and Max aren't thrilled about going, but with their marriage in shambles and divorce imminent, they want the family to have one last holiday together.
Michelle and Max's two other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, are driving in from California, hoping they might find Audrey a sexy rancher along the way. What they don't plan on is being stranded for the holidays when the car breaks down.
Grandma Hazel and Grandpa Warren have the shortest drive, but Hazel isn't thrilled about the idea of driving all that way in the snow.
As three generations of the family make their way out in the snow to visit Julia, their adventures lead to one memorable family Christmas.
This might just be my favorite Sheila Roberts Christmas story. It has drama. It has humor. It has romance. And it is all set during a snowy Christmas. What could be better? I loved getting to know this family. I could read this novel a second time.
With The Road to Christmas, Roberts proves once again why she is the queen of the Christmas novel. As each set of travelers comes up against their own obstacles, readers enjoy getting to know them, crying with them a little, and laughing with them. This is such a sweet story, and Roberts' keen eye for detail makes the reader feel like they are right there with these characters. My hope is that Hallmark or Lifetime Movie Network decides to turn this one into a movie, because it would be amazing to see this story unfold on the small screen.
If you enjoy sweet seasonal stories, The Road to Christmas is a perfect choice.
September 13, 2022
Ah....Christmas. There's something about Christmas that calls for people to come together and celebrate the season and the warmth of love for one another. In this thoroughly enjoyable book, Julia wants her family members to drive to her home, see her baby, and enjoy Christmas with her. Well, it seems like the ideal Christmas plan. Her parents, grandparents, and sisters should agree to the plan with no hesitations. Well, they agreed and were on their way. They'd all be making their prospective road trips, but not together. Road trips can be a wonderful time even if they include bad weather, car mishaps, health concerns, anger, and accidentally finding true love. Yes, this family was determined to be together with each other at Christmas, no matter what. Three different cars held passengers making their way to Julia's. Yes, they all had travel and Christmas plans. As per a line adapted from Robert Burns: "the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry," no matter how carefully a project is planned, something may still go wrong with it...or something could go amazingly right, as we see in this novel. These travelers start off on their individual roads to Christmas and find out insights into their own lives. While the travelers started from different locations, physically and emotionally, they desired the same destination. Sometimes the trip itself is as important as the destination. There were times for personal growth involved in the unexpected delays and setbacks. So, were they really "setbacks?" All travelers eventually made it to Julia's house. Familial love. Seeing the love passed on from generation to generation can really warm your heart. Ah....Christmas. The experiences from this Christmas led to quite a year including an amazing Christmas wedding the following year! This book touches the heart on many levels and should be read by lovers of Christmas and hopeless romantics everywhere.
November 18, 2022
This was a story of three generations of a family, starting with the middle generation, Michelle and Max, which is a marriage in trouble scenario. They are going on a road trip to their youngest of three daughters for Christmas. Bad weather is predicted. This couple almost gets in an accident, which gets them both thinking about what's important. They are stuck in a motel for a few days due to the snowstorm.
Max's parents, Hazel and Warren, are also travelling to the family Christmas. Warren has heart problems and has been refusing to deal with it, and it causes a problem when he hits a deer while on the road, and he ends up in the hospital.
Max and Michelle's daughter Shyla has the love of her life, but her sister Audrey has had bad luck in relationships. A flat tire situation may remedy her love life, with a little help from fate and her sister.
I loved this story and will be reading more by this author!
Max's parents, Hazel and Warren, are also travelling to the family Christmas. Warren has heart problems and has been refusing to deal with it, and it causes a problem when he hits a deer while on the road, and he ends up in the hospital.
Max and Michelle's daughter Shyla has the love of her life, but her sister Audrey has had bad luck in relationships. A flat tire situation may remedy her love life, with a little help from fate and her sister.
I loved this story and will be reading more by this author!
October 21, 2022
I really enjoyed Sheila Robert’s A Little Christmas Spirit last year so I was super excited to get the opportunity to review her new one this year and it did not disappoint
Synopsis:
Three generations of travelers embark on a Christmas road trip filled with mishaps and warmth., set along the snowy mountains of Washington state.
Michelle and Max are begrudgingly going as to not disappoint their youngest daughter who has invited everyone to her new home in Idaho for Christmas. Their other two daughters, Shyla and Audrey and driving up from California together. Audry still scorned from a bad break up is subjected to Shyla’s matchmaking along the way with a hot rancher they meet during their travels. The grandparents Hazel and Warren have the shortest drive but with Warren’s heart problems and the dangerous snowy roads make it an eventful drive.
One thing is for sure this is a Christmas none of them will forget.
My thoughts
This book gave me all the feels because I could relate to Max and Michelle’s story. My own marriage of twenty-seven years is ending in divorce and I’m apprehensive about how the holidays and my future will look moving forward. I could also relate to Audrey and her bad luck with men after experiencing some dates post- marriage.
All of the characters get their HEA in the end which is just what you want in a holiday read! In my current predicament I almost didn’t want that for everyone but that’s just me.
Synopsis:
Three generations of travelers embark on a Christmas road trip filled with mishaps and warmth., set along the snowy mountains of Washington state.
Michelle and Max are begrudgingly going as to not disappoint their youngest daughter who has invited everyone to her new home in Idaho for Christmas. Their other two daughters, Shyla and Audrey and driving up from California together. Audry still scorned from a bad break up is subjected to Shyla’s matchmaking along the way with a hot rancher they meet during their travels. The grandparents Hazel and Warren have the shortest drive but with Warren’s heart problems and the dangerous snowy roads make it an eventful drive.
One thing is for sure this is a Christmas none of them will forget.
My thoughts
This book gave me all the feels because I could relate to Max and Michelle’s story. My own marriage of twenty-seven years is ending in divorce and I’m apprehensive about how the holidays and my future will look moving forward. I could also relate to Audrey and her bad luck with men after experiencing some dates post- marriage.
All of the characters get their HEA in the end which is just what you want in a holiday read! In my current predicament I almost didn’t want that for everyone but that’s just me.
September 17, 2022
I Love to start the holidays with a festive Christmas book, Sheila Robert's new Book "The Road to Christmas is a great way to kick off the holidays..... Max and Michelle are having material problems... but despite of that Michelle still invites her In-laws, Hazel, and Warren, and her daughters Audrey, Shyla, and Julia, to Thanksgiving at their home. Michelle and Max are getting divorced but want to keep it a secret till after the holidays. The youngest daughter Julia just had a new baby and can't attend, so she wants the family to travel to Idaho where she lives for Christmas. Audrey and Shyla are driving from California, and Shyla is hoping to find her sister a cute cowboy on the way there. Grandma Hazel and Grandpa Warren have the shortest trip, but with weather getting bad, and warren forgetting his medication, will they make it in time for Christmas...... but Warren keeps insisting "they will be fine." Michelle and Max have a long ride ahead of them, and with the anger between them.... Can the ride get any worse? It does when the heavy snow shuts down the roads, and they have no choice but get a room at a hotel. I love how they all have their own traveling adventures. Will they all make it to Julia's in time for Christmas? I loved this book..... it tells you what is really important...... family.... Thank You, Sheila Robert's for another great book.
September 18, 2022
This book really captured so many types of family conflict from the minor to the big. It covers three generations all meeting for Christmas at the youngest child's house. Hazel and Warren are the grandparents, driving from Oregon with concerns about their health. Michelle and Max are the parents, stuck driving together from Washington as they plan when to tell their kids they are divorcing. And sisters, Audrey and Shyla, are carpooling from California. While Shyla is happy in her relationship, Audrey is feeling stuck and alone after a breakup.
I would not really classify this as a romance. Instead, I would describe it as a slice of life. We see everything that can go wrong on a winter road trip. And we see people struggle with what family and love mean. Since it takes place over just a few days, we don't really see much character growth.
I liked reading this more than I liked the audiobook. With so many characters, it was quite to tough to tell the voices apart. And it was sometimes tough to track when the scene switched mid-chapter. I think it would have benefited from more narrators.
This is a quick read to get you anticipating the holidays, both the family drama and the love.
Thank you to UpLitReads, Mira, and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy and to Harper Audio for the audiobook. These opinions are my own.
CW: miscarriage
3.5 stars rounded up
I would not really classify this as a romance. Instead, I would describe it as a slice of life. We see everything that can go wrong on a winter road trip. And we see people struggle with what family and love mean. Since it takes place over just a few days, we don't really see much character growth.
I liked reading this more than I liked the audiobook. With so many characters, it was quite to tough to tell the voices apart. And it was sometimes tough to track when the scene switched mid-chapter. I think it would have benefited from more narrators.
This is a quick read to get you anticipating the holidays, both the family drama and the love.
Thank you to UpLitReads, Mira, and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy and to Harper Audio for the audiobook. These opinions are my own.
CW: miscarriage
3.5 stars rounded up
September 13, 2022
I won this book in a Goodreads contest.
About the book:
Michelle and Max are not planning on a happy holiday. Their marriage is in shambles and the D word has entered their vocabulary. But now their youngest daughter, Julia, wants everyone to come to her new house in Idaho for Christmas, and she’s got the guest room all ready for Mom and Dad. Oh, joy.
Their other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, are driving up from California and hoping to meet a sexy rancher for Audrey along the way. What they don’t plan on is getting stranded on a ranch when the car breaks down.
The ones with the shortest drive are Grandma and Grandpa—also known as Hazel and Warren. It’s still a bit of a trek, and Hazel doesn’t like the idea of driving all that way in snow, but Warren knows they’ll have no problem. They have a reliable car—and snow tires and chains if they need them. They’ll be fine.
Surprises lie in store for all three sets of intrepid travelers as they set out on three very different adventures, all leading to one memorable family Christmas.
This is a wonderful story. Well written and great characters that draw you into the story. I really enjoyed this book.
I love how it all ended.
I highly recommend this book, it's a keeper
About the book:
Michelle and Max are not planning on a happy holiday. Their marriage is in shambles and the D word has entered their vocabulary. But now their youngest daughter, Julia, wants everyone to come to her new house in Idaho for Christmas, and she’s got the guest room all ready for Mom and Dad. Oh, joy.
Their other daughters, Audrey and Shyla, are driving up from California and hoping to meet a sexy rancher for Audrey along the way. What they don’t plan on is getting stranded on a ranch when the car breaks down.
The ones with the shortest drive are Grandma and Grandpa—also known as Hazel and Warren. It’s still a bit of a trek, and Hazel doesn’t like the idea of driving all that way in snow, but Warren knows they’ll have no problem. They have a reliable car—and snow tires and chains if they need them. They’ll be fine.
Surprises lie in store for all three sets of intrepid travelers as they set out on three very different adventures, all leading to one memorable family Christmas.
This is a wonderful story. Well written and great characters that draw you into the story. I really enjoyed this book.
I love how it all ended.
I highly recommend this book, it's a keeper
October 12, 2022
The Road to Christmas by Sheila Roberts is a perfect read to get into the Christmas vibe. I absolutely love this story. There is family, family drama, humor, romance, and surprises at every turn! Sheila Roberts definitely pours her heart and soul into her writing. I could not believe how much I was laughing, crying, and loving these characters. The family wants to come together for the holidays but as always things happen. This brilliant novel reminded me of some many of my favorite Christmas movies like Home Alone, Holiday in Handcuffs, and Christmas with the Kranks. Everyone makes it to Julia's home, but their adventures on the way there were separate yet connected. I enjoy a heartwarming tale of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings. Family is so important especially during the holidays. There is nothing like spending Christmas together. Overall, Sheila Roberts still has the magic in creating a believable yet epic holiday journey. I recommend all fans of Hallmark channel to read this book.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
September 17, 2022
Hallmarkie If Hallmark Did Road Trips. This is one of those almost 80s-cartoon feeling... "interesting"... blends of road trip tale and Hallmark Christmas tale. There are three separate road trips going on here - grandparents, parents, and siblings - all going their own routes and having their own adventures along the way to joining up with youngest sister and her husband and newborn for Christmas. There's some hilarity, some heart strings being pulled, some solid road trip fun, some solid Christmas fun, a lot of small town charm - in multiple small towns, also in departure from pure Hallmark format - and a healthy dose of moralizing/ preaching about the joys of family and the sacrifices we sometimes make for them. (Which is where the "almost 80s-cartoon feeling" comes in.) Ultimately a solid blend of a few different popular formats, and the "shotgun" approach also works quite well and is fairly innovative. Ultimately this is a solid tale well told, and is very much recommended.
December 25, 2023
close to a 3--but plot moved slowly, so I skipped several chapters w/out losing the thread
February 24, 2023
Sheila is one of my favorites, especially when it comes to her Christmas books. I look forward to them each and every year.
This story takes us on a journey with Three generations, on a road trip to spend the holidays Michelle and Max's daughter Julia and her new born baby.
Along the way, each set of travelers experience their own internal journey as they come across sets of circumstances! Three different adventures, and one memorable family Christmas!
Highly suggest that you dive into each one of Sheila's books. Enjoy!
This story takes us on a journey with Three generations, on a road trip to spend the holidays Michelle and Max's daughter Julia and her new born baby.
Along the way, each set of travelers experience their own internal journey as they come across sets of circumstances! Three different adventures, and one memorable family Christmas!
Highly suggest that you dive into each one of Sheila's books. Enjoy!
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