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Valentine Vineyards #1
A Valentine for Christmas
Opposites do more than attract when an older woman falls for a younger man in Reese Ryan’s brand-new Harlequin Desire series, Valentine Vineyards!
A red-hot romance between a career-focused woman and a determined younger man?
Doctor’s orders!
Dr. Julian Brandon is too charming, too sexy and too young for Chandra Valentine. But after the successful bachelor rescues her—twice—she owes him. Still reeling from life-changing family revelations, Chandra somehow agrees to pose as Julian’s girlfriend. And now the irresistible Julian has plans that start with seduction under the mistletoe and end with their fake relationship erupting into a scorching affair. Now Chandra’s questioning everything she believed about love…
A red-hot romance between a career-focused woman and a determined younger man?
Doctor’s orders!
Dr. Julian Brandon is too charming, too sexy and too young for Chandra Valentine. But after the successful bachelor rescues her—twice—she owes him. Still reeling from life-changing family revelations, Chandra somehow agrees to pose as Julian’s girlfriend. And now the irresistible Julian has plans that start with seduction under the mistletoe and end with their fake relationship erupting into a scorching affair. Now Chandra’s questioning everything she believed about love…
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2022
53 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Reese Ryan
174 books604 followersVivian Award-winning author Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional, “grown folks” romantic fiction set in small Southern towns. Her characters find love while navigating career crises and family drama.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
January 30, 2023
I…can’t believe I didn’t post a review for this back after I finished it! Total ball drop on my part. Forgive me! Reese Ryan does no wrong in my book. This is a fabulous age gap romance with our heroine being older than our hero is totally head over heels for her! We as readers were sad to see the Bourbon Brothers series finish but don’t you worry your little head-they are still making appearances in this new series and while this series has vibes of its own, I think if you’re a fan of Bourbon Brothers, this series is one to watch! The FAMILY I totally adored. I’m so excited to get my hands on the next book!
December 28, 2022
Is it a Christmas story if Christmas is only mentioned in passing? 🤔 Anyway, I loved Chandra and Julian’s adorable meet cute and it’s refreshing reading about their “reverse age gap”. But i just couldn’t feel their chemistry as much as i tried.
March 2, 2023
Reese Ryan’s Bourbon Brothers series is/was one of my favorite romance series. After six books, I was sad to have to leave Magnolia Lake and the Abbott family behind. When I found out that there was going to be a spin-off, I literally screamed for joy. No, seriously I did. Readers met party crasher Abbott Valentine in The Bad Boy Experiment, where he revealed some shocking news to the Abbott family.
Turns out, Abbott Raymond “Ray” Valentine is the half-brother of Abbott patriarch Joseph. This is surprising news to Joseph, his son Duke, and the rest of the family. Ray has decided to be true to himself and honor his true heritage. He’s selling Valentine Textiles, which has been owned and operated by his family for generations. It is also the place where several of his children currently work. While he sells the family legacy, he purchases Richardson Vineyards which was once owned by his biological mother’s family, where he hopes to build his own legacy empire, with his children. Ray does all of this without his children knowing and summons them to the small Smokey Mountain town of Magnolia Lake, Tennessee where he plans to tell them about his family discovery, and the selling and purchasing of the companies, with the hope that they will all join him.
All of this is to explain why Chandra Valentine finds herself traveling from San Diego to a place she’s never heard of before. A place that requires her to take a small regional jet to get there. Did I mention Chandra isn’t a fan of flying? Luckily her seatmate is there to calm her nerves. As fate would have it, Chandra and her seatmate, Julian Brandon, are both going to the same place. While there is no denying their attraction to each other, Chandra refuses to involve herself with a man almost ten years her junior.
Julian finds himself back in his hometown of Magnolia Lake to fulfill his end of a bargain he made with Joseph Abbott when he was fourteen years old. Joseph paid for all of Julian’s secondary education in exchange for Julian returning to Magnolia Lake for four years to be the town doctor. Julian just hopes the four years pass quickly so he can get back to his life.
Chandra and Julian continue to run into each other. When she sees Julian being uncomfortable with all the attention from Magnolia Lake’s female population, she steps in and pretends to be his girlfriend. The two quickly agree to a short fling while Chandra is in town, never expecting that either of them would want more.
A Valentine for Christmas contains multiple tropes, with main characters I fell in love with immediately. The Valentine Vineyards series has been setup nicely. All the Valentine siblings are introduced and you get a little bit of their individual personalities. Of course, all the Abbott clan makes an appearance. I’m really looking forward to the other books in this series. I’m going to put this out there now. I would love for Ray Valentine to finally find his true soulmate. It should be noted that while the word Christmas is in the title, this story can be read anytime. The Christmas season and events are only slightly mentioned.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Times change and people mature.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Turns out, Abbott Raymond “Ray” Valentine is the half-brother of Abbott patriarch Joseph. This is surprising news to Joseph, his son Duke, and the rest of the family. Ray has decided to be true to himself and honor his true heritage. He’s selling Valentine Textiles, which has been owned and operated by his family for generations. It is also the place where several of his children currently work. While he sells the family legacy, he purchases Richardson Vineyards which was once owned by his biological mother’s family, where he hopes to build his own legacy empire, with his children. Ray does all of this without his children knowing and summons them to the small Smokey Mountain town of Magnolia Lake, Tennessee where he plans to tell them about his family discovery, and the selling and purchasing of the companies, with the hope that they will all join him.
All of this is to explain why Chandra Valentine finds herself traveling from San Diego to a place she’s never heard of before. A place that requires her to take a small regional jet to get there. Did I mention Chandra isn’t a fan of flying? Luckily her seatmate is there to calm her nerves. As fate would have it, Chandra and her seatmate, Julian Brandon, are both going to the same place. While there is no denying their attraction to each other, Chandra refuses to involve herself with a man almost ten years her junior.
Julian finds himself back in his hometown of Magnolia Lake to fulfill his end of a bargain he made with Joseph Abbott when he was fourteen years old. Joseph paid for all of Julian’s secondary education in exchange for Julian returning to Magnolia Lake for four years to be the town doctor. Julian just hopes the four years pass quickly so he can get back to his life.
Chandra and Julian continue to run into each other. When she sees Julian being uncomfortable with all the attention from Magnolia Lake’s female population, she steps in and pretends to be his girlfriend. The two quickly agree to a short fling while Chandra is in town, never expecting that either of them would want more.
A Valentine for Christmas contains multiple tropes, with main characters I fell in love with immediately. The Valentine Vineyards series has been setup nicely. All the Valentine siblings are introduced and you get a little bit of their individual personalities. Of course, all the Abbott clan makes an appearance. I’m really looking forward to the other books in this series. I’m going to put this out there now. I would love for Ray Valentine to finally find his true soulmate. It should be noted that while the word Christmas is in the title, this story can be read anytime. The Christmas season and events are only slightly mentioned.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Times change and people mature.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
November 28, 2022
I though Chandra and Julian had an adorable meet-cute and enjoyed their chemistry together.
There was a lot of emphasis on the age gap even though the character's weren't even 10 years apart in age. Chandra is 39 and Julian is 30 so while there's some years between them it's not so steep. And not so drastic that their age would mean they're in two completely difference places in life. After awhile the emphasis on age just got tiring to me with Chandra acting as if she was old enough to be his mother.
There was some conflict that came in at the end that felt a little rushed too me and I wasn't a fan of that. Also there was only a passing mention of Christmas when I was really hoping the holiday would be present here. Sometimes Harlequin puts Christmas in the title to push sales for the holiday season when the story is written where it could take place during any time of the year.
This is a series starter as a spinoff of the Bourbon Brothers series so some of this story felt like set up for the larger story with the family starting this new vineyard. Since the Valentines are cousins to the Abbotts we do see characters from the previous series make an appearance. I'm interested in a few of the siblings stories especially Naya.
There was a lot of emphasis on the age gap even though the character's weren't even 10 years apart in age. Chandra is 39 and Julian is 30 so while there's some years between them it's not so steep. And not so drastic that their age would mean they're in two completely difference places in life. After awhile the emphasis on age just got tiring to me with Chandra acting as if she was old enough to be his mother.
There was some conflict that came in at the end that felt a little rushed too me and I wasn't a fan of that. Also there was only a passing mention of Christmas when I was really hoping the holiday would be present here. Sometimes Harlequin puts Christmas in the title to push sales for the holiday season when the story is written where it could take place during any time of the year.
This is a series starter as a spinoff of the Bourbon Brothers series so some of this story felt like set up for the larger story with the family starting this new vineyard. Since the Valentines are cousins to the Abbotts we do see characters from the previous series make an appearance. I'm interested in a few of the siblings stories especially Naya.
November 22, 2022
This book was too cute! I absolutely adored the two main characters and the age gap?Perfection🥰 My only wish for this book is that it kept the tension we had during the first couple of chapters because at times I felt the pacing was a little rushed.
I really think I could help Netflix make this into such a fun movie- I've got about 2 dollars to invest and 0 directing experience if they set it up for me.
*I recieved an ARC from the author*
I really think I could help Netflix make this into such a fun movie- I've got about 2 dollars to invest and 0 directing experience if they set it up for me.
*I recieved an ARC from the author*
October 13, 2022
A Valentine for Christmas... Was an enjoyable read. I have read some if Reese Ryan's books I have loved all of them. I like how she makes these character's come yo live. I really don't like age gap story unless it's done well I'm giving it 5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I was provided an arc e-copy by the publisher Harlequin for honest review. thank you so much for sending me a copy.
Happy Reading Lisa 📚
I was provided an arc e-copy by the publisher Harlequin for honest review. thank you so much for sending me a copy.
Happy Reading Lisa 📚
November 28, 2022
Fun, quick read--finished it all in one sitting,
Chandra and Julian are both likable, relatable characters with a bit of baggage and a 2-part crazy meet cute.
Just the right amount of spicy, Followed a mostly expected path, with a little unexpected twist to fit in a bit different trope.
Would recommend and will look for more from this author as this is my first read from her.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
Chandra and Julian are both likable, relatable characters with a bit of baggage and a 2-part crazy meet cute.
Just the right amount of spicy, Followed a mostly expected path, with a little unexpected twist to fit in a bit different trope.
Would recommend and will look for more from this author as this is my first read from her.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
February 17, 2023
At first, I was really enjoying this book. I liked the writing style, which made for a quick read and drew me in right away. The meet cute was super cute, and I liked how this has the age gap trope but the woman is older, for a change.
Unfortunately, my enjoyment did not last. I felt like strange comments were being made, like the main character saying she could have been the love interest's mother when she is only 9 years older (huh?).
What mainly ruined this book for me is that it contains the accidental pregnancy trope, and it does so in a way that absolutely did not work for me. This is a very personal issue and not a fault of the book. Accidental pregnancy is one of my most hated tropes and one I really struggle to read, so I wish I'd seen this book contained it before I picked it up. If you do enjoy this trope, you might really enjoy this story!
Unfortunately, my enjoyment did not last. I felt like strange comments were being made, like the main character saying she could have been the love interest's mother when she is only 9 years older (huh?).
What mainly ruined this book for me is that it contains the accidental pregnancy trope, and it does so in a way that absolutely did not work for me. This is a very personal issue and not a fault of the book. Accidental pregnancy is one of my most hated tropes and one I really struggle to read, so I wish I'd seen this book contained it before I picked it up. If you do enjoy this trope, you might really enjoy this story!
November 28, 2022
Good story about love and family. Chandra is the oldest of the six Valentine siblings, intently focused on her career in San Diego. When her father calls a family meeting in the small town of Magnolia Lake, Tennessee, the request is odd enough that she drops everything to go. Chandra is a nervous flyer in small planes, and the last leg of the trip is on a very small plane. A fellow passenger, "JB," provides the distraction she needs to make it through the flight.
JB, Julian Brandon, is headed home to Magnolia Lake to keep a promise. Years earlier, local billionaire, Joe Abbott promised to pay for Julian's schooling if he committed to spending four years as the town's doctor when he finished. Julian dreads his return thanks to unhappy memories attached to his hometown.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Chandra and Julian. They connected quickly on the flight to Magnolia Lake. Julian's calm demeanor and easy conversation soothed her fears. The sparks of attraction were there, but neither expected to see the other again. Fate intervened when Julian came to her rescue after she drove off the road. Their third encounter was an eye-opener for Chandra when she discovered that her sexy rescuer was none other than the town's young new doctor. I had to laugh at this meeting. Chandra is aghast that she's attracted to a man years younger than she is, while Julian is thrilled to have the opportunity to see her again. Very conscious of the age difference, Chandra shoots down his invitation for a date.
However, that isn't the end. Chandra soon has the chance to repay Julian's kindness by helping him. Poor Julian has become the quarry of nearly every single woman in town. During a party given by the Abbots, and at the instigation of her sister Naya, Chandra rescues Julian from his pursuers by implying they are a couple. Julian jumps on the idea as a way to spend more time with Chandra and show him as more settled to the people in town. As Julian finds every opportunity possible to be with Chandra, the sparks between them continue to grow. She is willing to enjoy the attraction but, with her looming return to California, has no interest in a relationship. Julian hopes to change her mind.
A change in circumstances at her job in California motivates Chandra to take a hard look at her plans for the future. I loved how Chandra stood up for herself and didn't allow them to take advantage of her. Her return to Magnolia Lake allowed her to explore the feelings she was just beginning to admit. An unexpected complication pushes them closer together, while Chandra's fears have her resisting the truth. Meanwhile, Julian must face his past before he can move forward into the future he wants with Chandra. The scene at the poker game was a hoot, and I loved Julian's big moment. The epilogue was terrific, and I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
The overarching theme of the series is the establishment of the Valentine Vineyards. Stunning family revelations redirect patriarch Abbott Valentine's interests and passions in a new direction. His actions shock his children even as he indicates his desire for their involvement in the new enterprise. It was interesting to see their reactions, good and bad, and how they handled the news. I can't wait to follow the progress.
#netgalley
JB, Julian Brandon, is headed home to Magnolia Lake to keep a promise. Years earlier, local billionaire, Joe Abbott promised to pay for Julian's schooling if he committed to spending four years as the town's doctor when he finished. Julian dreads his return thanks to unhappy memories attached to his hometown.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Chandra and Julian. They connected quickly on the flight to Magnolia Lake. Julian's calm demeanor and easy conversation soothed her fears. The sparks of attraction were there, but neither expected to see the other again. Fate intervened when Julian came to her rescue after she drove off the road. Their third encounter was an eye-opener for Chandra when she discovered that her sexy rescuer was none other than the town's young new doctor. I had to laugh at this meeting. Chandra is aghast that she's attracted to a man years younger than she is, while Julian is thrilled to have the opportunity to see her again. Very conscious of the age difference, Chandra shoots down his invitation for a date.
However, that isn't the end. Chandra soon has the chance to repay Julian's kindness by helping him. Poor Julian has become the quarry of nearly every single woman in town. During a party given by the Abbots, and at the instigation of her sister Naya, Chandra rescues Julian from his pursuers by implying they are a couple. Julian jumps on the idea as a way to spend more time with Chandra and show him as more settled to the people in town. As Julian finds every opportunity possible to be with Chandra, the sparks between them continue to grow. She is willing to enjoy the attraction but, with her looming return to California, has no interest in a relationship. Julian hopes to change her mind.
A change in circumstances at her job in California motivates Chandra to take a hard look at her plans for the future. I loved how Chandra stood up for herself and didn't allow them to take advantage of her. Her return to Magnolia Lake allowed her to explore the feelings she was just beginning to admit. An unexpected complication pushes them closer together, while Chandra's fears have her resisting the truth. Meanwhile, Julian must face his past before he can move forward into the future he wants with Chandra. The scene at the poker game was a hoot, and I loved Julian's big moment. The epilogue was terrific, and I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
The overarching theme of the series is the establishment of the Valentine Vineyards. Stunning family revelations redirect patriarch Abbott Valentine's interests and passions in a new direction. His actions shock his children even as he indicates his desire for their involvement in the new enterprise. It was interesting to see their reactions, good and bad, and how they handled the news. I can't wait to follow the progress.
#netgalley
January 16, 2023
Turns out Harlequin employees don't qualify for the Harper Collins Union, but I still want to mention that it's absolutely ridiculous that the execs at HC still haven't met with their striking employees. Rude.
What It's About: Nothing like a little meet cute on the plane due to turbulence helped along with the guiding hand of fate to bring a couple together. Chandra Valentine is on her way to this small town because he dad asked and Dr. Julian is on his way home to fulfill his duty. The two of them keep being thrown together until they start choosing to be thrown together instead.
What I Loved: I really adore the way Ryan introduces a cast of characters and so quickly gets us attached to them. Additionally, this is a spinoff series of the Bourbon Brothers and it was so cool to see so many familiar faces. I largely appreciated the way the attraction between Chandra and Julian too. It felt like the attraction was just as much based on an emotional intensity as the physical attraction they felt for one another.
What I Didn't Love: I'm sorry, but a 9 year age gap when the ages are 30 and 39 is just not enough of a big deal for me to believe all of the intense angst that went into it. Chandra was so insecure about it, but I was not really here for it. Throw in one of my least favorite plot surprises and this category dropped a bit in rating for me. Also, why is this called A Valentine for Christmas when there was nothing really Christmas related? Just wondering.
Overall: I enjoyed this one and appreciated the set-up for the books to come! Y'all know I will always read a Reese Ryan category so I'm happy for a new series from her regardless of my feelings on the first installment.
Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
What It's About: Nothing like a little meet cute on the plane due to turbulence helped along with the guiding hand of fate to bring a couple together. Chandra Valentine is on her way to this small town because he dad asked and Dr. Julian is on his way home to fulfill his duty. The two of them keep being thrown together until they start choosing to be thrown together instead.
What I Loved: I really adore the way Ryan introduces a cast of characters and so quickly gets us attached to them. Additionally, this is a spinoff series of the Bourbon Brothers and it was so cool to see so many familiar faces. I largely appreciated the way the attraction between Chandra and Julian too. It felt like the attraction was just as much based on an emotional intensity as the physical attraction they felt for one another.
What I Didn't Love: I'm sorry, but a 9 year age gap when the ages are 30 and 39 is just not enough of a big deal for me to believe all of the intense angst that went into it. Chandra was so insecure about it, but I was not really here for it. Throw in one of my least favorite plot surprises and this category dropped a bit in rating for me. Also, why is this called A Valentine for Christmas when there was nothing really Christmas related? Just wondering.
Overall: I enjoyed this one and appreciated the set-up for the books to come! Y'all know I will always read a Reese Ryan category so I'm happy for a new series from her regardless of my feelings on the first installment.
Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
December 27, 2023
This was a slog the plot/ story was just okay, but u really didn't mesh well with the narration. Some if the male voices felt goofy to me.
Wouldn't read again
Wouldn't read again
November 3, 2022
When Chandra and Julian lock eyes in the airport, it's instant attraction for them both. After a few more chance encounters, it seems like fate has a different idea for why they both ended up in Magnolia Lake.
I'm always a little skeptical of whirlwind romance stories. When they aren't done well, the relationship can end up seeming forced. But Reese Ryan did the romance incredibly well here. I'm a hardcore believer in "when you know you know," and I think that message was clear in this novel. Julian and Chandra just clicked from the beginning and though quick, their relationship seemed genuine and real. Double POV romances are my all time favorite, and I will likely always recommend them. It really makes for a well-crafted story when you can see the feelings and love build from both sides. You just can't go wrong with double POV. There was also just the perfect amount of spice. I really appreciate when the spice isn't overdone.
I absolutely could not get enough of the Valentine siblings. Their relationship reminded me of the relationship I have with my siblings and cousins, and I couldn't help but smile during those scenes.
What I didn't really love:
I was looking for more of the holiday magic. I did appreciate that it wasn't overly Christmas-y as that makes it a book that's easy to read outside of the holiday season. But I was looking for more of the Christmas magic.
The age thing was a bit odd for me. While 30 and 39 is a gap, I don't think it was big enough for some of the comments made in the book. At one point Chandra mumbles that she was practically old enough to be Julian's mom. But the math on that is a bit cringe-y.
Overall, this was a great romance. This is my first Reese Ryan book, and I will be adding her other books to my tbr.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Desire for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I'm always a little skeptical of whirlwind romance stories. When they aren't done well, the relationship can end up seeming forced. But Reese Ryan did the romance incredibly well here. I'm a hardcore believer in "when you know you know," and I think that message was clear in this novel. Julian and Chandra just clicked from the beginning and though quick, their relationship seemed genuine and real. Double POV romances are my all time favorite, and I will likely always recommend them. It really makes for a well-crafted story when you can see the feelings and love build from both sides. You just can't go wrong with double POV. There was also just the perfect amount of spice. I really appreciate when the spice isn't overdone.
I absolutely could not get enough of the Valentine siblings. Their relationship reminded me of the relationship I have with my siblings and cousins, and I couldn't help but smile during those scenes.
What I didn't really love:
I was looking for more of the holiday magic. I did appreciate that it wasn't overly Christmas-y as that makes it a book that's easy to read outside of the holiday season. But I was looking for more of the Christmas magic.
The age thing was a bit odd for me. While 30 and 39 is a gap, I don't think it was big enough for some of the comments made in the book. At one point Chandra mumbles that she was practically old enough to be Julian's mom. But the math on that is a bit cringe-y.
Overall, this was a great romance. This is my first Reese Ryan book, and I will be adding her other books to my tbr.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Desire for the opportunity to read and review this book!
December 12, 2023
As much as I wanted to love this story it didn’t work out in my favor. I wanted more between Julian and Chandra couple wise. The story felt rushed and I was expecting more depth when it came to Julian and the issues he had with his mother. I also thought Christmas was going to be a major theme of the book as well. I wanted to see how Chandra adjusted in her new position with the company. It was nice seeing past characters making an appearance and I will definitely be continuing on with the series.
November 9, 2022
Dr. Julian Brandon and Chandra Valentine meets on the plane ride from hell and wind up in the same going to the same town after a recuse along the way. I like this into to The Valentine Family and going back to Magnolia Lake to see The Abbott Family again was a icing on the cake. I can't wait to read the rest of the family books.
I received this book as an ARC
I received this book as an ARC
February 4, 2024
In Reese Ryan’s A Valentine for Christmas, Chandra Valentine agrees to be Doctor Julian Brandon’s pretend girlfriend after he helps her out of a couple of sticky situations. When their pretend relationship leads to a steamy affair after Julian seduces her, Chandra begins to question her beliefs about love, family, and life.
Ryan’s vibrant and detailed description using the senses makes her characters and story come to life, and, combined with her snarky, humorous, and colorful dialogue and narrative style, quickly draw you into the novel from the opening scenes. She develops and evolves Julian (JB) and Chandra’s connection and developing relationship with chemistry-filled, sweet, sexy, steamy, humorous, and intensely emotional interactions, banter, and love scenes. I love that she describes Julian’s attraction to Chandra vividly through his emotions and senses and how they’re affected by her.
I love how the relationship between Julian and Chandra begins in the novel. It’s sweet, cute, and funny how they connect through shared interests on an airplane flight. Chandra is sensible, responsible, logical, and cautious, while JB is optimistic, hopeful, and more inclined to take risks or be adventurous. Ryan includes fun, nerdy sci-fi, comic books, and superhero references, contributing to Julian’s character development. Though they’re complete opposites, their attraction is fiery and intense. However, they share the experience of losing a parent while young. His presence calms her when she’s anxious and uneasy, like he did on the flight. Though they’re complete opposites, their attraction is fiery and intense. However, unlike JB, who gives in and falls for Chandra quickly, Chandra tries to fight their attraction because she’s not ready to get involved—and Julian’s younger. But she’s unable to resist him, falling for him despite herself.
While there’s much going on in the book, Ryan’s efficient and orderly narrative style/writing doesn’t overwhelm you with the various characters and storylines. Chandra’s and JB’s interactions with their families contribute to their development and the story’s advancement. Unresolved issues from his father’s death complicate Julian’s relationship with his mother. Chandra regrets losing the closeness she shared with her siblings after leaving the family business to finally put herself first, after raising her siblings after their mother’s abandonment.
The novel’s quick pacing and angst, balanced with humor, make it a page-turner. A sweet, funny, steamy, sexy, and emotional Christmas romance, A Valentine for Christmas is an audio listen recommended for fans of small-town romance, heroes who fall fast and hard for the heroine, and older woman/younger man romance tropes. It explores finding love when/where least expected, family, family estrangement, family secrets, toxic parents, parental abandonment, searching for and reuniting with family, forgiveness, and starting over.
Advanced review copy provided by HARLEQUIN - Romance via Netgalley for review.
Ryan’s vibrant and detailed description using the senses makes her characters and story come to life, and, combined with her snarky, humorous, and colorful dialogue and narrative style, quickly draw you into the novel from the opening scenes. She develops and evolves Julian (JB) and Chandra’s connection and developing relationship with chemistry-filled, sweet, sexy, steamy, humorous, and intensely emotional interactions, banter, and love scenes. I love that she describes Julian’s attraction to Chandra vividly through his emotions and senses and how they’re affected by her.
I love how the relationship between Julian and Chandra begins in the novel. It’s sweet, cute, and funny how they connect through shared interests on an airplane flight. Chandra is sensible, responsible, logical, and cautious, while JB is optimistic, hopeful, and more inclined to take risks or be adventurous. Ryan includes fun, nerdy sci-fi, comic books, and superhero references, contributing to Julian’s character development. Though they’re complete opposites, their attraction is fiery and intense. However, they share the experience of losing a parent while young. His presence calms her when she’s anxious and uneasy, like he did on the flight. Though they’re complete opposites, their attraction is fiery and intense. However, unlike JB, who gives in and falls for Chandra quickly, Chandra tries to fight their attraction because she’s not ready to get involved—and Julian’s younger. But she’s unable to resist him, falling for him despite herself.
While there’s much going on in the book, Ryan’s efficient and orderly narrative style/writing doesn’t overwhelm you with the various characters and storylines. Chandra’s and JB’s interactions with their families contribute to their development and the story’s advancement. Unresolved issues from his father’s death complicate Julian’s relationship with his mother. Chandra regrets losing the closeness she shared with her siblings after leaving the family business to finally put herself first, after raising her siblings after their mother’s abandonment.
The novel’s quick pacing and angst, balanced with humor, make it a page-turner. A sweet, funny, steamy, sexy, and emotional Christmas romance, A Valentine for Christmas is an audio listen recommended for fans of small-town romance, heroes who fall fast and hard for the heroine, and older woman/younger man romance tropes. It explores finding love when/where least expected, family, family estrangement, family secrets, toxic parents, parental abandonment, searching for and reuniting with family, forgiveness, and starting over.
Advanced review copy provided by HARLEQUIN - Romance via Netgalley for review.
October 31, 2022
A knight in shining armor. This perfectly describes Doctor Juilan Brandon to a tee.
Chandra and Julian's meet cute was definitely one to remember. Who wouldn't want a sexy bearded man to calm their jitters during turbulence? Chandra was already wary of this trip because her father request was oddily made. So add a bumpy flight to her anxiety, she welcomed Julian's calmness and Zen playlists. The connection was made and didn't stop there. Julian definitely wanted to learn more about his seatmate. Chandra left the connection and made her way to her father's place. As she drove to meet her family, she encountered an animal in the road and gets into a bad accident. Guess which doctor discovers the car on the side of the road?
As a highly-professional, goal oriented woman, Chandra was focus on her career especially making a name for herself outside of her successful family. A romance with any man wasn't on her list of goals. She was finally over the heartbreak she recently experienced and was ready for anything but romance. Her attraction to the younger Julian was something she wasn't willing to act on. But her knight and the universal had other plans for them.
This book was just like a classic Christmas movie. It had romance, a family element and a self revelation moment. I really enjoyed it and will definitely recommend it to friends.
Chandra and Julian's meet cute was definitely one to remember. Who wouldn't want a sexy bearded man to calm their jitters during turbulence? Chandra was already wary of this trip because her father request was oddily made. So add a bumpy flight to her anxiety, she welcomed Julian's calmness and Zen playlists. The connection was made and didn't stop there. Julian definitely wanted to learn more about his seatmate. Chandra left the connection and made her way to her father's place. As she drove to meet her family, she encountered an animal in the road and gets into a bad accident. Guess which doctor discovers the car on the side of the road?
As a highly-professional, goal oriented woman, Chandra was focus on her career especially making a name for herself outside of her successful family. A romance with any man wasn't on her list of goals. She was finally over the heartbreak she recently experienced and was ready for anything but romance. Her attraction to the younger Julian was something she wasn't willing to act on. But her knight and the universal had other plans for them.
This book was just like a classic Christmas movie. It had romance, a family element and a self revelation moment. I really enjoyed it and will definitely recommend it to friends.
December 10, 2023
Synopsis: Shaundra is headed to a small town in the middle of nowhere at the request of her father. She is comforted by Julian, a hot younger doctor, who helps her through turbulence on the plane and then saves her from a ditch when her car narrowly misses a bear.
Shaundra’s father gives her and her siblings the news of the century that could completely turn her world upside down, but it’s already being turned upside down with her interest in Julian - who has been contracted to return to his childhood town has a doctor for 4 years.
Review: I enjoyed “A Valentine for Christmas” although it’s not truly a holiday book. Both Shaundra and Julian were enjoyable characters. Pro-therapy content.
I agree with some of the other reviewers that their age difference was emphasized by Shaundra a few too many times. It’s not even a decade gap.
Tropes: fake relationship, surprise baby, age gap
November 29, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! I have read Reese Ryan books before but I’m pretty sure this one is my favourite!
I’ve read books in the Abbott family series, which is good because they make appearances and have character crossover in this one. The dad, Ray Abbott Valentine, learns his real roots, and that he’s related to the Abbotts. He sells his adoptive family business and buys a vineyard in the town where they are, and brings all his kids together to tell them what he’s learned and about their true family history.
Chandra Valentine, the oldest daughter, meets a charming guy, JB, on the tiny plane to get there - the tiny Tennessee mountain town of Magnolia Lake. When they cross paths again in town, she learns he’s Doctor Jules, a much younger man (a decade!) returned to town to fulfill his requirement to a friend to be the town doctor. She helps him out while she’s there by pretending a fling to keep the clingy ladies off his back, until she goes home to San Diego.
After things go sideways after going back to Cali, she has to decide if their little fling that felt like a lot more is worth trying to pursue, and trying to take up her dad’s offer to join in the new family vineyard business… and so much more.
Reese Ryan is a great writer of diverse stories and great storylines. I’ve really enjoyed the books I’ve picked up and can’t wait for more, especially from this series. I definitely recommend this one to everyone! Great flow, great spice, great chemistry!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Desire, and this is my honest feedback.
I’ve read books in the Abbott family series, which is good because they make appearances and have character crossover in this one. The dad, Ray Abbott Valentine, learns his real roots, and that he’s related to the Abbotts. He sells his adoptive family business and buys a vineyard in the town where they are, and brings all his kids together to tell them what he’s learned and about their true family history.
Chandra Valentine, the oldest daughter, meets a charming guy, JB, on the tiny plane to get there - the tiny Tennessee mountain town of Magnolia Lake. When they cross paths again in town, she learns he’s Doctor Jules, a much younger man (a decade!) returned to town to fulfill his requirement to a friend to be the town doctor. She helps him out while she’s there by pretending a fling to keep the clingy ladies off his back, until she goes home to San Diego.
After things go sideways after going back to Cali, she has to decide if their little fling that felt like a lot more is worth trying to pursue, and trying to take up her dad’s offer to join in the new family vineyard business… and so much more.
Reese Ryan is a great writer of diverse stories and great storylines. I’ve really enjoyed the books I’ve picked up and can’t wait for more, especially from this series. I definitely recommend this one to everyone! Great flow, great spice, great chemistry!
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Desire, and this is my honest feedback.
November 29, 2022
At 39, Chandra thinks she's got life figured out. Then, she meets thirty-year-old doctor Julian. The attraction is instant, but her job is on the other side of the country. Can their holiday fling turn into more?
This book is engaging from the start, with an entertaining plot and likeable characters. Julian is smart, centered, and deliciously sweet. Chandra is savvy and confident, but Julian turns her life upside-down in the best possible way. This steamy, heartwarming, family-oriented novel brought a smile to my face, and I look forward to the rest of the books in the series.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This book is engaging from the start, with an entertaining plot and likeable characters. Julian is smart, centered, and deliciously sweet. Chandra is savvy and confident, but Julian turns her life upside-down in the best possible way. This steamy, heartwarming, family-oriented novel brought a smile to my face, and I look forward to the rest of the books in the series.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 30, 2022
Instant attraction, with a few twist of fate set this couple up for their chance to build a romantic relationship. In addition to that realness they also have some circumstances were laid out, worked on and cleared up. Love that his pursuit is consistent, her family is hilarious. Realistic characters with depth, I think this story is very well balanced and the career and family drama all blend well. Their journey and a few surprising twist kept me enchanted and wrapped up in the pages. I received an advanced free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to leave this review.
February 12, 2023
A Sweet and Sassy Page Turner!
Chandra and Julian are perfect for each other! They put others first and are always coming to someone else's rescue. Julian is a doctor, in that small town, for the next four years, repaying a debt. And Chandra raised her brothers and sisters so their father could work and support all of them.
And of course, Julian rescued Chandra from that near fatal car accident. So Chandra HAD to rescue Julian from all of those thirsty, desperate, single women who were about to rush him on the dance floor! He could have been injured!! lol!!!!!!!!
Really cute story!!!!!!!
Chandra and Julian are perfect for each other! They put others first and are always coming to someone else's rescue. Julian is a doctor, in that small town, for the next four years, repaying a debt. And Chandra raised her brothers and sisters so their father could work and support all of them.
And of course, Julian rescued Chandra from that near fatal car accident. So Chandra HAD to rescue Julian from all of those thirsty, desperate, single women who were about to rush him on the dance floor! He could have been injured!! lol!!!!!!!!
Really cute story!!!!!!!
October 24, 2022
I enjoyed returning to Magnolia Lake, Tennessee. Yes, the Abbotts are the premier family of Magnolia Lake, but move over Abbotts (The Bourbon Brothers Series) the Valentines are moving in! Yes, fans, the prolific Reese Ryan engages her readers in another story set in Magnolia Lake, but this time all eyes are on the Valentines: Father, Abbott, and his six adult offsprings. There is a connection between the Abbotts and the Valentines that I’ll allow you to discover when you read the story. What brings them to Magnolia Lake? It’s a vineyard that draws the Patriarch, Abbott to this beautiful location. It all comes together in a well-written story that highlights the romance between Chandra, Abbotts daughter and Dr. Julian Brandon. I love how Ms Ryan weaves in the older woman-younger man and the fake relationship tropes to weave into an entertaining and engaging storyline.
I loved catching up with the Abbotts and meeting the Valentines. I look forward to more stories involving the Valentines and their growing Vineyard business. Julian and Chandra’s love story is everything! I recommend this story for your reading pleasure.
I loved catching up with the Abbotts and meeting the Valentines. I look forward to more stories involving the Valentines and their growing Vineyard business. Julian and Chandra’s love story is everything! I recommend this story for your reading pleasure.
November 19, 2022
When Chandra’s father asks her and her five siblings to come to Magnolia Lake, she has a lot of questions. While on the flight she meets a sexy stranger who is there when she needs someone the most not only once but twice. She never expected to see him again however fate had other ideas.
Due to a tragedy in his past Julian is not looking forward to returning to his hometown and taking over the town’s medical practice. When he meets Chandra, the sparks fly but will he be able to convince her to stay?
Both Chandra and Julian have experienced some family turmoil in the past which brings them closer and the chemistry between them is intense. This is the beginning of a new series, and I am looking forward to her sibling’s stories.
Due to a tragedy in his past Julian is not looking forward to returning to his hometown and taking over the town’s medical practice. When he meets Chandra, the sparks fly but will he be able to convince her to stay?
Both Chandra and Julian have experienced some family turmoil in the past which brings them closer and the chemistry between them is intense. This is the beginning of a new series, and I am looking forward to her sibling’s stories.
December 17, 2025
So cute! I don't like when FMCs get insecure in an age-gap romance, but this MMC was mature about it, taking it all in stride and never getting bothered by it. Also, some details and spice felt rushed/skimped over, but it was still a cute story.
November 23, 2022
Charming Christmas read! Very quick and fun read to get you in the Christmas spirit!
March 25, 2023
This was so sweet. I really enjoyed this book a lot especially his reasoning for becoming a doctor. We love a good man like Joseph Abbott. I’m glad he saw the good in JB.
November 20, 2022
One of the best things about Desire series is that when one ends there is always another unknown branch of the family still to discover. Such is the case with Ryan’s new Valentine branch of the Abbott family tree. Add in: age gap, surprise baby, grown folks communicating, and you have the perfect read. I can’t wait to see the rest of the Valentines fall.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
November 19, 2022
As always, Reese Ryan has written another grown folks romance. I love the older woman, younger man theme. The small town setting is a plus. Julian and Chandra is proof that age is just a number when the love is real. Looking forward to the next book.
December 4, 2022
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Julian and Chandra’s chance meeting on an airplane turns into romance. This is a great love story. I can’t wait for the next installment of Valentine Vineyards.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Julian and Chandra’s chance meeting on an airplane turns into romance. This is a great love story. I can’t wait for the next installment of Valentine Vineyards.
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