Christmas in the Little Irish Village

The Little Irish Village #1

by Michelle Vernal

Welcome to the little Irish village where Christmas celebrations are in full swing! Twinkling lights, cosy fires and big mugs of hot chocolate are in abundance as Shannon Kelly returns home to the Shamrock Inn. Will this be the year she finds the man of her dreams or is she destined to be forever unlucky in love?

Thirty-four-year-old Shannon is heartbroken following an unexpected break up. Seasonal joy is the last thing on her mind, as she wonders if she’ll ever find the kind of long-lasting love she’s always dreamed of. Even the comforting distractions of her big Irish family can’t cheer her up. Then things get even worse when Shannon slips over on the ice and finds herself red-faced in the arms of a gorgeous American man…

Despite the embarrassing encounter, Shannon can’t help wondering who the handsome stranger is. She soon finds out when James Cabot takes a room at the Shamrock Inn. Their second meeting is equally disastrous when she gives James the tour – without realising her skirt is tucked into her knickers! Shannon isn’t sure how she’s going to survive living under the same roof when she has such a talent for making a complete eejit of herself, and resolves to avoid their new guest at all costs.

But when Shannon discovers James is in Ireland because he’s claiming to be the long-lost grandson of her elderly neighbour, Maeve Doolin, she is immediately suspicious. Shannon has known kind Maeve since she was a little girl and feels protective of her, so she’s determined to find out the truth. Even if it means spending more time with James…

The two of them end up getting closer than she’d bargained for when they take a tour of Emerald Bay and end up snowed in together. But just as James begins to make Shannon’s heart melt with his cheeky grin and awful carol singing, a shocking secret threatens to shatter the growing romance between them.

Can Shannon trust James? And will she get the happily-ever-after she’s been hoping for this Christmas?

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Holiday, Contemporary, Ireland, Fiction, Chick Lit

298 pages, Paperback

Published October 11, 2022

About the author

Michelle Vernal is a bestselling author of warm, witty, and uplifting Irish fiction. Born in England to parents from Liverpool – often called “Little Ireland” – she grew up on her mum’s tales of Iocal families, music, and humour. Later, she lived, worked, got engaged, and travelled extensively in Ireland, experiences that inspire her much-loved novels, including the hilarious Guesthouse on the Green series. Her stories, filled with heart, humour, and unforgettable characters, have earned her a loyal readership worldwide.

For updates on Michelle's latest book releases you can follow her here: https://www.amazon.com/author/michell...

Reviews

[Dee (in the Desert) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a nice holiday story with small-town Ireland feels - start of a series about an Irish family with 5 grown daughters. Felt pretty authentic and was a pretty clean holiday romance. I've read the author before and she's pretty solid.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

You will get the full Irish experience while reading this one. Being that my ancestors came over on a boat from Galway I knew this one was the perfect read for me.
You'll be immersed in the authenticity of the Irish humor,foods and settings.
An American guy,an Irish gal snowed in together with an elderly neighbor it looks like love may be a blooming in this charming rom-com. When secrets are revealed though it just may send that fledgling romance south . This book is just lovely, so entertaining. The humor is great and had me laughing out loud. So heart-warming and charming, so looking forward to the next in this series.

Pub Date 14 Oct 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jonann loves book talk❤♥️❤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas in the Little Irish Village, by Michelle Vernal Michelle

Vernal's brand new book Christmas in the Little Irish Village is a humorously charming and sweet romance. It is a pleasure to read Vernal's wholesome story which is devoid of sexual and violent content. It would make a beautiful Hallmark movie. The plot is set during the holiday season in a quaint Irish village, with delightful characters including an adorable cat named Napoleon.

Synopsis:
Shannon Kelly has returned home to live with her family in Emerald Bay. Following a painful breakup, she is trying to get back on her feet. There she meets the very handsome James Cabot. Although Shannon has sworn off men, she can't help but feel drawn to James until he "claims" to be the long-lost grandson of Shannon's good friend Maeve Doolin. Maeve is a beloved grandma figure to Shannon who is determined to uncover the truth behind James' motives

Christmas in the Little Irish Village is the first book in a series by Michelle Vernal featuring the Kelly family of Emerald Bay. I am excited to read the sequel and find out more about the enchanted Irish village.

Christmas in the Little Irish Village is available on October 14th. 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for sharing this wonderful book with me. Reading it put me in the Christmas spirit!

#ChristmasInTheLittleIrishVillage #TheKellyFamilyOfEmeraldBay

[Tahera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas season, a quaint Irish village, a clean, second chance at romance trope, family reunions and an assortment of lovely characters made Christmas in the Little Irish Village a wonderful audiobook to listen to. It was wholesome, funny and a lovely book and I liked that the story's emphasis was more on reuniting and reconnecting with family and familial roots with a bit of romance added to complete the holiday season spirit of finding new love and new beginnings. Each chapter began with an Irish Christmas prayer/saying which were a lovely addition to the book.

The narration done by Jessica Reagan was wonderful: her soothing voice created a pleasurable listening experience. A lovely book written by Michelle Vernal which can be made into a good Hallmark movie.

My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture Audio and the author for the audio Arc of the book.

[Kerry Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cosy Christmas Read to fall in love with

I absolutely loved this book, everything about it. It's warm, cosy, funny, touching and I really enjoyed the trope which I won't say, as not to spoil it for anyone.
Vernal writes a truly beautiful and magical book, where you really feel you know the characters and you are in their little Irish village with them.
Shannon the MC is an absolutely likeable and loveable woman and James the new man to the village is magnetic and dreamy.
If you're looking for a book that transports you to a magical Christmas and to cosy up with, this book is definitely for you.

[Catherine Craig (Angelic Light) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such a Christmas treat, which will fill you up with love, happiness, cheer, delight and joy, as it warms your heart on a cold winter's day. If you love Christmas books set in Ireland, with a wonderful audiobook narrator who portrays a fantastic Irish accent, then this is the book for you!

Shannon is sad after a breakup, and so she goes back to Ireland to see her family. While she is there, she has a good time with her family and friends, and she also meets an American man called James, who she bonds well with. This is a lovely story, with beautiful scenery and gorgeous characters. With hot chocolate, twinkling lights, Christmas decorations and goodies galore, this delightful book will entertain you and fill you with light this winter season.

I really loved and adored this book, and it really cheered me up, as it is uplifting and full of humour. I recommend it highly. If there is one book you have to buy this Christmas, then this is the one! You won't be disappointed!

Many thanks to the author, narrator, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.

[Julia Sarene · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the stars, this was such a delightful read!

Christmas in the Little Irish Village had everything I love in a Christmas romance:

* A close knit family, that bickers but still loves each other
* Slow romance instead of insta love
* Very scenic setting that bleeds from the page
* Hearty pub that is at the heart of a community
* People watching out for each other
* Relatable characters I quickly fell in love with
* Good older female characters
* Cute fury friend - cat
* A mystery in the past
* Some darker topics

And even better, it lacks a few of my personal pet peeves
* No steam
* No drama just for dramas sake
* No surprise riches or celebrities

I started this with little expectations, and was so pleasantly surprised to find a book that seems more or less written just for me. Definitely more of a comfort read, but with a few serious topics thrown in and enough things going on to not feel shallow.

Definitely left me happier than I was before I started it!

Thank you Booktoure for the audio arc!


Trigger warnings, which is a spoiler. Though it's not the focus of the book, the backstory is told in one chapter
.
I did use the spoiler tag, but for some reason it still shows at the moment, so I put it yet a bit farther down
.
* Mother / Daughter with cancer
* Pregnancy after rape
* Horrible Mother and Baby Home
* Baby taken away for adoption

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Christmas story that takes place in a small village in Ireland. It is full of family, quirky villagers, vivid descriptions, and a bit of a mystery. After a heartbreaking break-up with her French boyfriend, Shannon heads home to Emerald Bay and her family. One thing she is sure of - she's off men for the foreseeable future. This is reinforced by two embarrassing encounters with a handsome American man.

Shannon's relationship with James feels like a slow burn until you realize that the entire book takes place over four days. The chemistry between them is evident to everyone around them though Shannon does her best to deny it. I could feel Shannon's frustration as her family seemed determined to push them together. When Shannon gets roped into playing tour guide for James, she doesn't expect to find herself liking him. James makes his interest known with his charming smiles, sense of humor, and johnny-on-the-spot rescues. I liked how Shannon's family drew him into their circle, much to Shannon's chagrin. She also received quite a bit of teasing and significant looks from her sisters, including Hannah's comparison to courting baboons! I ached a little for James because Shannon is still letting her breakup affect her outlook. Once she realizes that life is too short to live in the past, she permits herself to embrace the possibilities. I liked that there were no insta-love declarations, just an admission of mutual liking and an interest in seeing where it goes. With Shannon in Ireland and James due to go back to America, the book ended with a bit of a cliffhanger. I hope to see more of them in the next book.

There is a bit of a mystery surrounding James's presence in the town in the beginning. When Shannon finds he's been visiting the older woman, Maeve, she is suspicious of his motives. As a visiting nurse who has known Maeve all her life, Shannon is protective of her favorite patient. Maeve's secretiveness is worrying, but she's still mentally sharp, so Shannon bides her time. While I suspected the truth, the background of Maeve's story was heartbreaking. I loved seeing the happiness that the truth brought to her. There was some drama caused by her son, who was a selfish prig, but it all worked out in an emotional scene that tugged at the heartstrings.

I loved Shannon's family. It is big and boisterous, and they clearly love each other. That's not to say there aren't squabbles and moments of drama. Hannah is a blunt-spoken social activist who doesn't hesitate to get in their faces about the causes she feels are essential. She is also a bit of a pot-stirrer and delights in making things awkward for Shannon when it comes to James. Imogen is the sophisticated sister who is also something of a drama queen. Her reaction to Shannon's cat Napoleon and his presence in their room was hilarious. The twins, Ava and Grace, don't have as much page time, but their differing personalities are evident. Shannon's grandmother, or nan as she is called, is a force of nature. I loved how she and Shannon's mom, Nora, could bring the family under control with just a few words. Shannon's dad was the quintessential pub owner with his outgoing nature and sense of humor. But my favorite family member was Shannon's cat, Napoleon. He has a regal personality mixed with adorable antics. I laughed out loud at how he seemed to stalk Shannon's dad.

#netgalley

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bookouture Blog Tour

Christmas in the Little Irish Village is the first book in a new series by Michelle Vernal. It features the Kelly Family of Emerald Bay in Ireland.
Breaking up with a boyfriend right before Christmas is hard enough but then having to go back home is even harder. Her family owns a pub in Emerald Bay where they rent out rooms. Will Shannon finally find happiness with her return to her small village in Ireland?
There is lots of fun interactions between the family members that brings a fun element to the story. The customers in the pub bring another element of humor to the story. Shannon’s cat, Napoleon, has a personality all of his own and lets you know it!
Definitely a book you need to read if you are in the mood for Christmas romance, family dynamics, humor and mystery.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@bookouture

[Steffi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

"Weihnachten im kleinen Dorf in Irland" klingt schon vom Titel her sehr idyllisch, gemütlich und perfekt für die Weihnachtszeit. Ich war daher sehr gespannt wie mir das Buch gefallen wird.

Shannon wurde von ihrem Freund verlassen und zieht kurz vor Weihnachten samt Kater in ihr Heimatdorf. Dort wird sie von ihren Familienmitgliedern abgelenkt und trifft auf den Amerikaner James, der durch Irland reist.

Mir hat die Geschichte mit seinem Setting in dem kleinen Dorf sehr gefallen. Es war unterhaltsam Shannon durch das Dorf zu begleiten und die verschiedenen Charaktere kennenzulernen. Etwas Probleme hatte ich mit den vielen Namen. Das Dorf hatte eine nette Atmosphäre und zum Ende durfte auch ein bisschen Winter- und Weihnachtsfeeling aufkommen. Dies hat mir an mancher Stelle etwas gefehlt und hätte für meinen Geschmack noch mehr sein können.

Die Liebesgeschichte war für mich ebenfalls etwas dünn. Angesichts von Shannons Trennung, die noch nicht allzu lange zurückliegt, hat es schon gespasst, dass sie sich nicht sofort in eine neue Beziehung stürzt, aber ich hätte mir ein bisschen mehr Romantik gewünscht.

Das Buch ist eine abwechslungsreiche Geschichte rund um die Familie, die mich im Großen und Ganzen gut unterhalten könnte.

[Kays Secret Library · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for a slow read with some holiday feels, this is a good choice. I didn't love how much focus there was on the past, or how slow the romance felt, but the characters were enjoyable enough to read about, and there are a lot of family feels that readers may enjoy.

Thank you to NetGalley & publishers for access to this arc in exchange for an honest review!

[Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas in the Little Irish Village starts with a lovely, traditional setup for a romcom, and author Michelle Vernal has no issue plopping readers into familiar literary territory. After a sudden breakup, nurse Shannon finds herself back home at the Shamrock Inn. Though she’s happy to be with her family over the end-of-year holidays, she’s not feeling much Christmas spirit. However, she manages a pretty big distraction by literally (and accidentally) falling into the arms of another man, an American tourist named James.

Right off, there’s a cozy inn nestled in a charming village—complete with snow and fairy lights. There’s a big family with generational drama. There’s even a meet cute brought on by a stray patch of ice. These early moments ease into what seems like a solid if standard romance—something perfectly satisfying on its own. But that’s about when Vernal starts doling out surprises like presents on Christmas.

Most of these stem from the charming cast Vernal’s populated this world with. Shannon’s family and other denizens of the inn bounce in and out of scenes, reminding her of her past as she slowly assesses what her future will look like. As Shannon bickers with her siblings and cozies up with her cat, the romantic plot sometimes takes a backseat to her reconnecting with her roots.

Yet there’s still plenty of romance. In a fun twist, Vernal packs in two separate meeting moments for Shannon and James, with both of them providing some embarrassment for Shannon. These missteps are a common thread, unfortunately for her—though it’s ton of fun for readers. Vernal’s humor pops through at just the right moments, especially in times of high drama, keeping things generally light and festive as romance slowly blossoms in the background.

For Christmas in the Little Irish Village, ’tis the season for chaotic family gatherings, snort-inducing encounters, and a spot of romance. For the rest of us? ‘Tis the season for a great read indeed.

Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shannon Kelly just went through an unexpected break up with her boyfriend. It wasn’t the outcome she was expecting, so she is wondering if she will ever find true happiness. Christmas is going to arrive whether she is ready for it or not. The twinkle lights, the hot chocolate and the joy of the season isn’t exactly what she wants right now. Shannon’s huge Irish family is there for her and they are ready to turn her broken heart around. Shannon slips on the ice and James Cabot is there to catch her, she can’t help but wonder if he is “the one”. Shannon shows James around Emerald Bay and the more time they spend together, the more Shannon realizes that maybe this Christmas won’t be so bad after all.

This story was so heartwarming and I loved all the characters. They were well developed and very relatable. The conversations around the dinner table had me reminiscing about our family dinners when I was young. I loved the detailed description of the sights, scents and sounds of Christmas in the village. What a lovely experience of the snow falling and the inspiration of the conversations with the family and friends. I loved that this story hit all the feels and had me laughing out loud. I recommend this book to propel you to Ireland and straight into the Christmas season.

Thank you Michelle Vernal for such a fabulous story. I really enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it. I look forward to reading more of your stories.

[Lauren Hewitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

After Shannon and her French boyfriend break up she is forced to move back to her childhood home in Emerald Bay. She discovers that an elderly neighbour has a visitor (James) claiming to be her long lost grandson, but Shannon isn't so sure and decides to uncover the truth, while getting to know James better and falling for him at the same time.

I'm so glad there's a sequel! Because the ending had me wanting more, a perfect cliffhanger ending for a sequel.
I loved the Irish-isms, the jargon, the banter, just every thing, I think I'm a sucker for Irish settings now.
This book has some drama, mystery and secrets and an impending romance.
The foods described sound mouth wateringly amazing. I'm so envious of the family/sister relationships and I adored the seriously relatable laugh out loud cringe worthy moments , and some teary moments. All in all delightful.

Read this if you love
Small town vibes
Christmas
Close knit family
Sweet romance (no spice)

Thank you netgalley and bookouture for this arc copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Monica Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous Christmassy story set in Ireland and the first book in a new series, yay!

Shannon is the eldest girl of 5 and her parents run a pub. When she goes home after a romance gone bad, she thinks her life is pretty much over, but being a part of the big, loud Kelly clan pulls her out of her doldrums and when she meets American, James, she finds her life getting a little more complicated....

I am a sucker for stories set in Ireland and I absolutely loved all the banter and sayings etc between the family members and the villagers. There were so many funny moments that I am sure my son got sick of me saying: "hey, listen to this bit", over and over again :) The characters in this book were just so likeable and relatable, even the grumpy ones!

So happy that there is another book coming up too, as the ending was a bit of a cliffhanger.

4.5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.

[itsallaboutbooksandmacarons · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I saw a book that the story happens in Ireland I have to have it. And this was a sweet audio by Bookouture. Thank you so much to them and to Netgalley. The story is simple how to move one after a delusion and how to get happy with your life again. Just I missed the real involment of the couple, there was maybe to much past life instead of the new born love. Maybe for someone this is ok. Well the cat was a nice addition.

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh I adored this book and there was so much more to it than just a Christmas romance 💚

[Kylie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Narrated by Jessica Regan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story Michelle Vernal ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5

This was a nice story with some really beautiful moments in it. Overall I didn't love the story but I also didn't dislike it. I just didn't have any strong emotions towards any of the characters.

[Gerrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 out of 5 stars This apparently is the first book of a new series. I felt the ending was a bit of a cliff hanger, and I don't like series, even when they're complete, that leave you dangling before the next book. Otherwise, I would have given this book 4 stars.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Michelle Vernal, but it won't be my last. Shannon has returned home for Christmas after a breakup, and is helping to run the family business, The Shamrock Inn. While she is there, she meets a handsome American, litterally falling for him. There is a lot of humor in the initial couple of meet ups and Shannon doesn't know how she can face him, especially as he is staying at the Inn. When she finds out the reason he is in Ireland, she decides she needs to get to know him better in order to watch out for her neighbour, her adopted grandmother. Trying to get to know more about him and his motives, they take a tour of Emerald Bay and end up snowed in together. They begin to have feelings toward one another, but there is more angst to come. Can they get beyond the issues and have a magical Christmas and a Happily Ever After?

I really enjoyed this lovely story, with beautiful scenery and fun, well developed characters. There was a surprise theme of unwed mothers and forced adoption in Ireland's past interwoven in the story. I really liked both Shannon and James. They were both looking for something and I was glad they both found it. The setting of a quaint Irish Village with some quirky and lovable characters, including an adorable cat named Napoleon made the story even more enjoyable. This was a story with some romance, but it was more about finding your roots and reconnecting with family. With hot chocolate, twinkling lights, Christmas decorations and goodies galore, this Christmas book will have you smiling and keeping you warm during this winter season. Christmas in the Little Irish Village would make a wonderful Hallmark movie. The narration by Jessica Reagan was wonderful. Her tone and expression gave just the right feel and emotion to this story to make it an enjoyable listening experience.

[Piper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas in the Little Irish Village
by Michelle Vernal
Earc: NetGalley
Publisher:Bookouture
Publication Date: 14th October 2022
Genre: General Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction

Shannon moving back home after a break up. The family dynamics these have is heart warming i love how they all banter together. Additionally I adore the warm fuzzy feeling this book gives me the atomhphere you can imagine in your head especially when you think of all the smells of the amazing food. The story begins four days before Christmas.
Shannon Kelly is on her way home from vacation. She brings her broken heart and her cat.
Returning to her childhood home, Shamrock, her Inn, Shannon is immersed in the warmth and chaos of her closest and dearest.
Will things turn around when handsome American James brings a book to the pub for Christmas? Shannon seems to embarrass herself every time they cross paths (tucking her dress into her panties is embarrassing), so she's determined to avoid James.
However, Shannon becomes suspicious when she learns that James is here to contact his elderly neighbor Maeve.
Is James who he says he is? And can Shannon find the love she so desperately longs for?

This story is well written, incredibly funny, and very moving.

I love the beautiful Irish Christmas celebrations contained in this book. They provide a traditional accompaniment to this modern Christmas story.

Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley & Michelle Vernal for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book for my honest review.

#NetGalley #bookstagram #bookreview #goodreads #romance #womensfiction #generalfiction

[Sarah Kingsnorth · Rating 5 out of 5]


Christmas In The Little Irish Village
By
Michelle Vernal.

The story starts four days before Christmas.
Shannon Kelly is on her way home for the festive season. She’s bringing with her a broken heart and her cat.
Once back at the Shamrock Inn - her family home, Shannon is immersed in the warmth and chaos of her nearest and dearest.
Could things be looking up when handsome American, James books into the pub over Christmas? Shannon seems to embarrass herself every time their paths cross (oh the shame of tucking your dress into your knickers) so, she decides to try and avoid James.
However when Shannon becomes aware that James is here to connect with elderly neighbour Maeve, her suspicions are aroused.
Is James all he claims to be? And can Shannon find the love she so desperately craves?

This is the first book I’ve read by Michelle Vernal and I loved it!

This story is well written, hilariously funny and also remarkably touching.

I loved the beautiful Irish Christmas blessings that are included in this book. They provide a traditional accompaniment to this modern Christmas story.

Full of warmth, family, community, hidden secrets and a heart warming romance, this book has become one of my festive favourites.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Audio narration by Jessica Regan, who does a cracking job.

Out now on all formats.

With thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for an audio copy of this title.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I pretty much love any book that takes place in Ireland! This book was a fun & quick read! I found myself laughing out loud a lot with all of the family banter! The best part, the MC has the same name as me (well, first and middle names)...Shannon Marie!

This book is just lovely! The closeness of this family - you can feel the love that they have for each other through the pages of this book. The world definitely needs more people like the Kelly family! There is always a place at their table for anyone who is alone for the holidays. Not to mention the closeness that Shannon has with all of her patients (especially Maeve), it is just so endearing! You really do feel all the feels in this book...even like the book Shannon, I felt the happy-sadness.

I found myself reading with an Irish accent for all of the dialogue and had to laugh at the irony of Shannon making fun of James’s Boston accent. I loved most of the characters - even the crabby ones (let’s face it, all communities have them). AND Napoleon with his cattitude! I just love him!!!

I do wish the ending was a little more detailed instead of carrying over to a second book. I am impatient and want more now! I would definitely recommend this book to those who love a sweet Christmas romance with a great location - definitely a Hallmark movie waiting to be made!

Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley & Michelle Vernal for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book for my honest review!

[Micky Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life is short so dare to live it to the fullest is the underlying theme in this sweet Christmas romance. Wonderful characters set in a quaint village in Ireland wrapped in Christmas spirit while nursing a variety of heartbreaks makes for a delightful story of starting over and shedding the past. The narration was wonderful and helped to bring the characters and their individuality to life and enhanced a wonderfully written happily ever after Christmas romance. This is my first book by this author and it certainly won't be my last! I'm excited to see what other stories she has for us and am hopeful that this is just the first in a series to come as there are multiple sisters and brothers who will need life matches as well!

[Izzy (acourtofbookreviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not my traditional review because I don’t have time for that today. Basically, if you don’t like romcoms BUT you do like a feel good, small town, family/friends, with a side of romance then this book is for you! It’s DELIVERS on the Christmas spirit well too. 🎄 There were times in the beginning where I was like am I bored? But I just couldn’t stop reading it. Perfect getaway from the stress of work, holiday schedules, and just the busyness of life this time of year in general. I gave it 5 stars because I picked it up for an international Christmas escape and that’s exactly what it delivered. Bonus : FMC is in her early 30s & there is a more serious tone in a part of the book too which I liked tbh.

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel like this book was written with the idea of this being made into a Hallmark movie. There are a lot of characters and a lot of relationships to explore. I really enjoyed the wholesomeness of this book, as well as the relationships within the families. It’s nice to read about loving, welcoming families. It made me want to be a part of their family! I do, however, wish there was a little more romantic interactions in the book. I understood Shannon’s hesitation, but I think the hesitation was taken a little too far into the book. I wanted to feel more angst and more spark between the two characters. Overall, a very pleasant read!

[Sheila · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was so looking forward to reading this book. Unfortunately I did not care for it al all.

[Meghan Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute! I honestly didn’t get as much Christmas vibes as I would’ve liked, but it made me feel like I was in this adorable Irish town in winter. It was a little hard to read at times since it’s written in an Irish accent, but that made it more fun too and made it more real. Now I’m longing to be back in Ireland more than ever :)

[Katja · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cozy Christmas read. Ironic that I just finished Small Things Like These because Christmas in the Little Irish Village also references some of Ireland's dark past. Some sections were a bit long.

[Amber Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cozy contemporary with a smidge of romance. I loved the small town feel at the Shamrock Inn. The Irish traditions were so interesting to read about. Shannon is so lovable. James is the dreamy tourist. I love Christmas books and this one did not disappoint. I cannot wait to read the next one. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the audio arc in exchange for my honest review.