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Christmas in the Country #2
Il cottage degli amori segreti
Da quando ha perso il marito in un tragico incidente d'auto, Elana James si sente disastrata e incompleta, proprio come il cottage di campagna da ristrutturare in cui vive con la sua bambina di sei anni, Maya. Con l'avvicinarsi del secondo Natale senza Niall, nonostante soffra ancora molto per il lutto, Elana si rende conto che lei e sua figlia meritano una seconda occasione per andare avanti ed essere felici. E quale modo migliore per ricominciare, se non dai lavori di ristrutturazione del cottage rimasto a lungo trascurato, proprio come il suo cuore? Incoraggiata dalla magica atmosfera natalizia, Elana assume un giovane tuttofare, Luke Stevenson, per occuparsi dei lavori e rendere il cottage accogliente in tempo per Natale. Se tutto andrà secondo i piani, la sua bimba potrà attendere l'arrivo di Babbo Natale davanti allo splendido camino del soggiorno. E chissà che quella del focolare non sia l'unica scintilla ad accendersi: anche il cuore di Elana, aiutato dalla magia delle feste, potrebbe tornare a scaldarsi per la prima volta dopo tanto tempo...
288 pages, Hardcover
First published October 27, 2017
34 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Linn B. Halton
26 books277 followersLinn B. Halton writes feelgood fiction: home is where the heart is! In 2013 she won the UK Festival of Romance: Innovation in Romantic Fiction Award. Originally from Bristol, she now lives in Somerset with her husband, and Bengal cat, Ziggy.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 24, 2017
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage initially caught my eye with its beautiful cover.
I love reading Christmas themed books as Christmas approaches, and have already read quite a few this year. I would say this is the least Christmassy book out of all the Christmas books I’ve read this year. The overall atmosphere felt heavier and sadder than many of the other Christmas books I’ve read in recent weeks. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as this is a touching story with raw emotions. However, for me personally, I would say I’d have probably enjoyed this book more if I’d not gone into it thinking it was a Christmas book, as it failed to give me that excitable Christmas sparkle many other festive books give me.
I would class this story as a romance, but not the chick lit version, more a real life one mixed in with grief, frustration, money worries and betrayal. Ideal if you enjoy that kind of romance, which I often do.
However, there are happy moments too. I did love the magical relationship little Maya had with her father, and early on this book did make me think about believing in Father Christmas. I’ve never really understood the desire to not believe in such things, but maybe that’s because I’ve yet to stop believing.
I’m torn between 3 and 4 stars, but I’ve decided to round it up to 4, as this is a good story with depth and realistic emotions, and I think my feelings about this book are much more about the time I chose to read it, rather than the book itself.
My review is also available on my blog here:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
I love reading Christmas themed books as Christmas approaches, and have already read quite a few this year. I would say this is the least Christmassy book out of all the Christmas books I’ve read this year. The overall atmosphere felt heavier and sadder than many of the other Christmas books I’ve read in recent weeks. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as this is a touching story with raw emotions. However, for me personally, I would say I’d have probably enjoyed this book more if I’d not gone into it thinking it was a Christmas book, as it failed to give me that excitable Christmas sparkle many other festive books give me.
I would class this story as a romance, but not the chick lit version, more a real life one mixed in with grief, frustration, money worries and betrayal. Ideal if you enjoy that kind of romance, which I often do.
However, there are happy moments too. I did love the magical relationship little Maya had with her father, and early on this book did make me think about believing in Father Christmas. I’ve never really understood the desire to not believe in such things, but maybe that’s because I’ve yet to stop believing.
I’m torn between 3 and 4 stars, but I’ve decided to round it up to 4, as this is a good story with depth and realistic emotions, and I think my feelings about this book are much more about the time I chose to read it, rather than the book itself.
My review is also available on my blog here:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
December 24, 2017
There are a bunch of Christmas stories published every year some are good some are just ok or run of the mill with nothing that makes them stand out or differentiates them from all the rest of the Christmas stories. This one is different and is easily my favorite Christmas story this year.
Heartwarming and and easily believable book that you could see your neighbors experiencing. After the death of her husband Elana James is a grieving widow with a young daughter. At the time of her husband's death work was not complete on the cottage she bought with her husband,Bay Tree Cottage. As she saves up the money she piece by piece gets the repairs done on her cottage. Luke works for his dad's construction company and agrees to do work for her at off peak times and charge her a cheaper price than the going rate. He's just happy to have the work since he's paying child support for his young little boy, Joey he has. Elana is happy to have Luke doing the work for her even at unconventional hours like dinner time and in the evening. She makes him dinner a lot of evenings while he's working then they go into her sitting room and discuss house repair plans. She is very professional about this and there is no hint of a romance brewing at all. Luke starts thinking he just may need Elana in his life in a romantic way but is afraid to show her that as she may not think the timing is right. Elana's daughter, really needs Luke to finish the chimney work before Christmas so her her oh so important letters can get to Santa. Smart,capable and good looking Luke delivers too. No little girl being disappointed in this story! Bring in the fact that Elana is 10 years older than Luke and has more worldly experience you can see where her hesitation to start a romance stems from after all this woman is no cougar. The heart doesn't always hear what the head is thinking though!
Wonderful feel good book.
Pub Date 27 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Heartwarming and and easily believable book that you could see your neighbors experiencing. After the death of her husband Elana James is a grieving widow with a young daughter. At the time of her husband's death work was not complete on the cottage she bought with her husband,Bay Tree Cottage. As she saves up the money she piece by piece gets the repairs done on her cottage. Luke works for his dad's construction company and agrees to do work for her at off peak times and charge her a cheaper price than the going rate. He's just happy to have the work since he's paying child support for his young little boy, Joey he has. Elana is happy to have Luke doing the work for her even at unconventional hours like dinner time and in the evening. She makes him dinner a lot of evenings while he's working then they go into her sitting room and discuss house repair plans. She is very professional about this and there is no hint of a romance brewing at all. Luke starts thinking he just may need Elana in his life in a romantic way but is afraid to show her that as she may not think the timing is right. Elana's daughter, really needs Luke to finish the chimney work before Christmas so her her oh so important letters can get to Santa. Smart,capable and good looking Luke delivers too. No little girl being disappointed in this story! Bring in the fact that Elana is 10 years older than Luke and has more worldly experience you can see where her hesitation to start a romance stems from after all this woman is no cougar. The heart doesn't always hear what the head is thinking though!
Wonderful feel good book.
Pub Date 27 Oct 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 27, 2023
Da quando ha perso il marito in un tragico incidente d’auto, Elana James si sente disastrata e incompleta, proprio come il cottage di campagna da ristrutturare in cui vive con la sua bambina di sei anni, Maya. Con l’avvicinarsi del secondo Natale senza Niall, nonostante soffra ancora molto per il lutto, Elana si rende conto che lei e sua figlia meritano una seconda occasione per andare avanti ed essere felici. E quale modo migliore per ricominciare, se non dai lavori di ristrutturazione del cottage rimasto a lungo trascurato, proprio come il suo cuore? Incoraggiata dalla magica atmosfera natalizia, Elana assume un giovane tuttofare, Luke Stevenson, per occuparsi dei lavori e rendere il cottage accogliente in tempo per Natale. Se tutto andrà secondo i piani, la sua bimba potrà attendere l’arrivo di Babbo Natale davanti allo splendido camino del soggiorno. E chissà che quella del focolare non sia l’unica scintilla ad accendersi: anche il cuore di Elana, aiutato dalla magia delle feste, potrebbe tornare a scaldarsi per la prima volta dopo tanto tempo…
Sinceramente? Mi ha deluso. Fino a metà l'ho trovato triste, ma allo stesso tempo dolce e romantico. Poi arriva una notizia che sconvolge le cose, però finisce tutto così. E si arriva ad un anno dopo.
I personaggi li ho trovati troppo cervellotici. Che se da un lato ci sta, visto quello che stanno passando, dall'altro non ha fatto si che trasparissero le emozioni. E così si innamorano, ma vi giuro non ho capito come è successo.
Per non parlare della storia della piccola Maya e delle sue lettere, che poteve essere un bel risvolto, perde tutta la sua magia, per ritornare alla fine.
E personalmente Magia del Natale zero.
A molti vedo che è piaciuto, A me da metà in poi ha annoiato, e non vedevo l'ora di finirlo. Peccato, perchè poteva essere un bel libro. Le premesse c'erano tutte, ma non sono riuscita ad entrare nella storia e nei personaggi. Mi aspettavo di sentire dolore, amore e fiumi di sentimenti, invece il nulla.
Delusione.
Quest'anno con i libri natalizi mi è andata male. O forse sono io che sono un pò Scrooge
Sinceramente? Mi ha deluso. Fino a metà l'ho trovato triste, ma allo stesso tempo dolce e romantico. Poi arriva una notizia che sconvolge le cose, però finisce tutto così. E si arriva ad un anno dopo.
I personaggi li ho trovati troppo cervellotici. Che se da un lato ci sta, visto quello che stanno passando, dall'altro non ha fatto si che trasparissero le emozioni. E così si innamorano, ma vi giuro non ho capito come è successo.
Per non parlare della storia della piccola Maya e delle sue lettere, che poteve essere un bel risvolto, perde tutta la sua magia, per ritornare alla fine.
E personalmente Magia del Natale zero.
A molti vedo che è piaciuto, A me da metà in poi ha annoiato, e non vedevo l'ora di finirlo. Peccato, perchè poteva essere un bel libro. Le premesse c'erano tutte, ma non sono riuscita ad entrare nella storia e nei personaggi. Mi aspettavo di sentire dolore, amore e fiumi di sentimenti, invece il nulla.
Delusione.
Quest'anno con i libri natalizi mi è andata male. O forse sono io che sono un pò Scrooge
December 25, 2017
Review to come. Thanks to Linn B. Halton and her publisher for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2017
Such a heartfelt story, full of deeper feelings and some absolutely beautiful moments, some of which will make you smile and others feel quite emotional.
This is not your typical light fluffy Christmas book to get you feeling in a festive mood. What it is, is a fabulous story that gives you hope, it features two main characters each with similarities but also at times feel like a world apart from each other.
There is Elana, single mother to Maya, and they are about to face their second Christmas since Niall died, Maya is convinced she still talks to her father and just wants the renovations on Bay Tree Cottage to be finished so that she can send her santa letters up the chimney for some Christmas magic.
Luke is the builder working on the cottage, he is a bit younger than Elana, and just wants to spend more time with his young son Joe. They are both lonely but whether anything will ever happen between them, is what in part keeps you reading throughout.
The story is told from both Luke and Elana's perspectives and there is a lot to learn about both of them. I couldn't help but feel a lot of sympathy for both characters, while their children were fabulous. Maya is a fabulous character and seems a lot older than her 6 years would suggest in some of what she says.
I loved seeing Bay Tree Cottage change in front of my eyes from a cottage in need of renovation, to a proper family home, which marks with it the personal journey that Elana is on too, in seeing whether she is finally ready to move on with her life.
This is a fabulous story and one that I would happily recommend.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
This is not your typical light fluffy Christmas book to get you feeling in a festive mood. What it is, is a fabulous story that gives you hope, it features two main characters each with similarities but also at times feel like a world apart from each other.
There is Elana, single mother to Maya, and they are about to face their second Christmas since Niall died, Maya is convinced she still talks to her father and just wants the renovations on Bay Tree Cottage to be finished so that she can send her santa letters up the chimney for some Christmas magic.
Luke is the builder working on the cottage, he is a bit younger than Elana, and just wants to spend more time with his young son Joe. They are both lonely but whether anything will ever happen between them, is what in part keeps you reading throughout.
The story is told from both Luke and Elana's perspectives and there is a lot to learn about both of them. I couldn't help but feel a lot of sympathy for both characters, while their children were fabulous. Maya is a fabulous character and seems a lot older than her 6 years would suggest in some of what she says.
I loved seeing Bay Tree Cottage change in front of my eyes from a cottage in need of renovation, to a proper family home, which marks with it the personal journey that Elana is on too, in seeing whether she is finally ready to move on with her life.
This is a fabulous story and one that I would happily recommend.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 27, 2022
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
October 28, 2017
So beautiful
Elana and maya are left alone in bay tree cottage after the tragic death of their beloved husband and father niall
The work in the cottage is well from been completed so elana employs worker luke their first Christmas together elana wants to make everything perfect for maya.
I truly loved reading this story from start to finish so Heart warming feelings grow as you read. I could feel the love that the author put into this book as she was written and it was written with love. So look forward to reading more
Elana and maya are left alone in bay tree cottage after the tragic death of their beloved husband and father niall
The work in the cottage is well from been completed so elana employs worker luke their first Christmas together elana wants to make everything perfect for maya.
I truly loved reading this story from start to finish so Heart warming feelings grow as you read. I could feel the love that the author put into this book as she was written and it was written with love. So look forward to reading more
November 11, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
SNIFF. SNIFF. SNIFF.
For those of you with children, you’ll understand how magical Christmas with young children can be, especially with those who believe in Santa. I’m sure a lot of parents can find the whole thing quite emotional when they see their children’s happy faces on Christmas morning, realising their ‘biggest wish of their life’ has come true by Santa bringing them ‘Pie Face’. Now, if you add a child who has lost one of her parents into the mix, the emotion within the storyline gets put on a totally new level. Coming from a person who has ‘Ice Queen’ as their nickname, even I melted at the contents of this novel. Seriously, you’ll have to be a person with no soul if you’re not at least a little bit moved by this book. Trust me.
Elana James’ life got turned upside down in the blink of an eye. In the aftermath of such unfortunate circumstances, Elana is left to bring up her little girl single-handedly, keep a roof over their heads (literally) with her career, as well as try to find the time to turn a DIY SOS disaster into a finally finished home. What Elana wasn’t prepared for was her new-found builder to be exceptionally easy on the eye and brilliant with her daughter. Surely it’s time to move on, right?
Elana’s situation caught me right in the feels. Although to be honest, if there wasn’t a child involved, I don’t think I would have been quite so emotional (I realise that makes me sound heartless but you’ll see what I mean when you read the book). I just couldn’t even begin to imagine what the James’ went through, especially now that Elana’s daughter is of an age where she wants answers. You can’t really blame her either. The whole debacle with the chimney left a golf ball sized lump in my throat for several hours after finishing this book. I mean….wow. Heart-wrenching yet totally relatable.
There were a couple of situations within Linn.B.Halton’s novel which shocked me at the time yet I couldn’t seem to work out why they were there. Don’t get me wrong, they didn’t seem to stick out like a sore thumb, but I thought that the neighbourly situation was a little bit….random whilst also coming to an abrupt stop. It didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the novel at all, I just wondered why, that was all.
I loved the warmth of the storyline with the mixture of loveable characters. I loved how the Christmas spirit was laid bare to begin with, yet built each bauble at a time throughout the novel. As for Elana’s life – I loved how relatable, realistic and genuine her story was as it made me connect to the main character a lot quicker. She didn’t seem to hide her emotions or pretend to be something that she’s not. Instead, Elana was determined to make the best of a bad situation whilst also trying to do the right thing by her little girl, even though she thought every decision she made was the wrong one.
Linn.B.Halton has, once again, taken a heart-wrenching, real-life situation and turned it into a thought-provoking, touching and emotional read. I really have no idea how this author manages to produce such truly wonderful books, but she does. This authors writing skills and story telling abilities are second to none, which makes every single book I read of hers an absolutely treasure to read. Linn.B.Halton most definitely has a fan for life in TWG for as long as she continues to produce such enchanting novels such as this one, and her entire back catalogue.
‘Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage’ is such a cosy and touching novel, which is probably going to play havoc with your emotions until the very last page.
Turn off your phone, grab the box of Kleenex and curl up in bed with this absolutely beautiful read – you’ll be a fool not to.
Magical.
Thanks HarperImpulse/BrookCottageBooks.
SNIFF. SNIFF. SNIFF.
For those of you with children, you’ll understand how magical Christmas with young children can be, especially with those who believe in Santa. I’m sure a lot of parents can find the whole thing quite emotional when they see their children’s happy faces on Christmas morning, realising their ‘biggest wish of their life’ has come true by Santa bringing them ‘Pie Face’. Now, if you add a child who has lost one of her parents into the mix, the emotion within the storyline gets put on a totally new level. Coming from a person who has ‘Ice Queen’ as their nickname, even I melted at the contents of this novel. Seriously, you’ll have to be a person with no soul if you’re not at least a little bit moved by this book. Trust me.
Elana James’ life got turned upside down in the blink of an eye. In the aftermath of such unfortunate circumstances, Elana is left to bring up her little girl single-handedly, keep a roof over their heads (literally) with her career, as well as try to find the time to turn a DIY SOS disaster into a finally finished home. What Elana wasn’t prepared for was her new-found builder to be exceptionally easy on the eye and brilliant with her daughter. Surely it’s time to move on, right?
Elana’s situation caught me right in the feels. Although to be honest, if there wasn’t a child involved, I don’t think I would have been quite so emotional (I realise that makes me sound heartless but you’ll see what I mean when you read the book). I just couldn’t even begin to imagine what the James’ went through, especially now that Elana’s daughter is of an age where she wants answers. You can’t really blame her either. The whole debacle with the chimney left a golf ball sized lump in my throat for several hours after finishing this book. I mean….wow. Heart-wrenching yet totally relatable.
There were a couple of situations within Linn.B.Halton’s novel which shocked me at the time yet I couldn’t seem to work out why they were there. Don’t get me wrong, they didn’t seem to stick out like a sore thumb, but I thought that the neighbourly situation was a little bit….random whilst also coming to an abrupt stop. It didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the novel at all, I just wondered why, that was all.
I loved the warmth of the storyline with the mixture of loveable characters. I loved how the Christmas spirit was laid bare to begin with, yet built each bauble at a time throughout the novel. As for Elana’s life – I loved how relatable, realistic and genuine her story was as it made me connect to the main character a lot quicker. She didn’t seem to hide her emotions or pretend to be something that she’s not. Instead, Elana was determined to make the best of a bad situation whilst also trying to do the right thing by her little girl, even though she thought every decision she made was the wrong one.
Linn.B.Halton has, once again, taken a heart-wrenching, real-life situation and turned it into a thought-provoking, touching and emotional read. I really have no idea how this author manages to produce such truly wonderful books, but she does. This authors writing skills and story telling abilities are second to none, which makes every single book I read of hers an absolutely treasure to read. Linn.B.Halton most definitely has a fan for life in TWG for as long as she continues to produce such enchanting novels such as this one, and her entire back catalogue.
‘Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage’ is such a cosy and touching novel, which is probably going to play havoc with your emotions until the very last page.
Turn off your phone, grab the box of Kleenex and curl up in bed with this absolutely beautiful read – you’ll be a fool not to.
Magical.
Thanks HarperImpulse/BrookCottageBooks.
October 2, 2017
I can't believe how fast this year is going, the Christmas books are starting to make an appearance and I was thrilled to be given the chance to read an early copy of Linn B Halton's latest book which just so happened to have a Christmassy theme.
Such an emotional introduction! I was surprised by how quickly these characters found a place in my heart. The familiar location was probably partly responsible for that as I was taken back to the lovely little village from A Cottage in the Country.
I loved the duel perspective, I like delving into the minds of multiple characters as it gives me a clearer picture of the situation. Luke was very mature for his age, something I didn't find believable to begin with but it soon became obvious that circumstances had forced him to grow up pretty quickly.
The run up to Christmas was a little chaotic for both Elana and Luke and I loved that realness. There was also a spiritual side to the storyline which I particularly enjoyed because it had so much meaning. Then came a completely unexpected discovery which made me gasp in shock, I didn't know what to believe - so much to keep me entertained!
The romance was gentle and unhurried, I thought I knew exactly how events would happen but Linn kept me guessing right to the end and I read the final pages with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes.
Linn's natural writing style made this an extremely enjoyable book to read, another hit!
Such an emotional introduction! I was surprised by how quickly these characters found a place in my heart. The familiar location was probably partly responsible for that as I was taken back to the lovely little village from A Cottage in the Country.
I loved the duel perspective, I like delving into the minds of multiple characters as it gives me a clearer picture of the situation. Luke was very mature for his age, something I didn't find believable to begin with but it soon became obvious that circumstances had forced him to grow up pretty quickly.
The run up to Christmas was a little chaotic for both Elana and Luke and I loved that realness. There was also a spiritual side to the storyline which I particularly enjoyed because it had so much meaning. Then came a completely unexpected discovery which made me gasp in shock, I didn't know what to believe - so much to keep me entertained!
The romance was gentle and unhurried, I thought I knew exactly how events would happen but Linn kept me guessing right to the end and I read the final pages with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes.
Linn's natural writing style made this an extremely enjoyable book to read, another hit!
November 13, 2017
I can’t believe it took me so long to discover Linn B Halton’s gorgeous writing, but now that I have I’ll make sure I never miss one again. If you’re looking for a gorgeous Christmas read, you really won’t want to miss this one…
This was one of those books where the characters won my heart from the opening pages, and made me really care about them. Many of you will be aware of my occasional aversion to children in books, but I would have perfectly happily cuddled both Elana’s daughter Alexa and Luke’s little son Joe. Mind you, I’d have been fairly happy to cuddle Luke too – what a lovely guy! And what’s a little unusual about this book is that we hear Luke’s voice and perspective every bit as clearly as we hear that of Elana, and if there were ever two damaged people who more deserved to find a happy ending, I haven’t come across them yet.
All the relationships in this book are just so beautifully drawn – mother/daughter for Elana and Alexa, father/son for Luke and Joe, the warmth and intensity of every contact between Luke and Elana, but all the wider ones too with the extended family, friends, love interests, and slightly difficult neighbours. The author’s flair for interiors comes into play in the renovation of Bay Tree Cottage – I’m looking for red fairy lights now to put among my logs, and nervously tapping my plaster – and there’s even a little touch of her familiar magic which brought a little tear to my eye. Heavens above, there’s even a kitten!
I loved this book – and should you have space on your Christmas reading list, I’d highly recommend it to all.
This was one of those books where the characters won my heart from the opening pages, and made me really care about them. Many of you will be aware of my occasional aversion to children in books, but I would have perfectly happily cuddled both Elana’s daughter Alexa and Luke’s little son Joe. Mind you, I’d have been fairly happy to cuddle Luke too – what a lovely guy! And what’s a little unusual about this book is that we hear Luke’s voice and perspective every bit as clearly as we hear that of Elana, and if there were ever two damaged people who more deserved to find a happy ending, I haven’t come across them yet.
All the relationships in this book are just so beautifully drawn – mother/daughter for Elana and Alexa, father/son for Luke and Joe, the warmth and intensity of every contact between Luke and Elana, but all the wider ones too with the extended family, friends, love interests, and slightly difficult neighbours. The author’s flair for interiors comes into play in the renovation of Bay Tree Cottage – I’m looking for red fairy lights now to put among my logs, and nervously tapping my plaster – and there’s even a little touch of her familiar magic which brought a little tear to my eye. Heavens above, there’s even a kitten!
I loved this book – and should you have space on your Christmas reading list, I’d highly recommend it to all.
October 16, 2017
- Fate takes you where you need to be when the time is right -
Elana lives with her daughter Maya in Bay Tree Cottage. Their house is still not finished and Elana doesn’t have the money to hire professional help. Elana started renovating the cottage together with her husband Niall, but a tragic accident ended their dream. Elana is working hard as an editor to have some extra income. She wants this Christmas to be magical for her and Maya. When the chimney needs immediate repairs she has to take action. Her next door neighbors hired a professional company and they can also do the work on Bay Tree Cottage. Will, despite these issues, Christmas be the wonderful time Elana and Maya need so much?
Luke set aside his own dream to work at the family business. His father can no longer do everything by himself. This choice cost him his relationship with Anita. Now he can only see his son Joe on Saturdays. Luke wished for another outcome, but he accepts the situation as it is. When Luke starts renovations at Bay Tree cottage he can’t help but be enchanted by the beautiful woman who lives there together with her lovely daughter. Can he fix everything that needs to be fixed in time for Christmas?
Elana is incredibly strong, trying to cope as well as she can after the death of her husband. She’s putting up a brave front for her parents and friends, but her nights are lonely. She needs to be efficient with money and I admired her for doing this so well. Niall was the love of her life and after he was suddenly taken from her she had to reinvent herself. It is hard having to face everything alone and I had a lot of respect for how she deals with what life brings her and liked her from the start. She’s good at her job and she’s competent in getting all the information she needs. I wished for her to have the courage the let go of the past and to look ahead and wanted her to find the happiness that she and Maya truly deserve.
Luke is such a kind and caring man. Even though his ex-girlfriend broke his heart he still remembers what’s most important, their son Joe. He does what needs to be done and he’s a great father and son. I loved the warm bond he has with his parents and how he turns to his mother for advice. Luke is also really sweet to Maya. He understands that children will always come first. Luke is a man every woman would love to have by her side and I certainly enjoyed reading about him.
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage is an amazing story about learning to love again and to believe in magic. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and I always love to read stories about this enchanting holiday. Linn B. Halton managed to give her characters plenty of depth. Elana and Luke felt so real to me that it was like I was watching a movie and I immediately connected with them. Linn B. Halton’s stories are very special to me and I think with Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage she has written another brilliant novel that truly warmed my heart.
Elana lives with her daughter Maya in Bay Tree Cottage. Their house is still not finished and Elana doesn’t have the money to hire professional help. Elana started renovating the cottage together with her husband Niall, but a tragic accident ended their dream. Elana is working hard as an editor to have some extra income. She wants this Christmas to be magical for her and Maya. When the chimney needs immediate repairs she has to take action. Her next door neighbors hired a professional company and they can also do the work on Bay Tree Cottage. Will, despite these issues, Christmas be the wonderful time Elana and Maya need so much?
Luke set aside his own dream to work at the family business. His father can no longer do everything by himself. This choice cost him his relationship with Anita. Now he can only see his son Joe on Saturdays. Luke wished for another outcome, but he accepts the situation as it is. When Luke starts renovations at Bay Tree cottage he can’t help but be enchanted by the beautiful woman who lives there together with her lovely daughter. Can he fix everything that needs to be fixed in time for Christmas?
Elana is incredibly strong, trying to cope as well as she can after the death of her husband. She’s putting up a brave front for her parents and friends, but her nights are lonely. She needs to be efficient with money and I admired her for doing this so well. Niall was the love of her life and after he was suddenly taken from her she had to reinvent herself. It is hard having to face everything alone and I had a lot of respect for how she deals with what life brings her and liked her from the start. She’s good at her job and she’s competent in getting all the information she needs. I wished for her to have the courage the let go of the past and to look ahead and wanted her to find the happiness that she and Maya truly deserve.
Luke is such a kind and caring man. Even though his ex-girlfriend broke his heart he still remembers what’s most important, their son Joe. He does what needs to be done and he’s a great father and son. I loved the warm bond he has with his parents and how he turns to his mother for advice. Luke is also really sweet to Maya. He understands that children will always come first. Luke is a man every woman would love to have by her side and I certainly enjoyed reading about him.
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage is an amazing story about learning to love again and to believe in magic. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and I always love to read stories about this enchanting holiday. Linn B. Halton managed to give her characters plenty of depth. Elana and Luke felt so real to me that it was like I was watching a movie and I immediately connected with them. Linn B. Halton’s stories are very special to me and I think with Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage she has written another brilliant novel that truly warmed my heart.
October 7, 2017
I can't believe I have read my second Christmas book already and what a treat this one was! I've read some of Linn Halton's other books and this one didn't disappoint.
We are introduced to Elana who sadly lost her husband Niall the previous year and their young daughter Maya. Elana and Niall's dream was to restore their cottage to its former glory - since Niall's death Elana just can't summon the energy to carry on with this and is living in limbo not sure how to move forward.
Luke is the builder who comes into Elana's life and helps her see there is life after a bereavement, whilst also helping with Elena and Maya's dream of completing the Bay Tree Cottage in time for Christmas.
The story is split into the different perspectives of Luke and Elana which I thought was a really good idea. It wasn't all one sided and Luke brought his own issues to the story. They were both broken and tentative about moving on.
It wasn't a straightforward story and I think this stopped it from being your run of the mill Christmas romance.
I found this a lovely story and had a lump in my throat at the end - I would highly recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
We are introduced to Elana who sadly lost her husband Niall the previous year and their young daughter Maya. Elana and Niall's dream was to restore their cottage to its former glory - since Niall's death Elana just can't summon the energy to carry on with this and is living in limbo not sure how to move forward.
Luke is the builder who comes into Elana's life and helps her see there is life after a bereavement, whilst also helping with Elena and Maya's dream of completing the Bay Tree Cottage in time for Christmas.
The story is split into the different perspectives of Luke and Elana which I thought was a really good idea. It wasn't all one sided and Luke brought his own issues to the story. They were both broken and tentative about moving on.
It wasn't a straightforward story and I think this stopped it from being your run of the mill Christmas romance.
I found this a lovely story and had a lump in my throat at the end - I would highly recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a review e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2017
Elana is a widow with a six-year-old daughter. She wants Maya to have as much normalcy as possible, so she can't give in to despair and has to keep going. They're living in Bay Tree Cottage, which was a project when Elana and her husband bought it. There's no mortgage left after his death, but Elana doesn't have any money for the repair work either. When an emergency chimney problem arises, Elana has to find the funds for renovations. Fortunately her neighbors just hired a builder and Luke is willing to do whatever she can afford in his free time. This way he can lower his rates and make some extra money for himself as well. While Luke is working on the cottage he and Elana have the chance to get to know each other.
Luke and Elana both have a broken heart. Luke's wife has left him and she hardly lets Luke see his son. He misses him and wants nothing more than to spend time with his little boy. While Luke is trying to fix the chimney and do other necessary repairs in time for Maya to send her Christmas letters to Santa he and Elana grow closer together. There's an age difference between them, Elana is ten years older than Luke, will that matter and will their friendship get a chance to develop or is it too soon after everything they've been through?
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage is a beautiful story about love, loss, second chances and family. Elana and Luke have one thing in common, their kids always come first. They try to provide for their family, they want their children to be happy and they're putting the happiness of their little ones before their own. I admired their dedication and loved that they are such wonderful parents. They're kindhearted and gentle people and they have a gorgeous pure bond, but the age difference and the many insecurities life brings are making it difficult for both of them to take the next step. I flew through the pages and couldn't wait to find out if life would be kind to them again or not.
Linn B. Halton has a lovely warm writing style. I love how I can always feel the emotions she writes about. She tells stories with her whole heart, which makes them a joy to read. I can't help but admire her main characters, they always have the most special personalities and their actions move me to tears. Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage captivated me from the start. It's an impressive story about the magic of Christmas and the healing power of love. I loved the very important message Linn B. Halton has for her readers, that it's very important to listen to your heart. I highly recommend this fantastic irresistible story, it's the perfect Christmas read and so much more.
October 25, 2017
This is my first read of Linn B Halton's writing and it most certainly won't be the last. I have found myself completely immersed in it and shall most certainly be adding this author to my list of ones to watch.
Elana is facing her second Christmas alone with her young daughter after her beloved husband, Niall, died in an accident. Despite her expectations that this year will be easier, she is actually finding it more stressful than the previous one and is desperately in need of a friend. Living in a ongoing renovation project which has stuttered to a halt due to lack of funds, she works from home to take care of Maya and has dreams of seeing the work finished - one day.
Luke, through no fault of his own, has found himself a part time father to his young son and far from embracing the single life he just wants to be a good father and prioritises his well-being over and above everything else. He has left a career in IT to help his father with his building business and desperately tries to earn as much as he can to support himself as well as his estranged wife and child. His workmates don't understand him, his parents are supportive but he, too, need a friend who understand the situation he finds himself in.
Elena and Luke's paths cross and slowly but surely they find a level of contact which enriches both their lives, just by the fact that they both understand how the other is feeling. Luke is mature beyond his years but still only in his early twenties while Elena has ten more years on him but where pain and memories are concerned, they are on a level footing and relax into an easy friendship where they are able to confide in each other things which, until now, have just circled round inside their own heads.
I found myself surprised by this one .. not your usual fun, sparkly Christmas read but a novel written with real empathy which exudes an inner strength to the characters. The words flow freely and before you know it, you are invested in the lives of both Elena and Luke. But there is more to this book than just them - there is a magical quality which can only come with a Christmas setting, and this is one of most enjoyable novels set at that time of year which I have come across. If you are looking for a family based Christmas read which will leave you with a festive glow then this is the one and I'm more than happy to fully recommend it.
My grateful thanks to Harper Impulse and NetGalley for the arc of this novel which I received in exchange for my honest, original and unbiased review.
Elana is facing her second Christmas alone with her young daughter after her beloved husband, Niall, died in an accident. Despite her expectations that this year will be easier, she is actually finding it more stressful than the previous one and is desperately in need of a friend. Living in a ongoing renovation project which has stuttered to a halt due to lack of funds, she works from home to take care of Maya and has dreams of seeing the work finished - one day.
Luke, through no fault of his own, has found himself a part time father to his young son and far from embracing the single life he just wants to be a good father and prioritises his well-being over and above everything else. He has left a career in IT to help his father with his building business and desperately tries to earn as much as he can to support himself as well as his estranged wife and child. His workmates don't understand him, his parents are supportive but he, too, need a friend who understand the situation he finds himself in.
Elena and Luke's paths cross and slowly but surely they find a level of contact which enriches both their lives, just by the fact that they both understand how the other is feeling. Luke is mature beyond his years but still only in his early twenties while Elena has ten more years on him but where pain and memories are concerned, they are on a level footing and relax into an easy friendship where they are able to confide in each other things which, until now, have just circled round inside their own heads.
I found myself surprised by this one .. not your usual fun, sparkly Christmas read but a novel written with real empathy which exudes an inner strength to the characters. The words flow freely and before you know it, you are invested in the lives of both Elena and Luke. But there is more to this book than just them - there is a magical quality which can only come with a Christmas setting, and this is one of most enjoyable novels set at that time of year which I have come across. If you are looking for a family based Christmas read which will leave you with a festive glow then this is the one and I'm more than happy to fully recommend it.
My grateful thanks to Harper Impulse and NetGalley for the arc of this novel which I received in exchange for my honest, original and unbiased review.
November 14, 2017
Elana James and her young daughter, Maya, are approaching their second Christmas without Niall, Elana’s husband and Maya’s father, who was killed in a tragic road traffic accident. Bay Tree Cottage is a work in progress, which isn’t actually progressing much at the moment as Elana was left mortgage free but without the funds to tackle all the renovation work needed. And more bad news comes from her good friend and next door neighbour, Eve. Both their chimneys needs urgent repointing which means Elana is unable to light the fire in her cottage and Maya is desperate to send her wishes up to Santa, via the chimney, as they always do.
Eve and her husband have already hired a building firm and Luke offers to do work for Elana to fit in with her budget and his free time, doing them both a favour. Both he and Elana are suffering emotionally. Luke’s wife has left him and he only gets to see his young son for a few hours on the weekends. During the time Luke spends at Bay Tree Cottage and despite the age difference (Elana is ten years older than Luke) she and Luke become close.
Told from both Elana’s and Luke’s perspectives, the reader is privy to their thoughts and emotions, giving them depth. They have their children, and the wish to give them the best life they can in common, creating a growing bond. Luke has given up his dream job to join the family firm in order to be around and provide for his family. He is very mature for his age, which I thought at first a little unrealistic, but as the story develops it becomes more obvious his situation has forced him to grow up quickly.
I appreciate the fact that the relationship between Luke and Elana evolves slowly, initially with friendship as Luke spends more time working at the cottage. It’s a while before they realise it might be something more. And also because they both have other opportunities it doesn’t seem contrived. Elana is a strong character, coping on her own and in the midst of such a large renovation project. Dealing with loss is never easy and Christmas must be especially difficult to get through, but Maya keeps Elana focussed. Her situation felt very real, coping with the chaos of the cottage, the run up to Christmas and a little girl who only wants the fire lit.
It’s not your regular Christmas romance, it has depth, emotion and new beginnings. And as always, there’s a touch of the supernatural, which is a lovely addition.
Eve and her husband have already hired a building firm and Luke offers to do work for Elana to fit in with her budget and his free time, doing them both a favour. Both he and Elana are suffering emotionally. Luke’s wife has left him and he only gets to see his young son for a few hours on the weekends. During the time Luke spends at Bay Tree Cottage and despite the age difference (Elana is ten years older than Luke) she and Luke become close.
Told from both Elana’s and Luke’s perspectives, the reader is privy to their thoughts and emotions, giving them depth. They have their children, and the wish to give them the best life they can in common, creating a growing bond. Luke has given up his dream job to join the family firm in order to be around and provide for his family. He is very mature for his age, which I thought at first a little unrealistic, but as the story develops it becomes more obvious his situation has forced him to grow up quickly.
I appreciate the fact that the relationship between Luke and Elana evolves slowly, initially with friendship as Luke spends more time working at the cottage. It’s a while before they realise it might be something more. And also because they both have other opportunities it doesn’t seem contrived. Elana is a strong character, coping on her own and in the midst of such a large renovation project. Dealing with loss is never easy and Christmas must be especially difficult to get through, but Maya keeps Elana focussed. Her situation felt very real, coping with the chaos of the cottage, the run up to Christmas and a little girl who only wants the fire lit.
It’s not your regular Christmas romance, it has depth, emotion and new beginnings. And as always, there’s a touch of the supernatural, which is a lovely addition.
December 6, 2022
Cassandra Gold - per RFS
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Ben trovate care Fenici. La storia di cui parleremo oggi non è il solito gioioso romanzo natalizio.
No! La trama che verrà narrata in queste righe parla di perdita e di un dolore sordo e straziante, capace di lacerarti l’anima, perché quando la nostra metà della mela ci lascia in modo doloroso e inaspettato tutto sembra crollare intorno a noi.
Ma andiamo per gradi.
Eleana ha perso suo marito in un tragico incidente. Distrutta dal dolore, con una bimba da crescere e gravi problemi economici, vive giorno dopo giorno nell’assoluto sconforto. Il cottage che con tanta fatica stavano tirando su insieme è l’unica cosa che le resta, peccato che sia ancora incompleto.
I lavori da ultimare sono tanti e costosi, e lei non sa come fare, riducendosi a vivere tra polvere e tappeti stinti.
Intanto la bambina sembra morbosamente ossessionata dal grande camino in disuso. Freme per accenderlo quasi dipendesse molto dalla fiamma calda, ricordo di serate piacevoli. Purtroppo però anche questo ha grossi problemi e la donna si vede costretta ad approvare dei lavori in casa che le costeranno davvero cari. A portare avanti il compito è un uomo decisamente giovane. La complicità e la condivisione creerà la base per un legame con questo ragazzo padre, che le ricorda che il suo cuore può ancora battere.
Intenso e con tratti drammatici, questo romance ci tiene fino alla fine con il fiato sospeso.
La trama si dipana regalandoci diversi colpi di scena con scenari secondari molto intensi.
Dalla protagonista che viene sottoposta a situazioni difficili e dolorose, alla piccola, in comunione spirituale con il suo papà defunto, e Luke reduce di un divorzio con un bambino piccolo e il cuore ancora in pezzi.
La situazione si complica quando entra in scena un ricco produttore musicale con il quale la donna s’intrattiene per lavoro.
L’editing è svolto con professionalità e la lettura risulta fluida.
Un libro natalizio da risvolti sicuramente più concreti. Lo consiglio a tutti gli appassionati del genere.
A presto, care Fenici e buona lettura.
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Ben trovate care Fenici. La storia di cui parleremo oggi non è il solito gioioso romanzo natalizio.
No! La trama che verrà narrata in queste righe parla di perdita e di un dolore sordo e straziante, capace di lacerarti l’anima, perché quando la nostra metà della mela ci lascia in modo doloroso e inaspettato tutto sembra crollare intorno a noi.
Ma andiamo per gradi.
Eleana ha perso suo marito in un tragico incidente. Distrutta dal dolore, con una bimba da crescere e gravi problemi economici, vive giorno dopo giorno nell’assoluto sconforto. Il cottage che con tanta fatica stavano tirando su insieme è l’unica cosa che le resta, peccato che sia ancora incompleto.
I lavori da ultimare sono tanti e costosi, e lei non sa come fare, riducendosi a vivere tra polvere e tappeti stinti.
Intanto la bambina sembra morbosamente ossessionata dal grande camino in disuso. Freme per accenderlo quasi dipendesse molto dalla fiamma calda, ricordo di serate piacevoli. Purtroppo però anche questo ha grossi problemi e la donna si vede costretta ad approvare dei lavori in casa che le costeranno davvero cari. A portare avanti il compito è un uomo decisamente giovane. La complicità e la condivisione creerà la base per un legame con questo ragazzo padre, che le ricorda che il suo cuore può ancora battere.
Intenso e con tratti drammatici, questo romance ci tiene fino alla fine con il fiato sospeso.
La trama si dipana regalandoci diversi colpi di scena con scenari secondari molto intensi.
Dalla protagonista che viene sottoposta a situazioni difficili e dolorose, alla piccola, in comunione spirituale con il suo papà defunto, e Luke reduce di un divorzio con un bambino piccolo e il cuore ancora in pezzi.
La situazione si complica quando entra in scena un ricco produttore musicale con il quale la donna s’intrattiene per lavoro.
L’editing è svolto con professionalità e la lettura risulta fluida.
Un libro natalizio da risvolti sicuramente più concreti. Lo consiglio a tutti gli appassionati del genere.
A presto, care Fenici e buona lettura.
October 2, 2017
One of the reasons I love reading books by Halton, is that regardless of where you find yourself, be it a villa in Italy or a cottage in the New Forest you are welcomed by her beautiful story telling that always feels like a conversation with an old friend. So its incredibly easy to slip between the pages and lose yourself in the story.
Whilst this book does follow Elana after the loss of her husband, it's just over a year since he passed so we dont get the immediate grief of her loss, but it's still there. And while Elana may not be looking to be moving on its nice to see the changes in her that helps her open up to the possibility of someone new.
Luke on the other hand is still trying to figure out what his life looks like after the end of his relationship with Anita, the mother of his little boy Joe. Luke has given up on his dreams, to help his father out with his construction company so that he can provide for his family. At 24 he has quite the mature head on his shoulders, and knows where his priorities lie. I think he's still hoping that maybe he and Anita can reconcile and give Joe the family he deserves, so hes thrown off balance when he begins to develop feelings for Elana, even if he doesn't recognise it to begin with.
Their attraction grows slowly, first becoming friends and then realising that there might be something there, both characters are great and bring out the best in each other but both have reasons for not being together, and I love that Halton doesn't force them together and instead gives them both a get out clause.
Ultimately this is a beautiful tale of two people, individually learning they are ready to move on and find love again.
Whilst this book does follow Elana after the loss of her husband, it's just over a year since he passed so we dont get the immediate grief of her loss, but it's still there. And while Elana may not be looking to be moving on its nice to see the changes in her that helps her open up to the possibility of someone new.
Luke on the other hand is still trying to figure out what his life looks like after the end of his relationship with Anita, the mother of his little boy Joe. Luke has given up on his dreams, to help his father out with his construction company so that he can provide for his family. At 24 he has quite the mature head on his shoulders, and knows where his priorities lie. I think he's still hoping that maybe he and Anita can reconcile and give Joe the family he deserves, so hes thrown off balance when he begins to develop feelings for Elana, even if he doesn't recognise it to begin with.
Their attraction grows slowly, first becoming friends and then realising that there might be something there, both characters are great and bring out the best in each other but both have reasons for not being together, and I love that Halton doesn't force them together and instead gives them both a get out clause.
Ultimately this is a beautiful tale of two people, individually learning they are ready to move on and find love again.
November 16, 2017
This story sets off with a scene that is seemingly sweet but becomes increasing poignant as it continues. Poor little Maya is desperate to see their fire all lit up ready for Christmas and her mother, Elana is desperate to have her home habitable so they can start to move on. But really Elana is clinging on to memories too and appears to be surviving rather than living and doesn't seem to be noticing how her daughter is coping with her loss.
To move forward, Elana needs to get their home safe and liveable, but that comes at a cost and with finances tight, Elana has to take all the help she can get. Including the offer from Luke, who is willing to work extra hours to get the job done in time for Christmas. Spending more time there, he gets to know Elana and Maya even more and it seems there is an attraction developing between Elana and Maya, despite Elana not being ready to let go.
What I enjoyed about this story is the author's ability to dig deep into her characters emotions. It's all there. The doubt, the guilt, the anger, the hurt. But not only that, there are tender moments. Maya with her beliefs about her dad and her sweet letters hidden inside the chimney adds those heartwarming and equally heart breaking moments too. Those innocent thoughts and wishes bring light to the shade in this story. There are plenty of ups and downs that mirror reality for most of us. For Elana, it takes Luke to help her to see the important things she is missing about her daughter's life and wishes. And such is real life, it seems that time has to be a healer in order to move on. In many ways!
An incredibly tender story with a sweet and satisfying end!
To move forward, Elana needs to get their home safe and liveable, but that comes at a cost and with finances tight, Elana has to take all the help she can get. Including the offer from Luke, who is willing to work extra hours to get the job done in time for Christmas. Spending more time there, he gets to know Elana and Maya even more and it seems there is an attraction developing between Elana and Maya, despite Elana not being ready to let go.
What I enjoyed about this story is the author's ability to dig deep into her characters emotions. It's all there. The doubt, the guilt, the anger, the hurt. But not only that, there are tender moments. Maya with her beliefs about her dad and her sweet letters hidden inside the chimney adds those heartwarming and equally heart breaking moments too. Those innocent thoughts and wishes bring light to the shade in this story. There are plenty of ups and downs that mirror reality for most of us. For Elana, it takes Luke to help her to see the important things she is missing about her daughter's life and wishes. And such is real life, it seems that time has to be a healer in order to move on. In many ways!
An incredibly tender story with a sweet and satisfying end!
November 14, 2017
I can't tell you how easy it was to be pulled into this story there is a lovely warm and comforting feel to it. My heart went out to Elana and Maya's situation with Elana trying to be strong and make their home as perfect as she can. The way Elana and her husband envisioned it before it all went so horribly wrong. I loved the idea of the chimney and trying to get the notes to Santa it really made this story extra special. It reminded me of my own little traditions involving Christmas and Santa.
This book was definitely more rounded hearing the story from both Elana and Luke's perspectives. They were both sweet and engaging characters who for different reasons will be having a difficult Christmas. Both characters have been hurt so there is a vulnerability there too. In a way they are both lost and looking for a happy future and I loved the hopeful way that this story progresses. Their friendship was so sweet, it felt natural and in no way rushed. The story developed at a steady pace giving the reader time to get to know them.
It's a slightly deeper read than I was necessarily expecting but this just gave it an extra edge and made everything even more heart warming. I have to admit that the last part of the story left me with tears in my eyes, it was such a lovely touch.
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage has some wonderful themes including family, love, new beginnings but most important of all hope!
With thanks to Brook Cottage Books for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This book was definitely more rounded hearing the story from both Elana and Luke's perspectives. They were both sweet and engaging characters who for different reasons will be having a difficult Christmas. Both characters have been hurt so there is a vulnerability there too. In a way they are both lost and looking for a happy future and I loved the hopeful way that this story progresses. Their friendship was so sweet, it felt natural and in no way rushed. The story developed at a steady pace giving the reader time to get to know them.
It's a slightly deeper read than I was necessarily expecting but this just gave it an extra edge and made everything even more heart warming. I have to admit that the last part of the story left me with tears in my eyes, it was such a lovely touch.
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage has some wonderful themes including family, love, new beginnings but most important of all hope!
With thanks to Brook Cottage Books for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 11, 2017
Elana is struggling with the renovations at Bay Tree Cottage since her beloved husband Niall died and although the mortgage has been paid off she still needs to find the money to have the work done.... and being a single mother that is not easy. This will be her second Christmas without Niall and it is not getting any easier but for the sake of their daughter Maya she had to make the effort..... and get the chimney sorted out for Father Christmas!
Luke is a builder and since the breakup of his marriage he is lonely and desperately missing his son Joe so he is happy to help out Elana with some building work...... but could it become more than friendship or is it too soon and is the age gap too big a problem?
Another lovely book by this author, I have loved all her books and this one certainly doesn't disappoint... Great characters and settings and I couldn't put it down till I had finished it.
Luke is a builder and since the breakup of his marriage he is lonely and desperately missing his son Joe so he is happy to help out Elana with some building work...... but could it become more than friendship or is it too soon and is the age gap too big a problem?
Another lovely book by this author, I have loved all her books and this one certainly doesn't disappoint... Great characters and settings and I couldn't put it down till I had finished it.
October 27, 2017
A cosy Christmas read, built around the renovation of a cottage. A cottage where once hope and dreams for the future were tragically put on hold, when life did take a whole different direction for the cottage owner Elana and her young daughter. When handsome and young Luke steps in to help with the work, foundations are built on to form feelings that can no longer be ignored and with a little help from a Christmas spirit, can hearts also be restored to let a little love in?
I loved this book from beginning to end. Pure escapism and if I had the chance I would have read it all in the one sitting. Just simply one of those perfect reads that you can get so involved with the characters that you can get completely lost in the book and forget about everything for a short while and take a break out of your own life and become captivated in someone else’s. Leaves you feeling good.
I loved this book from beginning to end. Pure escapism and if I had the chance I would have read it all in the one sitting. Just simply one of those perfect reads that you can get so involved with the characters that you can get completely lost in the book and forget about everything for a short while and take a break out of your own life and become captivated in someone else’s. Leaves you feeling good.
November 8, 2017
If I can be so bold I will suggest making a pot of tea, find a bar of chocolate, sit by the fire and don’t move until you have read Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage from beginning to end it really is that adorable.
Linn Halton is another favourite author of mine she writes such beautiful heartfelt stories that never fail to make me smile or cry, usually both!
Set at Christmas time gives this a certain poignancy, how do you deal with loss and love, the innocence of childhood all while trying to remain strong ….
I love all the characters they each have a depth that makes you care about them. I won’t spoil the story by revealing the plot just enjoy the unravelling of relationships and problems while believing in magic and remembering life is precious. That sentiment rings so true in this book.
The setting is gorgeous and if you have read the previous book it will bring back wonderful memories. Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage is just a wonderful experience throughout so pop it on your shopping list now and get into the spirit of the season.
Thanks to the author, publisher, netgalley and Brook Cottage Books for my copy and the opportunity. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Linn Halton is another favourite author of mine she writes such beautiful heartfelt stories that never fail to make me smile or cry, usually both!
Set at Christmas time gives this a certain poignancy, how do you deal with loss and love, the innocence of childhood all while trying to remain strong ….
I love all the characters they each have a depth that makes you care about them. I won’t spoil the story by revealing the plot just enjoy the unravelling of relationships and problems while believing in magic and remembering life is precious. That sentiment rings so true in this book.
The setting is gorgeous and if you have read the previous book it will bring back wonderful memories. Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage is just a wonderful experience throughout so pop it on your shopping list now and get into the spirit of the season.
Thanks to the author, publisher, netgalley and Brook Cottage Books for my copy and the opportunity. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
December 25, 2024
La prima parola che mi viene in mente per descrivere questo libro è "vero" perché questo libro non è un libro in cui ci sono dei gentiluomini che possono esistere solo su carta ma questo libro è molto reale, molto vero e anche un po' slow burn però la trope che campeggia su tutte e l'age gap anche se non è che sia proprio notevole però i protagonisti lo fanno notare molto insomma io lo consiglierei veramente a tutti, non è un libro chissà quanto particolare ma è stata proprio una lettura piacevole al punto giusto c'è qualche colpo di scena, quindi molto sono contenta di averlo regalato per natale a una mia amica.
February 1, 2022
Nice read
I love books that have Christmas feel to them,and this romance novel does have that going for it. I wanted the main protagonists to end up together but the crazy things in life kept getting in the way and no one wants second best. Plenty of angst and lots of love. One awesome touch is there is an angel in the mix. Five stars.
I love books that have Christmas feel to them,and this romance novel does have that going for it. I wanted the main protagonists to end up together but the crazy things in life kept getting in the way and no one wants second best. Plenty of angst and lots of love. One awesome touch is there is an angel in the mix. Five stars.
November 6, 2017
loved everything about the book, the amazing storyline, the lovely characters and most of all the cosy cottage, Christmassy feel to the story, I was so not disappointed, it was a lovely, delightful read.
November 9, 2017
Christmas at Bay Tree Cottage makes its characters work for their happily ever after, but it is a lovely, satisfying holiday read. Guaranteed to fill your heart with Christmas cheer. See our full review at http://wp.me/p5s62b-Xh
December 28, 2017
This is a beautifully written lovely cosy Christmas read which I highly recommend.
I really enjoyed the author's lovely warm style of writing. The story was written from two perspectives which I really loved. It is a story of love, loss, secrets, family and new beginnings with plenty of twists and turns along the way. I liked the main characters and quickly became engrossed in their stories. There was a twist halfway through the book which took me by surprise.
Heart warming and touching book - perfect.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the author's lovely warm style of writing. The story was written from two perspectives which I really loved. It is a story of love, loss, secrets, family and new beginnings with plenty of twists and turns along the way. I liked the main characters and quickly became engrossed in their stories. There was a twist halfway through the book which took me by surprise.
Heart warming and touching book - perfect.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2025
Definitely one of my favorite christmas books. A special one, full of emotions, recommendation for everyone.
March 1, 2018
Christmas at a cottage in the countryside sounds idyllic, but Elana has lost her soulmate and is left to be both mum and dad to the little girl who is her reason for breathing. Having a happy Christmas and living life to the full is so much harder for her this year, the second since Niall was taken from her. Luke has lost his family too but this time because his wife wanted more than he could give. He blames himself, and it seems fate agrees as circumstances conspire against him, ensuring he only sees his little son once a week.
Elana's cottage still needs a great deal of renovation, when her parents give her a helping hand builder, Luke is the man for the job, but suddenly his presence threatens her self-imposed celibacy and makes her wish for things she thought she never would again.
The story is charming full of humour and poignant moments as Elana and Luke discover kindred spirits and try to make their children's Christmas magical and memorable. Maya and Joe, the children in the story, are insightful portrayals.
The plot is surprising, and not everyone or their lives is as it first seems. It captures the essence of Christmas believably and contains just enough magic to have you believing in Santa.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Elana's cottage still needs a great deal of renovation, when her parents give her a helping hand builder, Luke is the man for the job, but suddenly his presence threatens her self-imposed celibacy and makes her wish for things she thought she never would again.
The story is charming full of humour and poignant moments as Elana and Luke discover kindred spirits and try to make their children's Christmas magical and memorable. Maya and Joe, the children in the story, are insightful portrayals.
The plot is surprising, and not everyone or their lives is as it first seems. It captures the essence of Christmas believably and contains just enough magic to have you believing in Santa.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
April 3, 2018
A really lovely book. Story revolves mostly around Elana & her daughter Maya. They live in a partly renovated cottage, which was bought before Elanas' husband died. Elana manages to provide for them, but has little extra money to continue the renovations.
Elana is best friends with her neighbour Eve, who is married to Rick & has a daughter Amelie, who is friends with Maya.
It's coming up to christmas, so Elanas' parents send her a cheque to help carry on the cottage renovations. Eve passes on the name of the building contractor, working on her cottage, to Elana & Luke comes to work on her cottage. Luke is a divorced dad & sees his son only on saturdays. Elana & Luke have a lot of baggage & a lot in common & are soon getting along well together & becoming good friends.
Although the story is tinged with sadness, it is also light-hearted & funny.
A real page turner.
Elana is best friends with her neighbour Eve, who is married to Rick & has a daughter Amelie, who is friends with Maya.
It's coming up to christmas, so Elanas' parents send her a cheque to help carry on the cottage renovations. Eve passes on the name of the building contractor, working on her cottage, to Elana & Luke comes to work on her cottage. Luke is a divorced dad & sees his son only on saturdays. Elana & Luke have a lot of baggage & a lot in common & are soon getting along well together & becoming good friends.
Although the story is tinged with sadness, it is also light-hearted & funny.
A real page turner.
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