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Rose Bend #2
Onverwacht wintergeluk
De feestdagen waren nooit haar ding… maar toen belandde ze in Rose Bend!
Verpleegkundige Nessa Hunt is nog steeds aan het bijkomen van de schokkende bekentenis die haar moeder vlak voor haar overlijden deed: Nessa’s vader was niet haar echte vader. Op zoek naar antwoorden reist ze met haar puberzusje, Ivy, naar Rose Bend. Het stadje is helemaal ondergedompeld in kerstsfeer – iets wat ze normaal gesproken uit de weg gaat. Maar dan ontmoet ze de sexy Wolfgang Dennison en krijgt ze stiekem toch een béétje zin in de feestdagen…
De grote, luidruchtige familie van Wolf lijkt rechtstreeks van een kerstkaart te komen. Hoewel Nessa het gevoel heeft dat ze er totaal niet tussen past, valt de aantrekkingskracht tussen Wolf en haar niet te ontkennen. Wanneer de feestelijkheden zelfs een glimlach op Ivy’s gezicht weten te toveren, begint Nessa bijna zelf weer te geloven in de magie van Kerstmis. Maar heeft ze naast al haar verantwoordelijkheden en de vragen over haar biologische vader wel ruimte voor kerstgeluk?
Verpleegkundige Nessa Hunt is nog steeds aan het bijkomen van de schokkende bekentenis die haar moeder vlak voor haar overlijden deed: Nessa’s vader was niet haar echte vader. Op zoek naar antwoorden reist ze met haar puberzusje, Ivy, naar Rose Bend. Het stadje is helemaal ondergedompeld in kerstsfeer – iets wat ze normaal gesproken uit de weg gaat. Maar dan ontmoet ze de sexy Wolfgang Dennison en krijgt ze stiekem toch een béétje zin in de feestdagen…
De grote, luidruchtige familie van Wolf lijkt rechtstreeks van een kerstkaart te komen. Hoewel Nessa het gevoel heeft dat ze er totaal niet tussen past, valt de aantrekkingskracht tussen Wolf en haar niet te ontkennen. Wanneer de feestelijkheden zelfs een glimlach op Ivy’s gezicht weten te toveren, begint Nessa bijna zelf weer te geloven in de magie van Kerstmis. Maar heeft ze naast al haar verantwoordelijkheden en de vragen over haar biologische vader wel ruimte voor kerstgeluk?
361 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2021
91 people are currently reading
2078 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
168 books2,130 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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December 21, 2021
Christmas in Rose Bend is book two in the Rose Bend series by Naima Simone. This can easily be read as a stand alone as I have not read the first book in this series.
Nessa Hunt is an ER nurse in Boston, Massachusetts. Nessa lost her mom to cancer just eight months ago. In Nessa’s life, everyone she has loved has abandoned her. First her dad, then her boyfriend of two years, and now her mom. And on her death bed, her mom shared some life changing news with her. News that proved her mother and dad had been lying to her all of her life. And now, Nessa finds herself as the legal guardian of her twelve year old half sister, a sister she doesn’t know all that well and has a permanent frown pasted on her face. As per her father’s wishes, Nessa and her little sister, Ivy, are leaving Boston for a month and spending that time in Rose Bend through the month of December. This is just what Nessa needs to top it all up, a town that takes celebrating Christmas to a whole new level.
Wolfgang (Wolf) Dennison is the son of the owner of the Kinsale Inn, where Nessa and Ivy are staying. He is thirty one years old and runs his own carpentry business, Dennison Carpentry. Wolf has a huge, loving family and has lived in Rose Bend all his life. But he also has pain in his past. Pain that threatens to overwhelm him every single day.
“What was it about Wolf Dennison that set her on edge? That had her so weirdly attuned to him but out of step with herself?”
These two felt their attraction the moment they met, or collided you might say. But both have enough issues that keeps them circling each other. Nessa doesn’t do Christmas and here she is in the middle of a town obsessed with it.
Both Nessa and Wolf find something in each other that they both needed, craved even. Acceptance. Peace. Friendship. Wolf has a habit of always wanting to touch her in some way but Nessa is doing her best to keep her distance, even though Wolf makes it very difficult.
Nessa’s time in Rose Bend is a time of healing, both from her grief and with her sister Ivy. But through his relationship with Nessa, Wolf finds that same healing. They have both hung on to their grief, to their anger, to their loneliness for so long.
This was a beautiful story. It was also a very emotional story, one I wasn’t prepared for. I have to admit I kind of walked into this blindly. It was well written but I do have to admit the level of angst was a little high for me. It did have a beautiful ending though that left me all warm and fuzzy. Wolf and Nessa had both been dealt some pretty tough events in their lives. I loved the way that somehow, through each other, they both found the strength to finally move forward and let go of their pasts, and to finally be free to reach for happiness.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Nessa Hunt is an ER nurse in Boston, Massachusetts. Nessa lost her mom to cancer just eight months ago. In Nessa’s life, everyone she has loved has abandoned her. First her dad, then her boyfriend of two years, and now her mom. And on her death bed, her mom shared some life changing news with her. News that proved her mother and dad had been lying to her all of her life. And now, Nessa finds herself as the legal guardian of her twelve year old half sister, a sister she doesn’t know all that well and has a permanent frown pasted on her face. As per her father’s wishes, Nessa and her little sister, Ivy, are leaving Boston for a month and spending that time in Rose Bend through the month of December. This is just what Nessa needs to top it all up, a town that takes celebrating Christmas to a whole new level.
Wolfgang (Wolf) Dennison is the son of the owner of the Kinsale Inn, where Nessa and Ivy are staying. He is thirty one years old and runs his own carpentry business, Dennison Carpentry. Wolf has a huge, loving family and has lived in Rose Bend all his life. But he also has pain in his past. Pain that threatens to overwhelm him every single day.
“What was it about Wolf Dennison that set her on edge? That had her so weirdly attuned to him but out of step with herself?”
These two felt their attraction the moment they met, or collided you might say. But both have enough issues that keeps them circling each other. Nessa doesn’t do Christmas and here she is in the middle of a town obsessed with it.
Both Nessa and Wolf find something in each other that they both needed, craved even. Acceptance. Peace. Friendship. Wolf has a habit of always wanting to touch her in some way but Nessa is doing her best to keep her distance, even though Wolf makes it very difficult.
Nessa’s time in Rose Bend is a time of healing, both from her grief and with her sister Ivy. But through his relationship with Nessa, Wolf finds that same healing. They have both hung on to their grief, to their anger, to their loneliness for so long.
This was a beautiful story. It was also a very emotional story, one I wasn’t prepared for. I have to admit I kind of walked into this blindly. It was well written but I do have to admit the level of angst was a little high for me. It did have a beautiful ending though that left me all warm and fuzzy. Wolf and Nessa had both been dealt some pretty tough events in their lives. I loved the way that somehow, through each other, they both found the strength to finally move forward and let go of their pasts, and to finally be free to reach for happiness.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
December 7, 2024
Reread - 11/27. Still love this one. Wolf Dennison. There’s just something about a Wolf.
4.5 Wolfgang ✨
Nessa & Wolf are probably my fave Rosebend characters to date. I could relate so much to Nessa, and her keeping people at arms length due to hurt from her father, boyfriend etc..she kept armor around her heart, and I loved seeing each chink fall away with the persistence of one man—Wolfgang Dennison. What a man he was! I love the instantaneous reaction that he had towards Nessa from the first moment he knocked her on her arse. I have a thing for big, tall, Vikingesque men with long hair and beards. Especially those that work with their hands building beautiful things.
The angst about killed me, drawn out in parts, but man was the slow burn delicious! When these two laid down their “weapons” and stopped fighting it—pure animal lust! These two devoured each other in the most raw, primal way and I was here for it! The way Wolf asked Nessa’s consent was pure fire, and such a turn on!
“This woman called to his protective nature, his sexual side and his brokenness. She made him want to...heal.”
I loved watching them heal each other. I just love Naima’s words.
This was my favorite quote, and one that I’ve applied to my life a while ago. “Love, trust, security, protection and acceptance trumped blood every time.”
4.5 Wolfgang ✨
Nessa & Wolf are probably my fave Rosebend characters to date. I could relate so much to Nessa, and her keeping people at arms length due to hurt from her father, boyfriend etc..she kept armor around her heart, and I loved seeing each chink fall away with the persistence of one man—Wolfgang Dennison. What a man he was! I love the instantaneous reaction that he had towards Nessa from the first moment he knocked her on her arse. I have a thing for big, tall, Vikingesque men with long hair and beards. Especially those that work with their hands building beautiful things.
The angst about killed me, drawn out in parts, but man was the slow burn delicious! When these two laid down their “weapons” and stopped fighting it—pure animal lust! These two devoured each other in the most raw, primal way and I was here for it! The way Wolf asked Nessa’s consent was pure fire, and such a turn on!
“This woman called to his protective nature, his sexual side and his brokenness. She made him want to...heal.”
I loved watching them heal each other. I just love Naima’s words.
This was my favorite quote, and one that I’ve applied to my life a while ago. “Love, trust, security, protection and acceptance trumped blood every time.”
November 21, 2021
3. 5 stars
This romance started out so cute. Nessa is staying at this inn in a small town for Christmas with her half-sister. There is obvious chemistry between Nessa and Wolf, whose family owns the inn. I loved how Nessa got along with Wolf and his adorable family. Nessa has a fragile relationship with her half-sister because their father died and Nessa is now her guardian. I thought the romance was cute, but it quickly turned into a family drama about Nessa's family and her relationship with her sister. I wanted a cute Christmas romance at an inn, but instead we had to watch Nessa try to find her birth father and form a relationship with her sister. That's fine, but I wanted more of a romance and more development between her and Wolf.
This romance started out so cute. Nessa is staying at this inn in a small town for Christmas with her half-sister. There is obvious chemistry between Nessa and Wolf, whose family owns the inn. I loved how Nessa got along with Wolf and his adorable family. Nessa has a fragile relationship with her half-sister because their father died and Nessa is now her guardian. I thought the romance was cute, but it quickly turned into a family drama about Nessa's family and her relationship with her sister. I wanted a cute Christmas romance at an inn, but instead we had to watch Nessa try to find her birth father and form a relationship with her sister. That's fine, but I wanted more of a romance and more development between her and Wolf.
November 27, 2024
November 27, 2024
Still love this book. I'm happy I reread it.
November 1, 2021
I can't believe I'm still surprised by all the emotions Naima Simone makes me feel each and every time I read her books. This was the perfect combination of heart, swoon, heat and CHRISTMAS!! With all the Christmas tree decorating, Santa races and all the hot chocolate, this book is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.
Wolf and Nessa both had some emotional hills to climb, but the load is always lighter together. I loved them both! Ivy- Nessa's little sister was precious too. I do love the kids.
I hope we get to know all the Dennison's. Can't wait to return to Rose Bend. Happy reading!
Still love this book. I'm happy I reread it.
November 1, 2021
I can't believe I'm still surprised by all the emotions Naima Simone makes me feel each and every time I read her books. This was the perfect combination of heart, swoon, heat and CHRISTMAS!! With all the Christmas tree decorating, Santa races and all the hot chocolate, this book is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.
Wolf and Nessa both had some emotional hills to climb, but the load is always lighter together. I loved them both! Ivy- Nessa's little sister was precious too. I do love the kids.
I hope we get to know all the Dennison's. Can't wait to return to Rose Bend. Happy reading!
December 18, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
And to answer your question, yes, we do take Christmas seriously. Because it’s serious business. Peace on earth and goodwill toward men is not something you half-ass, Nessa Hunt. You use your whole ass.
A dull ache started at the back of Nessa’s head, one that usually coincided with Ivy’s tone. The tone that warned, I’m about to go into a full-out preteen hellish mood that all the berserkers and centurions in Fortnite won’t be able to save you from.
The other woman smiled widely, showing all her teeth, and even if the rest of the group hadn’t reacted as if this woman carried the strain for the next zombie plague, that smile would’ve had Nessa leery. Shark smiles— from people who grinned so huge you could count every tooth in their mouth— could rarely be trusted.
God, only a dinner party with Kanye West and Taylor Swift could possibly have been more awkward.
A couple of years ago, some enterprising soul replaced the ex-mayor’s box of decorations with penis-and-ball-shaped ornaments. Hilarious! We’ve all been secretly waiting for Penisgate to happen again. You can’t make this up, my friend.
She can throw a verbal smackdown that would leave a person crying and sucking his thumb.
My Review:
Shame on me, this prolific storyteller has one-hundred-and-one books listed on Goodreads and this is my first time reading her clever craft. The characters were likable and realistically flawed, yet resilient while struggling with individual issues. The story hit all the feels with the angst well tempered with amusing humor and volcanic and gasp producing sensual steam, although the latter came much later in the tale. The storylines were relatable and easy to follow with generous servings of family drama, wry humor, a supposedly no-strings holiday romance with a short shelf life, and small-town community holiday festivities – and this little berg was really into Christmas. Ms. Simone’s Christmas tale provides a bit of tasty spice and is a higher octane alternative to the more chaste and commercially packaged seasonal eggnog out of the carton Hallmark moments broadcasting nonstop this month.
And to answer your question, yes, we do take Christmas seriously. Because it’s serious business. Peace on earth and goodwill toward men is not something you half-ass, Nessa Hunt. You use your whole ass.
A dull ache started at the back of Nessa’s head, one that usually coincided with Ivy’s tone. The tone that warned, I’m about to go into a full-out preteen hellish mood that all the berserkers and centurions in Fortnite won’t be able to save you from.
The other woman smiled widely, showing all her teeth, and even if the rest of the group hadn’t reacted as if this woman carried the strain for the next zombie plague, that smile would’ve had Nessa leery. Shark smiles— from people who grinned so huge you could count every tooth in their mouth— could rarely be trusted.
God, only a dinner party with Kanye West and Taylor Swift could possibly have been more awkward.
A couple of years ago, some enterprising soul replaced the ex-mayor’s box of decorations with penis-and-ball-shaped ornaments. Hilarious! We’ve all been secretly waiting for Penisgate to happen again. You can’t make this up, my friend.
She can throw a verbal smackdown that would leave a person crying and sucking his thumb.
My Review:
Shame on me, this prolific storyteller has one-hundred-and-one books listed on Goodreads and this is my first time reading her clever craft. The characters were likable and realistically flawed, yet resilient while struggling with individual issues. The story hit all the feels with the angst well tempered with amusing humor and volcanic and gasp producing sensual steam, although the latter came much later in the tale. The storylines were relatable and easy to follow with generous servings of family drama, wry humor, a supposedly no-strings holiday romance with a short shelf life, and small-town community holiday festivities – and this little berg was really into Christmas. Ms. Simone’s Christmas tale provides a bit of tasty spice and is a higher octane alternative to the more chaste and commercially packaged seasonal eggnog out of the carton Hallmark moments broadcasting nonstop this month.
September 6, 2025
This is a Fast Moving Christmas Romance, and this is the second book in the Rose Bend series. I loved the characters in this book, and they where very developed. Each character brought some different to this book. This small town sounded like it would be a cute and fun place to live. I really enjoyed reading this book. There was some very steamy times in this book, so I have to say this was not a cute romance book. This book was a fun book to read. The only thing I did not love was how fast this book moved, and Wolf felt like him was to perfected in this book. This book did have a lot about Christmas in it, so if you are looking for a Christmas Romance then this may be the book for you. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
February 7, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
CHRISTMAS IN ROSE BEND (A Rose Bend Book #2) by Naima Simone is a an emotional holiday contemporary romance featuring ER nurse Nessa Hunt who is visiting Rose Bend with her stepsister and staying at the Dennison’s Family Inn. She is literally knocked off her feet by carpenter Wolfgang ‘Wolf’ Dennison as they wait to check in. The attraction is immediate, but Nessa has been hurt so often by men in her past, she no longer lets anyone completely into her heart.
Nessa no longer celebrates Christmas, but here she is in small town Christmas hell. Both Nessa and Wolf’s histories are heartbreaking and yet Wolf is determined to help Nessa bridge the rift with her stepsister and get her to enjoy the Christmas season again. The realistic dialogue between these two was either making me laugh or cry. Even with their fears, they could not stop their intense physical attraction to each other which led to sex scenes that are explicit, but not gratuitous. The road to the HEA in this romance is rough, but very satisfying.
This romance is full of angst, love, laughter, family, small town life and Christmas cheer. This series can be read as standalone romances, but they are so well written that they pull you in and you will fall in love with the Dennison family and Rose Bend and want to read them all, just like me.
CHRISTMAS IN ROSE BEND (A Rose Bend Book #2) by Naima Simone is a an emotional holiday contemporary romance featuring ER nurse Nessa Hunt who is visiting Rose Bend with her stepsister and staying at the Dennison’s Family Inn. She is literally knocked off her feet by carpenter Wolfgang ‘Wolf’ Dennison as they wait to check in. The attraction is immediate, but Nessa has been hurt so often by men in her past, she no longer lets anyone completely into her heart.
Nessa no longer celebrates Christmas, but here she is in small town Christmas hell. Both Nessa and Wolf’s histories are heartbreaking and yet Wolf is determined to help Nessa bridge the rift with her stepsister and get her to enjoy the Christmas season again. The realistic dialogue between these two was either making me laugh or cry. Even with their fears, they could not stop their intense physical attraction to each other which led to sex scenes that are explicit, but not gratuitous. The road to the HEA in this romance is rough, but very satisfying.
This romance is full of angst, love, laughter, family, small town life and Christmas cheer. This series can be read as standalone romances, but they are so well written that they pull you in and you will fall in love with the Dennison family and Rose Bend and want to read them all, just like me.
November 29, 2021
A delightful, definitely heated Holiday Romance that is the perfect story to feed your addiction’s.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This author is on fire with this story. Be prepared when diving into this one! She takes us on an emotional journey with all of the highs and the lows, plus some unexpected surprises too.
Christmas in Rose Bend is loaded with pain points. From the death of parents to shocking family revelations and uncomfortable feelings of not being enough. But Simone also delivers us incredible highs that are so worth the journey through the pain.
I just love the characters in the story so much. Wolf is amazing. He, too, has had many struggles, highs and lows. Along with the burning knowledge that he could be looking at his future as soon as he meets Nessa adds smoldering desire to the story.
The sparks fly throughout this book even with the push and pull issues that they have to overcome. The author has developed these two to match beautifully. The additional characters and situations add a good balance and make the story deeply additive.
Make no mistake, this is a steamy story that is loaded with a blend of tenderness and pitfalls. But it does have a beautiful ending that makes it all worth the journey. This author crafted a remarkable and addictive book that will put it high on your favorite list. Simone brings the heat and intensity we all beg for in a romance!
* copy received for review consideration
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/christmas-in...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This author is on fire with this story. Be prepared when diving into this one! She takes us on an emotional journey with all of the highs and the lows, plus some unexpected surprises too.
Christmas in Rose Bend is loaded with pain points. From the death of parents to shocking family revelations and uncomfortable feelings of not being enough. But Simone also delivers us incredible highs that are so worth the journey through the pain.
I just love the characters in the story so much. Wolf is amazing. He, too, has had many struggles, highs and lows. Along with the burning knowledge that he could be looking at his future as soon as he meets Nessa adds smoldering desire to the story.
The sparks fly throughout this book even with the push and pull issues that they have to overcome. The author has developed these two to match beautifully. The additional characters and situations add a good balance and make the story deeply additive.
Make no mistake, this is a steamy story that is loaded with a blend of tenderness and pitfalls. But it does have a beautiful ending that makes it all worth the journey. This author crafted a remarkable and addictive book that will put it high on your favorite list. Simone brings the heat and intensity we all beg for in a romance!
* copy received for review consideration
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/christmas-in...
October 28, 2021
I’ve fallen in love with Rose Bend and this series by Naima Simone. This contemporary romance series set in the Berkshire Mountains is centered around a wonderful blended family and the townspeople who make Rose Bend interesting and special. Christmas in Rose Bend reads like a sexy version of a holiday television movie and contains the magic of the season and even a couple of miracles for the two main characters.
Nessa and her teenage half-sister, Ivy, arrive in Rose Bend to stay in an inn for the month of December, a dying wish of their dad. Following her mother’s death and shortly their after her father’s death, Nessa has taken a leave of absence following a panic attack in the ER at the hospital where she is a nurse. Dealing with being the guardian to Ivy who she doesn’t know well and who seems to despise her has further complicated her life. Nessa has suffered a lot of loss of people she knew or thought loved her and she’s built a wall around her heart and vowed to not let anyone in again.
Following a stint in Iraq in which he suffered a devastating loss, Wolf returned to Rose Bend and his family’s inn before finding his love of woodworking. Just as he was beginning to feel his life was back on track, his fiancé decides small town life isn’t for her and leaves him heartbroken and grieving. Three years later, Wolf is over that but he know guards his heart knowing that he’ll give his heart away again.
These are two broken people who have both suffered loss in their lives and have build a wall to keep people out. When they meet, the tension between them is thick but they both know a relationship will never happen. While they are closed off with their emotions, both are experts at communicating exactly what they are thinking and spilling secrets to each other even when they don’t plan or want to. You could see the trust building between them early on and Wolf’s careful handling of Nessa was just one reason I felt they grew so close.
I enjoyed watching Nessa come alive in the Christmas obsessed Rose Bend despite believing Christmas wasn’t a holiday she enjoyed, but it became evident as her good memories of the past came back to her that as a coping mechanism she’d just repressed them. While Wolf was a bit heavy handed getting her involved in the holiday activities, it’s in his nature to fix problems, but also knows she is capable of solving her own problems and becomes someone she can rely on. I liked their friendship, I loved watching the chemistry build between them, but it was the way the seemed to gravitate towards one another when they needed someone to listen that was so special.
Christmas at Rose Bend was a delight to read, characters that were flawed but likeable, a relationship built on mutual respect and trust, and a setting that was perfect for the holiday season. While I did feel a bit cheated by the rushed ending, I still enjoyed this book immensely.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Nessa and her teenage half-sister, Ivy, arrive in Rose Bend to stay in an inn for the month of December, a dying wish of their dad. Following her mother’s death and shortly their after her father’s death, Nessa has taken a leave of absence following a panic attack in the ER at the hospital where she is a nurse. Dealing with being the guardian to Ivy who she doesn’t know well and who seems to despise her has further complicated her life. Nessa has suffered a lot of loss of people she knew or thought loved her and she’s built a wall around her heart and vowed to not let anyone in again.
Following a stint in Iraq in which he suffered a devastating loss, Wolf returned to Rose Bend and his family’s inn before finding his love of woodworking. Just as he was beginning to feel his life was back on track, his fiancé decides small town life isn’t for her and leaves him heartbroken and grieving. Three years later, Wolf is over that but he know guards his heart knowing that he’ll give his heart away again.
These are two broken people who have both suffered loss in their lives and have build a wall to keep people out. When they meet, the tension between them is thick but they both know a relationship will never happen. While they are closed off with their emotions, both are experts at communicating exactly what they are thinking and spilling secrets to each other even when they don’t plan or want to. You could see the trust building between them early on and Wolf’s careful handling of Nessa was just one reason I felt they grew so close.
I enjoyed watching Nessa come alive in the Christmas obsessed Rose Bend despite believing Christmas wasn’t a holiday she enjoyed, but it became evident as her good memories of the past came back to her that as a coping mechanism she’d just repressed them. While Wolf was a bit heavy handed getting her involved in the holiday activities, it’s in his nature to fix problems, but also knows she is capable of solving her own problems and becomes someone she can rely on. I liked their friendship, I loved watching the chemistry build between them, but it was the way the seemed to gravitate towards one another when they needed someone to listen that was so special.
Christmas at Rose Bend was a delight to read, characters that were flawed but likeable, a relationship built on mutual respect and trust, and a setting that was perfect for the holiday season. While I did feel a bit cheated by the rushed ending, I still enjoyed this book immensely.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
October 26, 2021
Actual rating: 3.5 stars rounded up.
Christmas in Rose Bend is a classic holiday romance with a prickly, grieving heroine and a cinnamon roll hero with a man bun. Nessa is an ER nurse grieving the loss of her mother and the man she thought was her biological father. Now the guardian of her young half-sister, they are spending the holidays in the small town of Rose Bend where they go hard on Christmas events and holiday cheer, something Nessa usually tries to avoid. But she and Wolf, the son of the innkeeper, find a lot in common as they face their pain and find love.
This didn't quite sweep me away like I might have hoped, but it's a very good story with some solid steamy moments as well. I liked that there is consistent growth in the relationship as they each deal with their issues and face their fears. A charming holiday romance! I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Christmas in Rose Bend is a classic holiday romance with a prickly, grieving heroine and a cinnamon roll hero with a man bun. Nessa is an ER nurse grieving the loss of her mother and the man she thought was her biological father. Now the guardian of her young half-sister, they are spending the holidays in the small town of Rose Bend where they go hard on Christmas events and holiday cheer, something Nessa usually tries to avoid. But she and Wolf, the son of the innkeeper, find a lot in common as they face their pain and find love.
This didn't quite sweep me away like I might have hoped, but it's a very good story with some solid steamy moments as well. I liked that there is consistent growth in the relationship as they each deal with their issues and face their fears. A charming holiday romance! I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
November 19, 2021
4.25 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
What do you do when your mother dies, revealing a deathbed secret and an estranged sister is dropped in your lap for Christmas. On this road trip to Rose Bend, Nessa and Ivy find out what it means to be family and that things are not always as they seem. A bonus is the love story between Wolf and Nessa.
Video review available in Week 43: Oct 24 – Oct 30, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
What do you do when your mother dies, revealing a deathbed secret and an estranged sister is dropped in your lap for Christmas. On this road trip to Rose Bend, Nessa and Ivy find out what it means to be family and that things are not always as they seem. A bonus is the love story between Wolf and Nessa.
Video review available in Week 43: Oct 24 – Oct 30, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
October 29, 2021
I will start with my conclusion: It’s like a Hallmark movie, but better, because this is Naima at her very best. So after the bumpy start that was book one (imo), this series is back on track!
Here we have a romance between Wolf “I’m broken and can’t give love to anyone“ Dennison, and Nessa “Loving someone is a liability” Hunt. Wolf is a resident of Rose Bend and Nessa is staying at his families' Inn with her youger sister Ivy for the Christmas Season. I’m just gonna transcribe some of what I wrote in my notes about this warm hug of a book...
*it's full of the found family moments I wanted in book one — Wolf comes from a big loving family, with bio and adopted siblings,
*I looove the realistic family nicknames — I find it so weird when siblings keep calling each other by full names in books
*Wolf and his siblings all being named after music-greats is awesome (Cole, Wolfgang, Sinead, Sonny, Cher, and Leotyne)
*the pop culture references are flowing and this is a sign that Naima is writing in her zone
*an emotionally fluent relationship between Wolf and his father, on page
*Wolf 'claiming' Nessa was really HAWT
*a spin on the evil ex trope (aka she’s not evil, they just wanted different things) that makes me hope Olivia gets her own book or novella
*WOLF SEES NEESA, warts and all and loves her for it -le swoon-
*sexy, ongoing enthusiastic consent
*”DO YOU NEED ME TO HOLD YOU" WOLF DENNISON, PERFECT HUMAN
*this book is full of great kissing scenes
*Wolf building the town a gazebo that actually represents the love he's building with Nessa
*When Wolf realizes “The possibility of you became better than the absolute of anyone” about Nessa and races to get to her, I could literally hear the Fated Mates podcast going “...AND THIS DUMMY IS RACING TO GET TO HER!” in that loving way they have :)
*one of the best ending lines I’ve read in a long time
*YOU MADE ME WEEP, NAIMA
It’s a bit heavy at the beginning, and our characters are dealing with difficult issues, but it’s highly leavened by the holiday spirit, the town’s increasingly fantastic holiday traditions (santa claus races, tree speed decorating etc.) and great writing.
CW/TW: loss of a parent to cancer, loss of both parents to cancer (uterine, pancreatic), ptsd, loss of a friend in war, panic attacks, anxiety
Personal note: I enjoyed this so much, it’s going to become a holiday reread for me, every year. I’m friendly with the author on various social media sites. I received an ARC in return for a fair review
Here we have a romance between Wolf “I’m broken and can’t give love to anyone“ Dennison, and Nessa “Loving someone is a liability” Hunt. Wolf is a resident of Rose Bend and Nessa is staying at his families' Inn with her youger sister Ivy for the Christmas Season. I’m just gonna transcribe some of what I wrote in my notes about this warm hug of a book...
*it's full of the found family moments I wanted in book one — Wolf comes from a big loving family, with bio and adopted siblings,
*I looove the realistic family nicknames — I find it so weird when siblings keep calling each other by full names in books
*Wolf and his siblings all being named after music-greats is awesome (Cole, Wolfgang, Sinead, Sonny, Cher, and Leotyne)
*the pop culture references are flowing and this is a sign that Naima is writing in her zone
*an emotionally fluent relationship between Wolf and his father, on page
*Wolf 'claiming' Nessa was really HAWT
*a spin on the evil ex trope (aka she’s not evil, they just wanted different things) that makes me hope Olivia gets her own book or novella
*WOLF SEES NEESA, warts and all and loves her for it -le swoon-
*sexy, ongoing enthusiastic consent
*”DO YOU NEED ME TO HOLD YOU" WOLF DENNISON, PERFECT HUMAN
*this book is full of great kissing scenes
*Wolf building the town a gazebo that actually represents the love he's building with Nessa
*When Wolf realizes “The possibility of you became better than the absolute of anyone” about Nessa and races to get to her, I could literally hear the Fated Mates podcast going “...AND THIS DUMMY IS RACING TO GET TO HER!” in that loving way they have :)
*one of the best ending lines I’ve read in a long time
*YOU MADE ME WEEP, NAIMA
It’s a bit heavy at the beginning, and our characters are dealing with difficult issues, but it’s highly leavened by the holiday spirit, the town’s increasingly fantastic holiday traditions (santa claus races, tree speed decorating etc.) and great writing.
CW/TW: loss of a parent to cancer, loss of both parents to cancer (uterine, pancreatic), ptsd, loss of a friend in war, panic attacks, anxiety
Personal note: I enjoyed this so much, it’s going to become a holiday reread for me, every year. I’m friendly with the author on various social media sites. I received an ARC in return for a fair review
November 3, 2021
I wish I could go to Kinsale Inn!
The Hunt sisters are orphaned and it's up to Nessa now to raise her 12 year-old half-sister. In need of vacation from being an ER nurse and as their late father's last request, Nessa and Ivy are going to spend the Holidays in Rose Bend, Massachusetts. Maybe an opportunity for our heroine to learn more about the family secret her mother revealed to her in her last moments?
Having lost a friend at war and with a broken engagement three years ago, Wolfgang also had his share of hurt. Maybe that's why the innkeeper's son easily recognize it when looking into Nessa's eyes and he can read her like a book. His charisma and calm presence ground her but is it enough to make her believe in the magic of the Holidays and the power of love?
I fucking loved this book! Dare I say it? This is one of the best Christmas novel I've ever read! The story, the town, the characters, the Christmas festivities, the chemistry between the MC, the delectable dialogues, the families dynamic, the challenges and issues they have to face, the romance and intimated scenes, there's not a single thing I would change on this book! And let's not forget the hero is absolutely boyfriend material!
"Oh, Nessa. You can try and adopt that big-city ennui if you like, but the delight I saw on your face when that tree lit up can't be faked. You enjoyed yourself."
With Wolf having 6 siblings, I dare to hope there's still plenty of books to come in this series and that's make me happy 🤩.
The Hunt sisters are orphaned and it's up to Nessa now to raise her 12 year-old half-sister. In need of vacation from being an ER nurse and as their late father's last request, Nessa and Ivy are going to spend the Holidays in Rose Bend, Massachusetts. Maybe an opportunity for our heroine to learn more about the family secret her mother revealed to her in her last moments?
Having lost a friend at war and with a broken engagement three years ago, Wolfgang also had his share of hurt. Maybe that's why the innkeeper's son easily recognize it when looking into Nessa's eyes and he can read her like a book. His charisma and calm presence ground her but is it enough to make her believe in the magic of the Holidays and the power of love?
I fucking loved this book! Dare I say it? This is one of the best Christmas novel I've ever read! The story, the town, the characters, the Christmas festivities, the chemistry between the MC, the delectable dialogues, the families dynamic, the challenges and issues they have to face, the romance and intimated scenes, there's not a single thing I would change on this book! And let's not forget the hero is absolutely boyfriend material!
"Oh, Nessa. You can try and adopt that big-city ennui if you like, but the delight I saw on your face when that tree lit up can't be faked. You enjoyed yourself."
With Wolf having 6 siblings, I dare to hope there's still plenty of books to come in this series and that's make me happy 🤩.
December 4, 2021
Review to come
October 23, 2021
Simone never ceases to surprise me. There is always something different in store with each story that she writes. Christmas in Rose Bend goes for the emotional side of life. Expect your heart to ache and your soul to be touched by Nessa Wolfe. She's the ER nurse working her way through the baggage of her life. He's the innkeeper's son unloading a bit of luggage of his own. What begins by chance becomes more than either could have ever dreamed. From deep emotion to a Christmas card setting, Naima Simone delivers a heartbreaking journey with a heartwarming twist.
November 27, 2021
I don’t know how to feel.
Like with the first book in this series, the covers don’t fit the book. I feel like this book can’t decide what sub genre it falls into and the cover doesn’t help in the least. The covers say sweet small town cheery romance- and its not like this doesn’t fit that bill. It just… starts there and goes further.
There’s sexual language that I don’t expect in a sweet small town romance.
It’s a long novel and also a slow burn, slower than I like and I LOVE a slow burn. No heat until 75% in… by that point I am tired of the back and forth, the push and pull. Then the last 25% is a rush of emotion and rash, quickly made decisions and resolving the external plot with some insta-love thrown in.
Anyway, those are my nits. I hopped right up this morning to finish the last 25% of this book (and skipped the bonus story at the end) so I must not have disliked it too much.
My last beef is probably my fault— I purposely don’t read certain sub genres, and I was too far in before I noticed Wolf was a white man. For that matter, Nessa could have been, too. I honestly can’t recall any specific race in the description. To me, it’s an issue when characters are ambiguous and it’s why I like to read Black romance because there is no doubt that those characters look like me and share many of my lived experiences.
ANYWAY I do not know how to rate this book so I’m going to go with an even 3. It wasn’t terrible, but I have to many irritations to list to give it more than that.
Like with the first book in this series, the covers don’t fit the book. I feel like this book can’t decide what sub genre it falls into and the cover doesn’t help in the least. The covers say sweet small town cheery romance- and its not like this doesn’t fit that bill. It just… starts there and goes further.
There’s sexual language that I don’t expect in a sweet small town romance.
It’s a long novel and also a slow burn, slower than I like and I LOVE a slow burn. No heat until 75% in… by that point I am tired of the back and forth, the push and pull. Then the last 25% is a rush of emotion and rash, quickly made decisions and resolving the external plot with some insta-love thrown in.
Anyway, those are my nits. I hopped right up this morning to finish the last 25% of this book (and skipped the bonus story at the end) so I must not have disliked it too much.
My last beef is probably my fault— I purposely don’t read certain sub genres, and I was too far in before I noticed Wolf was a white man. For that matter, Nessa could have been, too. I honestly can’t recall any specific race in the description. To me, it’s an issue when characters are ambiguous and it’s why I like to read Black romance because there is no doubt that those characters look like me and share many of my lived experiences.
ANYWAY I do not know how to rate this book so I’m going to go with an even 3. It wasn’t terrible, but I have to many irritations to list to give it more than that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2021
As if the loss of her mother wasn't enough to cope with, Nessa Hunt is now on a road trip with her half sister Ivy. Nessa is looking for answers. Just before her mother died she told Nessa that the man that raised her was not her father. Nessa is floored. Ivy is angry. Why secrets and perhaps lies all of their lives?
Will a trip to Rose Bend lead them to answers that will prove to be satisfying? For starters, they are staying at an inn and the innkeeper's son, Wolfgang Dennison really tugs at Nessa's heartstrings. What is more is that Wolf has a big and happy family, something Nessa and Ivy never experienced. Will Nessa and Wolf be able to cultivate their growing feelings all while Nessa is seeking answers? What is more, will Nessa be able to break through to Ivy as she is clearly having issues?
What a sweet and endearing story. Loss is never easy. Factor in a secret past and a budding romance, hope for a future seems more than doubtful.
Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Will a trip to Rose Bend lead them to answers that will prove to be satisfying? For starters, they are staying at an inn and the innkeeper's son, Wolfgang Dennison really tugs at Nessa's heartstrings. What is more is that Wolf has a big and happy family, something Nessa and Ivy never experienced. Will Nessa and Wolf be able to cultivate their growing feelings all while Nessa is seeking answers? What is more, will Nessa be able to break through to Ivy as she is clearly having issues?
What a sweet and endearing story. Loss is never easy. Factor in a secret past and a budding romance, hope for a future seems more than doubtful.
Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 26, 2021
B&N / Kobo / iBooks / Audible
Nessa and her younger sister, Ivy, are in Rose Bend thanks to her mother's secret. It looks like Christmasville here, and she's not sure she can cope. She's grieving, she's reeling from the secret her mom unleashed on her right before she passed, and her little sister is sullen and broody at best. How is she ever going to make it through her stay here?!
Meeting a gorgeous man named Wolf just might help her make it through, especially after he seems as on board with a friends with benefits, short term arrangement as she. She'll just have to make sure she doesn't fall for the big softie, because that would open her up to the chance of pain when they end things.
Whew, this is one steamy holiday romance! Nessa and Wolf are a great couple, though they weren't a real one for long. She's prickly and stoic, and he's warm and sweet. They don't work on paper, but that's the thing about feelings and chemistry, you just never know when the spark will flame to life, and with whom. I thought Ivy was a wonderful part of this little trio, giving some levity and wit, and the way she and Nessa finally bonded made me smile. Rose Bend seems like the kind of place we all probably think of when Christmas movies are on TV, and I wouldn't mind visiting there, especially if all the men are like Wolf...
ARC received via author for an honest review.
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October 26, 2021
There are some big issues with this book that I will address in this review but despite those issues, this book really worked for me.
This book is basically a warm, fuzzy Hallmark Christmas movie but with way more painful backstories and way more sex. It's a Naima Simone book so you know she's gonna bring the heat!
I loved the MCs, Wolf and Nessa, both of them have majorly painful backstories, full of grief and loss and heartbreak. As a result of their respective backstories, they have both closed off their heart to love. At some point in the book, Wolf lets go of his fears when he realizes he is in love with Nessa but Nessa has endured far too many losses in her life and is accustomed to having the people she loves leave her. This is basically a book about grief and navigating grief and the ability to live a full life even in the midst of experiencing grief.
I thought the chemistry between Wolf and Nessa was really great and I also loved the relationship between Nessa and her sister, Ivy. They both come to Rose Bend for the holidays and find a. home there. I do think the end was abrupt - Nessa goes from telling Wolf she can't be what he needs to basically uprooting her (and her sister's) whole lives and relocating there in the space of like one chapter. It's very quick and abrupt and I think it could have used a bit more space to come to that conclusion. But overall, I loved reading about these 2 broken characters and their journey to healing and a HEA.
CW: off page parental deaths from cancer, death of other minor character in war, major family secrets; grief/loss
ARC received from publisher via Netgalley, opinions are all mine;
This book is basically a warm, fuzzy Hallmark Christmas movie but with way more painful backstories and way more sex. It's a Naima Simone book so you know she's gonna bring the heat!
I loved the MCs, Wolf and Nessa, both of them have majorly painful backstories, full of grief and loss and heartbreak. As a result of their respective backstories, they have both closed off their heart to love. At some point in the book, Wolf lets go of his fears when he realizes he is in love with Nessa but Nessa has endured far too many losses in her life and is accustomed to having the people she loves leave her. This is basically a book about grief and navigating grief and the ability to live a full life even in the midst of experiencing grief.
I thought the chemistry between Wolf and Nessa was really great and I also loved the relationship between Nessa and her sister, Ivy. They both come to Rose Bend for the holidays and find a. home there. I do think the end was abrupt - Nessa goes from telling Wolf she can't be what he needs to basically uprooting her (and her sister's) whole lives and relocating there in the space of like one chapter. It's very quick and abrupt and I think it could have used a bit more space to come to that conclusion. But overall, I loved reading about these 2 broken characters and their journey to healing and a HEA.
CW: off page parental deaths from cancer, death of other minor character in war, major family secrets; grief/loss
ARC received from publisher via Netgalley, opinions are all mine;
November 29, 2021
Dear Santa,
It’s me, Laura.
What can I say? I know it’s been a while, but you’re never too old to keep believing.
I have been a very good girl this year… Okay, okay, let me put it this way, I have tried. That’s the main thing, right?
So, I was wondering what the chances are of you leaving me my very own gift-wrapped Wolf Dennison under the tree to wake up to on Christmas morning? Please and thanks.
I know it’s a big ask, but as The Mommy always says, if you don’t ask you don’t get.
Anyhoo, Santa, I’ll be going now. Keep doing your thing, you rock!
Whaaa?
Don’t start with me… *wags finger*
I’m sure I’m not the only reader that was anxiously awaiting to return to Rose Bend, and I think it’s safe to say I loved CIRB.
Wolf and Nessa’s story was a sensation overload! Tears and snotters one minute then I needed a temperature pressure relief valve the next to release all that steam. Wowzers! Two words; mud room. *taps nose* Say no more…
I love Naima’s strong female characters and Nessa is no different. She may have her flaws, and her pride may get in the way to begin with, but she isn’t above asking for help when needed. All she wants is to love and be loved (despite her protestations).
Wolf caught my eye in Cole and Sydney’s story. Intrigued? You could say that. Still waters and all that! Ugh, he was like your favourite cookie triple choc dipped delight.
Things happen for a reason as two lost hearts are about to find out. Just add a Christmas wish and heaps of festive fun!
If you only read one festive themed read this year, make it CIRB.
It’s me, Laura.
What can I say? I know it’s been a while, but you’re never too old to keep believing.
I have been a very good girl this year… Okay, okay, let me put it this way, I have tried. That’s the main thing, right?
So, I was wondering what the chances are of you leaving me my very own gift-wrapped Wolf Dennison under the tree to wake up to on Christmas morning? Please and thanks.
I know it’s a big ask, but as The Mommy always says, if you don’t ask you don’t get.
Anyhoo, Santa, I’ll be going now. Keep doing your thing, you rock!
Whaaa?
Don’t start with me… *wags finger*
I’m sure I’m not the only reader that was anxiously awaiting to return to Rose Bend, and I think it’s safe to say I loved CIRB.
Wolf and Nessa’s story was a sensation overload! Tears and snotters one minute then I needed a temperature pressure relief valve the next to release all that steam. Wowzers! Two words; mud room. *taps nose* Say no more…
I love Naima’s strong female characters and Nessa is no different. She may have her flaws, and her pride may get in the way to begin with, but she isn’t above asking for help when needed. All she wants is to love and be loved (despite her protestations).
Wolf caught my eye in Cole and Sydney’s story. Intrigued? You could say that. Still waters and all that! Ugh, he was like your favourite cookie triple choc dipped delight.
Things happen for a reason as two lost hearts are about to find out. Just add a Christmas wish and heaps of festive fun!
If you only read one festive themed read this year, make it CIRB.
November 25, 2021
This is the second book in the Rose Bend series, but I had no trouble following this story or enjoying it. Nessa has a lot of baggage in her life. She was raised by her mother after her father left them. He had another daughter in another relationship and it made Nessa feel that she was lacking. When he dies, she finds out he was not her birth father as well as that she is now the legal guardian of her half-sister, who is a teenager. Nessa and Ivy head to Rose Bend for Christmas after finding some clues that her mother had once vacationed there and there is a possibility that is where she met Nessa's birth father. Ivy is an unhappy, sullen teenager ready to make life miserable for everyone. Shortly after arriving, Nessa runs into, literally, Wolf, the son of the Inn Keepers where she is staying. This is a story with instalove as there is an immediate attraction. Can Nessa and Ivy find common ground? Will Nessa find love? Will she find out more about her "real" father?
I enjoyed this story, but there were a few things that I had issue with. First, there were some steamy scenes that I was not prepared for and did skim over. Second was the instalove. Having said that, I loved Nessa's character. She had been through so much in her life, and even found out that she really wasn't related to Ivy at all, but she took on the responsibility of raising her and trying to become a family. It was wonderful to see how the Dennisons, Wolf's family, took Nessa and Ivy into the fold including them in all the family Christmas activities. This was a fun Christmas romance with family bonds, grieving, love, sex, and Christmas magic. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Mari. The narration was very enjoyable and at a good pace. I found her expression, tone and voices well done and added to the enjoyment of the story. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I enjoyed this story, but there were a few things that I had issue with. First, there were some steamy scenes that I was not prepared for and did skim over. Second was the instalove. Having said that, I loved Nessa's character. She had been through so much in her life, and even found out that she really wasn't related to Ivy at all, but she took on the responsibility of raising her and trying to become a family. It was wonderful to see how the Dennisons, Wolf's family, took Nessa and Ivy into the fold including them in all the family Christmas activities. This was a fun Christmas romance with family bonds, grieving, love, sex, and Christmas magic. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Mari. The narration was very enjoyable and at a good pace. I found her expression, tone and voices well done and added to the enjoyment of the story. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
December 18, 2021
Love love love this book! I attended an online forum last week where the author was part of the panel and this book went right to the top,of my holiday reading stack. I salivated over the bearded charming carpenter Wolf immediately. Nessa reminded me of myself with her grin by attitude. Family conflict in a town devoted to Christmas will tug at your heart strings.
October 18, 2021
Two wounded souls find a love that heals
With more angst than a dozen Hallmark holiday movies, this story is sure to tug your heartstrings and make you appreciate your family in whatever shape they are.
Wolf grew up in an idyllic town with an idyllic family, but that still didn't protect him from a loss so great he may never get past it. Nessa has to deal with her own losses while putting on a brave front for her surly preteen sister. Her heart has been broken too many times, and she's understandably reluctant to risk it again.
This was a bit of a slow-burn romance, but the emotions are painted so vividly that the characters really come alive. I enjoyed the first book, but I loved this one so much more. There's a lot of holiday fun packed into the story that was so well written I felt as though I was a part of the festivities.
The HEA was holiday wish-fulfillment at its finest with every single one of Nessa's dreams coming true and I couldn't have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
With more angst than a dozen Hallmark holiday movies, this story is sure to tug your heartstrings and make you appreciate your family in whatever shape they are.
Wolf grew up in an idyllic town with an idyllic family, but that still didn't protect him from a loss so great he may never get past it. Nessa has to deal with her own losses while putting on a brave front for her surly preteen sister. Her heart has been broken too many times, and she's understandably reluctant to risk it again.
This was a bit of a slow-burn romance, but the emotions are painted so vividly that the characters really come alive. I enjoyed the first book, but I loved this one so much more. There's a lot of holiday fun packed into the story that was so well written I felt as though I was a part of the festivities.
The HEA was holiday wish-fulfillment at its finest with every single one of Nessa's dreams coming true and I couldn't have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
November 16, 2021
My review is on my website www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
I read this in paperback
I loved the first book, The Road to Rose Bend, so I just had to read the second book Christmas in Rose Bend, as the author Naima Simone has become my favourite author by writing the Rose Bend series with gorgeous characters that I just love reading about.
I’m really looking forward to reading Naima Simone’s new third book in the Rose Bend series, With Love from Rose Bend that is being published 1st May 2022.
The best thing about the series Rose Bend, is that they can all be read as a stand-alone, but as I have followed the story from book one, I have got to know the characters well and love how there are secrets hidden within the page turning storyline.
ER nurse Nessa Hunt didn’t do Christmas for her it was all about working Christmas Day in the hospital since her mother died. And on Christmas Day it was full of patients, that some have laugh out loud accidents, while other had more serious accidents.
Nessa’s father left her and her mother, when Nessa was about thirteen. Nessa hadn’t had a close relationship with him since he left the family. But he had named Nessa as guardian to his daughter Ivy. Now Nessa’s father has died she is to raise her thirteen year old stepsister Ivy.
Nessa and Ivy get to know each other by spending the Christmas spirit in Rose Bend inside a beautiful Inn. Wolfgang Dennison who works in the family run Inn maybe hot as hell, but with the Rose Bend’s thirty-fifth Yulefest and the opening Christmas tree lighting, I was hoping for Nessa and Wolfgang to kiss under the mistletoe.
I was in love with this Christmas festive feel good story waiting, reading to see if Nessa would like to celebrate Christmas now, and if she and Wolfgang will be celebrating Christmas together.
I read this in paperback
I loved the first book, The Road to Rose Bend, so I just had to read the second book Christmas in Rose Bend, as the author Naima Simone has become my favourite author by writing the Rose Bend series with gorgeous characters that I just love reading about.
I’m really looking forward to reading Naima Simone’s new third book in the Rose Bend series, With Love from Rose Bend that is being published 1st May 2022.
The best thing about the series Rose Bend, is that they can all be read as a stand-alone, but as I have followed the story from book one, I have got to know the characters well and love how there are secrets hidden within the page turning storyline.
ER nurse Nessa Hunt didn’t do Christmas for her it was all about working Christmas Day in the hospital since her mother died. And on Christmas Day it was full of patients, that some have laugh out loud accidents, while other had more serious accidents.
Nessa’s father left her and her mother, when Nessa was about thirteen. Nessa hadn’t had a close relationship with him since he left the family. But he had named Nessa as guardian to his daughter Ivy. Now Nessa’s father has died she is to raise her thirteen year old stepsister Ivy.
Nessa and Ivy get to know each other by spending the Christmas spirit in Rose Bend inside a beautiful Inn. Wolfgang Dennison who works in the family run Inn maybe hot as hell, but with the Rose Bend’s thirty-fifth Yulefest and the opening Christmas tree lighting, I was hoping for Nessa and Wolfgang to kiss under the mistletoe.
I was in love with this Christmas festive feel good story waiting, reading to see if Nessa would like to celebrate Christmas now, and if she and Wolfgang will be celebrating Christmas together.
January 19, 2025
Why are you even looking at reviews?? Just go read the book!! I promise, you will NOT regret it!!
This, like every other Rose Bend book, captured every inch of my heart, twisted it up, and tied it off with a lovely, glittering bow. Nessa, our heroine, is in so much pain from losing her mom, and from losing her dad years ago, and then a few months ago losing him for good…and on top of all this, she’s gotta be a guardian to a 12 year old?? While keeping a secret so that she doesn’t hurt her sister any more than she already is?? Listen. It’s a LOT. Like, crawl into a hole, a lot. But with a gentle (and lumbersexual!) man who respects her walls and boundaries while still helping her face everything….she just might find a reason to trust again. Love though? That’s a whole different story.
Seriously. Why are you still reading this? Go buy the book. Or rent it. Or borrow it (not my copy bc it’s signed so you’ll have to pry it out if my cold, dead hands). If all else fails, stand in the bookstore reading it. You can thank me later!!
Reread Dec 2023....why this author got me crying in the dealership while my oil gets changed?? All the stars.
Reread Jan 2025...lumbersexual santa killed me! Damn I love this book *language*
This, like every other Rose Bend book, captured every inch of my heart, twisted it up, and tied it off with a lovely, glittering bow. Nessa, our heroine, is in so much pain from losing her mom, and from losing her dad years ago, and then a few months ago losing him for good…and on top of all this, she’s gotta be a guardian to a 12 year old?? While keeping a secret so that she doesn’t hurt her sister any more than she already is?? Listen. It’s a LOT. Like, crawl into a hole, a lot. But with a gentle (and lumbersexual!) man who respects her walls and boundaries while still helping her face everything….she just might find a reason to trust again. Love though? That’s a whole different story.
Seriously. Why are you still reading this? Go buy the book. Or rent it. Or borrow it (not my copy bc it’s signed so you’ll have to pry it out if my cold, dead hands). If all else fails, stand in the bookstore reading it. You can thank me later!!
Reread Dec 2023....why this author got me crying in the dealership while my oil gets changed?? All the stars.
Reread Jan 2025...lumbersexual santa killed me! Damn I love this book *language*
December 31, 2024
I struggle with contemporary romance because so much of the conflict is just...people not talking to each other. This book does not have that problem. Putting aside it's a steamy read in general, it was so thrilling to watch two main characters communicate so much (while protesting how they don't talk about any of their hang-ups ever which got old when all they do is tell each other everything throughout the book) and to also trust each other and ask questions when there was a misunderstanding and call each other out when they weren't talking. It was so refreshing and unexpected. Romance writers, please take note. More of this please! Also, this is just the right amount of Hallmark for a holiday read and clearly the author was aware of that line as she calls herself out on it a lot in the story.
My ARC also had a novella included which was also delightful and fun and again, had fabulous communication between the leads. Really, I just like when romantic interests actually communicate so the main conflict could not simply be solved by them talking for five minutes.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for this review
My ARC also had a novella included which was also delightful and fun and again, had fabulous communication between the leads. Really, I just like when romantic interests actually communicate so the main conflict could not simply be solved by them talking for five minutes.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for this review
November 10, 2021
Wow, I wasn't expecting this book to be so good, but it was amazing! It was heart-warming, romantic, emotional and sexy, with a bit of Christmas cheer! Nessa and Ivy visit Rose Bend for a little vacation and there they find a beautiful setting, a sexy man called Wolf for Nessa, family and a whole lot more. It is just perfect and wonderful, and it is a good book to curl up with on a cold winter's day, as it will heat you up. Highly recommended! I am now starting the previous book in this series, which I am sure will be just as great as this one.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2021
This is my first book by Naima Simone and I’m hooked! I was instantly pulled into Wolf and Nessa. It was perfect to me. To see how he was exactly what she need to open up and love again, to be vulnerable was so beautiful. And She was exactly what he needed to take a risk and fight for something, to forgive himself. Their journey to loving and letting go of the pain they felt in the past was so interesting and heartfelt.
Their instant attraction for each other was so strong. They both feel it and yet know they have tons of baggage. But as the book continues we see the tension build and build and it’s so so satisfying when the Dam breaks. 😩 that Mud Room scene live rent free in my mind. 🥵👌🏼
I loved Wolf so much. He felt like a huge warm embrace that wouldn’t release until you were ready to walk and face the world again. They way he saw and cared for people, he truly was a strong protector and emotional support I wish I could have.
Nessa was so much like me in way I didn’t even realize. Her journey made me cry and love every step. Opening up to a world that has hurt you is so hard but she did it and it paid off. Finding her sense of family again with her sister and the people she met in Rose Bend was the cherry on top.
Rose bend is filled with such a beautiful diverse cast with so many POC characters sprinkled all around that it felt like home to me. Nessa, Ivy, and many others were black characters and Cole is Puertorriqueño. 🥰 It was exactly how I wish many other books would approach diversity in the books, normal and familiar with the subtle reminders that there are people who don’t see everyone as equals but the rest can and will move forward past it.
I’m so excited to continue the series and read about the others in Rose Bend!
Their instant attraction for each other was so strong. They both feel it and yet know they have tons of baggage. But as the book continues we see the tension build and build and it’s so so satisfying when the Dam breaks. 😩 that Mud Room scene live rent free in my mind. 🥵👌🏼
I loved Wolf so much. He felt like a huge warm embrace that wouldn’t release until you were ready to walk and face the world again. They way he saw and cared for people, he truly was a strong protector and emotional support I wish I could have.
Nessa was so much like me in way I didn’t even realize. Her journey made me cry and love every step. Opening up to a world that has hurt you is so hard but she did it and it paid off. Finding her sense of family again with her sister and the people she met in Rose Bend was the cherry on top.
Rose bend is filled with such a beautiful diverse cast with so many POC characters sprinkled all around that it felt like home to me. Nessa, Ivy, and many others were black characters and Cole is Puertorriqueño. 🥰 It was exactly how I wish many other books would approach diversity in the books, normal and familiar with the subtle reminders that there are people who don’t see everyone as equals but the rest can and will move forward past it.
I’m so excited to continue the series and read about the others in Rose Bend!
December 30, 2021
I love Christmas books - it's my favorite genre and time of year! This was my first time reading author Naima Simone, but it won't be my last!! I now need to go and find other books that she has written as this one was so good!! I especially need book one in this series to see what I missed!! This book was a fun, feel good read that left me never wanting to leave the pages/location of the book! This town does Christmas the right way - I enjoyed the characters, their banter, the laugh out loud moments and the way that the author grabbed my attention and never let it go! A must read for anyone who loves the holidays and the books they give us!
November 29, 2024
Found family ✔️
Emotional healing ✔️
New love✔️
New beginnings ✔️
Cute small town romance!
Emotional healing ✔️
New love✔️
New beginnings ✔️
Cute small town romance!
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