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Summer Creek #5
Guiding the Grouch
He's a billionaire set on escaping the holidays and his demanding family.
She’s a single mom with a sunny smile who keeps her heart safely hidden.
When she makes him her personal Christmas project, what could possibly go wrong?
Gabe Gatlin would do anything to evade the obligatory family holiday hobnobbing that is nothing more than one horrible business event after another, all wrapped up with a gaudy Christmas ribbon. Then the opportunity arises to explore a property in the small town of Summer Creek, Oregon, and gives him the idea to run away for the holidays. This year, he’s skipping Christmas. All he has to do is hide out until January in the quirky little town where the residents have dubbed him Grinchy Gabe. But when a delightful woman starts making his sleigh bells jingle, he might find it impossible to avoid losing his three-sizes-too-small heart.
Single mom and waitress, Dani Latham, has two priorities: give her son the stable life she never had, and spread joy to her friends and neighbors in Summer Creek. When a stranger with a grinchy attitude sits at her table, she makes it her personal mission to make him smile. As she guides him into a flurry of Christmas festivities, she starts to wonder if this grouch’s heart will ever return to normal size. And even worse. . . if it does, who is going to save hers from breaking when he leaves?
Will a little Christmas magic and wonder bring these two lonesome people together?
Discover the joys of the season mixed with humor, holiday fun, and moments that tug at your heartstrings in this sweet contemporary Christmas romance.
She’s a single mom with a sunny smile who keeps her heart safely hidden.
When she makes him her personal Christmas project, what could possibly go wrong?
Gabe Gatlin would do anything to evade the obligatory family holiday hobnobbing that is nothing more than one horrible business event after another, all wrapped up with a gaudy Christmas ribbon. Then the opportunity arises to explore a property in the small town of Summer Creek, Oregon, and gives him the idea to run away for the holidays. This year, he’s skipping Christmas. All he has to do is hide out until January in the quirky little town where the residents have dubbed him Grinchy Gabe. But when a delightful woman starts making his sleigh bells jingle, he might find it impossible to avoid losing his three-sizes-too-small heart.
Single mom and waitress, Dani Latham, has two priorities: give her son the stable life she never had, and spread joy to her friends and neighbors in Summer Creek. When a stranger with a grinchy attitude sits at her table, she makes it her personal mission to make him smile. As she guides him into a flurry of Christmas festivities, she starts to wonder if this grouch’s heart will ever return to normal size. And even worse. . . if it does, who is going to save hers from breaking when he leaves?
Will a little Christmas magic and wonder bring these two lonesome people together?
Discover the joys of the season mixed with humor, holiday fun, and moments that tug at your heartstrings in this sweet contemporary Christmas romance.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2022
134 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
Shanna Hatfield
164 books1,327 followersA hopeless romantic with a bit of sarcasm thrown in for good measure, Shanna Hatfield is a best-selling author of clean romantic fiction written with a healthy dose of humor.
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
December 19, 2022
This book was just too long. I would have liked it a lot more if it were trimmed down by at least half. The conflict was sort of that Gabe was hiding his identity (wealth), but it was just…not interesting.
The story is there, but it got lost in the over-description. Every time a character lifted an arm to drink a cup of coffee, we were told, and then when they put their arm back down from drinking the cup of coffee, we were also told. Okay, so this is probably a slight exaggeration, but so much of this story spent time telling us bits of information
Evidentially, this is a book in a standalone series, and I know that because the book would take ten pages to explain the backstory of every character it introduced.
It took about 25% of the book for the characters to meet, and after waiting that long, the chemistry was a fizzle. Gabe was not that grumpy, Dani was preachy and judgmental, and even though we saw them often, I couldn’t differentiate between any of the characters. They’re all just good people in a nice small town.
Even though the book was in third person, we spent a lot of time in Gabe’s point of view, and I love seeing the MMC’s POV, so this worked for me. Unfortunately, this meant that Dani wasn’t really developed outside of being a mother to her son and being poor but generous.
I was ready for the grumpy, grinchy, serious MMC to get a schooling in Christmas spirit by a sunshine, Christmas-loving, goofy FMC, but I never felt that. Maybe I’m just used to seeing them on screen, and that’s why this one didn’t work for me.
⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Wholesome Hearts publishing for this copy of Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield.
The story is there, but it got lost in the over-description. Every time a character lifted an arm to drink a cup of coffee, we were told, and then when they put their arm back down from drinking the cup of coffee, we were also told. Okay, so this is probably a slight exaggeration, but so much of this story spent time telling us bits of information
Evidentially, this is a book in a standalone series, and I know that because the book would take ten pages to explain the backstory of every character it introduced.
It took about 25% of the book for the characters to meet, and after waiting that long, the chemistry was a fizzle. Gabe was not that grumpy, Dani was preachy and judgmental, and even though we saw them often, I couldn’t differentiate between any of the characters. They’re all just good people in a nice small town.
Even though the book was in third person, we spent a lot of time in Gabe’s point of view, and I love seeing the MMC’s POV, so this worked for me. Unfortunately, this meant that Dani wasn’t really developed outside of being a mother to her son and being poor but generous.
I was ready for the grumpy, grinchy, serious MMC to get a schooling in Christmas spirit by a sunshine, Christmas-loving, goofy FMC, but I never felt that. Maybe I’m just used to seeing them on screen, and that’s why this one didn’t work for me.
⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Wholesome Hearts publishing for this copy of Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield.
December 29, 2022
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. This was a fun and quick read that I really enjoyed! It was a cute “Hallmark-type” book that had me smiling from beginning to end.
I really enjoyed the storyline and all the characters. I loved the part when Dani (not knowing Gabe is a billionaire) asked him to take her to the Dollar Store and he’d never been in one! 🤣 That made me laugh. And I absolutely adored little Cricket…she was a cutie.
There were just a couple reasons why I gave this 4 stars rather than the full 5. First off, Seth (Dani’s 15 year old son). His character seemed to be written more like a 8-10 year old the way he talked. I was glad he wasn’t a bratty teenager because it seems like lately all the books I read with teenagers, make them out to be mouthy or just bad. But the way the author had him speak, it seemed more like a younger child to me. Another thing that annoyed me at times was the way everyone was just so polite all the time! 😂 I mean that’s a good thing, but everyone just seemed too proper and perfect.
Overall, I’m really happy I chose this book to read in December and I do recommend it for anyone who is looking for a sweet Christmas romance.
Thank you to NetGalley, XPresso Book Tours and Wholesome Hearts Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the storyline and all the characters. I loved the part when Dani (not knowing Gabe is a billionaire) asked him to take her to the Dollar Store and he’d never been in one! 🤣 That made me laugh. And I absolutely adored little Cricket…she was a cutie.
There were just a couple reasons why I gave this 4 stars rather than the full 5. First off, Seth (Dani’s 15 year old son). His character seemed to be written more like a 8-10 year old the way he talked. I was glad he wasn’t a bratty teenager because it seems like lately all the books I read with teenagers, make them out to be mouthy or just bad. But the way the author had him speak, it seemed more like a younger child to me. Another thing that annoyed me at times was the way everyone was just so polite all the time! 😂 I mean that’s a good thing, but everyone just seemed too proper and perfect.
Overall, I’m really happy I chose this book to read in December and I do recommend it for anyone who is looking for a sweet Christmas romance.
Thank you to NetGalley, XPresso Book Tours and Wholesome Hearts Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2023
Guiding the Grouch. If I had to choose one word to describe this book it’d be “cute”. The story of Gabe & Dani was cute, a little slow but cute. If you’re into lovey cheesy stories you’re probably rooting for them along the way. There were a lot of times I found myself smiling especially during Cricket (a little girl in the story) & Gabe’s interactions.
Things that annoyed me:
-While I don’t want a jerk of a main male character I thought the way the author wrote in Gabe’s character it made him come across more soft than Dani the female leads character, which was a little weird to me & one of my biggest hang ups. I feel like how he was portrayed through his dialogue or some stuff he couldn’t do (he could rope & ride but couldn’t take apart a pallet?) was a contradiction to what I expected his character to be more like.
-Some of the dialogue for all of the characters was odd, word choices that didn’t fit the age of the character or the time period (21st century). Like instead of saying he had a great time or so much fun, Gabe said he had a “grand time”. One of the kids made a comment that something was “beyond redemption”.
-I know the story is called Guiding the Grouch but after awhile Dani referring to Gabe as “Mr Grouch” was kind of annoying & it sometimes made me want to tell her to shut up lol.
-One thing that wasn’t that big a deal but might bother some was there some mention of God & religion.
-Oh and last but not least, some of this story was just ridiculous. He’s hiding from his family & goes to the extent of removing his battery from his phone as well as buying a burner phone..this is romance not a murder story🤷♀️
I think this story was a bit too PG for me, I need a little bit of smut in my romance books ha. What bothered me the most was I just didn’t love some of the writing, which I think a good editor could fix, but I probably wouldn’t read another book by this author. Did I mention it was cute? It was & it wasn’t a bad book but wasn’t one that will stay with me or that I’d rush out to recommend to even die-hard romance book fans.
Thank you Netgalley & Wholesome Hearts Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced copy!
Things that annoyed me:
-While I don’t want a jerk of a main male character I thought the way the author wrote in Gabe’s character it made him come across more soft than Dani the female leads character, which was a little weird to me & one of my biggest hang ups. I feel like how he was portrayed through his dialogue or some stuff he couldn’t do (he could rope & ride but couldn’t take apart a pallet?) was a contradiction to what I expected his character to be more like.
-Some of the dialogue for all of the characters was odd, word choices that didn’t fit the age of the character or the time period (21st century). Like instead of saying he had a great time or so much fun, Gabe said he had a “grand time”. One of the kids made a comment that something was “beyond redemption”.
-I know the story is called Guiding the Grouch but after awhile Dani referring to Gabe as “Mr Grouch” was kind of annoying & it sometimes made me want to tell her to shut up lol.
-One thing that wasn’t that big a deal but might bother some was there some mention of God & religion.
-Oh and last but not least, some of this story was just ridiculous. He’s hiding from his family & goes to the extent of removing his battery from his phone as well as buying a burner phone..this is romance not a murder story🤷♀️
I think this story was a bit too PG for me, I need a little bit of smut in my romance books ha. What bothered me the most was I just didn’t love some of the writing, which I think a good editor could fix, but I probably wouldn’t read another book by this author. Did I mention it was cute? It was & it wasn’t a bad book but wasn’t one that will stay with me or that I’d rush out to recommend to even die-hard romance book fans.
Thank you Netgalley & Wholesome Hearts Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced copy!
January 7, 2023
Shanna Hatfield has such a sweet and entertaining voice in literature. Her books sooth my soul and help me escape into a magical romantic world.
Gabe Gatlin has had his fill of corporate responsibility, the annual corporate Christmas parties, and an overbearing family who seems to dictate his every move.
Maybe a change of pace is what he needs, either on his grandparents ranch in Oklahoma panhandle, or better yet, looking into a mysterious property the corporation is thinking of selling.
Can he escape and find some peace and quiet, or is he destined to be under the corporate thumb, forever?
Dani Lathem is a single mom, a waitress, and a penny pincher, she is teaching her son to be a responsible young man. She’s a spunky resident and loved by all in Summer Creek. Christmas is a time of joy and celebration to her, she makes it her mission to spread cheer with everyone she meets.
When Gabe dines at one of Dani’s tables, he’s irritated due to a voice mail from his sister. Dani catches him just as he’s grumbling about Christmas and all the family hoopla, swearing at his phone, and portraying a Scrooge’s attitude.
Giggling a little, Dani notably calls him Mr. Grouch.
She makes it her new mission to enlighten Gabe of what the season truly means and spread her infectious Christmas joy into his heart.
This was such a sweet romance and I was throughly in love with this book. Such an amazing plot.
Gabe Gatlin has had his fill of corporate responsibility, the annual corporate Christmas parties, and an overbearing family who seems to dictate his every move.
Maybe a change of pace is what he needs, either on his grandparents ranch in Oklahoma panhandle, or better yet, looking into a mysterious property the corporation is thinking of selling.
Can he escape and find some peace and quiet, or is he destined to be under the corporate thumb, forever?
Dani Lathem is a single mom, a waitress, and a penny pincher, she is teaching her son to be a responsible young man. She’s a spunky resident and loved by all in Summer Creek. Christmas is a time of joy and celebration to her, she makes it her mission to spread cheer with everyone she meets.
When Gabe dines at one of Dani’s tables, he’s irritated due to a voice mail from his sister. Dani catches him just as he’s grumbling about Christmas and all the family hoopla, swearing at his phone, and portraying a Scrooge’s attitude.
Giggling a little, Dani notably calls him Mr. Grouch.
She makes it her new mission to enlighten Gabe of what the season truly means and spread her infectious Christmas joy into his heart.
This was such a sweet romance and I was throughly in love with this book. Such an amazing plot.
December 17, 2022
I loved this story of discovery about the magic of Christmas, finding yourself and what is important and of course some magical romance along the way.
Personally I could relate to Gabe as I find Christmas can be all about the public expectations of Christmas and totally overwhelming. I appreciated being reminded of the joy of spending time together, celebrating traditions (or making them), coming together as a community for fun and the occasional silliness.
The romance is such an important bit of this book and all the stories of Summer Creek and there was plenty of it! I loved how Dani, and the town, gave Gabe the moniker of Mr Grouch and then did everything they could to convince him of the magic of Christmas.
A 5 star read and a delightful way to spend a few hours reading!
Personally I could relate to Gabe as I find Christmas can be all about the public expectations of Christmas and totally overwhelming. I appreciated being reminded of the joy of spending time together, celebrating traditions (or making them), coming together as a community for fun and the occasional silliness.
The romance is such an important bit of this book and all the stories of Summer Creek and there was plenty of it! I loved how Dani, and the town, gave Gabe the moniker of Mr Grouch and then did everything they could to convince him of the magic of Christmas.
A 5 star read and a delightful way to spend a few hours reading!
December 17, 2022
If you've ever had a hectic, busy holiday season, you know how this "Grouch" felt. I know I've wished I could run away from all the stress and obligation that come with the holidays at times.
I loved this story because it shows how slowing down and enjoying the people you want to be with and do the little things that can mean so much. Watching movies, making hot cocoa and popcorn. Snowball fights and cutting your own tree down. With busy lives, sometimes you don't get to do the little things.
This is a great story to remind you to love those around you and enjoy each minute with them.
I loved this story because it shows how slowing down and enjoying the people you want to be with and do the little things that can mean so much. Watching movies, making hot cocoa and popcorn. Snowball fights and cutting your own tree down. With busy lives, sometimes you don't get to do the little things.
This is a great story to remind you to love those around you and enjoy each minute with them.
December 15, 2022
Gabe is a billionaire hiding from family drama. Dani is a single mom satisfied with her town and her job waiting tables. When a handsome stranger comes to town she does not expect for the overwhelming attraction. He is kind of grouchy and she teases him about it. Things get serious but when she finds out he is a billionaire she panics. Now he will have to see that their Christmas is wonderful.
April 10, 2023
The epitome of a Christmas Hallmark special in novel form, “Guiding the Grouch” has everything fans of this genre could want.
Read full review in the 2023 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
December 15, 2022
Such a whimsical book with a challenge to open your heart and trust. A small town anyone would want to live in. I got to revisit characters from previous books and met newcomers that made this book have Christmas magic overload. The perfect read to prime you for the best Christmas. Book gifted to me.
December 15, 2022
As always, I loved this cowboy romance from Shanna Hatfield! It was sweet to watch Gabe and Dani fall in love as he escaped his hectic business life to slow down in a small town for the holidays.
December 15, 2022
Guiding the grouch finds a man running away from his sister's elaborate Christmas plans. You'll enjoy getting to know the characters in this story. Lots of interesting history and Christmas cheer.
December 16, 2022
Great way to start the season!!!
What a great way to enjoy the holiday season!! I got some good laughs in and really enjoyed the story! It made my day!
What a great way to enjoy the holiday season!! I got some good laughs in and really enjoyed the story! It made my day!
December 9, 2022
Shanna has knocked it out of the park again with this well written, heart melting romance. The characters are ones you can relate to and root for. Dani is a hardworking single mom to Seth. The story is set in the small town of Summer Creek. Gabe is a billionaire from Oklahoma that is running away from his family for a much needed vacation and comes to Summer Creek to check out a property his company has on file and finds it’s a home his Grandmother lived in. If that isn’t enough to reel you in there is Ethel the town goat who is full of antics and fun. You won’t want to put this book down!
December 11, 2022
Heartwarming addition to the series by Shanna Hatfield.
Gabe works at his dad’s corporation in Oklahoma. He gets a file on a mystery property in Oregon and decides to look into it further. Gabe decides to disappear for the holidays.
Dani is a single mom and waitress in the town where Gabe stops for the month. Dani, her son and the whole town help Gabe find the meaning of Christmas.
*I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
Gabe works at his dad’s corporation in Oklahoma. He gets a file on a mystery property in Oregon and decides to look into it further. Gabe decides to disappear for the holidays.
Dani is a single mom and waitress in the town where Gabe stops for the month. Dani, her son and the whole town help Gabe find the meaning of Christmas.
*I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
December 12, 2022
I absolutely love this Christmas romance.
A great story of love, family, friends & forgiveness. Beautifully told with wonderful characters that charm and steal your heart.
I was captivated from the very first page.
Highly Recommend!!
A great story of love, family, friends & forgiveness. Beautifully told with wonderful characters that charm and steal your heart.
I was captivated from the very first page.
Highly Recommend!!
December 6, 2022
gabe runs the real estate part of the family company. but he is tired of the parties and doing what is father and sister think he should do so after the ball game he went to with his friends he goes to check out the house that the company is paying to keep up . but he does not tell any one but his assistant . when he sees the house he knows itis special and then he meets the people and one that works at the place he likes to eat. when dani first sees him he is frowning at the phone so she calls him mr grouch. dani and her son and the rest of the town show him what Christmas is all about . this is a fun book to read , i was given a copy but this is an honest review
December 8, 2022
I loved this story, it was so full of Christmas cheer and Dani was such a great fun, upbeat character that brought out the best from Mr. Grouch, Gabe. She taught him the meaning of what it means to love and be loved with true feeling. I loved how he was able to let himself learn and be a part of the Summer Creek community. I hope we get to see Seth have his own story! I loved the happily every after and getting to catch up with the other favorite Summer Creek couples.
December 7, 2022
An awesome adventure in getting lost in a book. The characters feel like friends who you want to talk to. The kids are so cute and involved in every aspect of their families. Toss in one town goat and old friends from previous tales and you have a winning read. Loved it.
December 27, 2022
Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield is a sweet romance reflecting the spirit of Christmas.
Will Gabe and Dani figure out their hearts before Christmas?
Gabe Gatlin
Gabe is our hero. He is intelligent, good-looking, has a heart of gold, and has an over-stuffed wallet. Mostly Gabe is looking for what is missing in his life. He isn't happy with his father, sister, or brother-in-law, and he is sick of them trying to direct his life. Gabe would rather spend time on the family ranch where his grandparents lived, but his father and sister keep him in Oklahoma City and close by.
I enjoyed getting to know Gabe and felt sorry for his family's lack of Christmas spirit. Although he seems to have a runaway issue, I feel he won't run anymore.
Dani Latham
Dani is our heroine. She is great. I adored her. She is a great mother, a hard worker, kind-hearted, and sweet. Dani goes out of her way to help people and to make Summer Creek a better place. She is always helping out with something. Oh, and this woman can budget. Being a single mom is no easy task, but she manages to keep everything going and still have a few dollars left for the fun stuff.
You can tell how great she is by how well-behaved her son, Seth is. He also volunteers around town and helps his friends. Seth is learning to fix household things and work on cars with Deputy Strickland. He is going to be another great man in Summer Creek.
Five Stars
My rating for Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield is five stars. I adore how Ms. Hatfield combines worlds and shows the importance of love and family. Honestly, I would love to find a place like Summer Creek where neighbors help each other and empower the youth. I highly recommend Guiding the Grouch whether you are looking for a one-off Christmas cowboy romance or genuinely want to meet all the characters of Summer Creek by reading the series.
Also, there is a recipe for Grouchy Green Pie at the back of the book that I plan to make before the New Year.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Will Gabe and Dani figure out their hearts before Christmas?
Gabe Gatlin
Gabe is our hero. He is intelligent, good-looking, has a heart of gold, and has an over-stuffed wallet. Mostly Gabe is looking for what is missing in his life. He isn't happy with his father, sister, or brother-in-law, and he is sick of them trying to direct his life. Gabe would rather spend time on the family ranch where his grandparents lived, but his father and sister keep him in Oklahoma City and close by.
I enjoyed getting to know Gabe and felt sorry for his family's lack of Christmas spirit. Although he seems to have a runaway issue, I feel he won't run anymore.
Dani Latham
Dani is our heroine. She is great. I adored her. She is a great mother, a hard worker, kind-hearted, and sweet. Dani goes out of her way to help people and to make Summer Creek a better place. She is always helping out with something. Oh, and this woman can budget. Being a single mom is no easy task, but she manages to keep everything going and still have a few dollars left for the fun stuff.
You can tell how great she is by how well-behaved her son, Seth is. He also volunteers around town and helps his friends. Seth is learning to fix household things and work on cars with Deputy Strickland. He is going to be another great man in Summer Creek.
“Christmas stuff? What kind of stuff? Regular stuff? Double stuff? Stuff with stuff?” she teased and waggled an eyebrow at him. Seth chuckled and shook his head. “Sometimes you are too weird, Mom.” “So, there are varying degrees of weird? You’ll have to explain what levels are acceptable so I always strive to exceed them.” “Mom!” Seth drew out the one word for what seemed like five seconds before he grinned and went back to eating his sandwich.
Hatfield, Shanna. Guiding The Grouch: A Small-Town Clean Romance (Summer Creek Book 5) (p. 98). Wholesome Hearts Publishing. Kindle Edition.
Five Stars
My rating for Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield is five stars. I adore how Ms. Hatfield combines worlds and shows the importance of love and family. Honestly, I would love to find a place like Summer Creek where neighbors help each other and empower the youth. I highly recommend Guiding the Grouch whether you are looking for a one-off Christmas cowboy romance or genuinely want to meet all the characters of Summer Creek by reading the series.
Also, there is a recipe for Grouchy Green Pie at the back of the book that I plan to make before the New Year.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Guiding the Grouch by Shanna Hatfield.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
December 15, 2022
Billionaire real estate tycoon Gabe Gatlin is fed up with the demands on his time and sanity by his father and sister to uphold his social obligations and duties during the holiday season. So, he just disappears into the quaint little town of Summer Creek, Oregon to investigate a mysterious house and property. Who should he meet but town mascot Ethel the goat. How can you stay grumpy around a silly goat? He meets his polar opposite in lovely waitress Dani Latham, single mom to her 15 year old Seth. Gabe manages to meet all of the movers and shakers in Summer Creek including the world's cutest kid, Cricket who makes it her personal mission to get grouchy Gabe into the Christmas spirit. The mysterious house and property was an ancestral home and Gabe not only falls in love with it but the entire town, especially Dani! Gabe carefully hides his lofty status from all of the residents but underestimates the forthright honesty Dani craves in him. What a problem! Gabe's mother also has a shocking surprise for him in due time. What makes author Shanna Hatfield's romances so compelling and entertaining? For one, her painstaking historical research. Her attention to detail is admirable. As you read through the story you are treated with endearing and emotional tidbits of information which embellish the romance. This latest Summer Creek romance is the crown jewel of the series. For me no other series has the lovable characters or the unique story lines or stunning mental visions of the quaint town of Summer Creek! This reviewer also appreciated how the entire town, especially Dani, reawakened Gabe's faith in God.
January 5, 2023
This wonderful Christmas story takes place in Summer Creek, OR.
I love the guy that the town calls the Grouch which is nothing of the kind. He is a wealthy man in real estate. He lived and works in the building owned by his family and the real estate company he owns is in that same building with people in the family he dislikes working with. He thinks his siblings are a nuts and the whole family are a pain in the butt.
He hates all the stuff the mandate everyone attend at Christmas time and this year he wants nothing to due with any of them. He is asked about a property in Summer Creek, OR and he decides he should check it out. He knows about the property so he goes out there and finds the most beautiful home that has been updated. He decides to stay for Christmas and tries to be anonymous
He finds a woman accidently that he thinks is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and really wants to get to know her.
Through getting to know him by helping him with some things at the house, people in this small town wondered who was staying there, she finds it to be the most magnificent home she has ever been in. The town gets to know him, but most people think he is a grouch. He was trying to lay low is all but always nice to everyone.
A wonderful Christmas stories and one of my favorites now in this series and it’s already been a great series. This is a must read for everyone.
I love the guy that the town calls the Grouch which is nothing of the kind. He is a wealthy man in real estate. He lived and works in the building owned by his family and the real estate company he owns is in that same building with people in the family he dislikes working with. He thinks his siblings are a nuts and the whole family are a pain in the butt.
He hates all the stuff the mandate everyone attend at Christmas time and this year he wants nothing to due with any of them. He is asked about a property in Summer Creek, OR and he decides he should check it out. He knows about the property so he goes out there and finds the most beautiful home that has been updated. He decides to stay for Christmas and tries to be anonymous
He finds a woman accidently that he thinks is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and really wants to get to know her.
Through getting to know him by helping him with some things at the house, people in this small town wondered who was staying there, she finds it to be the most magnificent home she has ever been in. The town gets to know him, but most people think he is a grouch. He was trying to lay low is all but always nice to everyone.
A wonderful Christmas stories and one of my favorites now in this series and it’s already been a great series. This is a must read for everyone.
February 7, 2023
If you enjoy Hallmark movies and similarly themed books, then this one is right up your alley. It's a lovely, cute story and great for the holiday season. This sweet romance left me with a smile on my face and a warm feeling afterwards. It serves as a good reminder of what the holiday season is all about. Gabe was just tired of all of his family drama and just wanted to get away from it all. When an opportunity comes up to sneak away to Summer Creek, he grabs it with both hands. He decides to hang out there until all the holiday festivities are over. Being the grouch that he is, the town has named him Grinchy Gabe. But something about Dani seems to melt the ice around his heart just a little more each time he sees her. Dani is a single mom and is known for spreading cheer and joy everywhere she goes. She makes it her mission to make Gabe see and feel all the holiday cheer around him and put a smile on his face. These two were absolutely adorable together and I loved the romance that blossomed between them. They were both so endearing, I couldn't help but fall in love with them. This sweet and lovely story will definitely pull at your heartstrings and give you all the feels. A delightful story I am glad to have had the opportunity to read!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 9, 2022
I so enjoyed this Christmas story. Gabe just never got to have a wonderful Christmas his whole life. When he was tired of his father and sister planning his life for the holidays, he runs away to Summer Creek, Oregon to an old family home. He just plans to spend a couple of days there, but the town grew on him. He meets the town goat and then a waitress, Dani, teases him about being a grouch and then the whole town started to tease him about being a grouch. He really didn't mind because it meant that they accepted him. He was afraid to tell anyone who he really is because then they might see him differently. But as he falls in love with the town, Dani and her son, it becomes harder to tell everyone the truth. Will Dani feel betrayed when she finds out the truth? Just when he starts to feel as if he belongs, it is all jerked away. Can he make it right? He doesn't want to be the Grinch anymore.
January 3, 2023
A good Christmas story has a billionaire Gabe wanting to get away from his family and all of the trappings that go on with them, so he takes off to Oregon to look at a house that is in the company's portfolio that he did not know about. The house and the town are filled with a history of his family that he never knew and the more he is in the town and around the people he finds himself becoming a different person.
One of the people that he meets and finds is Dani Latham and her son he is taken by her. Not just by her looks but by her spirit and the way she handles her life and the way she has made the people in the town her family. Which were things I could relate to. Dani and all of the other characters really make this story, and though yes there is a Christmas theme this really could be a book at any time for you see a change in Gabe even after everything that happens. So read this really good story to see what happens. I received this book from Netgalley.com
One of the people that he meets and finds is Dani Latham and her son he is taken by her. Not just by her looks but by her spirit and the way she handles her life and the way she has made the people in the town her family. Which were things I could relate to. Dani and all of the other characters really make this story, and though yes there is a Christmas theme this really could be a book at any time for you see a change in Gabe even after everything that happens. So read this really good story to see what happens. I received this book from Netgalley.com
December 15, 2022
Fantastic Christmas Read!!!!! Gabe is totally over being manipulated by his pushy sister during the holidays. So he decides to escape to evaluate a mysterious property that his corporation owns but no one seems to know much about. He arrives in Summer Creek Oregon and finds his true self and the woman of his heart. Their love story has it’s twists and turns, and of course when you don’t tell the whole truth it comes back to bite----or was that Ethel? You will not want to put this book down until you are finished! You will feel the chill on your face as you sled down a hill and smell the evergreen trees. With her usual flair, Shanna Hatfield weaves a story with family, romance, inspiration, and humor. It was great to catch up with the other Summer Creek residents. This is a standalone book but you will want to read the others in this series. Don’t miss Guiding the Grouch!
April 8, 2024
an amazing love story
I have not read the other books in this series but I will go read every one after reading this amazing story. I really loved this book! I think it might be my absolute favorite book by Shanna Hatfield. She is such a talented author. Gabe and Dani were meant to be but so many things had to happen for them to get their happy ever after. Seth was such a wonderful son and I really loved the town, the goat, that darling little girl cricket and all the wonderful people that lived in Summer Creek. That victorian mansion was amazing what a wonderful place to live. This story had so many inspiring messages about life, love and enjoying the things god has given you. I highly recommend this book! This will be a book I will keep and read over and over because it has so many details that I missed and I know when it ends I will be left with a happy feeling.
I have not read the other books in this series but I will go read every one after reading this amazing story. I really loved this book! I think it might be my absolute favorite book by Shanna Hatfield. She is such a talented author. Gabe and Dani were meant to be but so many things had to happen for them to get their happy ever after. Seth was such a wonderful son and I really loved the town, the goat, that darling little girl cricket and all the wonderful people that lived in Summer Creek. That victorian mansion was amazing what a wonderful place to live. This story had so many inspiring messages about life, love and enjoying the things god has given you. I highly recommend this book! This will be a book I will keep and read over and over because it has so many details that I missed and I know when it ends I will be left with a happy feeling.
December 15, 2022
Guiding the grouch
Such a lovely story full of joy, nostalgia, humor and romance, cuteness overload from a sweet little girl and we cannot forget Ethel the town goat doing her part!
A journey opening the grouch’s heart and leading him back to faith through the sass and sweetness of a single mom who doesn’t let life drag her down but lifts others up.
I also loved revisiting Summer Creek and it’s residents who feel more like family with every visit. I felt like I was moving into my dream house right alongside them.
I can’t wait for the next story - I hope Ethel gets a friend and Owen gets his love story
Such a lovely story full of joy, nostalgia, humor and romance, cuteness overload from a sweet little girl and we cannot forget Ethel the town goat doing her part!
A journey opening the grouch’s heart and leading him back to faith through the sass and sweetness of a single mom who doesn’t let life drag her down but lifts others up.
I also loved revisiting Summer Creek and it’s residents who feel more like family with every visit. I felt like I was moving into my dream house right alongside them.
I can’t wait for the next story - I hope Ethel gets a friend and Owen gets his love story
December 6, 2022
What a great story!! Shanna has done it again. It was so much fun to watch Dani and all the people in Summer Creek help Gabe discover the joy he had been missing in Christmas as well as reconnecting with his faith that his grandparents had instilled in him. I laughed and cried as Gabe experienced things that he never did as a child. When he walked into the restaurant and everyone broke out in the grinch song, I had to laugh and he eventually just accepted it with a smile. A wonderful Christmas story.
December 15, 2022
I loved this story! Dani and Gabe are opposites in every way - he’s a bachelor, she’s a single mom; he is wealthy, she is not; he doesn’t get along with his family, she has friends who are more like family; he is hiding from Christmas, she is all things Christmas! Between Dani, her son Seth, the townspeople and of course, Cricket Cole, they will help make Mr. Grouch’s heart grow 3 sizes bigger! And, as always, it’s great to catch up with the other families from the Summer Creek series.
I received an ARC from the author, but my review is voluntary and my own.
December 18, 2022
This was so good
This was the best book I have read in quite a while. I loved both Gabe and Dani plus all the sun characters. I enjoyed having all the previous characters make their presence know and felt.
I just love Dani's attitude and how she was begrudging with her every word or action. She loves her son and in came through in everything she did. I thought Seth is a pretty special son to have walked all these years with her and to still have such a great demeanor.
I didn't want the story to end. Thanks Shanna for Once again knocking it out of the park!
This was the best book I have read in quite a while. I loved both Gabe and Dani plus all the sun characters. I enjoyed having all the previous characters make their presence know and felt.
I just love Dani's attitude and how she was begrudging with her every word or action. She loves her son and in came through in everything she did. I thought Seth is a pretty special son to have walked all these years with her and to still have such a great demeanor.
I didn't want the story to end. Thanks Shanna for Once again knocking it out of the park!
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