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Jewel Lakes #5.5
Finding His Cheer
I never wanted to love again. Until love came knocking on my door.
HEATH
After losing my wife, the only thing I wanted to do was raise my eight-year-old daughter and get through the day in one piece. Then my neighbor Morgan appeared on my doorstep with a favor to ask. My sexy, sweet, lovely neighbor. Suddenly I'm shocked to find the haze in my brain lifting. Feelings I thought were long gone aren't just reawakening--they're burning like a yule log.
MORGAN
My life is a mess. Since my divorce, I've been scrambling to stay in Jewel Lakes--and to keep the lights on with my fledgling ( failing) pottery business. The last thing I need is to catch feelings for the gorgeous widower next door. But there's something about his sad eyes and warm heart that has me melting.
Heath and Morgan are both hurting. Could cozying up over the holidays be the thing that heals them both? Read the Complete Series! The Jewel Lakes Series is best enjoyed in order. Book 1: Love Runs Deep
Book 2: No Plans For Love
Book 3: His Hot Mess
Book 4: Twice Burned
Book 5: All Your Fault
Book 6: Finding His Cheer
HEATH
After losing my wife, the only thing I wanted to do was raise my eight-year-old daughter and get through the day in one piece. Then my neighbor Morgan appeared on my doorstep with a favor to ask. My sexy, sweet, lovely neighbor. Suddenly I'm shocked to find the haze in my brain lifting. Feelings I thought were long gone aren't just reawakening--they're burning like a yule log.
MORGAN
My life is a mess. Since my divorce, I've been scrambling to stay in Jewel Lakes--and to keep the lights on with my fledgling ( failing) pottery business. The last thing I need is to catch feelings for the gorgeous widower next door. But there's something about his sad eyes and warm heart that has me melting.
Heath and Morgan are both hurting. Could cozying up over the holidays be the thing that heals them both? Read the Complete Series! The Jewel Lakes Series is best enjoyed in order. Book 1: Love Runs Deep
Book 2: No Plans For Love
Book 3: His Hot Mess
Book 4: Twice Burned
Book 5: All Your Fault
Book 6: Finding His Cheer
144 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2021
77 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
Claire Wilder
28 books459 followersUSA Today bestselling author of spicy small-town romance featuring
- Relatable women who always support each other
- Strong, sexy wounded men
- A sometimes rocky but always steamy road that always leads to a guaranteed HEA
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Where to find me:
Website: clairewilder.com
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TikTok: tiktok.com/@clairewilderbooks
Bonus Material: clairewilder.com/extras
- Relatable women who always support each other
- Strong, sexy wounded men
- A sometimes rocky but always steamy road that always leads to a guaranteed HEA
Get a free book unavailable in stores when you sign up for my newsletter: geni.us/touchingwoodfree
Where to find me:
Website: clairewilder.com
Instagram: instagram.com/clairewilderbooks
Facebook: facebook.com/clairewilderromance
FB Reader Group: facebook.com/groups/wilderwomenreaders
Bookbub: bookbub.com/profile/claire-wilder
Amazon: amazon.com/author/clairewilder
TikTok: tiktok.com/@clairewilderbooks
Bonus Material: clairewilder.com/extras
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 18, 2021
** this really is a 4.5 star book. The only thing I was expecting that I feel was lacking was a bit more heat, but it worked with the storyline **
“Finding His Cheer” is a wonderful tale of second chances and finding love after tragedy. Claire Wilder builds a beautiful story around Morgan, Heath, and Heath’s young daughter Ruby and manages to do something I usually miss in a novella: she created deeply developed characters, with solid backstories, who have serious emotional depth. Well-placed and relevant side characters help build the story without taking over or derailing the main plot. And even though the steam level is low, it’s well-timed in a novella that’s more about the story than the heat. Although this book reads perfectly as a standalone, mentions and appearances of characters from Wilder’s other books makes me want to read the rest of the books in the series. I will definitely be dipping deeper into the Jewel Lakes series and Wilder’s backlist.
“Finding His Cheer” is a wonderful tale of second chances and finding love after tragedy. Claire Wilder builds a beautiful story around Morgan, Heath, and Heath’s young daughter Ruby and manages to do something I usually miss in a novella: she created deeply developed characters, with solid backstories, who have serious emotional depth. Well-placed and relevant side characters help build the story without taking over or derailing the main plot. And even though the steam level is low, it’s well-timed in a novella that’s more about the story than the heat. Although this book reads perfectly as a standalone, mentions and appearances of characters from Wilder’s other books makes me want to read the rest of the books in the series. I will definitely be dipping deeper into the Jewel Lakes series and Wilder’s backlist.
August 22, 2021
What an amazing story of finding love again after heartbreak!! I loved Heath and Morgan's story. Ruby just made my heart melt. If you're looking for a quick read that pulls at your heartstrings, this is the book for you!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 31, 2022
"I needed someone to show me I could love again."
This was the perfect novella for wrapping up the holiday season. Finding His Cheer, the final book in the Jewel Lakes series, tells the story of Heath and Morgan, two broken souls who start as neighbors, becoming friends, then fall in love.
Struggling emotionally, Heath is raising his 8-year-old daughter, Ruby, three years after losing his wife, Ruby's mom. Meanwhile, next door neighbor, Morgan, betrayed by her cheating husband, is now divorced and burdened with the debts he left behind. She's trying to keep her house from going into foreclosure by selling the pottery she designs, hoping it will be enough to keep her afloat.
A neighborly favor and a charged attraction between Heath and Morgan creates mixed thoughts and feelings as neither feels ready to leave the past and move on. With shared feelings of sadness and loneliness, hollowness in their hearts where love should be, can Heath and Morgan allow themselves to love again?
"I’d crossed a line— a delicious, gut- wrenching, heart- splitting line."
I absolutely loved this story, sweet with a hint of steam, a tale of hope and of not letting the past define the future. It was about looking for inspiration in a new day, never forgetting what was, but finding the strength to move forward to what could be.
A sweet little girl with a story of her own, Ruby was the force that pulled Heath and Morgan together. She was the true star of this book, breaking my heart but putting it back together all at once. She's the one I think of most as I reflect back on this story and I loved how she added to the emotional journey.
I've read plenty of holiday romance books this season but this is one of the few that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was beautiful to watch this story unfold and it was a wonderful way to conclude the series.
"I knew she made you happy. And that made me happy. My little drummer boy wish came true."
This was the perfect novella for wrapping up the holiday season. Finding His Cheer, the final book in the Jewel Lakes series, tells the story of Heath and Morgan, two broken souls who start as neighbors, becoming friends, then fall in love.
Struggling emotionally, Heath is raising his 8-year-old daughter, Ruby, three years after losing his wife, Ruby's mom. Meanwhile, next door neighbor, Morgan, betrayed by her cheating husband, is now divorced and burdened with the debts he left behind. She's trying to keep her house from going into foreclosure by selling the pottery she designs, hoping it will be enough to keep her afloat.
A neighborly favor and a charged attraction between Heath and Morgan creates mixed thoughts and feelings as neither feels ready to leave the past and move on. With shared feelings of sadness and loneliness, hollowness in their hearts where love should be, can Heath and Morgan allow themselves to love again?
"I’d crossed a line— a delicious, gut- wrenching, heart- splitting line."
I absolutely loved this story, sweet with a hint of steam, a tale of hope and of not letting the past define the future. It was about looking for inspiration in a new day, never forgetting what was, but finding the strength to move forward to what could be.
A sweet little girl with a story of her own, Ruby was the force that pulled Heath and Morgan together. She was the true star of this book, breaking my heart but putting it back together all at once. She's the one I think of most as I reflect back on this story and I loved how she added to the emotional journey.
I've read plenty of holiday romance books this season but this is one of the few that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was beautiful to watch this story unfold and it was a wonderful way to conclude the series.
"I knew she made you happy. And that made me happy. My little drummer boy wish came true."
September 2, 2021
**I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest review**
I loved this visit to Jewel Lakes! Heath and Morgan are both dealing with their past, and learning how to move on again when they meet. Not ready to be with someone new, but not able to forget the other as well. I loved their chemistry, the ‘will they, won’t they’ that was happening throughout the book. And Ruby is just the sweetest! My biggest ‘problem’ with this book was that I would’ve loved to spend much longer with them, diving deeper into the ways they can help each other!
Steam: 🔥🔥.5
I loved this visit to Jewel Lakes! Heath and Morgan are both dealing with their past, and learning how to move on again when they meet. Not ready to be with someone new, but not able to forget the other as well. I loved their chemistry, the ‘will they, won’t they’ that was happening throughout the book. And Ruby is just the sweetest! My biggest ‘problem’ with this book was that I would’ve loved to spend much longer with them, diving deeper into the ways they can help each other!
Steam: 🔥🔥.5
August 23, 2021
This one gave me the warm and fuzzies and it was such a great read and exactly what I needed after the last year. This is a must read no matter what time of year you’re looking at it.
Heath lost his wife three years ago and he and his daughter Ruby are still trying to figure out how to adjust to life after such a devastating lost. Heath has been living in a fog, just going through the motions, and trying to help Ruby who has withdrawn into herself after her mother’s death.
All that changes when Heath and Ruby’s next door neighbour Morgan knocks on their door asking for help. Morgan awakens something in Heath that he thought he would never feel again, but he also had to deal with his feelings of guilt and wondering if he was betraying his late wife’s memory by thinking about another woman.
Morgan has her own problems. Her ex-husband left her broke and with a house that needs a lot of work. She is in danger of losing her house and is trying to turn her love of pottery into a profitable business. Morgan has no plans to crush on her super sexy neighbour but she can’t help it.
This book deals with grief in such a realistic, sensitive and nuanced way. I loved how such a simple interaction between Morgan, Ruby and Heath opened them all up to the possibility of life and love after so much hurt and pain. Ruby is adorable and it was so great to see her come out of her shell as the book progressed.
Heath lost his wife three years ago and he and his daughter Ruby are still trying to figure out how to adjust to life after such a devastating lost. Heath has been living in a fog, just going through the motions, and trying to help Ruby who has withdrawn into herself after her mother’s death.
All that changes when Heath and Ruby’s next door neighbour Morgan knocks on their door asking for help. Morgan awakens something in Heath that he thought he would never feel again, but he also had to deal with his feelings of guilt and wondering if he was betraying his late wife’s memory by thinking about another woman.
Morgan has her own problems. Her ex-husband left her broke and with a house that needs a lot of work. She is in danger of losing her house and is trying to turn her love of pottery into a profitable business. Morgan has no plans to crush on her super sexy neighbour but she can’t help it.
This book deals with grief in such a realistic, sensitive and nuanced way. I loved how such a simple interaction between Morgan, Ruby and Heath opened them all up to the possibility of life and love after so much hurt and pain. Ruby is adorable and it was so great to see her come out of her shell as the book progressed.
August 24, 2021
SERIES: Jewel Lakes, Novella
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥
Loooved this emotional, festive, Jewel Lakes novella. We get to catch up with a few series favorite couples and we meet widower Heath, his daughter Ruby, and the divorced neighbor, Morgan, who happens to be a potter. With a flying cat (hahaha) named Mousie and a sensual tension that pulled my heart strings, this was EXACTLY what I needed right now.
Heath broke my heart. After losing his wife to sickness, three years pass and while he’s surviving day to day, him and his daughter are barely living. When Morgan stumbles into their life, she brings Ruby to life and laughter into their home.
Quick, Christmas-y, Sweet, Emotional, and an HEA that just leaves your soul happy, Finding His Cheer NEEDS to be on your TBR for the holiday season!
August 27, 2021
This is the perfect holiday read! There is so much love and emotion packed into this short story. Heath and Morgan are both a little broken and in need of love.
As a widower, Heath doesn’t know if he’s ready to have romantic feelings again and Morgan has been so let down by her ex she needs to rely only on herself for a while. But they both owe themselves a second chance at love.
It’s a slow burn, but perfect for the characters and for the season. I could totally see this being made into a Hallmark movie!
A wonderful return to Jewel Lakes and a glimpse of some of our favorite characters, but a great standalone as well!
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author and these are my honest opinions.
As a widower, Heath doesn’t know if he’s ready to have romantic feelings again and Morgan has been so let down by her ex she needs to rely only on herself for a while. But they both owe themselves a second chance at love.
It’s a slow burn, but perfect for the characters and for the season. I could totally see this being made into a Hallmark movie!
A wonderful return to Jewel Lakes and a glimpse of some of our favorite characters, but a great standalone as well!
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author and these are my honest opinions.
September 1, 2021
This is a beautiful way to get into the holiday season. OR if your like me and not quite ready it's just a great read about being ready to open your heart to more. It's a great holiday read without drowning you in Christmas. Heath and Morgan were both easy to like characters who's lives had both been side railed by life. Heath now a single father and widower. Morgan divorced and lonely after years of being in a bad marriage. This book is their new beginning? The ups and downs are heartbreaking and heartwarming. But the show stealer is Ruby, Heath's daughter. And of course there is a gift for everyone at the end a great HEA!
I have voluntarily left this review.
I have voluntarily left this review.
December 22, 2021
You can’t get a more cozy read than a small town wintry romance, like in Claire Wilder’s “Finding HIs Cheer”. This holiday novella is another sweet slow burn set in Jewel Lakes. Single dad (need I say more) Heath rescues his neighbour, Morgan, when her lights go out. From that point on, they not only feel something for each other but they both work out their personal issues (Heath over the loss of his wife and Morgan with her divorce and financial issues) and though it’s a story wrapped up in 12 chapters, it doesn’t seem rushed or forced. Claire’s excellent writing doesn’t present an “insta-love” feel (I’m not a fan). The angst and sexual chemistry combo is definitely felt by this reader and honestly I was just sad that it ended.
September 1, 2021
This was such a sweet story, with a bit of steam about finding love after heartbreak for both Heath and Morgan. It was a short novella that still hit you in the feels, both suffering their own forms of grief and finding each other unexpectedly.
There’s also sweet Ruby, coming out of her shell and a funny kitty Mousie.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you @clairewilderbooks for another great story in Jewel Lakes!
There’s also sweet Ruby, coming out of her shell and a funny kitty Mousie.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you @clairewilderbooks for another great story in Jewel Lakes!
May 24, 2023
cute!
Honestly the story was short and cute! Even if this was just a novella, it didn’t feel like it
All of the characters were really good, and even in the shorts amount of pages they got their development
Honestly the story was short and cute! Even if this was just a novella, it didn’t feel like it
All of the characters were really good, and even in the shorts amount of pages they got their development
June 24, 2023
Quick read for a lazy afternon
Some fun, some love but story a little bit slow.worth the read though and author talented enough that you might want to search out some of her other books.
Some fun, some love but story a little bit slow.worth the read though and author talented enough that you might want to search out some of her other books.
September 1, 2021
What a beautiful heart warming short story. Heath lost his wife and has no interest in anyone else until a knock on this door from a next door neighbor sets off sparks in him. Morgan’s husband left her in a mess. She goes to Heath for help. This story is a sad slow burn and a Christmas Delight. Ruby is adorable. This awesome story is just what I need. A feel good time!!
January 7, 2022
Blink and it’s over - DO NOT RECOMMEND
It was free for a reason. My bad I’m usually much better at making sure the books I choose are more than 200 pages. 133 pages? What’s the point? It’s cliche, formulaic, no character development, relationship fully formed with very little to no dating or getting to know one another, especially irresponsible with a child involved. Forgettable. TOO MANY convenient outcomes.
SEX SCENES- Yes, one. Not realistic given Heath has not had sex in 3 years and Morgan hasn’t had sex in at least a year but she’s got condoms. The author’s reasoning for Morgan having condoms was so bad it’s embarrassing.
It was free for a reason. My bad I’m usually much better at making sure the books I choose are more than 200 pages. 133 pages? What’s the point? It’s cliche, formulaic, no character development, relationship fully formed with very little to no dating or getting to know one another, especially irresponsible with a child involved. Forgettable. TOO MANY convenient outcomes.
SEX SCENES- Yes, one. Not realistic given Heath has not had sex in 3 years and Morgan hasn’t had sex in at least a year but she’s got condoms. The author’s reasoning for Morgan having condoms was so bad it’s embarrassing.
August 30, 2021
This is the 6th book in the "Jewel Lake" series (and related series) that I have read. While I enjoyed reading all of them, "Finding His Cheer" was definitely my favorite. I have to say that when I first received my ARC and saw the cover, I was a bit surprised. Rather than the typical adonis that adorns romance novels, a little more geeky type guy was on the cover. Now, after reading the story, that guy IS our (H) Heath!
This is a story of second chances at love. That can take many forms. In this case, Morgan's (h) husband walks out on her. Heath (H) is a widower. Both of their stories are touching, but it's Heath's that I found extremely well written. It's said that you should write about what you know. Unfortunately Claire Wilde knows heartache. Her own husband having passed away a few months ago. As I read this story, I could feel the emotions that Heath was experiencing. Yes, I even cried at one point. It was very real and very poignant.
Ruby, Heath's daughter brings a sweet touch to the story and also some levity. Wilde brings just the right touch of emotions to make the story entertaining. I also like the way Wilde brings characters from the other "Jewel Lake" books to the story. It's a great way to catch up with old friends as well as allow people who have not read the other books to understand what is going on. (In fact, Heath is the brother of Ophelia from "Touching Wood").
Claire Wilde is a wonderful writer and terrific story-teller. She'll have you smiling, enjoying small town romance, and maybe even causing a rogue tear to escape. I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Finding His Cheer" and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a story of second chances at love. That can take many forms. In this case, Morgan's (h) husband walks out on her. Heath (H) is a widower. Both of their stories are touching, but it's Heath's that I found extremely well written. It's said that you should write about what you know. Unfortunately Claire Wilde knows heartache. Her own husband having passed away a few months ago. As I read this story, I could feel the emotions that Heath was experiencing. Yes, I even cried at one point. It was very real and very poignant.
Ruby, Heath's daughter brings a sweet touch to the story and also some levity. Wilde brings just the right touch of emotions to make the story entertaining. I also like the way Wilde brings characters from the other "Jewel Lake" books to the story. It's a great way to catch up with old friends as well as allow people who have not read the other books to understand what is going on. (In fact, Heath is the brother of Ophelia from "Touching Wood").
Claire Wilde is a wonderful writer and terrific story-teller. She'll have you smiling, enjoying small town romance, and maybe even causing a rogue tear to escape. I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Finding His Cheer" and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2024
All I want for Christmas
…is a single dad. My favourite trope works during the holiday season too. And Heath, a widowed dad is finally ready to move on — or he is when he gets to know Morgan, his neighbour who is recently divorced.
Resistance is futile. This is a lovely, quick read that I’m adding to my annual holiday read list.
…is a single dad. My favourite trope works during the holiday season too. And Heath, a widowed dad is finally ready to move on — or he is when he gets to know Morgan, his neighbour who is recently divorced.
Resistance is futile. This is a lovely, quick read that I’m adding to my annual holiday read list.
Want to read
December 12, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/12/2021)! 🎁
September 1, 2021
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Note: Since the beginning, I have been following the Jewel Lake series and have enjoyed every one of the books. This new book holds the same theme of second chances and two unlikely people realizing how perfect they are for each other.
RE: Single dad. Eight-year-old girl. Widowed neighbor.
Finding His Cheer is a short read. It's all about second chances after a devastating and traumatizing event. It relates to one of the last characters in the Jewel Lake Series prequel, Touching Wood.
Heath Bradley losing his wife was devastating, and then raising Ruby alone without a mother was tricky. Ruby withdrew from everyone while Heath tried to stay sane by focusing on Ruby and his business. Heath is a wonderful father but seems to neglect his need for companionship. Behind closed doors, he would wallow and spiral into despair, which if he sought help or maybe "opened his mind and heart," he would have healed faster. I have to agree that healing from grief and loss takes time. Each suffering from this will have different coping skills and timelines. Ruby's coping mechanism might be a lot better than Heath's because she could finally see herself happy with Morgan (and mostly Mousie, if you ask me). With Heath, it took a bit longer, and much analysis brought some angst to the story.
On the other hand, Morgan Carter is a wonderful woman, trying to find her way to keep her home through her pottery hobby. She is determined to keep the house left in her settlement - not only for the view (aside from the hunky neighbor) but for the community and the friends she made after the divorce. BUT with the slow market of her pottery wares, Morgan has missed a few mortgage payments in the past few months. With the threat of foreclosure looming, pressure is on to get all her wares sold (by the hundreds of pieces) at the county fair. Also at risk is her heart, who did not get the memo that her hunky widowed neighbor is emotionally not ready for anything with her.
Some things I love about the book:-
a.) Letting yourself feel, whether good or bad, will help heal or improve the path to finding happiness.
b.) Passion, determination, and talent will lead you to big things.
c.) Being humble is not a sign of weakness.
d.) Learn to explore and experiment.
e.) Going viral is everything!
Finding His Cheer did NOT disappoint! It is a clean, straightforward read with conflicts that bring enough angst and drama to hold readers to drama. It is for readers who love their small-town romance and second chances with a hint of Christmas magic. Expect broken characters who realize the need to open themselves up to the people around them, a rambunctiously unique cat, plus a very Christmas HEA.
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Note: Since the beginning, I have been following the Jewel Lake series and have enjoyed every one of the books. This new book holds the same theme of second chances and two unlikely people realizing how perfect they are for each other.
RE: Single dad. Eight-year-old girl. Widowed neighbor.
Finding His Cheer is a short read. It's all about second chances after a devastating and traumatizing event. It relates to one of the last characters in the Jewel Lake Series prequel, Touching Wood.
Heath Bradley losing his wife was devastating, and then raising Ruby alone without a mother was tricky. Ruby withdrew from everyone while Heath tried to stay sane by focusing on Ruby and his business. Heath is a wonderful father but seems to neglect his need for companionship. Behind closed doors, he would wallow and spiral into despair, which if he sought help or maybe "opened his mind and heart," he would have healed faster. I have to agree that healing from grief and loss takes time. Each suffering from this will have different coping skills and timelines. Ruby's coping mechanism might be a lot better than Heath's because she could finally see herself happy with Morgan (and mostly Mousie, if you ask me). With Heath, it took a bit longer, and much analysis brought some angst to the story.
On the other hand, Morgan Carter is a wonderful woman, trying to find her way to keep her home through her pottery hobby. She is determined to keep the house left in her settlement - not only for the view (aside from the hunky neighbor) but for the community and the friends she made after the divorce. BUT with the slow market of her pottery wares, Morgan has missed a few mortgage payments in the past few months. With the threat of foreclosure looming, pressure is on to get all her wares sold (by the hundreds of pieces) at the county fair. Also at risk is her heart, who did not get the memo that her hunky widowed neighbor is emotionally not ready for anything with her.
Some things I love about the book:-
a.) Letting yourself feel, whether good or bad, will help heal or improve the path to finding happiness.
b.) Passion, determination, and talent will lead you to big things.
c.) Being humble is not a sign of weakness.
d.) Learn to explore and experiment.
e.) Going viral is everything!
Finding His Cheer did NOT disappoint! It is a clean, straightforward read with conflicts that bring enough angst and drama to hold readers to drama. It is for readers who love their small-town romance and second chances with a hint of Christmas magic. Expect broken characters who realize the need to open themselves up to the people around them, a rambunctiously unique cat, plus a very Christmas HEA.
September 5, 2021
FINDING HIS CHEER, A JEWEL LAKES HOLIDAY SPECIAL by Claire Wilder is a second-chance romance in the author’s JEWEL LAKES SERIES. It features neighbors Heath Bradley, a widower of three years and father of Ruby, and Morgan Carter, a potter and recent divorcee. Heath struggles to get over the death of his wife and tries providing a good home for his daughter, who is finding her voice again after remaining silent for a year after her mom’s death. Morgan hopes to have success with her pottery business, despite feeling like a pottery artist imposter. She needs to sell all of her pieces at the upcoming Christmas craft fair so she can pay her bills and not lose her cottage. Neither Heath nor Morgan is ready for love, but sometimes it comes when you least expect it.
PROS:
1. The main characters, though flawed, are good people who value their friends and families.
2. Ruby and Mousie (Morgan’s cat) are cute additions to the story.
3. The feelings of inadequacy and sadness Heath experiences since his wife died are definitely realistic, especially near a family-centric holiday.
4. The novella has an interesting plot and great secondary characters, and the main characters overcome their hesitancy to love again.
5. It’s a nice second-chance romance written in first person, past tense, frequently alternating between Heath and Morgan’s points of view.
CONS:
1. Heath and Morgan worry on and on about how they’re feeling about the other.
2. All of the inner dialogue takes up too much of the story. I’d rather read more scenes than all of the inner angst.
3. The sex scenes seemed like they were just dropped into the novella. I do like spicy books, but I think implied sex would have worked better here.
SUMMARY:
FINDING HIS CHEER, A JEWEL LAKES HOLIDAY SPECIAL, is a nice addition to the JEWEL LAKES SERIES. Its uplifting story, scenic lake setting, likeable main characters, and cute, exuberant Ruby help to make the hope-filled Christmas romance a strong 3.5 stars story. If you like character-driven stories, want to read all the books in the JEWEL LAKES SERIES, and/or like small town romances, then you should enjoy this novella.
IF YOU LIKE THIS, YOU MIGHT LIKE:
Other books in the JEWEL LAKES SERIES by Claire Wilder, BLUE MOON SERIES and BOOTLEG SPRINGS SERIES by Lucy Score, BOOTLEG SPRINGS SERIES and THE MILES FAMILY SERIES by Claire Kingsley, HEARTBREAKER BAY NOVELS and THE WILDSTONE SERIES by Jill Shalvis, BLUEGRASS SERIES and FOREVER BLUEGRASS SERIES by Kathleen Brooks
* An e-ARC was provided by Booksprout and the author for an honest review.
PROS:
1. The main characters, though flawed, are good people who value their friends and families.
2. Ruby and Mousie (Morgan’s cat) are cute additions to the story.
3. The feelings of inadequacy and sadness Heath experiences since his wife died are definitely realistic, especially near a family-centric holiday.
4. The novella has an interesting plot and great secondary characters, and the main characters overcome their hesitancy to love again.
5. It’s a nice second-chance romance written in first person, past tense, frequently alternating between Heath and Morgan’s points of view.
CONS:
1. Heath and Morgan worry on and on about how they’re feeling about the other.
2. All of the inner dialogue takes up too much of the story. I’d rather read more scenes than all of the inner angst.
3. The sex scenes seemed like they were just dropped into the novella. I do like spicy books, but I think implied sex would have worked better here.
SUMMARY:
FINDING HIS CHEER, A JEWEL LAKES HOLIDAY SPECIAL, is a nice addition to the JEWEL LAKES SERIES. Its uplifting story, scenic lake setting, likeable main characters, and cute, exuberant Ruby help to make the hope-filled Christmas romance a strong 3.5 stars story. If you like character-driven stories, want to read all the books in the JEWEL LAKES SERIES, and/or like small town romances, then you should enjoy this novella.
IF YOU LIKE THIS, YOU MIGHT LIKE:
Other books in the JEWEL LAKES SERIES by Claire Wilder, BLUE MOON SERIES and BOOTLEG SPRINGS SERIES by Lucy Score, BOOTLEG SPRINGS SERIES and THE MILES FAMILY SERIES by Claire Kingsley, HEARTBREAKER BAY NOVELS and THE WILDSTONE SERIES by Jill Shalvis, BLUEGRASS SERIES and FOREVER BLUEGRASS SERIES by Kathleen Brooks
* An e-ARC was provided by Booksprout and the author for an honest review.
September 1, 2021
My favorite genre is second chance romance. This book is an excellent illustration of second chance romance. The book is about a sweet man named Heath and he is a widower with a young daughter named Ruby. He thought his life was all planned out and perfect until his wife got the news that she had stage 4 cancer. Heath and Ruby have been moving along in a fog the last couple years Since his wife’s death. Ruby doesn’t speak aloud. She is very withdrawn. Heath feels extremely guilty that he is alive and Jeanne is not. She tried to talk to him before she died about him and Ruby needing to love and live when she’s gone but Heath didn’t want to listen.
Morgan is a divorced woman who has been struggling to get by on her meager income. She was married to a cheater who took a second mortgage on the house and never told her. He left her for the single life and freedom. Morgan was left picking up the pieces and trying to cover all the bills with zero help from her ex.
Morgan is a potter and while working in her shop the power goes out and she is in the middle of working a piece on her wheel. When the power went out her piece crumbled. She needed every piece she could create so she can make enough money to keep from losing her house.
While Heath and Ruby are standing over a box of Christmas decorations, trying to get in the spirit, they heard an urgent knock on the door. This is when everything changes for all three of them.
Love will heal all wounds. This book is very well written and the characters are lovable. There was some steamy scenes that were very well written. I loved the storyline and the characters were adorable. Ruby was a little cutie pie! She knew what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to tell her dad!
I recommend this book!
Morgan is a divorced woman who has been struggling to get by on her meager income. She was married to a cheater who took a second mortgage on the house and never told her. He left her for the single life and freedom. Morgan was left picking up the pieces and trying to cover all the bills with zero help from her ex.
Morgan is a potter and while working in her shop the power goes out and she is in the middle of working a piece on her wheel. When the power went out her piece crumbled. She needed every piece she could create so she can make enough money to keep from losing her house.
While Heath and Ruby are standing over a box of Christmas decorations, trying to get in the spirit, they heard an urgent knock on the door. This is when everything changes for all three of them.
Love will heal all wounds. This book is very well written and the characters are lovable. There was some steamy scenes that were very well written. I loved the storyline and the characters were adorable. Ruby was a little cutie pie! She knew what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to tell her dad!
I recommend this book!
October 24, 2021
I really enjoyed this beautiful story about two people finding love again. Heath and Morgan were wonderful characters, although his daughter Ruby was probably my favorite. Their story takes place around the holidays in Claire’s world of Jewel Lakes. Every Jewel Lakes book that I’ve read has been amazing, including this one.
Heath is a widower and single father. His sweet daughter Ruby developed selective mutism after the loss of her mother. When their newly divorced neighbor, Morgan, comes by one day needing help things change for all three of them. Heath never wanted to move on from his wife so he struggles with how he feels about Morgan.
Morgan is in a tough place as well. Her divorce left her in a difficult financial position but she doesn’t want to leave Jewel Lakes. She’s always drawn to Heath and Ruby but worries if either of them are ready. Their story was both beautiful and sad. They both struggle with what they could be together but also wait trying to leave their pasts behind.
This book is both sweet and a little steam with a slow burn while these two figure out themselves. The ending of this book was so great and really brought everything together in a way perfectly fitting these characters.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Heath is a widower and single father. His sweet daughter Ruby developed selective mutism after the loss of her mother. When their newly divorced neighbor, Morgan, comes by one day needing help things change for all three of them. Heath never wanted to move on from his wife so he struggles with how he feels about Morgan.
Morgan is in a tough place as well. Her divorce left her in a difficult financial position but she doesn’t want to leave Jewel Lakes. She’s always drawn to Heath and Ruby but worries if either of them are ready. Their story was both beautiful and sad. They both struggle with what they could be together but also wait trying to leave their pasts behind.
This book is both sweet and a little steam with a slow burn while these two figure out themselves. The ending of this book was so great and really brought everything together in a way perfectly fitting these characters.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2022
Before I even get started on this review, let’s all just take a moment to acknowledge how fucking creepy this cover is. It looks like a Christmas horror novel, right? No? Just me? Okay. I’m starting my Christmas in July reads way too early this year since I finished all my other reading obligations for the month. I have an anthology of 9 Christmas novellas/short stories that I’ll be reading during the month of June before I read 5 (yes, FIVE) different Christmas NetGalley ARCs. We opened up the festivities with an okay, but not great read this year.
I enjoyed the two main characters for the most part, but they were pretty flat. In just under 150 pages I don’t know that you could do any better than that. But this was a pretty sad story about a widower who is struggling to just raise his kid and live his life and a divorcee who is struggling financially. It felt pretty sad for a Christmas novella, but it did turn it around in the end. I had trouble suspending my disbelief with the way everything got fixed for the main female character financially. But if I can suspend my disbelief for a Hallmark Christmas Movie, I can try to do it for a novella.
I would say the overall story gets a 3 star rating. The romance gets a 4 star rating. And the Christmasiness of the story gets...2.5 poinsettias. But I’ll pick up the next novella tomorrow and see how it goes.
I enjoyed the two main characters for the most part, but they were pretty flat. In just under 150 pages I don’t know that you could do any better than that. But this was a pretty sad story about a widower who is struggling to just raise his kid and live his life and a divorcee who is struggling financially. It felt pretty sad for a Christmas novella, but it did turn it around in the end. I had trouble suspending my disbelief with the way everything got fixed for the main female character financially. But if I can suspend my disbelief for a Hallmark Christmas Movie, I can try to do it for a novella.
I would say the overall story gets a 3 star rating. The romance gets a 4 star rating. And the Christmasiness of the story gets...2.5 poinsettias. But I’ll pick up the next novella tomorrow and see how it goes.
May 5, 2022
Heath Bradley lost his wife Jeanne three years ago with their daughter Ruby was only 5 years old. Now Ruby is 8 but is still having a hard time talking. She basically shut down and has talked very little and never to strangers. This is the first Christmas since Jeanne died that they are going to stay home and decorate a tree.
Morgan Carter is Heath’s next door neighbor. Her ex-husband Vince grew up here but liked New York City better. He cheated on her but gave her the house in the divorce. Morgan is trying to make ends meet by doing her pottery work full time. If she doesn’t make enough money at the holiday fair, the bank will foreclose.
Morgan’s power goes out in the middle of a project. She runs through the woods to Heath’s house to ask for his help. To Heath’s surprise, Ruby opens up to Morgan and likes her cat. Ruby actually talks to Morgan and seems comfortable around her. They are both surprised to find that they are attracted to each other.
Will Heath and Morgan be able to move through the past to a possible future together? Will Ruby continue to come out of her shell, at least around Morgan? Will Morgan be able to make enough money to save her house and stay in Jewel Lakes?
Morgan Carter is Heath’s next door neighbor. Her ex-husband Vince grew up here but liked New York City better. He cheated on her but gave her the house in the divorce. Morgan is trying to make ends meet by doing her pottery work full time. If she doesn’t make enough money at the holiday fair, the bank will foreclose.
Morgan’s power goes out in the middle of a project. She runs through the woods to Heath’s house to ask for his help. To Heath’s surprise, Ruby opens up to Morgan and likes her cat. Ruby actually talks to Morgan and seems comfortable around her. They are both surprised to find that they are attracted to each other.
Will Heath and Morgan be able to move through the past to a possible future together? Will Ruby continue to come out of her shell, at least around Morgan? Will Morgan be able to make enough money to save her house and stay in Jewel Lakes?
September 2, 2021
I love the little world of Jewel Lakes, and this is a satisfying addition with a Christmas theme. Heath and Morgan are neighbors who have barely met each other since both are hiding from the world in various stages of heartache. Heath's daughter, Ruby, is still suffering from the death of her mother. The sparks take a few tiny jumps when the neighbors meet in the middle of the night due to electrical problems.
Ruby and Morgan fall in love immediately, and Ruby's anxiety symptoms improve rapidly. The adults fall for each other slowly and carefully, with Heath still broken up over reminders of his wife and lots of anxiety. Morgan's ex has left her with big debts and only her pottery business to keep her afloat.
They begin to support each other lovingly. The feelings grow, and they finally allow it to happen. Sweet!
As always, Clair Wilder's writing is impeccable. She has none of those distracting problems with words. Always a pleasure to read and review.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ruby and Morgan fall in love immediately, and Ruby's anxiety symptoms improve rapidly. The adults fall for each other slowly and carefully, with Heath still broken up over reminders of his wife and lots of anxiety. Morgan's ex has left her with big debts and only her pottery business to keep her afloat.
They begin to support each other lovingly. The feelings grow, and they finally allow it to happen. Sweet!
As always, Clair Wilder's writing is impeccable. She has none of those distracting problems with words. Always a pleasure to read and review.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2021
Claire Wilder takes us back to Jewel Lakes and Barkley Falls where we get to see some old friends and swoon over this second chance at romance for Heath and Morgan. This holiday novella will have you falling in love with them and Ruby, guaranteed. I am all up in my feelings for this sweet, easy, and uplifting read.
Heath lost his wife Jeanne three years ago. Him and his daughter Ruby are just barely coming back to life. When there neighbor, Morgan, knocks on their door needing help, it seems to be the jump start all of them need.
Morgan is dealing with new new found freedom after divorcing Vince. He however, left her in debt as his parting gift. She is in desperate need to reclaim her life and expand on her “hobby” of pottery.
As circumstances keep throwing them together, accepting and moving on from their pasts to create a new future, maybe just a drummer boy ornament wish away.
Heath lost his wife Jeanne three years ago. Him and his daughter Ruby are just barely coming back to life. When there neighbor, Morgan, knocks on their door needing help, it seems to be the jump start all of them need.
Morgan is dealing with new new found freedom after divorcing Vince. He however, left her in debt as his parting gift. She is in desperate need to reclaim her life and expand on her “hobby” of pottery.
As circumstances keep throwing them together, accepting and moving on from their pasts to create a new future, maybe just a drummer boy ornament wish away.
October 4, 2021
OVERALL RATING –-4 stars
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like holiday romance
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but has connections to a series;
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me
BOOK:
- contemporary romance
- 1st person POV alternating
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 4 stars
· Story ingredient: 3.5 - 4 stars
· Ease of reading/Pace: 4 stars
· Plot strength: 4 stars
· Steam Level: 5 (open door scenes)
Notes/Opinion (personal):
Overall, I enjoyed the story. Two people coming out of morning periods from different circumstances; cute kid to help things along and a HEA. This was a shorter, easy, holiday read that delivered on all the feel goods in the end.
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like holiday romance
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but has connections to a series;
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me
BOOK:
- contemporary romance
- 1st person POV alternating
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 4 stars
· Story ingredient: 3.5 - 4 stars
· Ease of reading/Pace: 4 stars
· Plot strength: 4 stars
· Steam Level: 5 (open door scenes)
Notes/Opinion (personal):
Overall, I enjoyed the story. Two people coming out of morning periods from different circumstances; cute kid to help things along and a HEA. This was a shorter, easy, holiday read that delivered on all the feel goods in the end.
August 27, 2021
This is such a sweet and poignant book about two people who have lost so much, and just when they think happiness may evade them, fate steps in to lend a helping hand.
Even though his wife died of cancer three years ago Heath Bradley doesn't imagine himself moving on; not until an unexpected knock on the door has his neighbor asking for help. But he can't possibly be feeling something for a married woman.
Morgan Carter is barely hanging on after her cheating ex left her eight months ago. Now she is just anxious to get her pottery finished for the upcoming fair because it will take selling every piece to make enough to save her house from foreclosure. With that, the intense feelings she has for her widower neighbor must be shelved for now. Besides, Heath has made it clear he isn't ready for a relationship.
I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.
Even though his wife died of cancer three years ago Heath Bradley doesn't imagine himself moving on; not until an unexpected knock on the door has his neighbor asking for help. But he can't possibly be feeling something for a married woman.
Morgan Carter is barely hanging on after her cheating ex left her eight months ago. Now she is just anxious to get her pottery finished for the upcoming fair because it will take selling every piece to make enough to save her house from foreclosure. With that, the intense feelings she has for her widower neighbor must be shelved for now. Besides, Heath has made it clear he isn't ready for a relationship.
I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.
February 19, 2022
Heath, the male lead, is still recovering from the death of his wife a couple of years ago. Morgan, the female lead and his neighbour, is recovering from divorce. She moved in with her husband as his wife became ill and he has since been a recluse so they haven’t really interacted until she needs help with her electrical fuse box. Neither of them is looking for romance but they are drawn to each other.
This story is dual POV, well written, and a gentle discovery of love after bereavement. It is written sensitively and leaves space for grief and guilt and growth in both characters but especially Heath. Heath’s daughter is integrated well, not just an addendum but an integral part of the tale for both lead characters. I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
This story is dual POV, well written, and a gentle discovery of love after bereavement. It is written sensitively and leaves space for grief and guilt and growth in both characters but especially Heath. Heath’s daughter is integrated well, not just an addendum but an integral part of the tale for both lead characters. I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
September 2, 2021
As it gets later in the year I am really looking forward to reading all the holiday books. So I was excited to read Finding His Cheer from Claire Wilder's Jewel Lake series.
Heath is a widower just trying to get by and raise his daughter. He doesn't expect to fall for his neighbor Morgan. She is struggling too with her divorce and trying to keep her business afloat.
This was a sweet, emotional romance with two people finding love unexpectedly. They had great chemistry and a wonderful connection.
As this is a novella it is a quick read, but I didn't feel like the story was rushed. It is a great addition to the Jewel Lake series!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Heath is a widower just trying to get by and raise his daughter. He doesn't expect to fall for his neighbor Morgan. She is struggling too with her divorce and trying to keep her business afloat.
This was a sweet, emotional romance with two people finding love unexpectedly. They had great chemistry and a wonderful connection.
As this is a novella it is a quick read, but I didn't feel like the story was rushed. It is a great addition to the Jewel Lake series!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
September 2, 2021
Heath has been a shell of his former self since his wife died three years ago. His young daughter is a shadow as well. When their neighbor Morgan comes over to ask for help, a chain of healing events begin for both households, and maybe a little Christmas miracle too.
The Jewel Lakes series is one I have truly enjoyed. This is no exception, as once again Claire Wilder has penned relatable, true to life characters. This is a poignant story of a family learning to live again after great loss, that is just that much nicer with the holiday spirit stirred in. It is a quick read I hope you will enjoy as much as I did.
I received a free advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
The Jewel Lakes series is one I have truly enjoyed. This is no exception, as once again Claire Wilder has penned relatable, true to life characters. This is a poignant story of a family learning to live again after great loss, that is just that much nicer with the holiday spirit stirred in. It is a quick read I hope you will enjoy as much as I did.
I received a free advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
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