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Christmas House Romances #5

The Candy Cane Cottage

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He can't forget her, but she's completely forgotten him. And everything else.

Real estate mogul and Army Reserve officer Jeremy Houston has finally achieved success. So much so, he's ready to go back to his hometown, wintry Wilder River, to find out whether Danica Denton—the girl who hates him most in all the world—will give him one last chance.

After all, the restraining order should have expired by now, right? And no one could actually prove he intentionally vandalized her sister's wedding.

If Danica, spunky owner of The Candy Cane Cottage, can finally see Jeremy for who he's become, she might fall for him.

Or she might push him into the freezing river.

However, when he arrives in the mountain town, an accident has made Danica completely forget Jeremy’s mistakes—and everything else.

Jeremy must choose—can he try to woo Danica while she can't remember the Old Jeremy? Or would that be wrong?

191 pages, Paperback

Published December 14, 2022

289 people are currently reading
141 people want to read

About the author

Jennifer Griffith

90 books350 followers
Do you love free e-books? Check out my website to see how to get a free book. http://authorjennifergriffith.com

I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.

I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.

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5 stars
243 (57%)
4 stars
121 (28%)
3 stars
46 (10%)
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9 (2%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Carpenter.
1,887 reviews240 followers
July 21, 2022
Jeremy and Danica have a history. But it's one we don't really know much about other than he screwed up kinda big time. How? Don't know! But it must have been pretty big from what's known when the book opens.

Imagine Jeremy's surprise when he comes back to town to apologize and explain, and he finds Danica in the hospital with amnesia. How to approach this. Take this fresh start and become friends? Come clean and tell her that they have a history and she wasn't too thrilled with him?

I loved watching everything unfold. I loved how Jeremy took a chance, but he never told her what she liked or didn't like. He let her explore and decide for herself. It was really sweet. She learns to trust him and they build a great relationship. Of course he still needs to tell her about who he is. And he knows at some point she'll regain her memories and will want an explanation. He's in a little over his head but he deserves to clear what really happened so that Danica knows who he really is.

I loved that the author wrote this book in two parts. First from Jeremy's point of view. Then the second part in Danica's point of view after she regains her memory. Oh it's sooooooo good!!!

I loved every moment of it. It was witty, sweet and so much more! Jeremy is such a gentleman and definitely worthy of book boyfriend material!

The chemistry was perfect, the witty banter, the activities, the struggle (there's a little bit of suspense in here...well kind of suspense, not between the main characters), the amnesia angle was awesome, wonderful characters and so much more!!! Highly recommend!

Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!
Profile Image for Katie (hiding in the pages).
3,515 reviews329 followers
July 19, 2022
Who can forget about a childhood crush gone awry? Jeremy Hotston can't and when an opportunity to redeem himself with Danica presents itself, who is he to turn it down?

In many efforts to grab Danica's attention, Jeremy manages to find himself on her blacklist but when she has an accident and ends up with amnesia, he's first in line to help her out. I loved the ways he let her form her own conclusions. He was sooo sweet--who wouldn't fall for him?

I loved the way this book was divided into two sections--the first was from Jeremy's point of view and the second, from Danica's. The plot had a few twists that propelled their relationship. I loved the swoon and the seemingly little mundane things that added some saccharine to their connection.

Great characters, great trope, and great writing!

Content: mild romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Profile Image for Jessie.
1,477 reviews87 followers
July 19, 2022
Falling in Love Again and Again

This book was like two love stories in one. Jeremy Hotston liked Danica in high school, but all of his attempts to impress her went wrong. In fact, she hated him. Years later he heads home hoping to earn a fresh start. He gets even better than expected. She’s been in an accident and has amnesia. She doesn’t remember she hates him, and he hopes to earn a second chance before she remembers that pesky detail.

The first part of the story is from Jeremy’s perspective, and the second half from Danica’s. It was different, but it worked well for this plot.
I loved Jeremy! He reminded me a bit of the movie, Hitch. He’s learned that showing a girl he likes her doesn’t work, and he’s trying to play it cool. He can’t keep his personality back behind the cool attitude though. He’s sweet, and a bit goofy.

This was such a fun and interesting book. I kept getting pulled back into it, and didn’t want to put it down! Get ready for some laughs and some swoony kisses.

Content: clean (making out, no language, no violence)
Profile Image for  The Flipped Page (Susan K).
1,834 reviews39 followers
July 26, 2022
Sweet memory loss second chance

Romance, sweet, contemporary; series but stand alone read
Jeremy and Danica's story is a sweet romantic fall. Past mistakes a and misunderstandings gone when Danica hits her head. The present has Jeremy wanting to enjoy her trusting him and not hating the sight of him for past mistakes. Jeremy's attraction, longin, and longtime affection so perfect for this couple.
Sweetly told, great chemistry and longing, made for a fun, sweet, romantic fall. great addition to this series.
Profile Image for Jill.
835 reviews39 followers
July 25, 2022
Fun & swoony amnesia story

I love a good amnesia story. This was divided into two sections, his point of view and her point of view. It made it really fun to read. From his point of view I just kept wanting to slap my head and say “oh no he didn’t!” whenever I read about another one of his epic past fails at a grand gesture. He was a bit of a klutz growing up. It was endearing how he was so caught up in this girl all his life but somehow managed to ruin every moment he was with her practically. That made his redemption in the first half of the book so good.

As an adult he was transformed through his hardships and experiences. Not only did he make a recognized name for himself but he learned to be suave, though a bit cheesy in a good sort of way. Aside from the whole deception thing, I was totally team Jeremy from the moment he pulled out a digital copy of Jane Erye.

The second half, her point of view, was so much fun. It was like she was re-discovering herself and seeing everything at a different angle. It’s so rare you get to have a new perspective on your life. Initially I thought Jeremy was way too good for her. But seeing her point of view and how she really was without family pressure made me like her character too. I love how the happy ending comes about. I don’t want to give away any spoilers. It was just a great book.

I think the author’s description of her writing being “cotton candy for the soul” is a completely accurate way to describe this book. It’s sweet, light, fun, and a great read to get lost in for a couple of hours. It’s got some silly parts but it’s just clean fun.
Rating: G, clean
Profile Image for Barbara Langlois.
202 reviews2 followers
April 4, 2025
Perfection

Loved this book. Short enjoyable read. I wish I would have found this series sooner. So relaxing to sit and read. She definitely knows how to make you feel all the feels in her books. Absolutely love this. I don't get a lot of time to read but her books make that time count.
4,517 reviews38 followers
July 19, 2022
Forgotten First Kiss is a clean, fun, lighthearted romance. Dual POV is not new, but this time the first half of the book is his and the second half is hers. I found it interesting how much Danica liked Jeremy when she could not remember their past. I always know that I am in for a treat when I read one of Ms. Griffith's books. If you are looking for a fun escape from your realty, this book can be it.
658 reviews6 followers
July 20, 2022
Such a fun story with lots of humor and I loved how the first half of the book was from his point of view and the second half was from her point of view. Her amnesia may give him a chance to have a fresh start after so many unfortunate debacles.

Jeremy Hotston has changed since leaving town after HS. He enlisted in the Army and continues to be in the Reserve as an officer. He is now a well known real estate mogul but there is one thing from his past he cannot let go of and that is his feelings for Danica Denton. He decides to return to his hometown to gain her forgiveness for all of the mistakes he made trying to get her attention. She considered them to be terrible pranks when all he wanted to do was make her feel special. When he discovers that a recent accident has caused her to have amnesia- he has to decide if she can get to know the new Jeremy without revealing that she once had a restraining order against him.

Danica Denton, owns her own gymnastic business and took a fall that gave her a head injury. She cannot remember the people from her past. When Jeremy comes to visit her in the hospital she has no idea of their crazy past. She starts to feel a connection to him as he spends time with her while she recuperates. He seems to know a lot about her. What will happen if and when she gets her memory back?

This story was so much fun and throwing a twist into her amnesia problem brought it to another level.

I received a copy of this story from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
4,126 reviews21 followers
July 22, 2022
Forgotten First Kiss - An Amnesia Romance is the third in the Kiss series by Jennifer Griffith. I think somewhere read this might go by the series titled Medical Romance. No matter the series title it is a delightful read. I loved Jeremy Hotston but wasn’t sure any person was worth spending years trying to prove that you were worthy of their love.

Since this story takes place 10 years after the awkward teen years it is difficult to say if I would have felt differently about hm then. Though the wedding mishap gossip would say I would have. Still I love him now. Danica Denton is also a character really led too. Along with Jeremy’s aunt and cousin.

The storyline is lighthearted not taking itself too seriously. However it is so well written that I lost myself in the story. Jeremy deserved his good fortune and good life. Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys sweet upbeat romantic tales. You will love Forgotten First Kiss.

The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sue Negrillo.
634 reviews8 followers
December 11, 2024
Danica has fallen and hit her head and has amnesia. Jeremy was coming back to get forgiveness from Danica. When he gets back he learns she is in the hospital he goes straight to her. She doesn’t remember him buts drawn to him. He treats her good, like not demanding she remember. He brings things to remind her of herself, he talks about things he knows she likes fishing, a look out, fall, tennis, golf they end up in a make out session on the golf cart. She text him please come read to me, come over I’m board. As she reads the text she sees how they’d fallen in love.
Profile Image for Ru4repeat.
530 reviews
July 23, 2022
"The verb tense of his statement bothered me. "What do you mean? It's been great. ""

This book was great, is great, and I'm sure will be even better the next time I read it.
The first person narration switch worked wonderful at drawing me in to the character's reasoning for various events past and present.
The kissing and body admiration were a bit more than I am comfortable with. That would be the sole reason I might not read this book again.
Profile Image for MaryEllen.
2,899 reviews29 followers
May 27, 2024
Danica and Jeremy knew each other as kids, but he left town after graduation. He had often tried to get her attention with a grand gesture, but that only ended in a mess.
He's now a successful businessman, though. That should prove he's no loser.

I really enjoyed this story. All the characters were well written. They were, mostly, highly competent adults at work, but their personal lives were kinda messed up.
193 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2022
This was such a beautiful story. The way the story unfolds it draws you in. Both characters have so much depth and emotion. I absolutely feel in love with the main character Jeremy. He is not Danica's favorite person but continues to be a good person and be there for Danica when there was nobody else.
835 reviews5 followers
July 21, 2022
Jeremy made a lot of mistakes when he was younger but now he is ready to set right the things he did. Finding out that Danica has had an accident and lost her memory seems like a good time to make a good first, second, third, impression. I enjoyed the sweet romance and how the relationship keeps changing.
Profile Image for Tamera Westhoff.
1,092 reviews6 followers
July 21, 2022
Sweet Romance

Jeremy really doesn’t mean to make it look like he’s pranking Danica, but it sure seemed like it. Years later he comes back to apologize to find Danica has amnesia. They have an amazing time for a couple months, and boom, different amnesia. Good grief! I loved the ending! Super sweet story, strange side plot with Tennile, but that’s okay.
275 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2022
A clean, well-written story. This book is a little different than other books I've read by this author. The story is told from 2 different POV, which I did find a good fit for this book. The characters, Jeremy and Danica are well written, with great secondary characters. Sometimes all you need is a clear perspective. A quick read.
Profile Image for Our Book Confessions.
643 reviews16 followers
August 25, 2022
I loved this slow burn romance so much!

One of the best amnesia stories, unique and lovely.

It starts out from the the male perspective and stays there for quite sometime. Which was a brilliants plot move.

I loved Jennifer Griffith character development and the slow way we leaned Danica and Jeremy’s history.

I would highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Shanna Johnson.
547 reviews23 followers
December 21, 2023
Fun and unique story

This was a fun book, not my favorite out of the series. I just struggled to get attached to the characters at all. BUT the storyline is so cute and I love how it all played out. Definitely worth a read, the characters are all great, just didn't quite click with me but it didn't take much away from the story itself.
351 reviews2 followers
March 1, 2024
Attention or Prank

He ruined her sister's wedding and she never wanted to see him again.
She had an accident and has amnesia. He visits her in the hospital and
realizes this is his chance for her to see the real Jeremy. Will his plan work? Well written story with strong and believable characters. joy943
201 reviews
January 11, 2025
Amnesia Twice?

Normally kind and forgiving, Danica hates Jeremy. She forgets everything after a gymnastics accident. Jeremy cautiously takes the opportunity to help and become friends, and then more than friends. Until Danica hits her head again. This is a crazy fun adventure. Will Danica finally forgive Jeremy? You have to read The Candy Cane Cottage to find out.
374 reviews2 followers
February 8, 2025
Another great small town read

This book was another great addition to the Christmas Houses series. I especially liked the way the book was written from the hero point of view for the first half then the second half is written from the heroines point of view after she recovers from amnesia. So logical. I recommend highly
Profile Image for Karen Szabo.
211 reviews1 follower
July 23, 2022
Must Read Awesome

I have always loved everything Jennifer Griffith writes. This story is wonderful. Great job! Writing it from his point of view in the beginning and her point of view after her memory partially returned worked well and kept the flow of the story.
Profile Image for Terry Silva.
409 reviews6 followers
June 16, 2023
Danica & Jeremy’s story was a little different than I am use to but boy was it sure good. I loved every minute of it. Love, hate and amnesia what a mix of different emotions in this story. Jennifer Griffith did an amazing job with this book. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Holly.
1,470 reviews11 followers
July 25, 2022
I loved this sweet, clean fun story.
Profile Image for Asta.
160 reviews1 follower
August 14, 2023
gosh, jeremy is a sweetheart. where can i get one of him please 🥹🫶🏽
Profile Image for Janet.
400 reviews27 followers
December 3, 2023
This one was the best one yet! I loved them all but this one I loved, loved, loved!! Can’t wait to read the next books in this series!!
Profile Image for Eliana .
2,998 reviews24 followers
July 7, 2024
This warmed my heart, i read so many angst books that sometimes a romcom does wonders for my soul.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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