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The Carolina Girls #6
The Christmas Cabin
There’s no place like home for the holidays…
As a girl, single mom Lauren Maxwell hated Magnolia, South Carolina. And she thought she’d left her hometown in the rearview mirror years ago, but a message from her beloved baby brother, Brody, changes all that. He’s getting married on Christmas Eve. So a holiday at Camp Blossom, the rustic sleepaway camp that had been a haven during her growing-up years, it is. Lauren won’t even have to see her dictatorial father. Or her ex-husband, Ben…
When Ben greets her at the surprisingly decrepit cabin, he’s just as stubborn—and as irresistible—as ever. And when she discovers he’s working with her estranged father to buy the campgrounds and rebuild them as luxury housing, Lauren is furious. She won’t let the man who broke her heart win. So she and her daughter stay in town to block the sale.
But the magic of the Christmas season brings back memories Lauren tried so hard to forget: his crooked smile, their daughter’s laughter at the breakfast table, the feel of her hand in his. As the spark between them rekindles, Lauren realizes that second chances are real. And they’re worth fighting for.
Bonus Novella!
A Carolina Song
Country Western singer Walker Calloway thought he was making romantic progress with shy and lovely schoolteacher Meghan Jacobs. After all, he’d written her a love song! But she thought it was for his ex. Now it’s up to him to prove that his heart already belongs to Meghan…for keeps…
As a girl, single mom Lauren Maxwell hated Magnolia, South Carolina. And she thought she’d left her hometown in the rearview mirror years ago, but a message from her beloved baby brother, Brody, changes all that. He’s getting married on Christmas Eve. So a holiday at Camp Blossom, the rustic sleepaway camp that had been a haven during her growing-up years, it is. Lauren won’t even have to see her dictatorial father. Or her ex-husband, Ben…
When Ben greets her at the surprisingly decrepit cabin, he’s just as stubborn—and as irresistible—as ever. And when she discovers he’s working with her estranged father to buy the campgrounds and rebuild them as luxury housing, Lauren is furious. She won’t let the man who broke her heart win. So she and her daughter stay in town to block the sale.
But the magic of the Christmas season brings back memories Lauren tried so hard to forget: his crooked smile, their daughter’s laughter at the breakfast table, the feel of her hand in his. As the spark between them rekindles, Lauren realizes that second chances are real. And they’re worth fighting for.
Bonus Novella!
A Carolina Song
Country Western singer Walker Calloway thought he was making romantic progress with shy and lovely schoolteacher Meghan Jacobs. After all, he’d written her a love song! But she thought it was for his ex. Now it’s up to him to prove that his heart already belongs to Meghan…for keeps…
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2023
56 people are currently reading
3183 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Major
281 books830 followersUSA Today and Top 5 Amazon Bestselling author Michelle Major writes swoon-worthy stories full of heart, heat, and guaranteed happily-ever-afters. When she’s not dreaming up romance, you’ll find her hiking the trails (or avoiding housework) in her home state of Colorado.
Connect with her at www.michellemajor.com or come say hi on Instagram and Facebook.
Connect with her at www.michellemajor.com or come say hi on Instagram and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 30, 2023
A charming small-town holiday story with two romances and lots of family drama. Lauren left her hometown of Magnolia as soon as she could and never looked back. But now she's a single mom of a teenager, returning just before Christmas to help her half-brother plan his wedding. What she doesn't expect is to reconnect with her ex... Or to finally develop a real relationship with her stepsister who has been firmly in the clutches of their controlling and wealthy father, but might finally be finding a romance of her own. This deals with having an emotionally abusive parent, the fallout of growing up with an alcoholic parent, and more. There are certainly ups and downs, but it's a story with heart and great characters. I received a copy of this book for review from the author, all opinions are my own.
October 24, 2023
Bighearted, uplifting, and festive!
The Christmas Cabin is a magical, heartwarming tale that takes you to Magnolia, North Carolina, and into the life of the independent, single mother Lauren Maxwell as she reluctantly heads back to her hometown in order to help her brother with his surprisingly quick nuptials, give her teenage daughter a little space from the fallout of her recent destructive behaviours, organize a holiday event one last time at the summer camp that holds a special place in her heart, and try not to fall too hard for the one man she once thought was her forever until she up and left him without a backward glance.
The writing is charming and smooth. The characters are scarred, stubborn, and loyal. And the plot is a sweet, absorbing tale about life, love, family, friendship, trust, compassion, romance, happiness, community, healing, self-reflection, tricky situations, and second chances.
Overall, The Christmas Cabin is another cosy, tender, delightfully enchanting tale by Major that reminds us that life is complicated, often the choices we make have consequences, letting people in is never a bad thing, and love is, ultimately, always worth fighting for.
Thank you to Michelle Major for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Christmas Cabin is a magical, heartwarming tale that takes you to Magnolia, North Carolina, and into the life of the independent, single mother Lauren Maxwell as she reluctantly heads back to her hometown in order to help her brother with his surprisingly quick nuptials, give her teenage daughter a little space from the fallout of her recent destructive behaviours, organize a holiday event one last time at the summer camp that holds a special place in her heart, and try not to fall too hard for the one man she once thought was her forever until she up and left him without a backward glance.
The writing is charming and smooth. The characters are scarred, stubborn, and loyal. And the plot is a sweet, absorbing tale about life, love, family, friendship, trust, compassion, romance, happiness, community, healing, self-reflection, tricky situations, and second chances.
Overall, The Christmas Cabin is another cosy, tender, delightfully enchanting tale by Major that reminds us that life is complicated, often the choices we make have consequences, letting people in is never a bad thing, and love is, ultimately, always worth fighting for.
Thank you to Michelle Major for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2023
The Christmas Cabin is the 6th book in The Carolina Girls series, but can easily be read as a standalone. Lauren Maxwell hated living in Magnolia as a girl and once she left, had no plans to ever return. When she gets a message from her kid brother, Brody, that he is planning a Christmas Eve wedding, she and her daughter head to Magnolia. She does not want to stay with her father, so she books a cabin for the time they are in town. The problem is the cabins are in terrible condition and Ben, the owner of the cabins and ex-husband meets her and tells her they are not open for rentals. In fact they are going to be torn down and a development built. Lauren is furious, especially when she finds out that he is working with her estranged father. Can Christmas magic bring this family together and maybe even some romance for Lauren.
I love Michelle Major's books and enjoyed The Christmas Cabin. Her characters are all well developed and relatable. I really liked Lauren's daughter, Hannah. She was a teenager who had never met her grandfather. She had gotten herself into some trouble, but being in Magnolia was really turning her attitude around. This is a story about coming home again, following your heart, supporting your family, helping the community, reconciliation and new beginnings. There is a lot of baggage in Ben's and Lauren's relationship, yet it is obvious they still have feelings for one another. Her father, on the other hand, is a selfish, self-centered man who thinks he knows what is best for everyone. He kept his step-daughter under his thumb all her life and it damaged the relationship between her and Lauren. I loved seeing the growth in their relationships and although not a perfect happily ever after for everyone, it sure had me smiling at the end. Another story that I recommend to those who enjoy Christmas Magic.
I love Michelle Major's books and enjoyed The Christmas Cabin. Her characters are all well developed and relatable. I really liked Lauren's daughter, Hannah. She was a teenager who had never met her grandfather. She had gotten herself into some trouble, but being in Magnolia was really turning her attitude around. This is a story about coming home again, following your heart, supporting your family, helping the community, reconciliation and new beginnings. There is a lot of baggage in Ben's and Lauren's relationship, yet it is obvious they still have feelings for one another. Her father, on the other hand, is a selfish, self-centered man who thinks he knows what is best for everyone. He kept his step-daughter under his thumb all her life and it damaged the relationship between her and Lauren. I loved seeing the growth in their relationships and although not a perfect happily ever after for everyone, it sure had me smiling at the end. Another story that I recommend to those who enjoy Christmas Magic.
July 9, 2024
The story was very predictable, and the editing was atrocious. Our book club literally spent the entire discussion on this book just pointing out all of the typos. The only reason I gave it 2 stars instead of the 1 star it deserves is because it did serve its purpose of a very quick, lighthearted read.
October 15, 2023
What do a small town. named Magnolia, unchecked sibling rivalry, a teenager with a DUI, a second chance romance, a summer camp named Blossom, and Christmas have in common.
Well nothing... actually!
The fact that they are part of the plot of the newest offering in the Carolina Girls series not withstanding.
That's right.
Book #6 is hot off the presses.
Loaded with more family drama than an all day Dr. Phil marathon.
A second chance romance plot twist so heartfelt that Hallmark should be taking notes.
All tied in the perfect bow of love and forgiveness that only stories set in the Christmas season can provide.
Yes...its true.
The Christmas Cabin is all that and a bag of Christmas cookies.
That is once the oldest two siblings decide to grow up.
The younger brother stops playing the martyr.
Everyone learns to ignore the overbearing ass of a father.
And the teenager with the DUI proves on more than one occasion that she is the most emotionally intelligent person in the room.
This is a quick, if not light read that is sure to touch your heart in the way that dogs that are so ugly they can't help being cute, and surly old grampas do.
With an unmistakable charm and real world honesty that is not to be missed.
Thanks to Negalley and Harlequin for providing the review copy on which this honest critique is based.
This book may be read as a standalone. Though it is the 6th in a continuous series.
This book also contains bonus material.
Well nothing... actually!
The fact that they are part of the plot of the newest offering in the Carolina Girls series not withstanding.
That's right.
Book #6 is hot off the presses.
Loaded with more family drama than an all day Dr. Phil marathon.
A second chance romance plot twist so heartfelt that Hallmark should be taking notes.
All tied in the perfect bow of love and forgiveness that only stories set in the Christmas season can provide.
Yes...its true.
The Christmas Cabin is all that and a bag of Christmas cookies.
That is once the oldest two siblings decide to grow up.
The younger brother stops playing the martyr.
Everyone learns to ignore the overbearing ass of a father.
And the teenager with the DUI proves on more than one occasion that she is the most emotionally intelligent person in the room.
This is a quick, if not light read that is sure to touch your heart in the way that dogs that are so ugly they can't help being cute, and surly old grampas do.
With an unmistakable charm and real world honesty that is not to be missed.
Thanks to Negalley and Harlequin for providing the review copy on which this honest critique is based.
This book may be read as a standalone. Though it is the 6th in a continuous series.
This book also contains bonus material.
October 23, 2023
Every so often you get a book that you are so into that it feels like the insides under your skin is crawling, or maybe like adrenaline is racing through your system. That's how I felt from the second I started this book till the end.
So many emotions I had to deal with while reading The Christmas Cabin. I was pissed, sad, happy, then pissed again. I spent a lot of time being pissed. Ha! The funny part is that it wasn't just one person within the story that made me mad. It was almost every character that pissed me off. We all really need to learn to take to each other.
If feel like that author did a great job of showing us a dysfunctional family and what happens to them and the people around them. An uncaring, cold father set his children on a path of jealousy, dislike and distrust.
What I loved about this story is that I knew that at least one of the sisters was going to find their happily ever after so all the stuff up to the ending is just gravy. So much of this story you need to learn for your own, so I won't give too much away. I was happy that the sisters started to work on their relationship. They both had some backsliding but isn't that how family is?
You'll love Lauren and Ben. I felt for them both. They felt for them both. they are so young when they fall in love and they both wanted to do nothing but spend the rest of their lives together but like so often with young love it didn't work. Thankfully some of us get a second chance.
You enjoy watching them fall in love again. Not that I think they every fell out of love. I enjoyed how they worked through their past and was able to start something new. Nothing is easy in this book, but I think that's what made it so much better for me. In the end the people who are important work out what needed to be worked out. This one will be perfect for the holidays!
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ARC received for an honest
December 13, 2023
The Christmas Cabin
The Carolina Girls #6
Michelle Major
Michelle Major’s new novel in her Carolina Girls series is all about going home again, second chances, forgiveness, and Christmas miracles. The novel has multiple stars but the headliners are definitely Ben and Lauren who readers once they learn about them will be cheering them on and wanting to smack them upside the head for their thickheadedness. Then there’s Hannah who is Lauren’s teen daughter, she’s a spitfire with a heart of gold doing typical stupid teen things and Kayla who is not Lauren’s evil stepsister although that’s the role she’s always played in Lauren’s mind. Readers however will see the real lonely, only wants to fit in and be a part of a family even a dysfunctional one Kayla. The story shows off Michelle’s marvelous storytelling ability and her way of weaving her story from a hopeless beginning to a hope filled end. The story reads well on its own although all the books in the series are fantastic so give them all a try. Fans of this wonderful author or the novels of Sarah Morgan or Jill Shalvis will love this novel.
Growing up in picturesque Magnolia North Carolina was no picnic for Lauren Maxwell between her domineering wealthy father, suck-up stepsister and the boy who broke her heart she couldn’t wait to get out of town. But now years later when her younger brother is getting married and wants her back home for the wedding. So she packs up her teenaged daughter, swallows her pride books a room at her old summer camp stomping grounds and vows to deal with the past to return home to see her beloved brother Brody tie the knot.
Ben Donnelly has spent years trying to rebuild his family’s name and reputation and okay he had to sell the summer camp that meant so much to him growing up and partner with the devil aka his ex-father-in-law Robert Maxwell to do it, but he thinks it’ll be worth it. That is until the girl who stole his soul charges back into town just as bossy and as beautiful as ever and throws a wrench in the deal.
Can these two lonely hearts find a Christmas miracle and find their way back to each other or will their stubbornness and inflexibility keep them apart.
The Carolina Girls #6
Michelle Major
Michelle Major’s new novel in her Carolina Girls series is all about going home again, second chances, forgiveness, and Christmas miracles. The novel has multiple stars but the headliners are definitely Ben and Lauren who readers once they learn about them will be cheering them on and wanting to smack them upside the head for their thickheadedness. Then there’s Hannah who is Lauren’s teen daughter, she’s a spitfire with a heart of gold doing typical stupid teen things and Kayla who is not Lauren’s evil stepsister although that’s the role she’s always played in Lauren’s mind. Readers however will see the real lonely, only wants to fit in and be a part of a family even a dysfunctional one Kayla. The story shows off Michelle’s marvelous storytelling ability and her way of weaving her story from a hopeless beginning to a hope filled end. The story reads well on its own although all the books in the series are fantastic so give them all a try. Fans of this wonderful author or the novels of Sarah Morgan or Jill Shalvis will love this novel.
Growing up in picturesque Magnolia North Carolina was no picnic for Lauren Maxwell between her domineering wealthy father, suck-up stepsister and the boy who broke her heart she couldn’t wait to get out of town. But now years later when her younger brother is getting married and wants her back home for the wedding. So she packs up her teenaged daughter, swallows her pride books a room at her old summer camp stomping grounds and vows to deal with the past to return home to see her beloved brother Brody tie the knot.
Ben Donnelly has spent years trying to rebuild his family’s name and reputation and okay he had to sell the summer camp that meant so much to him growing up and partner with the devil aka his ex-father-in-law Robert Maxwell to do it, but he thinks it’ll be worth it. That is until the girl who stole his soul charges back into town just as bossy and as beautiful as ever and throws a wrench in the deal.
Can these two lonely hearts find a Christmas miracle and find their way back to each other or will their stubbornness and inflexibility keep them apart.
October 30, 2023
Even better than a romance novel is a Christmas romance novel. Michelle Major's new book takes her readers back to Magnolia, South Carolina for this look at two people who at one time vowed to never speak again but are now forced to work together on the same project.
Lauren hated Magnolia and when she left, she vowed to never return. Two events convince her to return -- her brother is getting married and asked he for help planning the wedding plus her teen-age daughter has gotten expelled from high school for some bad behavior and Lauren decided that a change in scenery might change her attitude. She tries her best to stay away from her controlling and rich father and her step sister but her daughter will stop at nothing to meet her grandfather. When they arrive at an old summer camp to stay in one of the cabins, she finds that it's in deplorable shape. The man who is overseeing the campground is her old boyfriend Ben. She and Ben had been an item in high school but when she left town angry at her family and Ben she vowed never to speak to them again.
This is a book full of family turmoil, pain from an old relationship and a lot of mother/daughter bickering -- Hannah was a teenager so that was no surprise. Will Christmas bring reconciliation between the family and between Lauren and Ben and bring them a happily ever after?
This book was well written and I enjoyed all of the characters and their interactions with each other. My favorite character was Hannah - she always had a good question or comment that helped bring things in focus for her mom. I can always depend on this author to bring a great story line with characters that you feel that you know. The fact that this one is set at Christmas makes it even more special.
Lauren hated Magnolia and when she left, she vowed to never return. Two events convince her to return -- her brother is getting married and asked he for help planning the wedding plus her teen-age daughter has gotten expelled from high school for some bad behavior and Lauren decided that a change in scenery might change her attitude. She tries her best to stay away from her controlling and rich father and her step sister but her daughter will stop at nothing to meet her grandfather. When they arrive at an old summer camp to stay in one of the cabins, she finds that it's in deplorable shape. The man who is overseeing the campground is her old boyfriend Ben. She and Ben had been an item in high school but when she left town angry at her family and Ben she vowed never to speak to them again.
This is a book full of family turmoil, pain from an old relationship and a lot of mother/daughter bickering -- Hannah was a teenager so that was no surprise. Will Christmas bring reconciliation between the family and between Lauren and Ben and bring them a happily ever after?
This book was well written and I enjoyed all of the characters and their interactions with each other. My favorite character was Hannah - she always had a good question or comment that helped bring things in focus for her mom. I can always depend on this author to bring a great story line with characters that you feel that you know. The fact that this one is set at Christmas makes it even more special.
October 17, 2023
When Lauren looked Magnolia SC, in the rear view mirror, she never thought she would be back again, but when her teenage daughter gets herself in to trouble, she decides to bring her to Magnolia for Lauren’s brother’s wedding. Even though it was not a place that made Lauren happy, there was one part of town that did and the was the summer camp where she had so many wonderful memories. There are also some memories she would rather forget, which includes her ex Ben... There are a lot of unresolved feelings that these two have and when they meet for the first time in 17 yrs., all those feelings come flooding back, the good and the bad. Can Ben and Lauren work together for one last time on fixing up the camp and give it the sendoff it deserved with the spirit of Christmas and the magic the season holds.
This story has a lot of family drama and some very sweet moments that only siblings can have when they put their resentments aside to come together for a special occasion. And like the Christmas story, a child will bring them together, as Hannah works her magic on bringing back together her mother and her siblings and watches as her mother’s first and only love puts the spirit of Christmas back in her life for a season that she always loved and that makes her see that you can come back home again. This story has all the good feelings of the season that makes The Christmas Cabin a must have for your Christmas reading list.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review and the opinion I have expressed are my own.
This story has a lot of family drama and some very sweet moments that only siblings can have when they put their resentments aside to come together for a special occasion. And like the Christmas story, a child will bring them together, as Hannah works her magic on bringing back together her mother and her siblings and watches as her mother’s first and only love puts the spirit of Christmas back in her life for a season that she always loved and that makes her see that you can come back home again. This story has all the good feelings of the season that makes The Christmas Cabin a must have for your Christmas reading list.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review and the opinion I have expressed are my own.
October 28, 2023
Michelle Major is one of my favorite small-town romance authors, and her latest novel, The Christmas Cabin, was the perfect holiday read. It's a mix of Lifetime family drama with the quintessential charming Hallmark movie.
Lauren Maxwell finds herself back in her hometown, Magnolia, South Carolina, with teenage daughter Hannah. She never thought she'd be back with a complicated relationship with her family and ex. But the perk of the trip will be staying at her old sleepaway camp, Camp Blossom. That's when she comes face to face with her ex, Ben. The sparks are still there, but both are guarding their hearts.
Her brother's upcoming wedding is keeping her busy, and yet the family drama still seems to overtake every conversation. Lauren's family plays a big role. We get to know her step-sister, Kayla, and see how their sibling rivalry has left a lasting impact. She even gets her own chance at love. And how the love of a Camp Blossom can bring so many together.
I love a romance book that has a redemption story, and this book has plenty. The romance is charming and authentic. The beauty is the magic of Christmas and how it makes all the characters believe in good things happening again.
Loved this holiday read from start to finish!
Lauren Maxwell finds herself back in her hometown, Magnolia, South Carolina, with teenage daughter Hannah. She never thought she'd be back with a complicated relationship with her family and ex. But the perk of the trip will be staying at her old sleepaway camp, Camp Blossom. That's when she comes face to face with her ex, Ben. The sparks are still there, but both are guarding their hearts.
Her brother's upcoming wedding is keeping her busy, and yet the family drama still seems to overtake every conversation. Lauren's family plays a big role. We get to know her step-sister, Kayla, and see how their sibling rivalry has left a lasting impact. She even gets her own chance at love. And how the love of a Camp Blossom can bring so many together.
I love a romance book that has a redemption story, and this book has plenty. The romance is charming and authentic. The beauty is the magic of Christmas and how it makes all the characters believe in good things happening again.
Loved this holiday read from start to finish!
November 10, 2023
Another in the Carolina Girls series, in which Lauren Maxwell goes back to Magnolia with her teen-age daughter to help her brother prepare for his impending marriage. Doing so will require that she contend with the stepsister Lauren has always hated, as well as the man who is her father, but who has never treated her well. Actually, he doesn't treat anyone well. In fact, if you ever wanted to hate someone, Robert Maxwell might be a good choice.
But Lauren quickly learns that her stepsister, Kayla, is just her sister, someone she wants to get close to, even as she also has to deal with the feelings she still harbors for Ben, the man she married years earlier, only to divorce shortly thereafter as a result of misunderstandings that her own father contributed to. But helping with the summer camp she always loved soon becomes a loving chore she insists on seeing through, even to hosting her brother's wedding there. Too bad that shouldn't have been planned in the first place.
But hey, all works out--not just one love restored but another one, too, for that stepsisters who's now only (just more) a sister. Great tale.
But Lauren quickly learns that her stepsister, Kayla, is just her sister, someone she wants to get close to, even as she also has to deal with the feelings she still harbors for Ben, the man she married years earlier, only to divorce shortly thereafter as a result of misunderstandings that her own father contributed to. But helping with the summer camp she always loved soon becomes a loving chore she insists on seeing through, even to hosting her brother's wedding there. Too bad that shouldn't have been planned in the first place.
But hey, all works out--not just one love restored but another one, too, for that stepsisters who's now only (just more) a sister. Great tale.
November 6, 2023
A story of a single mother, returning home to the wealthy family she never fit into, facing her ex-husband (not her child's father) who was always the man she was meant to be with and an entire town of characters that want to come together for one last hurrah at the local campsite where so many grew up.
When Lauren returns home with her feisty teenage daughter hoping to have some Christmas magic at the cabin retreat she loved so much as a child, she quickly finds out that it's going to be sold and torn down. Bringing the town together to celebrate Christmas for one last time at the cabin's means everything to her, but her ex-husband Ben is trying to keep from wanting her back and this is just drawing him further in.
I loved this story so much, not just because of it's holiday elements, but the characters that Michelle writes about are always strong women that have to learn how to let others in and share in the weights of life. Her books are inspirational, sweet and always romantic!
When Lauren returns home with her feisty teenage daughter hoping to have some Christmas magic at the cabin retreat she loved so much as a child, she quickly finds out that it's going to be sold and torn down. Bringing the town together to celebrate Christmas for one last time at the cabin's means everything to her, but her ex-husband Ben is trying to keep from wanting her back and this is just drawing him further in.
I loved this story so much, not just because of it's holiday elements, but the characters that Michelle writes about are always strong women that have to learn how to let others in and share in the weights of life. Her books are inspirational, sweet and always romantic!
February 19, 2024
This book had a lot of errors. I mean shouldn't some one have proof read this. I minus a star for that. That being said it was a cute feel good book that I'd watch if it became a movie . The ending didn't sit well with me though. I was hoping for Lauren's dad to come around so that it was a happy ending all around. Women and daughter go back to her old town to help her brother with his wedding and spend Xmas there. She reconnects with her sister that she spent so many years hating. She hates her dad and sister so she stayed at her old camp cabin but her daughter stays with her grandpa and aunt. Lauren's ex husband is there working on the cabins and partnering up with her father to sell her beloved camp making it into a luxury homes. They end up keeping the camp a camp in the end. The brothers wife to be leaves him at the alter but he gets through it. Lauren and her ex get married. The daughter is happy to move there because the mom decided to stay. The sister Kayla finds love with her neighbor who saved the camp. Every 1 except the father finds happiness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
Heartfelt holiday goodness! If you're anything like me, you're always game for a return trip to Michelle Major's beloved Magnolia, North Carolina where love seems to find them when they are least looking ... and what better time than for a magical holiday wedding? The drama is high, the characters are easy to relate to and the turmoil will keep you turning page after page. I enjoyed my trip to Magnolia as always!
Laurel and Ben were easy to like and their friction was entertaining. I especially liked his kind heart and willingness to put it all on the line for those he loved.
Kayla and Scott were also fun to get to know. I felt for her quite a bit for how she had to try to fit into the family as a step-daughter/sister and once Scott came into the fold and turned her head, it was great to see her shine.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a small town holiday romance filled with strife and family interaction with a whole lot of heart thrown in the mix.
Laurel and Ben were easy to like and their friction was entertaining. I especially liked his kind heart and willingness to put it all on the line for those he loved.
Kayla and Scott were also fun to get to know. I felt for her quite a bit for how she had to try to fit into the family as a step-daughter/sister and once Scott came into the fold and turned her head, it was great to see her shine.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a small town holiday romance filled with strife and family interaction with a whole lot of heart thrown in the mix.
October 15, 2023
Lauren and her daughter Hannah return to Lauren's hometown of Magnolia to help plan her brother's wedding. Lauren has been estranged from her family for a long time and comes home to help with her brother's wedding. When Lauren discovers her beloved summer camp, Camp Blossom is going to be turned into luxury homes she plans a last hurrah with a Christmas carnival at the camp. Ben, who happens to be Lauren's first love and ex-husband is now the owner of the camp and along with Lauren's dad, whom Lauren hasn't had a relationship with him in a long time, is a partner. Christmas has a way of bringing out the best of people and work its magic along the way. Can Lauren and Ben move past the past and possibly the present situation to find each other again? I guess you will have to read it to find out.
December 3, 2024
This was a pretty formulaic romance story but I liked some aspects of it. Like Christmas is mentioned a few times, in a pretty in your face way, but that’s like not the main discussion. Everything doesn’t revolve around Christmas. Someone didn’t die at Christmas time years ago. No one’s house burned down right before Christmas and they had to find a way to tough it out. It’s just mentioned as one of the main characters favorite time of year and there’s a festival. Also, I liked that all the characters have flaws that kind of make you wanna shake them but they learn and grow.
BUT the dad as the villain is like unbelievably despicable. Like I understand that some people in real life are kind of just bad people, but he doesn’t even slightly care about his children or seemingly anyone around him. It’s kind of too much.
BUT the dad as the villain is like unbelievably despicable. Like I understand that some people in real life are kind of just bad people, but he doesn’t even slightly care about his children or seemingly anyone around him. It’s kind of too much.
October 24, 2023
Be still my heart! What a delicious read full of family drama, second chances, and a hard won happily ever after. Lauren returns home with her daughter to help plan her brother's wedding, but nothing comes easy for the single mom, including her homecoming. She navigates a reunion with her ex, a complicated stepsister, her sweet brother, a sassy daughter, and don't get me started on her dad. Ben has his own share of problems to wade through but watching him and Lauren find their way to one another was a delight. As always, the author creates the perfect small-town setting and memorable characters that make me feel as if I've come home too. I loved the push and pull of the emotions in this heartwarming story. Highly recommend!
October 25, 2023
A heart wrenching family drama and second chance romance set in the small town of Magnolia. This is a book that I had a hard time putting down, I just wanted to keep turning the pages. Lauren has returned home with her daughter for her brother's holiday wedding but soon finds happiness in her life that she has not had in long time but will it all work out in the end. Loved the closeness of Lauren's siblings, even though they don't always agree, The romance between Ben and Lauren, is heartbreaking, with misconceptions from when they were teenagers from Lauren's ever fearing father.
With the magic of the Christmas holidays there will be happiness ever after. Christmas is about faith and hope. I highly recommend this story. It is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
With the magic of the Christmas holidays there will be happiness ever after. Christmas is about faith and hope. I highly recommend this story. It is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
November 13, 2023
What a sweet wonderful story. This was a hard to put down book. I had anxiously awaited getting it and had a hard time putting it down this weekend.
Lauren and her daughter Hannah have come to Camp Blossom to spend some time. Once they arrive Lauren runs smack dab into her first love Ben.
While back in town her sister Kayla tries to get Lauren to see she is not the bad guy.
They are trying to help throw a wedding for their brother Brody!
Lauren's dad is awful! Oh I hated him so much and felt for her and her siblings.
But this camp brings things into perspective..Even though Lauren is scared things come together for her family..
I was crying tears at the last few scenes of the book . I wanted to grab Lauren and hug her so tight...
A great Christmas story!
Lauren and her daughter Hannah have come to Camp Blossom to spend some time. Once they arrive Lauren runs smack dab into her first love Ben.
While back in town her sister Kayla tries to get Lauren to see she is not the bad guy.
They are trying to help throw a wedding for their brother Brody!
Lauren's dad is awful! Oh I hated him so much and felt for her and her siblings.
But this camp brings things into perspective..Even though Lauren is scared things come together for her family..
I was crying tears at the last few scenes of the book . I wanted to grab Lauren and hug her so tight...
A great Christmas story!
March 9, 2024
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~
The Christmas Cabin is everything a holiday romance book should be. This is a story of friendship, family, secrets, and history. Though this is book 6 in The Caroline Girls Series, it's the first I've read- and it read like a stand-alone to me. This book follows the story of Lauren who returns to here hometown of Magnolia, North Carolina and faces her past family issues head on while also simultaneously resurrecting the historic camp. that holds so many dear childhood memories to her and many others in the town. This a nice, light read. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it. I'd read more in this series if I came across them.
The Christmas Cabin is everything a holiday romance book should be. This is a story of friendship, family, secrets, and history. Though this is book 6 in The Caroline Girls Series, it's the first I've read- and it read like a stand-alone to me. This book follows the story of Lauren who returns to here hometown of Magnolia, North Carolina and faces her past family issues head on while also simultaneously resurrecting the historic camp. that holds so many dear childhood memories to her and many others in the town. This a nice, light read. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it. I'd read more in this series if I came across them.
December 23, 2024
It was a decent Christmas read, but nothing to rave over. It is part of a series, but I read it as a standalone.
The POVs changed between a handful of characters from chapter to chapter. I wish the chapter headers (ie, CHAPTER 1) would have included the name of the POV (CHAPTER 1, LAUREN).
There were multiple errors throughout the novel that were overlooked during editing.
On the back description, it says the Lauren and Hannah stay in Magnolia to block the sale of Camp Blossom. I find this to be misleading because the real reason they stayed was to help with Brody’s wedding. Also, the back says “their [Ben and Lauren] daughter [Hannah]” (this is how I perceive it). However, Hannah is not Ben and Lauren’s daughter. Lauren is her mother, but Ben is not her father.
The POVs changed between a handful of characters from chapter to chapter. I wish the chapter headers (ie, CHAPTER 1) would have included the name of the POV (CHAPTER 1, LAUREN).
There were multiple errors throughout the novel that were overlooked during editing.
On the back description, it says the Lauren and Hannah stay in Magnolia to block the sale of Camp Blossom. I find this to be misleading because the real reason they stayed was to help with Brody’s wedding. Also, the back says “their [Ben and Lauren] daughter [Hannah]” (this is how I perceive it). However, Hannah is not Ben and Lauren’s daughter. Lauren is her mother, but Ben is not her father.
January 9, 2024
I really like this author. Characters are real. Lauren Maxwell has returned to Magnolia for the holidays to help her brother with his wedding. But home is fraught with problems - her father is the my way or highway type, and Lauren has always fought against his expectations. Add in a sulky 15 year old daughter, Ben, who she had been married to for about a minute, her younger sister, and her brother's fiancee, and things are sticky. Especially when she finds out that her dad and Ben are working to buy the local camp, and develop it into McMansions. But Lauren wants to do one more holiday festival at the camp before it is torn down.
January 14, 2024
The Christmas Cabin - I love small town romances especially ones written by Michelle Major. Her stories include characters who become like your family or your friends and plots that entertain and captivate. What a great Christmas holiday story!
A Carolina Song - I had been waiting to find out what happened with shy girl next door school teacher, Meghan Jacobs and country music star, Walker Calloway, for months after reading The Front Porch Club. Was so happy to read the continuation of their romance.
A Carolina Song - I had been waiting to find out what happened with shy girl next door school teacher, Meghan Jacobs and country music star, Walker Calloway, for months after reading The Front Porch Club. Was so happy to read the continuation of their romance.
September 21, 2025
This is a fabulous five-star read at any time of the year. I think Lauren may well be my spirit animal; she is so feisty and passionate about making sure her daughter has the love and assurance that she didn’t. Throw in a summer camp turned Christmas festival that adds so much sparkle to the rustic charm of the camp. There are so many amazing characters in this story, and it was lovely seeing them all interact and work together. This is a great cosy romance, and a story that will warm your heart even on the coldest winter days.
September 11, 2023
Lauren couldn't wait to leave Magnolia, South Carolina behind and she did. She's been living life as a single mom up North long enough to raise a teenage daughter. Now her younger brother needs her help with his impending marriage. She will do it for him but plans to avoid her manipulative father, ex, and perfect stepsister. Not so easy! And then there is the camp she loved as a child that needs to be rescued.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an eGalley of this title.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an eGalley of this title.
November 19, 2024
I wouldn't have picked up this book, but it came from Amazon by mistake when I ordered something else. So I read it. Kind of a Hallmark movie sort of plot, so it was kind of fun. But I was ready for the story to be over at about the 2/3 mark. Also I'm not sure the characters have grown enough to make the outcome of their relationship this time any better than it was the first time. But I hope the best for them!
October 25, 2023
THE CHRISTMAS CABIN was a hit for me! I am a fan of Michelle Major and her latest book resonated with me, just like all of her previous books did. I was a big fan of Hannah’s character, she had a lot of personality. It was definitely a heartwarming story and perfect for the holiday season. Five stars!
Thank you so much to @michellemajorauthor for the gifted сору.
Thank you so much to @michellemajorauthor for the gifted сору.
November 19, 2023
What a lovely Christmas story!
Lauren Maxwell and her daughter come home for Christmas to help Lauren's brother Brody plan his wedding. Lauren does not get along with her father or her stepsister. Ben, Lauren's ex-husband is there also .
Will Lauren and Ben get back together? Will Lauren reconcile with her family?
Lauren Maxwell and her daughter come home for Christmas to help Lauren's brother Brody plan his wedding. Lauren does not get along with her father or her stepsister. Ben, Lauren's ex-husband is there also .
Will Lauren and Ben get back together? Will Lauren reconcile with her family?
January 4, 2024
A 2.5 star Christmas rom com: imo there were too characters/backstories to track for 350 page book (turns out, there's two romance plots!), some of the dialogue is clunky, and the HEA family forgiveness vibes hit way too late for me. A lighthearted read for a sick day (better than phone scrolling!) but I won't pick up again.
February 5, 2024
Dysfunctional families, lies, bullies, a bridezilla, a campsite, and Christmas. This book has a little bit of everything. It makes the reader want to continue reading in order to see what happens next. It is a somewhat clean book where sex is mentioned, but there isn't a voyeuristic play-by-play as to what is going on in the bedroom. I enjoyed it!
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