On the Way to Christmas Three Stories by Sheila Roberts; Melissa Ferguson; Amy Clipston

 Book Excerpt:

"Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, anything can happen.

In this glittering and heartwarming collection, three of today's bestselling sweet romance novelists offer up the gift of cheer for the winter holiday season.

A Christmas Do-Over by Sheila Roberts

Darby doesn't want to go home for the holidays, but a career fail sends her slinking back to the small town she always wanted to escape. No one there is happy to see the former mean girl—especially not her sister, Erica, or childhood best friend, Gregory. Darby is working hard to be a better person, but has she eaten enough humble pie to make amends?

Dashing Through the Snow by Melissa Ferguson

When Willow's boyfriend of seven years dumps her on the eve of a romantic getaway, she decides to take the two-week train trip on The Christmas Express alone. But, hurt as she feels, she can't anticipate how the hilarious rebound ride with conductor Oliver, elf Ian, and aging world adventurer Clarence will heal her heart—and renew her sense of worth.

A Perfectly Splendid Christmas by Amy Clipston

Kacey adores the urban life, but when she gets away to help her sister during a family crisis and run her bakery, she falls in love with former classmate Drew. The problem: he's a small-town man, and she's a big-city woman. Is their love big enough to overcome such a significant difference?

Curl up with your favorite holiday drink and sink into three worlds where dreams once thought long gone are still within reach.

"Filled with Christmas spirit, and a little chaos, too, all three stories left my heart filled with joy . . . Five stars overall!" —Nancy Naigle, bestselling author

• Three stand-alone romantic holiday novellas
• Book length: 70,000 words
• Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Title: On The Way To Christmas: Three Stories
Authors; Sheila Roberts; Melissa Ferguson; Amy Clipston
Publishers: Thomas Nelson--FICTION, Thomas Nelson
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"On The Way To Christmas" [Three Stories]: Sheila Roberts; Melissa Ferguson; Amy Clipston

My Assessment:

"On the Way to Christmas" was three entertaining short stories, each about the holiday.

We find the first story: "A Christmas Do-Over," was about how a mean girl finally changes her ways and, after returning home, puts it into practice letting the reader see if she had changed her ways. It will be good to see if Darby can make amends, ask forgiveness, and get second chances and maybe a HEA. We find Darby needed forgiveness from her sister...and her friend Gregory. I will stop there and say pick up this read and see how it all comes out. Let's see if Darby will be able to eat humble pie and make amends?'

The next holiday read, 'Dashing Through the Snow,' was a different kind of read where one will find it exciting and engaging fantasy story, "Dashing Through the Snow" deals with a Christmas-theme Polar Express train trip for grownups" which was a very creative story. What will happen when Willow has been Dumped by her boyfriend [Jonas] of seven years and meets a few other interesting characters on that train ride? The story involves 'taking chances, new beginnings, and maybe a HEA.'

The last holiday read was 'A Perfectly Splendid Christmas,' where two childhood best friends [Kacey & Drew] meet up again in their hometown. Will they be able to express their love for one another this time? The story was somewhat predictable but still a good holiday read. There was so much enjoyment in how these family and friends got together during the holidays and had a wonderful holiday. But will Darcey and Drew get what they want in the end?

How will things work out for the three-holiday stories? The reader will have to pick up this good package and well-written read to see how well these three authors bring out these sweet Christmas stories to the reader.

Thank you to NetGallery and Thomas Nelson for the reads and my giving my opinion for each of the three short reads.

The Second Christmas by Marta Perry

 Book Excerpt:

"The warmth of the Christmas season and a woman's return home to the charming Amish community of Promise Glen opens the door to a second chance at love.

When Leah Beiler pictured returning to Promise Glen, she imagined taking everything she learned from her aunt's business in Upstate New York and starting up a quaint herbal tea shop of her own. What she didn't expect was for Josiah Burkhalter to insist on helping her. Josiah might have been her childhood sweetheart, but they've changed a lot since then, and Leah's not sure she can trust the man who once broke her heart.
 
Josiah is determined to make the most of this unexpected second chance. So when he hears of Leah's plans to open her own shop, he resolves to help in any way he can—beginning his gentle campaign to win her back by renovating the small cottage on her family's farm.
 
During her time away, Leah looked forward to spending the holiday with her family again, especially the Second Christmas, December 26, a time of celebrating with extended family and close neighbors like the Burkhalters. But as Christmas nears, her feelings for Josiah grow more confused, strengthened by their time of working together. Now it will take all the magic of the season for Leah to confront her fears and reach for the love she deserves."

Title: The Second Christmas
Author: Marta Perry
Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
Series: The Promise Glen # 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The Second Christmas" by Marta Perry

My Assessment:

Leah Beiler had left home in Promise Glen to live with her Aunt Miriam from Upstate New York, working in her herb business. However, after being accused of being a thief, she returns home to open up her herb business. Being back home, will she be able to pick up her life of an old boyfriend, Josiah Burkhalter, a childhood sweetheart, during this Christmas season and clear up this mess with her aunt, who had accused her of stealing? Will Josiah be able to get a second chance while he is helping her work on her shop, and how with this 'Second Christmas, December 26, come into play during this time? Will there be 'magic for Leah to confront her fears and reach for the love that she so deserves, and will Josiah be able to grow up and get what he wants finally?' To find out, pick up "The Second Christmas' and see how this story will all come together, giving the reader a beautiful read.

Jingle All the Way A Novel by Debbie Macomber

 Book Excerpt:

"Love can transform even the best-laid plans in this heartfelt Christmas novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.

Trapped in the middle of five siblings, Everly Lancaster always had big dreams. Now a top real-estate executive, Everly finds her work is her life, leaving no space for anything (or anyone) else. Sensing her stress, Everly’s boss insists she takes December off. At first, a month away seems crazy—how will the company survive without her? But Everly’s mother convinces her otherwise. She deserves a vacation—plus, when she returns, she’ll have no excuse to skip family Christmas like she did last year.

But after her vengeful assistant books a guided cruise in the Amazon instead of the luxury beach vacation she expected, Everly is horrified to realize that she’s about to spend the next two weeks trapped—with no Wi-Fi!—in the rain forest. Not even Asher Adams, the ship’s charming naturalist, can convince Everly that the trip will be unforgettable. Slowly but surely, she realizes he is right: the sights are spectacular. And with each passing day, Everly’s relationship with Asher deepens, forcing her to take a long, hard look at her priorities.

Everly and Asher begin to see the magic in the possibility of a life together. But as the cruise nears its end, and Everly’s family Christmas approaches, both must decide if love is worth the risk. A merry surprise may be in store in Debbie Macomber’s newest holiday delight."

Title: Jingle All the Way
Author: Debbie Macomber
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Jingle All the Way" by Debbie Macomber

My Speculation:

I loved 'Jingle All the Way' that featured Dasiy [Everly] Lancaster and Asher Adams, who definitely were two opposite that attracted one another. And their meeting only came about when Dasiy's assisted booked her on the wrong cruise...an Amazon River Cruise in the Amazon Rainforest. The thing I didn't like about that was that it was done on purpose by her immature assistant Annette. On this cruise, she couldn't get out of she meets her tour guide Asher, a naturalist, and things go from worst [due to a mosquito bit] to a friendship that seems to grow into something more for these two. This was quite an interesting cruise for Daisy, where she seems to find out more about herself. It also seemed that Asher was having feelings for Daisy that he really couldn't understand that made him somewhat fearful of Daisy. 'Were they falling in love?' I liked how this author brought in their families where you could see the love they all shared for one another. The Christmas scenes with Dasiy's family were over the top, especially Grandma Ruth's Christmas Fudge. I want that recipe!

What was important about this read was how both of the main characters were finally able to find out what was most important to them and what truly made them happy. And that was... this is where I say you will have to pick up "Jingle All the Way" to see how well this author brings it out to the reader.

I loved this Christmas story because it was definitely a 'Jingle All the Way' read.

Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Christmas Table A Novel by Donna VanLiere

 Book Excerpt:

"From Donna VanLiere, the New York Times bestselling author of The Christmas Hope series comes another heartwarming, inspirational story for the holidays, The Christmas Table.

In June 1972, John Creighton determined to build his wife Joan, a kitchen table. His largest project to date had been picture frames, but he promises to have the table ready for Thanksgiving dinner. Inspired to put something delicious on the table, Joan turns to her mother’s recipes she had given to Joan when she and John married.

In June 2012, Lauren Mabrey discovered she’s pregnant. Gloria, Miriam, and the rest of her friends at Glory’s Place begin to pitch in, helping Lauren prepare their home for the baby. On a visit to the local furniture builder, Lauren finds a table that he bought at a garage sale but has recently refinished. Once home, a drawer is discovered under the table, which contains a stack of recipe cards. Growing up in one foster home after another, Lauren never learned to cook and is fascinated as she reads through the cards. Personal notes have been written on each one from the mother to her daughter, and time and again, Lauren wonders where they lived when they lived, and strangely, she feels connected to this mother and her daughter and wants to make the mother proud.

The story continues from 1972 to 2012 as Joan battles breast cancer, and Lauren learns to cook, preparing for the baby’s arrival. As Christmas nears, can Lauren unlock the mystery of the table, and find the peace she's always longed for?"

Title: The Christmas Table
Author: Donna VanLiere
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Christmas Table" by Donna VanLiere

My Speculation:

I will say this was one inspirational read that was purely a joy to read. There were good times and some teary ones in how well this author presented the reader with a beautiful read that started in May 1972 and finished up in December 2012. It was interesting how the author brought out several storylines that came together so well at the end that definitely went from the past to the present. I loved how this particular table and hidden recipe cards became so important in this story.

Let's talk about the descriptive characters and secondary, where we find each one had a little something that kept your attention in what was going on at that time in this heartfelt story.

Lastly, I want to mention the interactions with those recipes and how they related so well in the story. I really enjoyed how that situation was brought out so well in the novel. And at the end of the story, we are given some wonderful recipes...'A Christmas Table Full of Recipes' that I do plan on trying.

Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

An Ivy Hill Christmas A Tales from Ivy Hill Novella by Julie Klassen

 Book Excerpt:

"Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill's most prominent family, hasn't been home for Christmas in years. He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him, and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life--unless he comes home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.

But Christmas in the country presents unforeseen surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled . . . and determined to have nothing to do with him.

Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, joyous songs, and divine hope, work its magic in his heart . . . and hers as well?"

Title: An Ivy Hill Christmas
Author: Julie Klassen
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"An Ivy Hill Christmas" by Julie Klassen

My Speculation:

I enjoyed this Ivy Hill Christian Christmas story that brought it's 'warmth, cheer, and heartful moments' that gave the readers a good holiday read. We find the main character Richard Brockwell was somewhat upset because he has been made to come home for Christmas by his mother's request. What was up with Richard not wanting to go home, and what will he find when he gets there? I enjoyed how this author gave us a story of 'Christmas spirit with compassion' that will shake up the information. It was quite interesting seeing Richard transform.

I love how this young boy [orphan] and dapper dog, Wally was brought so well into the story along with the 'Regency Christmas tidings, joy.' Be ready for a sweet 'level of not only second chances, but forgiveness, service to the community, comforting, transformation, romance, the spiritual element with its uplighting message of Christmas magic that impacted this story in so many exciting ways.

The author's story will keep your attention as you are turning the pages to see what was coming next in some laugh-out-loud banter of this family, along with giving us a good ending.

At the end of this read, the book will include a recipe for "Honeycroft Honey-Spice Biscuit [Cookies]' that looked interesting to make and eat.

I received a complimentary book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas In Vermont by Anita Hughes

Book Synopsis:

"A sweet holiday love story about the magic of synchronicity and fate set at a quaint Vermont inn during the week after Christmas.

Emma can’t believe her luck when she finds an open pawnshop on Christmas Eve in Manhattan. She’s there to sell the beautiful bracelet her ex-boyfriend gave her when a familiar-looking watch catches her eye. It’s the same engraved watch she gave her college boyfriend, Fletcher, years ago. On a whim, she trades the bracelet for the watch and wonders at the timing.

Practical Emma thinks it’s just a coincidence, but her best friend Bronwyn believes it’s the magic of synchronicity that caused Emma to find the watch. Fletcher was the one that got away, and somehow Emma never quite moved on.

When Bronwyn finds out that Fletcher is in snowy Vermont at a romantic inn for the week, she can’t help but give synchronicity a push. She signs Emma up to help the innkeeper as the children’s activity coordinator. Emma agrees that a week filled with quaint shops and maple syrup would do her good… and maybe Fate really does have a Christmas gift in store for her. That is until she sees Fletcher with his daughter and fiancée.

Suddenly, the fairytale trip seems doomed to fail… much like the innkeeper’s dwindling cash flow. It will take a miracle to save her heart and the inn. And that just might be what Fate has in mind."

Christmas in Vermont is a delightful and charming love story about the magic of second chances during the most festive time of year.

Title:  Christmas in Vermont

Author:  Anita Hughes

Publisher:  St. Martin's Press

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating: Four

Review:

"Christmas In Vermont" by Anita Hughes

My Rationalization:

What an enjoyable Christmas read filled with 'synchronicity/coincidence' was something that 'appears in your life when you least expected it and in the end made your dreams come true.' This is exactly what happened to Emma as it was for her to lose love, hoping to find it again and then finally finding love.  Yes, this was a second chance love that was presented to Emma in Snowberry Inn in Vermont during the Christmas holiday.

I found this quite interesting where Emma finds a watch at a secondary jewelry store that she had once given to her college sweetheart many years ago.  Then what happens next that Emma's best friend Bronwyn does was quite something that brings this story altogether with the gift she gave.  This was definitely one of those 'fate, kismet, synchronicity' things that happen just for Emma.  Now, to find out what all this is about you will have to pick up "Christmas In Vermont" to see how well this story comes together.  I found some of the characters quite interesting especially Fletcher's daughter Lola, Betty, Stephen however, I didn't care much for his friend Graham.                   

What will happen when Emma after eleven years sees her once loved Fletcher [college sweetheart] and finds out about his daughter and fiancee, Megan who was now in Snowberry for the holidays?  This will definitely be one of those heartwarming stories that the reader will find it hard to put down even though it may be somewhat predictable at times it was a good holiday fun read.

Thank you, Net Galley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for my honest review!

The Perfect Love Song by Patti Callahan Henry

Book Synopsis:

"Can one song change the course of life?

Brothers Jimmy and Jack Sullivan live a nomadic life doing what they love: touring with their band, The Unknown Souls. But Jack’s recent engagement to Kara has everyone looking forward to a Christmas destination wedding in Ireland.

Unlike his brother, Jimmy never expected to fall in love. But he feels a sense of peace and happiness whenever he’s around Kara’s best friend, Charlotte—which has him wondering what he’s missing. Over Thanksgiving, Jimmy and Charlotte write a song while sitting together on the back porch. When the band sings it at a Christmas concert the next night, Jimmy insists it’s the perfect love song—but a manager for another famous duo is adamant that it’s the perfect Christmas song. Before Jimmy knows what’s happening, he’s on tour with the hottest country band around and suddenly everyone knows his name.

But fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and Jimmy finds himself far away from those he loves—especially Charlotte. Only a Christmas miracle—or two—will be able to lead Jimmy back to Ireland, to his brother, and to love."

Title:  The Perfect Love Song

Author:  Patti Callahan Henry

Publisher:  Thomas Nelson

Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean

Rating:  Four

Review:

"The Perfect Love Song" by Patti Callahan Henry

My Rationalization: 

Good Christmas story which extended into a wedding that was held in Ireland and bringing in the story about the 'Claddagh Ring.'  I loved how this author was able to bring in lots of the traditions of  Ireland in this lyrical tribute to love.  It was interesting seeing these two brothers [Jimmy & Jack]  who had a band The Unknown Souls who were dating two best friends Charlotte and Kara. What will happen as Jimmy & Charlotte during Thanksgiving together writes a love song called 'Unexpected.'  However, when it was sung by his band at a 'Holiday Jingle Jam concert' a Milton Bartholomew [concert promoter] who was listening thought it was more of a Christmas song... and the story will take off. Now to truly understand what all is going on you will have to pick up "The Perfect Love Song" to see how well this author brings it all out to the reader as this heartwarming story will take on 'twists and turns, forgiveness, grace, and unexpected giving?'  It will be quite a read as the story will be of love that finally finds its way back to each other in a beautifully told story as one will see this Christmas miracle that will lead a brother to Ireland and even to one that truly loves him. 

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

The Heart of Christmas By: Brenda Novak

Title:  The Heart of Christmas
Author:  Brenda Novak
Publisher:  Harlequin MIRA
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Series:  (Whiskey Creek #7)
Rating: 5
Review:

"The Heart of Christmas" by Brenda Novak

Book Description:

"Just call her Christmas Eve… 
Eve Harmon has always enjoyed Christmas, but this year it reminds her of everything she doesn't have. Almost all her friends are married now, and that's what Eve wants, too. Love. A husband and kids of her own. But the B and B she manages, and even Whiskey Creek, the small Gold Country town where she was born and raised, suddenly seem…confining.
Eve's worried that her future will simply be a reflection of her past. There's no one in the area she could even imagine as a husband until a handsome stranger comes to town. Eve's definitely attracted to him, and he seems to have the same reaction to her. But his darkly mysterious past could ruin Eve's happily ever after just when it finally seems within reach. And just when she's counting on the best Christmas of her life!"

What I liked about the novel.....



This was the seventh book of Whiskey Creek series by this author and it was a wonderful love story about Eve Harmon.  It was definitely one of those read that you will find hard to put down until the end.  I loved how this author kept the reader guessing and what a interesting ending.  After being dumped   now 35, not married with no children, feeling left out and  leaves Eve feeling down then she meets a  guy while celebrating her birthday. This story will take off after Eve ends up  going to Sexy Sadie's  getting drunk spending a night with the handsome guy she wasn't really sure who he was.  However, what a birthday this was for Eve  but just who was he?   Now that turned out to be  a little funny situation and I did laugh out loud!  What will come of this after she finds out his real name and learning of his past. I love Eve's friends who rallied  around her when it was needed. Will Eve be able to help him? This is where I say you will have to pick up "The Heart of Christmas" to see how this author will present  this read with a little mystery, suspense and what was up with ghost Little Mary?  Be ready for some drama with lots of emotions showed in this well written novel. 


What I especially liked about the novel...

I love the character of Eve who was a very giving person  along with some amazing supporting characters with strong and interesting friendships in this wonderful town of Whiskey Creek....many who were also in the  other  series.  In the end I liked how this author was able to bring out  the celebration through love, joy and laughter  of the true meaning of "The Heart of  Christmas" to its readers.   If you are looking for a holiday read this festive  Christmas setting would be the read for you that I would recommend.

Mistletoe on Main Street By: Olivia Miles

Title:  Mistletoe on Main Street
Author:  Olivia Miles
Publisher:  Forever
Series:  The Blair Creek Series #1
Reviewed By:  Arlena Dean
Rating: 4.5
Review:

"Mistletoe on Main Street" by Olivia Miles

Book Description...

"Sleigh bells, snow, and second chances . . .

Briar Creek's quaint shop windows, cozy homes nestled in snow, and neighborly residents are what Christmas dreams are made of--for everyone except Grace Madison. She left her hometown years ago to pursue a writing career. But when her father's death leaves his bookstore empty, Grace must return to face why she fled Vermont in the first place: Luke Hastings, who still heats her up like a shot of smoky whiskey on a cold winter's night.

Grace is back, and Luke is worried. How much has she changed as a bestselling author in the big city? What memories will she stir up? And was the choice he made five years ago the biggest mistake of his life?

Now, with their past, present, and future rocking around the Christmas tree, it's time for Grace and Luke to face the music . . . and the mistletoe."

What I liked from this novel.....

This author really gives the reader quite a interesting place in 'Briar Creek'  and definitely a good Christmas read that will keep your attention from start to the finish.  The two main characters Grace and Luke will keep you entertained as they find their way through his love story.  It seems like Grace after being gone five years is trying to make up her mind will she stay in Briar Creek after this Christmas holiday with her family or return to NY?  Did she even have anyone waiting for her back in New York after she had dropped  Derek?   Then there is her father's book store that is not opened any more. What had happened after her father's death to the book store and why wasn't see told about it being closed.  I found this  love  story was about Grace and Luke. What had happened to cause her to want to leave  Briar Creek five years ago in the first place and what happened when she came back (seeing only Luke)...leaves again...then back for her father's funeral... leaves.....now back again for this Christmas holiday?   In all of Grace's coming and going would she stay this time and run the book store that seems to have closed and just what all did Luke Hastings have to do in all of this?   Between these two there will be a lots of drama going on.   I don't want to leave out Grace's sister Jane who  also seemed to have quite a bit of drama going on in her life and their mother Kathleen. I don't want to spoil it  by telling too much of the story.  I know I have presented a lots of questions and all of the answers will be answered in this well written novel:  "Mistletoe on Main Street."  I found this author really worked it with such a beautiful description of the snow during   Christmas holiday season  of  Briar Creek really making me what to find this beautiful place with such unique characters which I found were richly developed that seemed to come alive on the pages presented as  Ray, Mark, Sophie, Anna and Rosemary Hastings to name a few.  Be prepared for a long read because this author leaves nothing out even a little hot sex scene.     

What I also liked about this novel....

I liked how this author was able to give us a story that showed a lots of emotions along with the drama of  a real love story showing the past and the present of how it is from one reaction can  bring on another reaction. In the end will it be a good decision for all involved at this point in their  life's?  I thought this was a very interesting read and I really enjoyed how this author closes the story.