Review: 'The Great Christmas Knit Off' by Alexandra Brown (2014)

Heartbroken after being jilted at the altar, Sybil has been saved from despair by her knitting obsession and now her home is filled to bursting with tea cosies, bobble hats, and jumpers. But, after discovering that she may have perpetrated the cock-up of the century at work, Sybil decides to make a hasty exit and, just weeks before Christmas, runs away to the picturesque village of Tindledale.
There, Sybil discovers Hettie’s House of Haberdashery, an emporium dedicated to the world of knitting and needle craft. But Hettie, the outspoken octogenarian owner, is struggling and now the shop is due for closure. And when Hettie decides that Sybil’s wonderfully wacky Christmas jumpers are just the thing to add a bit of excitement to her window display, something miraculous starts to happen…
Over the last couple of years it seems like Christmas novels are getting more and more popular, because each year we are being treated to numerous festive books. So many I don't even have enough time in December to pick all of them up! Last year I actually planned to read Alexandra Brown's 'The Great Christmas Knit Off' but unfortunately never got to it. So, I made sure to find enough time to read the book this year, especially since it was the first part of Alexandra Brown's new book series which I really really want to check out. I loved her previous series about the department store Carringtons', and I can't believe it took me this long to read her next release. However, I finally found the time and couldn't wait to step into the world of Tindledale!
After being jilted at the altar by her ex-fiancee who decided to run off with her twin sister, Sybil finds it difficult to get on with her life. When she is afraid she has made a big mistake that might cost her her job as well, Sybil decides she needs a break from it all and flees to the small village of Tindedale to visit her good friend Cher for a few days. Sybil just wants some alone time to focus on her true passion: knitting. When she visits Hettie's House of Haberdashery, a small shop in Tindledale focused on everything having to do with knitting, Sybil decides to help out old lady Hettie, who is in financial trouble and about to lose her shop. But will Sybil be able to help Hettie and also find some purpose in her own life again after everything that has happened?
I can't believe it took me so long to read this novel; another fantastic read by Alexandra Brown, who is undoubtedly one of my favourite chick lit authors. If you're looking for a warm-hearted and fun romcom, just pick up one of her novels and you won't be disappointed. 'The Great Christmas Knit Off' is a great start to a new series and I already can't wait to read the second part, 'The Great Village Show.' The book is set in the town of Tindledale which is a lovely village I want to move to straight away! There is even a map at the beginning of the book which was a great touch. The community spirit is fantastic and there are numerous great characters who I can't wait to get to know better and learn more about in the parts that are still to come. 
I easily fell in love with protagonist Sybil; she has been through a rough time and ends up in Tindledale for a short break away from it all. I also really liked Sybil's cute dog Basil, and there is a fabulous selection of secondary characters such as Sybil's good friend Cher, handsome doctor Ben, loveable Lawrence, Hettie, Ruby... The book focuses a lot on knitting; a topic which I'm not too familiar with, but which really suited the story and I ended up loving it. This book just really had it all for me; I loved it and can't wait to read the author's next novel! 'The Great Christmas Knit Off' is a heartfelt, simply lovely, uplifting and festive read that will leave you with a big smile on your face; loved it from start to finish!

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Review: 'Christmas Confessions & Cocktails' by Vicki Lesage (2015)

Party girl Vicki tells it like it us, from her crazy Christmases growing up in the Midwest (book auction, anyone?) to her even crazier holidays in her new home of Paris (like a marathon 8-hour meal sitting on a stool). Bizarre gifts, weird food, and holiday travel disasters are just some of tales you'll chuckle at in this collection.
This Christmas-themed memoir features 25 funny and heartwarming essays, all with a tenuous tie to Christmas, and pairs each with a delicious drink recipe. So grab your martini shaker and get ready for some great cocktails and some hearty laughs this holiday season!
I've had the pleasure of reading and reviewing several of author Vicki Lesage's works over the past two years, such as 'Confessions of a Paris Party Girl' (click here to read my review) and 'Confessions of a Paris Potty Trainer' (click here to read my review). Earlier this year, Vicki released a festive collection of short stories titled 'Christmas Confessions and Cocktails' which I looked forward to reviewing this festive season. The book consists of 25 different parts: several short stories focusing on Vicki's own memories of the Christmas season over the years, and multiple recipes for delicious festive cocktails. 
Vicki Lesage really has her own voice which make her collections of stories based on her own life experiences always fun and entertaining reads. Vicki grew up in America but now lives in France with her husband Mika and two children, Leo and Stella. Her stories are set throughout her life, so back in the day when she was still a party girl to her days as a new mum. I really enjoy Vicki's writing style and loved being able to sneak in a few short stories every now and again when I found myself with some free time during the holidays. 
Some of the stories have already been used in some of Vicki's other books, so people who are familiar with her work might recognise some of the stories here and there. However, there's a big selection of new fun tales and I really liked the idea of switching it up with festive cocktail recipes. 'Christmas Confessions & Cocktails' a festive seasonal anthology of stories told in Vicki Lesage's own fun and entertaining voice; once again, a Vicki Lesage story collection I really enjoyed and worth picking up if you're looking for an enjoyable and quick read with a fun French/American touch!

Rating:8,5/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'A Very Country Christmas' by Zara Stoneley (2015)

Love is in the air in Tippermere as Lottie dreams of a white Christmas with no trimmings – other than her hot and hunky eventer, Rory. But things are never quite that simple on the Tipping House Estate.
Festive fervour takes over and it isn’t all seasonal peace and goodwill as expectations rise and it soon escalates from cosy dinner for two, to all the trimmings for ten!
With missing turkeys, loose horses, troublesome terriers and randy huntsmen, Lottie is hard pushed to find time for a kiss under the mistletoe, let alone find the opportunity to woo Rory with her sexy Santa costume.
But there is only one thing Lottie really wants for Christmas, and only one man can deliver it…
Earlier this year I had the chance to check out Zara Stoneley’s Tippermere book series, consisting of her two novels ‘Stable Mates’ (click here to read my review) and ‘Country Affairs’ (click here to read my review). I really enjoyed both books, so was quite excited when I discovered Zara has written a festive novella as the latest part in the series, ‘A Very Country Christmas’, which is set a few months after the end of ‘Country Affairs.’ I was lucky enough to receive a review copy via NetGalley and couldn’t wait to join Lottie, Rory and the other characters for the festive season!
Lottie Brinkley can’t wait to spend Christmas with her fiancée, Rory Steel. She already has dreams of a white Christmas, just the two of them in front of the telly with enough Christmas food for days, the house to themselves, and hopefully that one special Christmas present Lottie has secretly been wishing for… But when the merry and kind-hearted spirit of Christmas unexpectedly hits Lottie, she suddenly  finds herself inviting all her friends and family for Christmas at her and Rory’s place. Instead of an exclusive dinner for two, Lottie finds herself preparing a festive meal for ten and all of a sudden Christmas at Tippermere isn’t exactly what Lottie expected it to be… 
I loved this wonderful festive trip back to Tippermere and once again seeing all these familiar faces! While ‘A Very Country Christmas’ could be read as a stand-alone, I definitely recommend reading it as part of the series, because it provides you with that extra bit of background information that makes this story even better than it already is. The author has included a guide with all characters’ names and a bit of information at the beginning of the story, which is really helpful to refresh your memory or help you when all these characters get a bit too much. I loved the fact that almost all familiar Tippermere faces make an appearance in this Christmas novella and I had a big smile on my face throughout.
The novella is divided into three separate parts: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, which was a nice division. Zara Stoneley’s writing style is great; it flows well, provides enough detail, and made me laugh several times. I personally know nothing about horses and am also not a particularly big fan, but Zara has made me fall in love with Tippermere and its characters (also the great animals, mainly dogs and horses) and I can only hope we will be treated to another part in 2016! ‘A Very Country Christmas’ is a light, feel-good, festive read that is definitely worth picking up this Christmas; I loved it!

Rating:9,5/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'A Christmas in Disguise' by Katie Fforde (2015)

When Jo’s friend Andi asks if she’ll stand in to cook Christmas lunch for her employer, Jo reluctantly agrees. She knows Andi will lose her job if she doesn’t, and wants to help out her friend.
Jo is nervous because Andi’s boss is a well-known celebrity diva, who outright refuses to have anyone but Andi cook for her. But she also insists Andi wears full chef's whites so the girls think they’ll get away with it … it’s the perfect Christmas disguise.
But when Jo runs into one of the guests - good looking and very smart Anthony - things get even more complicated…
First of all, Merry Christmas to everyone! :) Christmas is the perfect time of year for so many things, butone of them is definitely short stories. I love reading a great novella or short story every day of the year, but around Christmas time these quick reads are a great way of cheering yourself up on a winter's day or to get into the festive mood! Last year, author Katie Fforde released a collection of Christmas stories titled 'A Christmas Feast' and this year she is treating us to another story filled with holiday cheer, namely 'A Christmas in Disguise.' I always enjoy Katie's works, so definitely looked forward to checking out this short story in the weeks before Christmas!
When Jo is asked for a Christmas favour by her best friend Andi, she can't help but say 'yes'. Andi works as a chef for Caroline, a celebrity diva who is never done with her demands and wants a Christmas dinner made by Andi. However, Andi wants to go and visit her family, so Jo, who is also a trained chef, decides to go in disguise and pretend to be Andi for the day. However, Jo never expected to run into handsome Anthony, who also asks her for a favour, and before Jo knows it she finds herself in all kinds of trouble...
'A Christmas in Disguise' is another lovely festive short story by author Katie Fforde and a great read to pick up during the cold December days. It can be a bit tricky to really write a short story with characters that leave an impression, characters you warm to, because you only have a limited amount of space to do so. However, Katie Fforde really managed to do just that in this novella, making it a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience!
Protagonist Jo is a trained chef who works as a hotel receptionist and volunteers at an animal shelter for dogs. During the holiday season, Jo's best friend Andi needs some help to take over her job as a chef so she can go home to her family. Jo wants to help out her friend, but has no idea what exactly she has gotten herself into. I really liked the storyline and it had moments that made me laugh and a good dose of romance as well. 'A Christmas in Disguise' is a sparklingly fun short story, perfect to pick up in the lead-up to Christmas if you're looking for a quick and entertaining festive read!

Rating:9,5/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'Christmas Wishes & Mistletoe Kisses' by Jenny Hale (2015)

Single mother Abbey Fuller loves her family more than anything, and doesn’t regret for a moment having had to put her dreams of being an interior designer on hold. But with her son, Max, growing up, when a friend recommends her for a small design job she jumps at the chance. How hard can it be? 
Nick Sinclair needs his house decorated in time for his family’s festive visit – and money is no object. What he doesn’t need is to be distracted from his multi-million dollar business – even if it is Christmas. 
When Abbey pulls up to the huge Sinclair mansion, she has a feeling she might be out of her depth. And when she meets the gorgeous, brooding Nicholas Sinclair, she knows that she’s in real trouble… 
With the snow falling all around, can Abbey take the chance to make her dreams of being a designer come true? And can she help Nick to finally enjoy the magic of Christmas?
If you're searching for the perfect novel to get you into a festive December mood, be sure to pick up one of author Jenny Hale's Christmas books; trust me, you won't be disappointed! Two years ago I read and reviewed my first Jenny Hale title, 'Coming Home for Christmas' (click here to read my review) and I straight away fell in love with her writing and her ability to paint a gorgeous Christmas picture that made me feel all warm inside! Last year's 'A Christmas to Remember' was another stunning read (click here to read my review) and this year Jenny has once again released a festive book in the form of 'Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses.' Another Bookouture release which I couldn't wait to sit down with and one I knew I would fall in love with!
Single mother Abbey has always put her son Max and family on the first place, moving her dream of becoming an interior designer to the back burner. However, when completedly unexpectedly Abbey's job as a nurse for elderly lady Caroline leads to a fantastic opportunity, Abbey knows she has to take it with both hands. Caroline's grandson Nick Sinclair is a businessman with lots of money and a big house that needs to be decorated before his family comes to visit for the holidays. There are no rules and no budget; what more could an interior designer ask for? But Abbey can't help but worry about Nick; he only seems to be hiding in piles of work and doesn't take time to enjoy what's around him. Can Abbey not only change Nick's home this Christmas but perhaps also the man himself...?
The lovely winter book cover of 'Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses' already sets the tone for this novel perfectly; it's a stunning read with that magical touch of Christmas I personally look for each December. After having read several of Jenny Hale's novels, I've come to love her writing style and her books always live up to my expectations, especially her Christmas books. Some books use the word 'Christmas' in the title but don't really have anything to do with the holidays, but Jenny's novels breathe Christmas from start to end. All the descriptions of the amazing decorations and a fabulous Christmas atmosphere really make her books the ideal reads to pick up in the lead-up to the end of December, if you ask me.
I straight away fell in love with main character Abbey and her cute son Max. Abbey is a devoted mother who is finally given the chance to make her dream of becoming an interior designer come true when she takes on a job at Nick Sinclair’s mansion. Nick is the perfect male character for a Christmas novel; handsome, rich, and needs a woman to remind him of what exactly is important in life. This novel is about family, love, friendship, and the Christmas spirit, and it is beautifully written as well, making it a must-read for any chick lit fan this December, if you ask me. ‘Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses’ is an uplifting, heart-warming and truly festive treat that left me with a big smile on my face and made me long for Christmas even more!

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'The Winter Wedding' by Abby Clements (2015)

Hazel never set out to be a wedding planner. She was just helping her stressed sister Lila with cakes and décor for her big day. But when Lila and Ollie's summer ceremony is a runaway success, with guests raving about the food and styling at the pretty venue, word about Hazel's expertise soon spreads. 

But Hazel's clients expect the very best - she's promised lawyers Gemma and Eliot a snow-covered castle in the Scottish Highlands, and laidback couple Josh and Sarah a bohemian beach wedding in a Caribbean paradise. But as weather, in-laws and wilful brides conspire against her, can Hazel get two very different couples to walk up two very different aisles to say 'I do'? And will she find her own happy ending if she does?

I love Abby Clements; it's as simple as that, really. Whenever a new book with her name on it is released I can't wait to get my hands on a copy, because I just know it will be a novel I will enjoy. Her writing is amazing (quick-paced but detailed, a lot of dialogue), her storylines always captivate me and it's just exactly what chick lit should be, in my opinion. So, when I got the chance to review Abby's latest work 'The Winter Wedding', which was released in November by Simon & Schuster, I couldn't say yes quickly enough! After having read 'The Heavenly Italian Ice Cream Shop' this summer (click here to read my review), I couldn't wait to dive into this festive Christmas read and be swept away by it!

Hazel works at a TV production company and she knows a promotion must be coming her way soon, especially after all her hard work. Now her twin sister Lila has moved out of their London apartment, Hazel can definitely use the money. But when the promotion is unexpectedly given to someone else, Hazel realises she needs to find another way to pay the rent, next to finding a new roommate. When her sister Lila and her fiancee Ollie ask Hazel to plan their wedding, Hazel ends up enjoying it so much, she decides to become a wedding planner. But dealing with couples about to get married is not as easy as it seems, especially not when your own love life suddenly starts to take its own surprising course as well...

Another simply amazing read by Abby Clements and one that brings together so many topics I love: from sisterly bonds to friendship to baking to Christmas to weddings to romance... 'The Winter Wedding' is a fantastic read which I enjoyed from start to finish and can't recommend enough to any chick lit fans out there. I'm a big of Abby Clements' writing; it almost felt like I was flying through the pages. I loved the relatively short chapters and didn't at one point feel like putting the novel down. It held my attention throughout and I just wanted to finish it, seeing what would happen to the different characters and how the various storylines would eventually be brought to a close.

I really liked Hazel, the main character in the book. She was easy to like, just like all the great secondary characters, such as Hazel's twin sister Lila, her colleague Josh, and her new roommate Amber, who each had something to bring to the story. If I have to think of one thing I would change about this novel, I would add a bit more Christmas and festive cheer, but that's the only thing. I am sad I finished the book so quickly and would love to have a new Abby Clements novel waiting for me, so hopefully her next release will be upon us soon. Overall, 'The Christmas Wedding' is an uplifting, heartwarming, well-written chick lit read; perfect to curl up with on a cold winter day (or any other day of the year, really)!
Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: 'Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Jumper' by Debbie Johnson (2015)

For single mum Maggie, Christmas has always been a family occasion – her daughter Ellen filling the house with her bubbly warmth and mistletoe, her dad Paddy having one too many festive tipples, and the traditional family Christmas tree looking like a drunken elf vomited a rainbow all over it.

But this year, with both Ellen and Paddy away for the holidays, Maggie’s facing a truly blue Christmas – alone with nothing but a bottle of Baileys and an M&S turkey dinner.

Until walking the snowy streets of Oxford, Marco Cavelli quite literally crashes into her life – and, complete with broken leg, becomes her unexpected houseguest. All dreamy brown eyes and 6’5” of gorgeousness, the man is hotter and more delicious than a freshly baked mince pie.

Though Maggie always thought it’s a truth universally acknowledged that you never kiss a man in a Christmas jumper?

I have to admit both the title and reference to Mark Darcy (from 'Bridget Jones') and his Christmas jumper were already enough reason for me to want to pick up Debbie Johnson's latest release, 'Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Jumper'. There's nothing like a good Christmas jumper for the holidays, if you ask me! However, I am also already familiar with Debbie Johnson's writing and would have picked up anything with her name on it, if we're being honest! Her previous title 'Pippa's Cornish Dream' (click here to read my review) was a read I ended up really enjoying, so I had my fingers crossed for this, hopefully, lovely read as well!

Thirty-something and single mum Maggie has always loved spending Christmas with her family. But this year both her father Paddy and daughter Ellen have other plans, leaving Maggie alone with just her Christmas tree for company. Until an unfortunate snowy bicycle accident leaves Maggie with an unexpected but handsome and charming houseguest in the form of Marco Cavelli. Since Marco lives in Chicago and is only in the UK for a short time, Maggie agrees to help him recover at her home after the accident. Marco should be out of there again before Christmas, but Maggie quickly realises there's a lot more to Marco than a pretty face and a Christmas jumper, and him staying with her might not be as awful as she initially expected...

'Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Jumper' is a thoroughly enjoyable and simply lovely festive read; another great title by publisher Harper Impulse and author Debbie Johnson! The book is quite a short and quick read with nearly 200 pages, which makes it perfect to pick up in a quiet moment during this busy time of the year. I've had the pleasure of reading some of Debbie Johnson's other stories and it seems like she just keeps on getting better with every new release. This read has a great group of characters (with protagonist Maggie at the centre, a character who I felt was really easy to like, and some familiar faces if you've read Debbie's other festive novella 'Cold Feet at Christmas'!), a basic but entertaining storyline, a good dose of romance and sparks; everything I look for in an enjoyable romcom read.

I personally loved the setting of this book; winter time in Oxford sounds simply wonderful and the descriptions made me almost feel as if I was there myself. I am also a sucker for wedding-related topics, so I loved the fact that Maggie works as a seamstress and creates her own wedding dresses. The chemistry between Maggie and Marco was there from the first page, and I really enjoyed seeing their relationship and friendship develop as the story progressed. The only negative thing is that it wasn't a full-length novel, because I would have definitely loved to read more about all of the characters. 'Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Jumper' is a sweet, warm, fast-paced, festive read that made me fall in love with Debbie Johnson even more. The book to pick up if you're looking for a quick and lovely Christmas fix!
Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher and author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Exciting Release: 'A Merry Mistletoe Wedding' by Judy Astley

It is almost a year since Sean and Thea met and it's been a roller-coaster ride: they're getting married on Christmas Eve!

Neither Thea or Sean want a big fuss - a simple wedding, with Christmas carols and just a few sprigs of mistletoe for decoration is all they need. But before they know it, things begin to get complicated. Trying to manage a long-distance relationship in the build-up to their Christmas wedding is one thing, but as one challenge after another comes their way, the happy couple begin to wonder if they'll ever make it down the aisle...

A novel that is at the top of my holiday reading for this year is Judy Astley's 'A Merry Mistletoe Wedding', which was released in paperback format on December 3rd. Judy Astley knows how to write an entertaining story with characters that will stay with you for quite some time to come, and I just know this book will make me feel all festive and leave me with a smile on my face. I loved Judy's previous Christmas novel and really can't wait to pick this one up as well!

Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Review: 'The Christmas Cafe' by Amanda Prowse (2015)

Bea is fifty three, and she's just lost her husband after thirty years of marriage. To distract herself from grief, she throws herself into her work running the Reservoir Street Kitchen in one of Sydney's most fashionable districts.
But then an email from a cafe-owner in Edinburgh prompts her to take a trip to Scotland in the depths of winter. Her journey will be one of self-discovery, as she is drawn back to a secret past - and a secret love - that she has tried to forget.
Set between Sydney and Edinburgh at Christmas, this is a story of family ties, lost love, and the power of the past.
Over the last couple of years I've had the pleasure of reading and reviewing several of Amanda Prowse's novels such as 'Will You Remember Me?' (click here to read my review) and 'Three-and-a-Half Heartbeats' (click here to read my review). In December last year I read 'Christmas for One' (click here to read my review), which was a touching and simply stunning Christmas read, so I am really excited to have a new festive read by Amanda to dive into this year! 'The Christmas Cafe' was released by Head of Zeus and immediately caught my eye with its lovely cover. However, Amanda's name on the front is already enough reason for me to pick up the book, and I couldn't wait to get started on this latest one!
After 30 happy years of marriage, 53-year-old Bea Greenstock finds herself alone again after the death of her beloved husband Peter. Luckily, Bea has her own cafe in Sydney, the Reservoir Street Kitchen, to keep her busy, together with the troubles her teenage granddaughter Flora is having with her parents. When Bea is unexpectedly contacted via e-mail by a Scottish cafe owner, a new friendship develops and before she knows it she is on her way to Scotland; a quick trip to the other side of the world before Christmas, together with Flora. Yet this trip to Edinburgh ends up being much more to Bea than some special days spent with her granddaughter, especially when she is reminded of past times, including a past love she never quite managed to forget...
Another wonderful part of Amanda Prowse's 'No Greater Love' series, and a truly heartwarming and lovely festive read for this time of year. As with all of Amanda's novels, it was incredibly easy to warm to the female protagonist, Bea, and I already started the first chapter of the book with a few tears. As the story progressed, I was captivated by it and just wanted to continue reading to see what would happen to Bea and the other characters. I was intrigued by Flora, Bea's 13-year-old granddaughter who is having a difficult time, and loved reading about the characters at Bea's cafe, such as Nait, Kim, and Mr. Giraldi. There really is an interesting and warm group of characters at the centre of the book and there wasn't one of them I didn't like. 
The book has a great setting, partly taking place in Sydney and partly in Edinburgh. Next to that, I just once again fell in love with Amanda Prowse's writing. It's so effortless and almost feels like wrapping a warm and comfortable blanket around yourself. In contrast to some of her other novels, which are quite heart-breaking and deal with serious issues, this book focuses on finding true love, that idea of a soulmate, and Amanda has once again turned it into something quite wonderful. Overall, 'The Christmas Cafe' is a great read for the festive season; a heart-warming, lovely, and simply stunning story that will undoubtedly leave you with a smile on your face. 

Rating:10/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas Songs Book Tag!

One of the best things about this time of year is that I can finally get all my Christmas CDs out of their hiding place and listen to Christmas music 24/7! I love turning on the radio and hearing classic Christmas songs such as Wham's 'Last Christmas' and Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas is You'. So when I found this Christmas Songs Book Tag, created by That Artsy Reader Girl, I immediately knew I wanted to join in with the fun! :)

1. “All I Want for Christmas Is You”: Name your favorite bookish couple. I have to go with Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy; a classic couple <3 I've also been discovering some of Jane Austen's other couples lately, though, because characters such as Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth in 'Persuasion' and Elinor Dashwood and Edward Ferrars in 'Sense and Sensibility' are also great couples with wonderful love stories! 2. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”: Name a book where a character is away from home (school, vacation, etc.). Hmmm, this is quite difficult while at the same time this is something that happens in so many books, but of course I can't think of anything while writing this... Ah, I thought of a book! Olivia Goldsmith's 'Wish Upon a Star', one of my favourite chick-lit reads of all time and a must-read for any romcom fans.

3. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”: Name your favorite “little” book (children’s book, short story, novella, etc.). 'Mary Poppins' or 'The Wizard of Oz'!
4. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town“: What book(s) do you hope Santa brings you this year? I've made a list with lots of books I've been meaning to buy this year, but still haven't been able to. If I get at least 1 of the books on this list I am already a happy bunny this Christmas!
5. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”: Which book turned your nose red? (made you cry) I have to go with Harry Potter, parts 6 and 7. There are no books that made me cry as much as those two. I am even a bit afraid of reading them again, because I know it's going to make me feel all kinds of emotions all over again!
6. “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”: What’s your favorite book to read during the holidays? (re-read? or a specific genre?) Definitely Christmas novels; books that will get me in a festive mood and will make me smile.

7. “We Three Kings”: What’s your favorite trilogy? I haven't read that many trilogies, now I'm thinking about it. Hardly any, really! I probably have to go with Louisa May Alcott's 'Little Women', 'Good Wives', and 'Jo's Boys.' 
8. “Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow”: Which character would you not mind being snowed in with? I wouldn't say no to being snowed in with Mr. Darcy. Or Alex from Lindsey Kelk's 'I Heart...' series. 
9. “Last Christmas”: Which book seriously let you down? I think in a way the 50 Shades of Grey books really let me down. For books the whole world seemed to be talking about, they just weren't as great as I was secretly hoping they would be.

10. “White Christmas”: Which upcoming release are you dreaming of? 'The Night That Changed Everything' by Laura Tait and Jimmy Rice; I honestly can't WAIT for this book! Which books remind you of these songs? I tag you!

Review: 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage' by Holly Martin (2015)

Welcome to the charming seaside town of White Cliff Bay, where Christmas is magical and love is in the air…
Penny Meadows loves her home – a cosy cottage decorated with pretty twinkling fairy lights and stunning views over the town of White Cliff Bay. She also loves her job as an ice-carver, creating breathtaking sculptures. Yet her personal life seems frozen. 
When Henry and daughter Daisy arrive at the cottage to rent the annex, Penny is determined to make them feel welcome. But while Daisy is friendly, Henry seems guarded. 
As Penny gets to know Henry, she realises there is more to him than meets the eye. And the connection between them is too strong to ignore… 
While the spirit of the season sprinkles its magic over the seaside town and preparations for the ice sculpting competition and Christmas eve ball are in full swing, can Penny melt the ice and allow love in her heart? And will this finally be the perfect Christmas she’s been dreaming of?
This year I finally got the opportunity to check out an author I had been hearing so much about (all positive!) and whose work I was sure I was going to enjoy: Holly Martin. Her novel 'Fairytale Beginnings' (click here to read my review) was released by Bookouture earlier this year and was a great chick lit read. When I discovered Holly would not be releasing one but two Christmas novels this Winter, I immediately got excited, and even more so after seeing the lovely colourful book covers! 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage' and 'Snowflakes on Silver Cove' are both part of the new White Cliff Bay series; a series I couldn't wait to dive straight into!
Penny Meadows hasn't always had it easy. After some difficult years, she has managed to build a life for herself as an ice-carver, a job she loves, in the lovely village of White Cliff Bay. However, Penny hasn't been lucky in love, so she decides to rent out the annex of her cottage in order to surround herself with some more people. The rooms are rented by Henry and Daisy, whom Penny expects to be a married couple but are actually a single father and his 16-year-old daughter. The sparks start flying between Penny and Henry as soon as they first meet, but Henry is guarded, not wanting to disrupt his daughter's life too much after some bad experiences, and Penny isn't sure she is ready for romance, after everything that has happened. Will the two be able to find some happiness together or does this Christmas have other plans in store for them?
I've seen other readers comparing Holly Martin's novels to Disney films and I understand the comparison; cute and simple stories with a guaranteed happy ending. I am a big Disney fan and also thoroughly enjoy Holly's books, including the first part of her new White Cliff Bay series, 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage.' At the core of the novel there are some simply wonderful characters that I easily warmed to. Protagonist Penny is just lovely and I wanted nothing more than for her to find love; Henry and Daisy are both warm and interesting characters as well, and I couldn't help but fall in love with Penny's dog, Bernard, and the whole town of White Cliff Bay.
The storyline of this book is quite basic and not too complicated; great for a festive chick lit novel like this one. However, what makes this novel such a good read are Holly Martin's storytelling skills; she is wonderful at setting the scene, making it easy for readers to imagine everything, and I fell in love with the community spirit that she managed to convey with her writing. I did personally think everything went a bit fast (the story is set over the time span of a week), but this didn't really influence how much I enjoyed the book. Overall, 'Christmas at Lilac Cottage' is a really cute, simple, festive romance that will undoubtedly warm your heart during the cold winter days before Christmas. A great start to this new series and I'm already excited about picking up the second book!

Rating:9/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas Books I Want to Read!

Over the years Christmas novels have become more and a more of a succes, which is probably why each year we are being treated to more and more new ones! I'm definitely not complaining, though, because there's nothing like sitting down on the couch with a lovely warm-hearted Christmas book on a cold December day after a long day of hard work <3
There are still quite a number of Christmas books I haven't had the chance to read yet, but which are definitely on my to-read list. You can find some of the titles I'm most excited about checking out below. Which Christmas books are you looking forward to reading this year? Don't hesitate to leave a comment! :)  

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Karen Swan - 'Christmas on Primrose Hill'

On Primrose Hill...

Twinkling lights brighten London's Primrose Hill as Christmas nears - but for Nettie Watson, it's not parties and presents that she wants.

Promises are made...

For Nettie, Christmas only serves as a stark reminder of the life she used to have... One day she made a promise to never leave home, and so far she's stayed true to her word.

Promises are broken...

Under the glaring spotlight of the world's media, Nettie is unexpectedly caught up in a 21st century storm... Her exploits have made her a global name and attracted the attention of one of the world's most eligible men - famous front man, Jamie Westlake. But now she has his attention, does she want to keep it?

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Carole Matthews - 'The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas'

Christmas is just around the corner but the women of The Chocolate Lovers' Club have more to worry about than present shopping...

Lucy loves running Chocolate Heaven but she hasn't spent time with her boyfriend, Aiden, in weeks. And then her ex-fiance turns up and things become even more complicated. Nadia hasn't let herself get close to a man in a long time, yet she can't help feeling drawn to Jacob. Will he be her last chance for a happy ending? Chantal and her husband, Ted, are besotted with their baby daughter Lana - but she's not sure that's enough to base a marriage on. Autumn is dealing with a tragedy that has hit too close to home. But when she doesn't get the support she needs from her fiance, will she look elsewhere for comfort? 

Can friendship overcome all in... The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas.

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Giovanna Fletcher - 'Dream a Little Christmas Dream'

Sarah's doing great. Okay, her dreams might still be totally bananas but real life is definitely back on track. She's got a fantastic job, amazing friends and plans to spend all Christmas wrapped up with Brett, her handsome boyfriend.

But after another night of increasingly bizarre dreams, Sarah wakes to find her housemate suddenly announcing she's moving out. And later that day Brett begins to act strangely. He's clearly hiding something - but what?
Soon Sarah can't help but wonder if she's living in a festive nightmare. Will any of her dreams come true for Christmas?

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Jenny Colgan - 'The Christmas Surprise'

Rosie Hopkins, newly engaged, is looking forward to an exciting year in the little sweetshop she owns and runs. But when fate strikes Rosie and her boyfriend, Stephen, a terrible blow, threatening everything they hold dear, it's going to take all their strength and the support of their families and their Lipton friends to hold them together.

After all, don't they say it takes a village to raise a child?

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Julia Williams - 'Make a Christmas Wish'

*What will you wish for this Christmas?*

Last Christmas, when Livvy was knocked down in the supermarket car park she certainly wasn’t ready to actually be dead! For months now she’s floated on the edge of the afterlife, generally making a nuisance of herself.

And she’s not ready to go just yet! She’s furious about the new woman in her husband’s life and she’s worried about her beloved son who doesn’t seem to be adjusting to life without her at all.

This Christmas, Livvy is given one last magical chance to make everything right. Will she take the gift she’s been given to create the perfect family Christmas?

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Claire Sandy - 'Snowed in for Christmas'

Everybody wants it to snow at Christmas... Don't they?

Asta's plane touches down in Ireland as the first flakes of snow begin to settle. 

The weather turns what should be a flying visit into a snowed-in Yuletide with her chaotic, eccentric family. Asta fled her village years ago, with a secret hidden deep within her. That secret is now a feisty sixteen year old, Kitty, who's keen to meet her long-lost relatives. 

There are many family mysteries among the presents under the lopsided Christmas tree. Missing the man she left behind in London, drawn to the man she meets in the snow, might there also be a cure for Asta's long-broken heart?

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Chrissie Manby - 'A Wedding at Christmas'

What comes to mind when you picture a wedding at Christmas? A gorgeous white dress accessorised with a thick velvet cape... bridesmaids in red velvet too? An arch of Christmas greenery: holly and ivy and boughs of fir. Candles and fairy lights. Snow!

Chelsea Benson has just twelve weeks to organise her perfect winter wedding. Her family and friends pitch in to help, but sisterly squabbling, issues with money and an Ice-Queen mother-in-law soon threaten Chelsea's plans for her big day. And that's without the firework fiasco...

Rescuing Chelsea's dream of a proper family wedding might just take all the magic of Christmas...

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Alexandra Brown - 'The Great Christmas Knit-Off'

Heartbroken after being jilted at the altar, Sybil has been saved from despair by her knitting obsession and now her home is filled to bursting with tea cosies, bobble hats, and jumpers. But, after discovering that she may have perpetrated the cock-up of the century at work, Sybil decides to make a hasty exit and, just weeks before Christmas, runs away to the picturesque village of Tindledale.

There, Sybil discovers Hettie’s House of Haberdashery, an emporium dedicated to the world of knitting and needle craft. But Hettie, the outspoken octogenarian owner, is struggling and now the shop is due for closure. And when Hettie decides that Sybil’s wonderfully wacky Christmas jumpers are just the thing to add a bit of excitement to her window display, something miraculous starts to happen… 

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Fiona Harper - 'The Little Shop of Hopes and Dreams'

Nicole Harrison is planning the proposal of the century. Too bad its not her own…

Nicole, a born organiser and true romantic, has created her dream job when she sets up the Hopes & Dreams proposal agency – staging YouTube worthy proposals…until she’s hired to plan a proposal by gorgeous photographer Alex Black’s girlfriend.

Alex is the New Year’s kiss that Nicole hasn’t been able to forget – and now she’s planning his wedding to someone else! But if she lets herself fall for Alex’s charms, her reputation and business will be ruined before it’s even got off the ground! Suddenly the girl whose always prepared is at a loss…and falling head over heels.

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Georgie Carter - 'The Perfect Christmas'

All I want for Christmas is you!

If you’re a wedding planner it’s best not to have affairs with married men. This is one cardinal rule that Robyn always abides by. But then she meets Jonathan…

After a delicious dalliance in the dance studio, Robyn and Jonathan fall truly, madly, deeply in love. Jonathan justifies his actions because his wife is a workaholic, while Robyn finds the glamour – free from any mundane concerns – thrilling.

But then the pressure mounts up: the guilt; the lies; the strain of it all. With the festive season approaching, can Robyn make this the best holiday ever or will it be the nightmare before Christmas?