Many thanks to Sarah and Kim Nash and publisher Bookouture for my spot on this Blog Tour.
This was a fun, light read which kept the spirit of Christmas shining bright right from September.
Having been hurt by her loved ones, Holly rushed to her Aunt Clara in order to get over the hurt and to find herself. Clara and her gang of girls made her a calendar of tasks to complete until Christmas. Some were quite funny, but each came from a place of love.
Donna Ashcroft’s book was warm and kind. It enveloped me into its loving arms, making me smile and laugh. The characters had me closely following them. Holly growth from quietly, capable to lively, outspoken was a sight to behold. It made me cheer. Finn was a contrary companion to her, outwardly outspoken but holding back a secret.
I loved Aunt Clara and the girls, their ideas often had funny results. But each made Holly open up and come out of her shell. It was sweet to see her blossoming. Friendships were made, and romance happened. Each brought a burst of happiness with it.
I wanted Holly to stand up for herself with her family, but perhaps a quiet assertive way ws much better. Overall, the book was sweet and heartwarming like Christmas, filled with cheer and hope. A good breakfast read.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and publisher, and this is my journey into its pages, straight from the heart!! STRICTLY HONEST AND UNBIASED.
All my reviews can be read here
It’s that time of year again, snowflakes are fluttering and the countdown to Christmas has begun! Holly Devine is returning to the only place that feels like home, hoping that some festive magic will help to turn her life around…
Twenty-seven-year-old Holly Devine has just had her heart well and truly broken. Hurt by the two people she loves the most, she flees to her eccentric Aunt Clara’s cosy cottage to hide away over the winter season. But kind, impulsive Aunt Clara has other ideas… She’s not about to see her favourite niece wallowing in sadness during the most wonderful time of the year. So, with the help of her close circle of friends and plenty of gin, she creates a handmade advent calendar for Holly.
Every day in December, Holly opens a new door and has a different task to complete. She soon finds herself asking out a complete stranger – gorgeous, cheeky pub landlord, Finn Jackson. But as handsome Finn gets involved in her festive challenges, Holly’s determination to avoid romance is put to the test. Still, Finn’s far too carefree and single for true love, isn’t he?
As Holly begins to embrace each day – a complete makeover, building the biggest snowman she’s ever seen, singing in a karaoke contest – Finn is there adding fun and laughter to every moment. Holly starts to realise that she can become the person she’s always wanted to be…
But a secret from Finn’s past threatens to turn Holly’s Christmas upside down and makes her question everything she has experienced in the last few weeks. Will Finn open up to Holly in time to show her how he really feels? And will she complete the advent calendar challenges and fall in love this Christmas?
Publication Date: October 2019
Publisher: Bookouture
12 Responses
As you know, I love Christmas stories and you have made this one sound like one I need to read. Wonderful review Shalini. Adding this one to my list.
The cover alone is precious!
Agreed ❤️
Seems to be a great gift for the beloved younger ones. Thank you for the hearttouching review, Shalini! Best wishes, Michael
Agreed thank you so much ❤️
❤️ 🙂
This sounds like a lovely festive read 🙂
It was certainly fun. Thank you so much ❤️
Sweet. I love that people were taking the focus away from themselves to help someone else!
Agreed. True spirit of Christmas ❤️
Love it!!
❤️ Thank you