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Recommend this book:
Miracle on 134th Street
Chris Storm
2026 Finalist
326 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Miracle on 134th Street by Chris Storm centers on Kelly O’Sullivan, a Manhattan art history graduate whose dream of working in museums slowly gives way to financial reality. When money gets tight and her responsibilities at home demand economic stability, she reluctantly steps into her family’s long-standing profession as a chauffeur for Elite Drivers, the same company that has employed the O’Sullivans for generations. Her new assignment puts her behind the wheel for Marcus Irving, a high-profile and demanding tech executive whose wealth and lifestyle are worlds away from Kelly’s life on 134th Street. Guided and sometimes scrutinized by the sharp and meticulous Mr. Perez, Kelly must learn to survive in an environment of strict rules and unspoken expectations.
What makes Miracle on 134th Street by Chris Storm stand out is its grounded emotional tone and its honest look at the space between ambition and obligation. As she moves between her modest home life and the polished grandeur of Central Park West, subtle changes begin to take place, hinting that something unexpected may be stirring beneath the surface. The prose gives readers a look at Kelly’s private doubts, determination, and resilience. The secondary characters, particularly Mr. Perez and Kelly’s father, add warmth and dimension, giving the novel a sense of authenticity and realism. While the pacing may feel slow for readers expecting high drama, those who appreciate character-driven stories about class, ambition, and quiet endurance will find the book deeply relatable and engrossing. It’s a sincere and emotionally affecting story that stays with you, and one I highly recommend.
Miracle on 134th Street by Chris Storm centers on Kelly O’Sullivan, a Manhattan art history graduate whose dream of working in museums slowly gives way to financial reality. When money gets tight and her responsibilities at home demand economic stability, she reluctantly steps into her family’s long-standing profession as a chauffeur for Elite Drivers, the same company that has employed the O’Sullivans for generations. Her new assignment puts her behind the wheel for Marcus Irving, a high-profile and demanding tech executive whose wealth and lifestyle are worlds away from Kelly’s life on 134th Street. Guided and sometimes scrutinized by the sharp and meticulous Mr. Perez, Kelly must learn to survive in an environment of strict rules and unspoken expectations.
What makes Miracle on 134th Street by Chris Storm stand out is its grounded emotional tone and its honest look at the space between ambition and obligation. As she moves between her modest home life and the polished grandeur of Central Park West, subtle changes begin to take place, hinting that something unexpected may be stirring beneath the surface. The prose gives readers a look at Kelly’s private doubts, determination, and resilience. The secondary characters, particularly Mr. Perez and Kelly’s father, add warmth and dimension, giving the novel a sense of authenticity and realism. While the pacing may feel slow for readers expecting high drama, those who appreciate character-driven stories about class, ambition, and quiet endurance will find the book deeply relatable and engrossing. It’s a sincere and emotionally affecting story that stays with you, and one I highly recommend.
Recommend this book:
A Christmas Reborn
A New Era in Scrooge's Redemption
Scott A. Johnson
2026 Honorable Mention
210 Pages
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Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
A Christmas Reborn: A New Era in Scrooge's Redemption by Scott A. Johnson follows Ebenezer Scrooge, who assumes responsibility for the welfare of his late nephew Fred’s family and the broader impoverished population of London. Scrooge mentors children, particularly Tom, providing education, moral guidance, and creative opportunities, while supporting Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim. Scrooge faces opposition from industrial magnates who seek to discredit him, with threats to his reputation and challenges to his charitable programs. But when Tom is framed for theft in a scheme orchestrated by corrupt city leaders, Scrooge must try to intervene in the legal system and expose a conspiracy. He must safeguard Tom from London’s elite and the very real possibility of Tom's transportation to the penal colonies in Australia.
A Christmas Reborn by Scott A. Johnson is a thoughtful continuation of the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Johnson imbues the sequel with a new wave of the supernatural and social conscience. I love the visits from The Wanderer and Jacob Marley, who, in a nod to the original, appear to guide Scrooge through visions of London’s possible futures, showing him that his actions can shape lives far beyond this era. Johnson makes the story his own when accusations against Tom for theft lead to a frightening arrest during a Christmas gathering. The Victorian period details and laws are all on point, and between the ghostly visitations, moral awakening, and tangible acts of kindness, this book is a celebration of hope, unity, and the transformative power of giving, leaving readers joyful and uplifted by the enduring spirit of Christmas.
A Christmas Reborn: A New Era in Scrooge's Redemption by Scott A. Johnson follows Ebenezer Scrooge, who assumes responsibility for the welfare of his late nephew Fred’s family and the broader impoverished population of London. Scrooge mentors children, particularly Tom, providing education, moral guidance, and creative opportunities, while supporting Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim. Scrooge faces opposition from industrial magnates who seek to discredit him, with threats to his reputation and challenges to his charitable programs. But when Tom is framed for theft in a scheme orchestrated by corrupt city leaders, Scrooge must try to intervene in the legal system and expose a conspiracy. He must safeguard Tom from London’s elite and the very real possibility of Tom's transportation to the penal colonies in Australia.
A Christmas Reborn by Scott A. Johnson is a thoughtful continuation of the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Johnson imbues the sequel with a new wave of the supernatural and social conscience. I love the visits from The Wanderer and Jacob Marley, who, in a nod to the original, appear to guide Scrooge through visions of London’s possible futures, showing him that his actions can shape lives far beyond this era. Johnson makes the story his own when accusations against Tom for theft lead to a frightening arrest during a Christmas gathering. The Victorian period details and laws are all on point, and between the ghostly visitations, moral awakening, and tangible acts of kindness, this book is a celebration of hope, unity, and the transformative power of giving, leaving readers joyful and uplifted by the enduring spirit of Christmas.
Recommend this book:
Holly & Heartbeats
Working for Love Book 6
Amber W. Lynne
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Francis Mont for Readers' Favorite
Holly & Heartbeats by Amber W. Lynne is a heartwarming story about a second chance at love. Dr. Jessica Louis doesn’t want to spend Christmas in her lonely apartment, so she reserves a week at the Holly House Inn, up on a mountain range. All she wants is to relax, alone, without the constant demands on her time and energy that come with her job at a busy clinic. She meets Graham Harper, the inn-keeper, and his two 8-year-old twin daughters, and all her holiday plans crumble. Clara and Noelle steal her heart from the moment she meets them. Graham, who had lost his wife years ago, comes across first as a grumpy, even unfriendly host, but can’t help being attracted to the young doctor who seems loving, playful, and competent, when a massive snowstorm brings down their power, and they have to improvise. This draws them a lot closer, and a quiet but firm understanding develops between them. When her week-long vacation ends, they both know that unavoidable decisions must be made.
I very much enjoyed this story because it resonated with me on a personal level. I used to be a single father with two young children, so I was the perfect reader to judge if the characters were believable. I was very impressed with the characters, both beautifully portrayed and lovingly described. It is a slow read; nothing dramatic or exciting happens. The pacing, however, is perfect, so the reader has time to immerse him or herself in the masterfully created magic. I was impressed with the literary style, often almost poetic in its descriptions, and the incredible details made me feel as if I were present, watching the scenes as they unfolded. I very highly recommend Holly & Heartbeats by Amber W. Lynne to readers who crave well-written and believable love stories, just in time for the holiday season.
Holly & Heartbeats by Amber W. Lynne is a heartwarming story about a second chance at love. Dr. Jessica Louis doesn’t want to spend Christmas in her lonely apartment, so she reserves a week at the Holly House Inn, up on a mountain range. All she wants is to relax, alone, without the constant demands on her time and energy that come with her job at a busy clinic. She meets Graham Harper, the inn-keeper, and his two 8-year-old twin daughters, and all her holiday plans crumble. Clara and Noelle steal her heart from the moment she meets them. Graham, who had lost his wife years ago, comes across first as a grumpy, even unfriendly host, but can’t help being attracted to the young doctor who seems loving, playful, and competent, when a massive snowstorm brings down their power, and they have to improvise. This draws them a lot closer, and a quiet but firm understanding develops between them. When her week-long vacation ends, they both know that unavoidable decisions must be made.
I very much enjoyed this story because it resonated with me on a personal level. I used to be a single father with two young children, so I was the perfect reader to judge if the characters were believable. I was very impressed with the characters, both beautifully portrayed and lovingly described. It is a slow read; nothing dramatic or exciting happens. The pacing, however, is perfect, so the reader has time to immerse him or herself in the masterfully created magic. I was impressed with the literary style, often almost poetic in its descriptions, and the incredible details made me feel as if I were present, watching the scenes as they unfolded. I very highly recommend Holly & Heartbeats by Amber W. Lynne to readers who crave well-written and believable love stories, just in time for the holiday season.
Recommend this book:
A Christmas Wish
Regina D Puckett
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
A Christmas Wish by Regina D Puckett is a gentle seasonal romance story. Isabella’s family has one tradition – making a Christmas wish – and it’s a tradition she hates, especially when a death in the family has left her grieving. She can’t see the point of making wishes that never come true, so why bother? A chance meeting at the Christmas tree lot could be the catalyst she needs to start believing in wishes again when she meets a dirty, disheveled-looking Santa. Ian has just lost his job as a volunteer Santa, in no small part because the Santa suit his brother gave him left a lot to be desired! Isabella takes pity on Ian, a small kindness that could change both their lives forever. Will the time they spend together help them both see that the magic of Christmas hasn’t gone?
A Christmas Wish by Regina D Puckett is a lovely seasonal tale about finding love when all seems lost. It’s an easy read you’ll not want to put down until it’s finished. The main characters are wonderfully well-developed, real people with real feelings and problems they struggle to overcome. You’ll find it easy to relate to at least one of them, and they are all very likable people. It’s a story of hope, one that shows us how moving on from tragedy is possible with the right help and support. There is a twist in the middle that you won’t see coming, but overall it’s a feel-good tale that will put you right in the mood for Christmas and bring a tear to your eye at the end – in a good way, though. Wonderful story and highly recommended in the season of goodwill.
A Christmas Wish by Regina D Puckett is a gentle seasonal romance story. Isabella’s family has one tradition – making a Christmas wish – and it’s a tradition she hates, especially when a death in the family has left her grieving. She can’t see the point of making wishes that never come true, so why bother? A chance meeting at the Christmas tree lot could be the catalyst she needs to start believing in wishes again when she meets a dirty, disheveled-looking Santa. Ian has just lost his job as a volunteer Santa, in no small part because the Santa suit his brother gave him left a lot to be desired! Isabella takes pity on Ian, a small kindness that could change both their lives forever. Will the time they spend together help them both see that the magic of Christmas hasn’t gone?
A Christmas Wish by Regina D Puckett is a lovely seasonal tale about finding love when all seems lost. It’s an easy read you’ll not want to put down until it’s finished. The main characters are wonderfully well-developed, real people with real feelings and problems they struggle to overcome. You’ll find it easy to relate to at least one of them, and they are all very likable people. It’s a story of hope, one that shows us how moving on from tragedy is possible with the right help and support. There is a twist in the middle that you won’t see coming, but overall it’s a feel-good tale that will put you right in the mood for Christmas and bring a tear to your eye at the end – in a good way, though. Wonderful story and highly recommended in the season of goodwill.
Recommend this book:
The Christmas Fib
Beth Carter
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Rejoice in the spirit of the upcoming holiday season with a dose of contemporary romance in Beth Carter's The Christmas Fib. Brooke Hamilton's workaholic lifestyle as a corporate headhunter has finally taken a toll on her after her father's unexpected passing. Seeking to recuperate, Brooke travels to the mountains of Colorado and finds herself a place in the cozy Snowflake Inn, located in the quaint little town of Breckenridge. With a delightful innkeeper as a host, as well as the other quirky guests at the inn, Brooke has enough on her plate without the arrival of the handsome Hudson Prescott. Meanwhile, in a surprise encounter, she learns that her mother, Julie, is already seeing someone named Evan. As Brooke and Hudson's bond grows, they discover that the very future of the Snowflake Inn is at stake. Can they help save the inn?
The Christmas Fib is one of those feel-good stories that brings warmth into your heart. This is the perfect book for the Christmas season. Laced with romance, humor, and charm, the captivating narrative puts you in a state of hopeful optimism that only increases as the story progresses. Author Beth Carter has created some truly likable characters who charm their way into your heart. Even their odd quirks and eccentricities are adorable. Brooke and Hudson are a likable pair who are easy to root for. You want to see them end up together. Carter also incorporates a decent amount of drama into the narrative, raising the stakes so our protagonists have some challenging circumstances to overcome. All in all, it's a fantastic book for the holidays -- a cozy read that everyone can enjoy!
Rejoice in the spirit of the upcoming holiday season with a dose of contemporary romance in Beth Carter's The Christmas Fib. Brooke Hamilton's workaholic lifestyle as a corporate headhunter has finally taken a toll on her after her father's unexpected passing. Seeking to recuperate, Brooke travels to the mountains of Colorado and finds herself a place in the cozy Snowflake Inn, located in the quaint little town of Breckenridge. With a delightful innkeeper as a host, as well as the other quirky guests at the inn, Brooke has enough on her plate without the arrival of the handsome Hudson Prescott. Meanwhile, in a surprise encounter, she learns that her mother, Julie, is already seeing someone named Evan. As Brooke and Hudson's bond grows, they discover that the very future of the Snowflake Inn is at stake. Can they help save the inn?
The Christmas Fib is one of those feel-good stories that brings warmth into your heart. This is the perfect book for the Christmas season. Laced with romance, humor, and charm, the captivating narrative puts you in a state of hopeful optimism that only increases as the story progresses. Author Beth Carter has created some truly likable characters who charm their way into your heart. Even their odd quirks and eccentricities are adorable. Brooke and Hudson are a likable pair who are easy to root for. You want to see them end up together. Carter also incorporates a decent amount of drama into the narrative, raising the stakes so our protagonists have some challenging circumstances to overcome. All in all, it's a fantastic book for the holidays -- a cozy read that everyone can enjoy!
Recommend this book:
Thistle in the Mistletoe
Margaret Izard
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Thistle in the Mistletoe by Margaret Izard is a holiday-themed novel that blends romance with historical intrigue. The story follows Roderick MacDougall, a laird torn between duty and desire, and Mary Comyn, a woman caught in a web of familial betrayal. Forced into an arranged marriage by an English king to end their clans' feud, Roderick and Mary must navigate mistrust and hidden dangers to find love and peace during a Christmas wedding. As betrayal threatens to unravel their fragile alliance, they must decide if love can truly conquer all.
Author Margaret Izard has crafted a dazzling combination of authentic historical tension and stacks of drama and romantic allure in a compelling narrative. The vivid descriptions immerse readers in the world of Scottish clan conflicts with rugged landscapes and atmospheric scenes that perfectly match the struggles that the central couple must undergo to find and strengthen their love. Izard’s ability to evoke deep emotional responses from her readers through the protagonists' internal struggles is impressive, with rich character development and narrative detail that lets readers into Mary's and Roderick’s deepest inner thoughts. There’s a great balance of period-accurate feelings, bound by duty, politics, and their roles at the time, but with a deeply human longing for love and connection that is universal to modern readers too. The message of love overcoming deep-seated rivalries is a powerful central theme that will keep readers hanging on to the very end to see what happens. Overall, Thistle in the Mistletoe is an exciting drama, and an ideal read for romance fans, especially in the holiday season.
Thistle in the Mistletoe by Margaret Izard is a holiday-themed novel that blends romance with historical intrigue. The story follows Roderick MacDougall, a laird torn between duty and desire, and Mary Comyn, a woman caught in a web of familial betrayal. Forced into an arranged marriage by an English king to end their clans' feud, Roderick and Mary must navigate mistrust and hidden dangers to find love and peace during a Christmas wedding. As betrayal threatens to unravel their fragile alliance, they must decide if love can truly conquer all.
Author Margaret Izard has crafted a dazzling combination of authentic historical tension and stacks of drama and romantic allure in a compelling narrative. The vivid descriptions immerse readers in the world of Scottish clan conflicts with rugged landscapes and atmospheric scenes that perfectly match the struggles that the central couple must undergo to find and strengthen their love. Izard’s ability to evoke deep emotional responses from her readers through the protagonists' internal struggles is impressive, with rich character development and narrative detail that lets readers into Mary's and Roderick’s deepest inner thoughts. There’s a great balance of period-accurate feelings, bound by duty, politics, and their roles at the time, but with a deeply human longing for love and connection that is universal to modern readers too. The message of love overcoming deep-seated rivalries is a powerful central theme that will keep readers hanging on to the very end to see what happens. Overall, Thistle in the Mistletoe is an exciting drama, and an ideal read for romance fans, especially in the holiday season.
Recommend this book:
Call Me Crazy
A Dickens Holiday Romance Book 31
Kathryn Hills
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Call Me Crazy: A Dickens Holiday Romance Book 31 by Kathryn Hills will appeal to fans of drama, contemporary romance, social issues, and holiday reads. A prominent businessman, Trevor Branstone, arrives in the cozy town of Dickens. He is looking for a peaceful Christmas break from his hectic life in New York. The local Animal Control Officer, Becca Gallagher, invades his privacy while trying to trap a stray dog. Trevor is intrigued by this dedicated woman helping animals day and night. Becca avoids romantic encounters as her job and the non-profit she runs consume all her time and energy. Trevor keeps finding unorthodox ways to support her on her mission, and Becca starts feeling more than just gratitude.
Kathryn Hills's Call Me Crazy is a beautifully written character-driven story. The author carefully develops the cast of endearing and complex characters. Becca is one of those unsung heroes, saving neglected and abused animals. At first, she seems harsh, but soon, we learn that she perceives herself with a healthy dose of humor. The bright and compassionate Trevor never judges others and instantly offers Becca a helping hand. Trevor good naturally spends time with a hospitable coffee shop owner and only chuckles when his overly caring personal assistant, Agnes, calls first responders, imagining he's in danger. Trevor and Becca seem so different, yet they have much in common. It's a pleasure to watch these two characters. The town's name promises a fascinating Christmas story, and Kathryn keeps us entertained and enthralled until the final heartwarming twist.
Call Me Crazy: A Dickens Holiday Romance Book 31 by Kathryn Hills will appeal to fans of drama, contemporary romance, social issues, and holiday reads. A prominent businessman, Trevor Branstone, arrives in the cozy town of Dickens. He is looking for a peaceful Christmas break from his hectic life in New York. The local Animal Control Officer, Becca Gallagher, invades his privacy while trying to trap a stray dog. Trevor is intrigued by this dedicated woman helping animals day and night. Becca avoids romantic encounters as her job and the non-profit she runs consume all her time and energy. Trevor keeps finding unorthodox ways to support her on her mission, and Becca starts feeling more than just gratitude.
Kathryn Hills's Call Me Crazy is a beautifully written character-driven story. The author carefully develops the cast of endearing and complex characters. Becca is one of those unsung heroes, saving neglected and abused animals. At first, she seems harsh, but soon, we learn that she perceives herself with a healthy dose of humor. The bright and compassionate Trevor never judges others and instantly offers Becca a helping hand. Trevor good naturally spends time with a hospitable coffee shop owner and only chuckles when his overly caring personal assistant, Agnes, calls first responders, imagining he's in danger. Trevor and Becca seem so different, yet they have much in common. It's a pleasure to watch these two characters. The town's name promises a fascinating Christmas story, and Kathryn keeps us entertained and enthralled until the final heartwarming twist.
Recommend this book:
Switched at Death
A Venus Bixby Mystery
Valerie Taylor
2025 Bronze Medal
332 Pages
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Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In Switched at Death: A Venus Bixby Mystery by Valerie Taylor, the body of Mayor Simon Duffy was discovered beneath the stage set for the yearly tree lighting event. Initial reports indicated that the mayor had succumbed to cardiac arrest, but something felt off, prompting the state coroner to be summoned. The autopsy revealed that a lethal heart rhythm led to Simon’s heart ceasing to pump blood, suggesting he might have been electrocuted or murdered. Detective Oscar Donovan took on the case and suspected that there was more to the circumstances surrounding Simon's death than appeared on the surface. While Venus was at the funeral home, Bixby’s Dozen was vandalized, an act that seemed to be fueled by a passion for crime. Oscar requested Venus's help in uncovering any connections between Simon’s death and the vandalism at Bixby’s Dozen.
In Switched at Death by Valerie Taylor, the plot is intriguing and captivating. A great amount of action ensures that there is never a dull moment. With all the twists and turns, I could never predict what would happen next. I found myself engrossed in the story, eagerly flipping the pages so as not to miss anything. The characters felt authentic and relatable. Everyone in the community was familiar with one another, and there was the typical rivalry among them. Nothing hinted at the impending accident that would disrupt the entire community. This story was superbly crafted and contained all the elements of a great mystery. It far surpassed my expectations and was much more than I had anticipated.
In Switched at Death: A Venus Bixby Mystery by Valerie Taylor, the body of Mayor Simon Duffy was discovered beneath the stage set for the yearly tree lighting event. Initial reports indicated that the mayor had succumbed to cardiac arrest, but something felt off, prompting the state coroner to be summoned. The autopsy revealed that a lethal heart rhythm led to Simon’s heart ceasing to pump blood, suggesting he might have been electrocuted or murdered. Detective Oscar Donovan took on the case and suspected that there was more to the circumstances surrounding Simon's death than appeared on the surface. While Venus was at the funeral home, Bixby’s Dozen was vandalized, an act that seemed to be fueled by a passion for crime. Oscar requested Venus's help in uncovering any connections between Simon’s death and the vandalism at Bixby’s Dozen.
In Switched at Death by Valerie Taylor, the plot is intriguing and captivating. A great amount of action ensures that there is never a dull moment. With all the twists and turns, I could never predict what would happen next. I found myself engrossed in the story, eagerly flipping the pages so as not to miss anything. The characters felt authentic and relatable. Everyone in the community was familiar with one another, and there was the typical rivalry among them. Nothing hinted at the impending accident that would disrupt the entire community. This story was superbly crafted and contained all the elements of a great mystery. It far surpassed my expectations and was much more than I had anticipated.
Recommend this book:
All the Christmas Vibes
A Holiday Romantic Comedy
Melissa Baldwin
2025 Silver Medal
230 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
All the Christmas Vibes by Melissa Baldwin begins with Sophie, a dental hygienist from Texas, visiting Tennessee to spend the holidays with her close friend Blair. Blair has moved to be with her boyfriend, hockey player Cooper. While in Tennessee, Sophie meets Jake, the coach of the Tennessee Wolves, and is immediately drawn to him. Sophie also learns that Traci, Jake's ex-girlfriend, is part of Blair’s social circle, and has a complicated past with Jake. As Sophie and Jake grow closer, Sophie is torn between her developing feelings for him and the reality that her stay in Tennessee is temporary. Throughout her visit, Sophie considers her life back in Texas, her changing career path, her uncertain future with Jake, and Traci's desire to give a relationship with Jake another chance.
All the Christmas Vibes by Melissa Baldwin is a really wonderful, cozy, and lighthearted escape, perfect for the festive season. Baldwin's writing is fluid and I liked that the first-person point of view dances between Sophie and Jake. Sophie is likable, mostly because she is thoughtful about her feelings for Jake and the hurdles they're up against, but also because she is relatively sympathetic toward Traci. Outside the blossoming romance, I had loads of fun with the pop culture references. Now that I know Taylor Swift gifts are a thing, my entire Christmas wish list is in danger of being changed. This is a story filled with all the warmth and humor we look for in a Hallmark movie-style book, and is ideal for lovers of Kelly Clarkson holiday tunes and all things festive. Very highly recommended.
All the Christmas Vibes by Melissa Baldwin begins with Sophie, a dental hygienist from Texas, visiting Tennessee to spend the holidays with her close friend Blair. Blair has moved to be with her boyfriend, hockey player Cooper. While in Tennessee, Sophie meets Jake, the coach of the Tennessee Wolves, and is immediately drawn to him. Sophie also learns that Traci, Jake's ex-girlfriend, is part of Blair’s social circle, and has a complicated past with Jake. As Sophie and Jake grow closer, Sophie is torn between her developing feelings for him and the reality that her stay in Tennessee is temporary. Throughout her visit, Sophie considers her life back in Texas, her changing career path, her uncertain future with Jake, and Traci's desire to give a relationship with Jake another chance.
All the Christmas Vibes by Melissa Baldwin is a really wonderful, cozy, and lighthearted escape, perfect for the festive season. Baldwin's writing is fluid and I liked that the first-person point of view dances between Sophie and Jake. Sophie is likable, mostly because she is thoughtful about her feelings for Jake and the hurdles they're up against, but also because she is relatively sympathetic toward Traci. Outside the blossoming romance, I had loads of fun with the pop culture references. Now that I know Taylor Swift gifts are a thing, my entire Christmas wish list is in danger of being changed. This is a story filled with all the warmth and humor we look for in a Hallmark movie-style book, and is ideal for lovers of Kelly Clarkson holiday tunes and all things festive. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
 is a continuation of Tamara Ferguson’s engaging romance series set around Crystal Lake and its rehabilitation center for wounded military personnel. Sergeant Matt Johnston has returned to his family’s estate near Crystal Lake to search for something a blackmailer bel...){kind=link}
Two Hearts’ Christmas Surrender
Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 31
Tamara Ferguson
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Fiction - Holiday
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
Two Hearts’ Christmas Surrender (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 31) is a continuation of Tamara Ferguson’s engaging romance series set around Crystal Lake and its rehabilitation center for wounded military personnel. Sergeant Matt Johnston has returned to his family’s estate near Crystal Lake to search for something a blackmailer believes must be hidden somewhere in his family’s sprawling mansion. Singer Cara Naughton also has her reasons for coming to Crystal Lake; mostly to escape her hidden, dark past. When their paths cross, the attraction is instantaneous, and just maybe they have found the chance to move forward with their lives, together, without fear and shame. But some mysteries still need to be unraveled and solved first.
As an immense fan of Tamara Ferguson’s work, Two Hearts’ Christmas Surrender did not disappoint in any way. By setting this series in and around Crystal Lake, and with each new story including the usual supporting cast of characters that readers have come to know and love, picking up a new novel in the series is like receiving a warm hug from your loved ones when you return home. I particularly enjoy the stability and setting of each iteration, as those familiar characters from past works drift in and out of the lives of the central pair. Ferguson’s ability to create hot, steamy, sexual tension and release without resorting to crassness is one of the highlights of her novels and often is the climax of a long journey toward fulfillment. Her plotting and ability to tie everything back to a generational child sex-trafficking ring operating out of the area is what gives the whole series an air of continuity, and her salute to the brave men and women of the armed forces rings true throughout all the books. This is a wonderfully warm and sweet romance that I greatly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Two Hearts’ Christmas Surrender (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 31) is a continuation of Tamara Ferguson’s engaging romance series set around Crystal Lake and its rehabilitation center for wounded military personnel. Sergeant Matt Johnston has returned to his family’s estate near Crystal Lake to search for something a blackmailer believes must be hidden somewhere in his family’s sprawling mansion. Singer Cara Naughton also has her reasons for coming to Crystal Lake; mostly to escape her hidden, dark past. When their paths cross, the attraction is instantaneous, and just maybe they have found the chance to move forward with their lives, together, without fear and shame. But some mysteries still need to be unraveled and solved first.
As an immense fan of Tamara Ferguson’s work, Two Hearts’ Christmas Surrender did not disappoint in any way. By setting this series in and around Crystal Lake, and with each new story including the usual supporting cast of characters that readers have come to know and love, picking up a new novel in the series is like receiving a warm hug from your loved ones when you return home. I particularly enjoy the stability and setting of each iteration, as those familiar characters from past works drift in and out of the lives of the central pair. Ferguson’s ability to create hot, steamy, sexual tension and release without resorting to crassness is one of the highlights of her novels and often is the climax of a long journey toward fulfillment. Her plotting and ability to tie everything back to a generational child sex-trafficking ring operating out of the area is what gives the whole series an air of continuity, and her salute to the brave men and women of the armed forces rings true throughout all the books. This is a wonderfully warm and sweet romance that I greatly enjoyed and highly recommend.
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