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Hope Verdad Presents: The Bench
A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond
Francesca Flood
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - General
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Hope Verdad Presents: The Bench by Francesca Flood is a captivating collection of stories that explore the mysteries of life and death. Seated on a park bench, Kip, a man who has lost his wife and everything he owns, receives a sense of divine peace after speaking to a strange being. A grieving mother receives a message about unconditional love, while Liam, a boy who has lost his father, learns to forgive past mistakes. A prisoner comes to terms with his actions, becomes remorseful, and earns a chance to rebuild his life and bring happiness to others. Meanwhile, Cotton, an elderly man who fought in World War II, contemplates the ongoing issues of hate and violence throughout history. He meets a mysterious young man on the bench who reveals a deeper understanding of human nature, the concept of free will, and the potential for love to overcome hatred.
The Bench seeks to answer life's most profound questions, such as why bad things happen to good people, what happens in the afterlife, and why people harbor hatred for one another. Francesca Flood guides readers to these answers through relatable stories, conveying messages about loss, resilience, forgiveness, destiny, and free will. The stories also present a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of love in the afterlife. Our earthly perception of love is often limited and skewed, making us forget that we are all made of the same spirit and that death comes to everyone. The author discusses important concepts such as the seven deadly sins, heaven and hell, and coping with grief. The book contains religious themes that offer hope and comfort to the grieving and explore the afterlife. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates thought-provoking stories about life after death.
Hope Verdad Presents: The Bench by Francesca Flood is a captivating collection of stories that explore the mysteries of life and death. Seated on a park bench, Kip, a man who has lost his wife and everything he owns, receives a sense of divine peace after speaking to a strange being. A grieving mother receives a message about unconditional love, while Liam, a boy who has lost his father, learns to forgive past mistakes. A prisoner comes to terms with his actions, becomes remorseful, and earns a chance to rebuild his life and bring happiness to others. Meanwhile, Cotton, an elderly man who fought in World War II, contemplates the ongoing issues of hate and violence throughout history. He meets a mysterious young man on the bench who reveals a deeper understanding of human nature, the concept of free will, and the potential for love to overcome hatred.
The Bench seeks to answer life's most profound questions, such as why bad things happen to good people, what happens in the afterlife, and why people harbor hatred for one another. Francesca Flood guides readers to these answers through relatable stories, conveying messages about loss, resilience, forgiveness, destiny, and free will. The stories also present a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of love in the afterlife. Our earthly perception of love is often limited and skewed, making us forget that we are all made of the same spirit and that death comes to everyone. The author discusses important concepts such as the seven deadly sins, heaven and hell, and coping with grief. The book contains religious themes that offer hope and comfort to the grieving and explore the afterlife. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates thought-provoking stories about life after death.
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The Last Patient
Tudor Alexander
2025 Honorable Mention
375 Pages
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Fiction - General
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Tudor Alexander’s The Last Patient is a beautifully written story set against the backdrop of the historical upheaval of post-war Eastern Europe. The novel combines historical fiction with personal conflict, exploring a family’s struggles under communist oppression. The novel begins with the story of Kostea, a medical intern whose life is disrupted by the political upheaval of the time. Kostea’s personal struggles are closely linked to the wider social and political changes, making his story both intimate and expansive. Alexander expertly captures the era’s essence through detailed descriptions and well-developed characters, bringing the past to life with vivid realism. The book invites reflection on the impact of history on individual lives, making it a meaningful addition to the genre.
Tudor Alexander’s writing is strong with relatable and complex characters. Kostea is exceptionally well-crafted. The interactions between Kostea and his family, especially during moments of crisis, are portrayed with emotional depth and authenticity. One of the novel’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of the impact of political ideology on personal lives. Through Kostea’s experiences, Alexander delves into the moral compromises and decisions one must face under oppressive regimes. This thematic exploration is thought-provoking and deeply relevant, connecting with anyone interested in the intersections of personal integrity and political pressures. The Last Patient is a masterful blend of historical detail and personal drama. The narrative is both educational and emotionally engaging, making it a recommended read for those who appreciate historical novels that focus on the human element of historical events. The Last Patient is an excellent read for high school and college history classes. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the ending is unforgettable.
Tudor Alexander’s The Last Patient is a beautifully written story set against the backdrop of the historical upheaval of post-war Eastern Europe. The novel combines historical fiction with personal conflict, exploring a family’s struggles under communist oppression. The novel begins with the story of Kostea, a medical intern whose life is disrupted by the political upheaval of the time. Kostea’s personal struggles are closely linked to the wider social and political changes, making his story both intimate and expansive. Alexander expertly captures the era’s essence through detailed descriptions and well-developed characters, bringing the past to life with vivid realism. The book invites reflection on the impact of history on individual lives, making it a meaningful addition to the genre.
Tudor Alexander’s writing is strong with relatable and complex characters. Kostea is exceptionally well-crafted. The interactions between Kostea and his family, especially during moments of crisis, are portrayed with emotional depth and authenticity. One of the novel’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of the impact of political ideology on personal lives. Through Kostea’s experiences, Alexander delves into the moral compromises and decisions one must face under oppressive regimes. This thematic exploration is thought-provoking and deeply relevant, connecting with anyone interested in the intersections of personal integrity and political pressures. The Last Patient is a masterful blend of historical detail and personal drama. The narrative is both educational and emotionally engaging, making it a recommended read for those who appreciate historical novels that focus on the human element of historical events. The Last Patient is an excellent read for high school and college history classes. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the ending is unforgettable.
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The Heir of Two Worlds
Arianna Reed
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - General
Reviewed by Alija Turkovic for Readers' Favorite
The Heir of Two Worlds by Arianna Reed is a compelling tale of prohibited young love. The main character of this story is Prince Kael, who ventures into his kingdom's forbidden forested lands to clear his head. Kael grows tired of the unyielding dogma his father, King Ardan, uses to rule their kingdom. While in the woods, Kael crosses paths with a beautiful young witch, Elara. Instantly, he falls in love with her. Their encounter lingers in his mind and heart. His father, fearing the unknown and uncontrollable, sends scouts to the border to investigate the possible presence of witches. When the scouts report sightings of magic near the borders, the king proposes that they strike first before the witches get the chance to orchestrate an attack. Kael is torn between two opposing worlds. Will he choose his duty to his father (and kingdom) or his heart?
In The Heir of Two Worlds, Arianna Reed weaves a bewitching romantic fantasy that will enthrall readers from the very first page. Reed offers a fast-paced, engaging story filled with detailed world-building and a rousing plot that intertwines flawlessly. She skillfully covers themes like love, self-identity, deception, fear, choosing between two extremes, sacrifice, and loyalty. The forbidden love between Kael and Elara--and the conflict between their two worlds--create an intriguing storyline brimming with tension, drama, and adventure. Reed’s descriptive writing radiates from every page. She masterfully builds a unique world occupied by fascinating and relatable characters. The illustrations at the end of each chapter create an enigmatic and spellbinding story. The beautiful drawings amplify this magical world and its people even more. Fans of romantic fantasy and deeply interwoven narratives will love this charming read.
The Heir of Two Worlds by Arianna Reed is a compelling tale of prohibited young love. The main character of this story is Prince Kael, who ventures into his kingdom's forbidden forested lands to clear his head. Kael grows tired of the unyielding dogma his father, King Ardan, uses to rule their kingdom. While in the woods, Kael crosses paths with a beautiful young witch, Elara. Instantly, he falls in love with her. Their encounter lingers in his mind and heart. His father, fearing the unknown and uncontrollable, sends scouts to the border to investigate the possible presence of witches. When the scouts report sightings of magic near the borders, the king proposes that they strike first before the witches get the chance to orchestrate an attack. Kael is torn between two opposing worlds. Will he choose his duty to his father (and kingdom) or his heart?
In The Heir of Two Worlds, Arianna Reed weaves a bewitching romantic fantasy that will enthrall readers from the very first page. Reed offers a fast-paced, engaging story filled with detailed world-building and a rousing plot that intertwines flawlessly. She skillfully covers themes like love, self-identity, deception, fear, choosing between two extremes, sacrifice, and loyalty. The forbidden love between Kael and Elara--and the conflict between their two worlds--create an intriguing storyline brimming with tension, drama, and adventure. Reed’s descriptive writing radiates from every page. She masterfully builds a unique world occupied by fascinating and relatable characters. The illustrations at the end of each chapter create an enigmatic and spellbinding story. The beautiful drawings amplify this magical world and its people even more. Fans of romantic fantasy and deeply interwoven narratives will love this charming read.
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Jackie and the Magical Guys
Amy Linsamouth
2025 Bronze Medal
120 Pages
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Fiction - Graphic Novel/Comic
Reviewed by Gabriel Santos for Readers' Favorite
One hundred years from now, powerful monsters will annihilate humanity. The only hope lies with Jackie, a girl tasked with returning to the past and assembling a group of female heroes to prevent this tragedy. There are a few issues with this plan, however. The first problem is that Jackie is a sixteen-year-old with no field experience, but no one else is alive to do the job. The second problem is that, shortly after reaching the present, she has to face a rampaging monster without any preparation. Out of options, she picks a group of students to become female heroes... even though they’re all guys. Thus begins the graphic novel Jackie and the Magical Guys, by Amy Linsamouth, as Jackie and her new group of friends must use their abilities to save the world.
This first volume is a fast-paced introduction to the world, characters, and plot, not wasting any second in establishing the premise. I loved the short but action-packed time I spent with the story and characters. If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted romp filled with witty banter, eccentric personalities, and puns (lots and lots of puns), then look no further. Amy Linsamouth and Hamons, the illustrator, draw clear influences from anime and manga regarding character design, visual humor, tropes, and general style, so fans of Japanese media should find themselves at home. Overall, Jackie and the Magical Guys gave me a positive first impression, and I look forward to reading the following volumes.
One hundred years from now, powerful monsters will annihilate humanity. The only hope lies with Jackie, a girl tasked with returning to the past and assembling a group of female heroes to prevent this tragedy. There are a few issues with this plan, however. The first problem is that Jackie is a sixteen-year-old with no field experience, but no one else is alive to do the job. The second problem is that, shortly after reaching the present, she has to face a rampaging monster without any preparation. Out of options, she picks a group of students to become female heroes... even though they’re all guys. Thus begins the graphic novel Jackie and the Magical Guys, by Amy Linsamouth, as Jackie and her new group of friends must use their abilities to save the world.
This first volume is a fast-paced introduction to the world, characters, and plot, not wasting any second in establishing the premise. I loved the short but action-packed time I spent with the story and characters. If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted romp filled with witty banter, eccentric personalities, and puns (lots and lots of puns), then look no further. Amy Linsamouth and Hamons, the illustrator, draw clear influences from anime and manga regarding character design, visual humor, tropes, and general style, so fans of Japanese media should find themselves at home. Overall, Jackie and the Magical Guys gave me a positive first impression, and I look forward to reading the following volumes.
Recommend this book:
Chariots in the Sky
A Story About U.S. Assault Helicopter Pilots at War in Vietnam
Larry A Freeland
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Chariots in the Sky by Larry A. Freeland is a war novel that plunges readers right into the airborne chaos of the Vietnam War with unflinching realism and emotional clarity. We're with Captain Taylor St. James and his Huey helicopter crew, as the novel chronicles high-risk missions into places like the deadly A Shau Valley and Lam Son 719. What emerges is way more than a war story; a tribute to courage, brotherhood, and the quiet endurance required to survive under constant threat. The novel does not shy away from the brutality of combat, but also shines in the moments between battles: the tensions within the unit, the burden of leadership, and the fragility of hope.
Author Larry A. Freeland, himself a Vietnam veteran, has a strong sense of authority and compassion that elevates this novel above standard military fiction and makes it into something where you can really put yourself in the place of those experiencing conflict. There's something very raw and impactful about the visceral writing style, yet it never feels gratuitous or too shocking in any way. His prose captures both the technical precision of flight and the raw emotion of men facing impossible decisions. I found myself deeply invested in the crew’s fates, and the scenes in the air are some of the most gripping I have read. Freeland understands not only the tactics of war but the emotional weight it leaves behind. Overall, Chariots in the Sky is an essential, unforgettable novel about sacrifice, camaraderie, and the cost of duty in one of America’s most complex wars.
Chariots in the Sky by Larry A. Freeland is a war novel that plunges readers right into the airborne chaos of the Vietnam War with unflinching realism and emotional clarity. We're with Captain Taylor St. James and his Huey helicopter crew, as the novel chronicles high-risk missions into places like the deadly A Shau Valley and Lam Son 719. What emerges is way more than a war story; a tribute to courage, brotherhood, and the quiet endurance required to survive under constant threat. The novel does not shy away from the brutality of combat, but also shines in the moments between battles: the tensions within the unit, the burden of leadership, and the fragility of hope.
Author Larry A. Freeland, himself a Vietnam veteran, has a strong sense of authority and compassion that elevates this novel above standard military fiction and makes it into something where you can really put yourself in the place of those experiencing conflict. There's something very raw and impactful about the visceral writing style, yet it never feels gratuitous or too shocking in any way. His prose captures both the technical precision of flight and the raw emotion of men facing impossible decisions. I found myself deeply invested in the crew’s fates, and the scenes in the air are some of the most gripping I have read. Freeland understands not only the tactics of war but the emotional weight it leaves behind. Overall, Chariots in the Sky is an essential, unforgettable novel about sacrifice, camaraderie, and the cost of duty in one of America’s most complex wars.
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Sink the Rising Sun
Jon C. Gabriel
2025 Silver Medal
242 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Reviewed by P. Rosenthal for Readers' Favorite
Sink the Rising Sun by Jon C. Gabriel follows the journey of a twenty-five-year-old inexperienced naval officer named Benjamin Holt. During the chaos and destruction of World War II, he is given command of an aging submarine, newer crewmen, and outdated equipment. Their mission is to disrupt and destroy the supply lines of the Imperial Japanese Navy. Stationed in Albany, Australia, Holt navigates the waters of the Pacific as he and his crew search for the enemy in defense of the United States. “When danger struck, he got weirdly calm and analytical.” Thus, his command leaves little room for unavoidable politics and even less for thoughts of a doomed romance. Then again, it is best to act lest you be acted upon.
In times of war, it can be challenging to make a moral choice when every option feels wrong. In Sink the Rising Sun, Jon C. Gabriel introduces readers to military hero Benjamin Holt in this compelling war story. Readers will quickly become invested in the lives of Holt's crew and fellow officers. Gabriel does not hold back on authenticity; his vivid descriptions of life aboard a wartime submarine immerse readers in the heart of the action. This fast-paced page-turner is filled with philosophical insights, vernacular expressions, and bits of unexpected humor. Veterans, history buffs, and romance fans will not want to miss this book. Sink the Rising Sun is Gabriel’s debut novel, and as luck would have it, he promises, “There’s more to come.”
Sink the Rising Sun by Jon C. Gabriel follows the journey of a twenty-five-year-old inexperienced naval officer named Benjamin Holt. During the chaos and destruction of World War II, he is given command of an aging submarine, newer crewmen, and outdated equipment. Their mission is to disrupt and destroy the supply lines of the Imperial Japanese Navy. Stationed in Albany, Australia, Holt navigates the waters of the Pacific as he and his crew search for the enemy in defense of the United States. “When danger struck, he got weirdly calm and analytical.” Thus, his command leaves little room for unavoidable politics and even less for thoughts of a doomed romance. Then again, it is best to act lest you be acted upon.
In times of war, it can be challenging to make a moral choice when every option feels wrong. In Sink the Rising Sun, Jon C. Gabriel introduces readers to military hero Benjamin Holt in this compelling war story. Readers will quickly become invested in the lives of Holt's crew and fellow officers. Gabriel does not hold back on authenticity; his vivid descriptions of life aboard a wartime submarine immerse readers in the heart of the action. This fast-paced page-turner is filled with philosophical insights, vernacular expressions, and bits of unexpected humor. Veterans, history buffs, and romance fans will not want to miss this book. Sink the Rising Sun is Gabriel’s debut novel, and as luck would have it, he promises, “There’s more to come.”
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Between the Clouds and the River
Dave Mason
2025 Bronze Medal
386 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Between the Clouds and the River by Dave Mason tells the moving story of two characters whose lives are connected by the aftermath of World War II. Bernhardt Lang is a German officer forced to confront the brutal realities of war. His journey gradually shifts from the battlefield to his attempt to live a civilian life many years after the war. On the other hand, Joseph Holliman is a twelve-year-old boy struggling to cope with abandonment by his mother and an abusive father. Young Joseph is a constant victim of his father’s cruelty and bitterness. Intriguingly, he develops an impactful friendship with Frank Gardner, the man whose shed he deliberately burned down. Bernhardt and Joseph go on a lifelong journey, searching for their identities. This book details their breathtaking story!
Between the Clouds and the River is a masterful demonstration of storytelling by Dave Mason. I love how the author converges Bernhardt's and Joseph's stories. Bernhardt's journey commences in 1943, while Joseph's story begins in 1965. Although Bernhardt and Joseph vary in age, life experiences, and timeline, they are both trapped in life events that they desperately try to escape. Thus begin their captivating journeys of self-discovery and perseverance. Mason's vivid writing style beautifully reinforces their profound story arcs. From the beginning of the tale, I could easily visualize the various layers of Bernhardt's and Joseph's lives. I felt their anxieties, loss, and tribulations. I connected with these characters immediately and was drawn into every significant event that transpired throughout their lives. Their fight for identity and survival will leave a lasting emotional imprint on each reader. I sincerely hope that all fans of historical fiction will read this heartwarming book.
Between the Clouds and the River by Dave Mason tells the moving story of two characters whose lives are connected by the aftermath of World War II. Bernhardt Lang is a German officer forced to confront the brutal realities of war. His journey gradually shifts from the battlefield to his attempt to live a civilian life many years after the war. On the other hand, Joseph Holliman is a twelve-year-old boy struggling to cope with abandonment by his mother and an abusive father. Young Joseph is a constant victim of his father’s cruelty and bitterness. Intriguingly, he develops an impactful friendship with Frank Gardner, the man whose shed he deliberately burned down. Bernhardt and Joseph go on a lifelong journey, searching for their identities. This book details their breathtaking story!
Between the Clouds and the River is a masterful demonstration of storytelling by Dave Mason. I love how the author converges Bernhardt's and Joseph's stories. Bernhardt's journey commences in 1943, while Joseph's story begins in 1965. Although Bernhardt and Joseph vary in age, life experiences, and timeline, they are both trapped in life events that they desperately try to escape. Thus begin their captivating journeys of self-discovery and perseverance. Mason's vivid writing style beautifully reinforces their profound story arcs. From the beginning of the tale, I could easily visualize the various layers of Bernhardt's and Joseph's lives. I felt their anxieties, loss, and tribulations. I connected with these characters immediately and was drawn into every significant event that transpired throughout their lives. Their fight for identity and survival will leave a lasting emotional imprint on each reader. I sincerely hope that all fans of historical fiction will read this heartwarming book.
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The Empresario's Wife
The Woman at the Center of the Texas Revolution
Barbara H. Seeber
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Historical - Personage
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Empresario’s Wife by Barbara H. Seeber is a sweeping historical novel that brings to life the turbulent era of the Texas Revolution through the eyes of Sarah Seely DeWitt. In 1827, Sarah leaves behind the familiar comforts of St. Louis for the promise and peril of Texas. When she gets there, she finds herself entangled in a love triangle that will shape the course of her future. As political tensions escalate, her struggles merge with the fight for survival, testing her resilience and resolve. Based on true events, the novel offers a deeply personal perspective on one of the most defining periods in American history. Sarah’s journey from love and sacrifice to the heart of a revolution paints a vivid picture of the determination and strength required to shape a new world.
Author Barbara H. Seeber offers readers a compelling, character-driven narrative that captures the personal costs of war and the power of one woman’s choices perfectly, and it is an inspiring tale. I loved the rich and immersive historical details. It was unique to see an overlooked perspective of the Texas Revolution come to life and learn more about the hidden corners of history through the plot. Sarah Seely DeWitt is a compelling and courageous heroine, making history feel deeply personal thanks to the close narrative viewpoint that Seeber gives her and the emotional weight of her thoughts and dialogue. Seeber’s meticulous research shines through as we get deeper into the revolution, creating a setting that is both authentic and dramatic for the period but also has a lot in common with world turmoil now. Overall, The Empresario’s Wife is a gripping tale of love, loss, and survival in a time of immense change that I would recommend.
The Empresario’s Wife by Barbara H. Seeber is a sweeping historical novel that brings to life the turbulent era of the Texas Revolution through the eyes of Sarah Seely DeWitt. In 1827, Sarah leaves behind the familiar comforts of St. Louis for the promise and peril of Texas. When she gets there, she finds herself entangled in a love triangle that will shape the course of her future. As political tensions escalate, her struggles merge with the fight for survival, testing her resilience and resolve. Based on true events, the novel offers a deeply personal perspective on one of the most defining periods in American history. Sarah’s journey from love and sacrifice to the heart of a revolution paints a vivid picture of the determination and strength required to shape a new world.
Author Barbara H. Seeber offers readers a compelling, character-driven narrative that captures the personal costs of war and the power of one woman’s choices perfectly, and it is an inspiring tale. I loved the rich and immersive historical details. It was unique to see an overlooked perspective of the Texas Revolution come to life and learn more about the hidden corners of history through the plot. Sarah Seely DeWitt is a compelling and courageous heroine, making history feel deeply personal thanks to the close narrative viewpoint that Seeber gives her and the emotional weight of her thoughts and dialogue. Seeber’s meticulous research shines through as we get deeper into the revolution, creating a setting that is both authentic and dramatic for the period but also has a lot in common with world turmoil now. Overall, The Empresario’s Wife is a gripping tale of love, loss, and survival in a time of immense change that I would recommend.
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All the Christmas Vibes
A Holiday Romantic Comedy
Melissa Baldwin
2025 Silver Medal
230 Pages
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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:
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.
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