A Hopeful Christmas
I can't believe it's time for Christmas stories again! It seems like each year gets shorter and shorter. That being said, I really enjoyed each of these historical novellas centered around Christmas. Anneka Walker was the only author in this collection that I knew, so it was especially fun to discover some new-to-me writers!
Here's my brief thoughts on each story:
Lord Blakley's Gift by Anneka Walker
Miss Ivy Hunt and Lord Curtis Blakely are from two rival families whose feud years ago tore them apart. Not knowing this at first, upon meeting each other, they immediately formed a bond of friendship. Can these two be the glue that finally pieces the families back together? I love how Ivy helped Lord Blakely discover the real meaning of Christmas—the joy of giving to those who have next to nothing. Her generous heart changed him into the kind of gentleman any woman would fall in love with. These two were perfect together!
A Season of Hope by Sian Ann Bessey
Amelia Nesbitt's father passes away leaving the family practically destitute, all except for a run-down hunters cabin and lone goat. Lord Thomas Cunningham demands repayment when said goat eats his clothing while on the line drying. Will a Christmas miracle come in the form of Phillip—his son and Amelia's childhood friend—once he returned after many years? I enjoyed how these two pick up their friendship as if the years had never went by—and also how it turned into love. I also loved watching how they help soften Lord Cunningham's heart and show him the true meaning of Christmas; caring for one another and the bond of friendship.
Christmas by the Sea by Carla Kelly
Royal Navy surgeon Will Crenshaw longs for home & hearth with his wife and children. Coming home early after two years certainly wasn't how he expected to find it! This story was a bit different with Will already being married, but it was quite enjoyable to watch all the events unfold. Again, finding the true meaning of Christmas for the family was front and center.
Expectations at Canterwood by Krista Lynne Jensen
War-weary Richard Stanhope and spinster Marina Rowley wrap up this novella collection wonderfully! I loved watching their happily-ever-after unfold, in spite of a mistaken identity. That just adds to the charm of this story. I felt Richard was good for Marina and helped her to see her worth and worthy of love. A true “love conquers all” story!
I think any reader will find something to love about each story and come to care for the characters. These are heart-warming tales for the Christmas season where you'll be reminded of the true meaning of the holiday!
*I received a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
BackCover Blurb:
Kindle the spirit of the season as four of your favorite storytellers weave tales of love and hope in this charming yuletide collection. .
LORD BLAKELY’S GIFT When Miss Ivy Hunt and Lord Curtis Blakely establish a secret acquaintance, neither can deny that their feelings extend beyond friendship. But as the children of bitter rivals, it will take a Christmas miracle for this star-crossed pair to reach their happily ever after.
A SEASON OF HOPE Following the death of her father, Amelia knows Christmas will be lean. But when circumstances become dire, it is the unexpected arrival of a childhood friend that renews Amelia’s hope—both for the future and for love.
CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA After two years at sea with the Royal Navy, surgeon Will Crenshaw longs for a quiet Christmas with his family. But when unrest at home threatens to ruin the holidays, it takes the kindly intervention of a mysterious house sitter to remind them of the true meaning of the season.
EXPECTATIONS AT CANTERWOOD Marina Rowley is a spinster, Richard Stanhope a war-weary military man. A case of mistaken identity throws them together, but the unexpected stirrings of their hearts lead to an unforgettable holiday romance.
I'm looking forward to reading this! Lovely review, Trixi!
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