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leighanneprin's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
leslie_books_and_socks_rock's review
4.0
You are going to want to grab this book and cozy up in blankets. This is such a sweet story and short novella but it puts you in the Christmas mood from a Christmas carnival to family time to the smells of the season like fresh baked cinnamon rolls. Like seriously- I need some cinnamon rolls!
a_ab's review against another edition
3.0
2.3-ish *s, rounded up for good intentions. I liked another book by this author, so when I wanted something short and sweet, I decided to try this novella. It sort of fits the bill. The writing is somewhat awkward and it reads more like an unedited first draft than a real book, which got partially confirmed in the acknowledgments - this book clearly needed more effort than the month allotted to it could afford.
Also, hilariously, the author did not seem to know the meaning of the word "sadistic" and none of her editors or beta readers were kind enough to tell her. It's not a nice word though, so, perhaps, in this case ignorance is bliss.
The book also spent too much time hiding the truth from the reader, while billboard-sign hinting at it, and instead that time would have been much better spent allowing the characters to figure out their fully informed reality.
Also, hilariously, the author did not seem to know the meaning of the word "sadistic" and none of her editors or beta readers were kind enough to tell her. It's not a nice word though, so, perhaps, in this case ignorance is bliss.
The book also spent too much time hiding the truth from the reader, while billboard-sign hinting at it, and instead that time would have been much better spent allowing the characters to figure out their fully informed reality.
talesuponmyshelf_'s review against another edition
4.0
What a sweet, quick second chance romance! But it’s not just fluff. I love that we see deep into their characters in such a short time. I love the small town vibes and the way they come back together.
thecleanreadbookclub's review against another edition
4.0
Christmas novellas are my favorite! I love a quick, pick-me-up for the busy holiday season. This book was so fun and satisfying. I could relate to Natalie’s baggage in so many ways. I love seeing characters come to accept everything about themselves despite what they see as a “flaw” or “deal-breaker”, and a love interest that is able to stand by someone no matter what.
This is a fun, yet easy read that will have you hoping for Christmas miracles! I was given a complimentary copy of this book-all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a fun, yet easy read that will have you hoping for Christmas miracles! I was given a complimentary copy of this book-all thoughts and opinions are my own.
a_neverending_tbr's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was a very well-written, sweet Christmas novella. I usually struggle with the pacing of novellas but since this is a second-chance romance trope, it worked really well. Natalie’s problem is a heartbreaking issue and while she could have handled it all better, her hurt and choice was understandable. I loved that they both hadn’t moved on to serous relationships because they truly loved each other. You are promised a happily ever after in a short, quick package.
Romantic Content: Kisses
Romantic Content: Kisses
alexlcriddle's review against another edition
4.0
This was such a cute second-chance romance. The festive small town feel was perfect and helped to alleviate some of the sadness Natalie was battling because of her secret. Both Natalie and Cade were wonderfully developed characters and reading from both of their perspectives was a treat. All of the characters were realistic and added to the believability of the story. This was my second Karen Thornell novella and she definitely knows how to write a swoonworthy hero!! Because I was so invested in Natalie and Cade’s relationship, I really wanted more of their story and could have kept reading about them for much, much longer. Overall, I really enjoyed this sweet holiday romance and would definitely recommend it!!
karenthornell's review against another edition
5.0
I'm definitely biased, but I love Natalie and Cade! I can't wait for everyone to meet them and fall in love with them too! This Christmas romance was a fun one to write--and it's the perfect, short read to get you in the Holiday spirit!
evesbookishreads's review against another edition
5.0
My favorite part of December was reading all of the holiday romance books I could get my hands on. While I read several, Christmas in Love was a short and sweet novella that gave me all the warm and fuzzy feels that paired perfectly with the holiday season. If you’re looking for next year’s happily ever after be sure to add this one to your TBR.