Reviewed by Lynn on

4 of 5 stars

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Filled with hope and love, my first Christmas novel of 2018 has an overwhelming message of never giving up on a dream.

Holly loves living in New York but wants the freedom to pursue her dreams. She decides to quit her job as an editor to become a freelance journalist where she can indulge her interest in photography. She's happy with the decision and as she becomes her own boss, with work already lined up she knows she made the right decision for her. She's happy and positive, but disappointed her boyfriend Pierre doesn't support or share her enthusiasm. During her first assignment in Inglenook Falls, she meets a dishevelled man, who helps her. Despite his appearance, he intrigues her in a way she never thought possible, making her realise she needs to make more changes in her life.

Mitch is a mess, hidden away living like a recluse, a position he wants to get out of but most of the time he lacks the determination to improve his situation. When a trespasser near his log cabin falls and loses consciousness, he's angry but does what any decent person would do – he helps her. When she leaves, he hopes he never sees her again, but does he really want that?

A feel-good novel which embraces the atmosphere of the season as two people find each other at a crossroads in their lives. Mitch misses his son, not knowing where he is, while Holly seizes a career ambition, which makes her question some aspects of her life. Yet not everything is rosy in the cosy town as heartbreaking details from the past surface. Predictably, it leads to an uplifting and romantic finale. We all love a happy ever after, don't we?

The author manages to capture the essence of the winter holiday, using descriptions to bring the small town of Inglenook Falls to life. The secondary characters add additional warmth and humour to the magical narrative, where believing in a little faith, means miracles can come true. The protagonists compliment each other perfectly despite their differences against a winter wonderland backdrop. Like many holiday-themed novels, this is a perfect read to curl up and enjoy with a glass or mug of your favourite seasonal drink. Christmas Miracles at the Little Log cabin is the fourth book in the New York Ever After series and can be read and enjoyed (as I did) as standalone.

***arc received courtesy of the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources***

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  • Started reading
  • 5 December, 2018: Finished reading
  • 5 December, 2018: Reviewed