It Started with Christmas

by Jenny Hale

[Emma (SCR)]

This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to Bookouture for my copy of this book and for letting me take part in this tour. I have been a big fan of Jenny's books for many years and I always know Christmas is coming when I hear about her latest Christmas story. It's like my version of the Coca-cola advert!

This book made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me swoon.

Holly and Nana are still struggling with their grief of losing Papa 2 years ago. This Christmas they decide to return to the cabin to see if they can regain their Christmas spirit. At first, Nana was a really difficult character for me. Nothing Holly seemed to do pleased her. I did enjoy the change in Nana as she spent more time in the cabin. She soon became my favourite character. Holly has been trying to be strong for Nana but being back in the cabin brings all her feelings to the surface and makes some rather big decisions because of it. Holly is a sweet, loyal girl. She would do anything for the ones she loves.

Joseph Barnes, oh what a man. He was very easy to fall for. He was kind, good-looking and charismatic. The connection between him and Holly was instantaneous. From that very first night when they put the tree up you could feel the chemistry. I loved the Christmas gifts these two got each other too.

Not only is Holly stuck with a stranger this Christmas but her best friend Rhett has decided to come home. Rhett is a big shot musician. Just over 2 years ago he left for a tour and Holly hasn't heard from him since. Now he's declaring his love for her! Rhett was a little bit selfish to start off with and a little impulsive too. But deep down I think he has Holly's best interests at heart.

On the surface, this may seem like a typical love triangle story but let me tell you now, its anything but. This story was realistic. The characters struggled but in the end, they do the right thing.

This story is warm and inviting from the start. It's perfect for snuggling up on the sofa, heating on and hot drink in your hand. I can't think of a better way to spend these long winter nights.