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Christmas on Castle Street #1
Noël magique à la chocolaterie
Lorsque Charlee décide de s'installer dans une pittoresque ville balnéaire de la côte anglaise, elle a un rêve : pouvoir ouvrir une petite chocolaterie. Une fois l'emplacement trouvé, il ne lui reste plus qu'à faire les rénovations, juste à temps pour Noël. Mias ce n'est pas simple, car la la jeune femme est un véritable désastre dès qu'il s'agit de bricolage ! Plus le temps passe, plus elle voit son rêve s'éloigner... Sans famille et sans amis, elle se sent perdue dans son nouvel environnement et les douloureux secrets de son passé ne l'aident pas à avancer sereinement. Heureusement, elle peut compter sur la chaleur et l'esprit festif des habitants du coin. Et lorsque Matt, le plombier vient à sa rescousse, il se pourrait bien que les rêves de Charlee se réalisent... surtout avec un petit coup de pouce de la magie de Noël !
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2021
353 people are currently reading
1137 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Redland
61 books1,152 followersI was born in Teesside but now live in Scarborough on the stunning North Yorkshire Coast. My home inspired the creation of the fictional seaside town of Whitsborough Bay where I set many of my books although the Hedgehog Hollow series takes readers to a gorgeous new countryside setting in the Yorkshire Wolds.
I live with my husband, our teenage daughter and sprocker spaniel, Ella. I'm a self-confessed stationery addict with a ridiculously large collection of notepads who loves chocolate (although it doesn't love me), hedgehogs, 80s music, collectible teddy bears and lighthouses.
Other than a career detour into retail to set up and run my own teddy bear shop (the inspiration for novel Bear With Me), I've always worked in HR, specialising in resourcing, coaching and L&D. Writing always had to take a back seat to the day job until June 2020 when I left the world of HR to become a full-time author. I'm so very grateful to anyone who has bought or borrowed my books in whatever format, helping me fulfil a long-held dream of writing full-time. I still can't believe I get to spend every day chatting to my fictional friends and making stuff up.
I live with my husband, our teenage daughter and sprocker spaniel, Ella. I'm a self-confessed stationery addict with a ridiculously large collection of notepads who loves chocolate (although it doesn't love me), hedgehogs, 80s music, collectible teddy bears and lighthouses.
Other than a career detour into retail to set up and run my own teddy bear shop (the inspiration for novel Bear With Me), I've always worked in HR, specialising in resourcing, coaching and L&D. Writing always had to take a back seat to the day job until June 2020 when I left the world of HR to become a full-time author. I'm so very grateful to anyone who has bought or borrowed my books in whatever format, helping me fulfil a long-held dream of writing full-time. I still can't believe I get to spend every day chatting to my fictional friends and making stuff up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
August 29, 2021
This was perfect book to start out my holiday reading with.
After having read the Hedgehog series by this author I was most excited to see a Christmas book by her. There is something magical about the combination of Christmas and a chocolate shop.
Charlee and Matt were such a fun couple to read about, I loved them.
From surprising reveals to reconciliations this heart-warming book is just the holiday pick me upper you need!
Pub Date: 03 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
After having read the Hedgehog series by this author I was most excited to see a Christmas book by her. There is something magical about the combination of Christmas and a chocolate shop.
Charlee and Matt were such a fun couple to read about, I loved them.
From surprising reveals to reconciliations this heart-warming book is just the holiday pick me upper you need!
Pub Date: 03 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
July 31, 2021
2.5 ⭐
This book wasn't for me. I liked the chocolate shop and the Castle Street, but nothing else.
The writing, the pacing, the characters, the romance, the plot... It was all just stereotype after stereotype and cliché after cliché. There was nothing original about it and nothing I could relate to.
It wasn't even all that Christmassy. The decorations were there but not the spirit.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop by Jessica Redland in exchange for an honest review.
This book wasn't for me. I liked the chocolate shop and the Castle Street, but nothing else.
The writing, the pacing, the characters, the romance, the plot... It was all just stereotype after stereotype and cliché after cliché. There was nothing original about it and nothing I could relate to.
It wasn't even all that Christmassy. The decorations were there but not the spirit.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop by Jessica Redland in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2024
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
This was a gorgeous book and I loved every minute of it. I have been determined to start reading some of Redland’s older books and even though we are now out of the festive season, this chocolate-inspired book was too much of a temptation to resist.
This was a gorgeous book and I loved every minute of it. I have been determined to start reading some of Redland’s older books and even though we are now out of the festive season, this chocolate-inspired book was too much of a temptation to resist.
October 7, 2021
I love Christmas and I love Whitsborough Bay, so Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop was calling my name. I have enjoyed all my visits there, and meeting up with some of my favourite characters from previous books made this an enjoyable read. When master chocolatier, Charlee is a master chocolatier, but when her grandfather sold his store, she found herself working for the new owner and his nasty daughter. When her boyfriend gets a new job in Whitsborough Bay, she quits her job and decides to take a chance and open her own store. Things do not go as planned and with her lazy and useless boyfriend not giving her any support, she begins to depend on a stranger, another business owner. As they get to know each other better, they share more and realize they have feelings for one another. Will Charlee's Chocolates open on Castle Street in time for Christmas?
This was a lovely story full of secrets, friendship, community, new beginnings, and romance. The characters were great and even the ones I didn't like very much were well developed. Charlee was a bit of a pushover during the first half of the book and she did frustrate me at times. I was glad to see her develop a backbone and do some investigating into her own history. When her nana died, she was basically alone, so I was glad to see her show an interest in her family history. I don't want to give away the story, so I will just tell you that this was a book with some complex storylines that all come together at the end and I was rooting for Charlee to find happiness, especially at Christmas. As always, the narrative itself flows effortlessly and is a quick read. This is a well-plotted story, with a lot happening, and enjoyed this story from beginning to end. If you enjoy stories about new beginnings, family and community, especially when set around the holidays, then you will enjoy this story.
This was a lovely story full of secrets, friendship, community, new beginnings, and romance. The characters were great and even the ones I didn't like very much were well developed. Charlee was a bit of a pushover during the first half of the book and she did frustrate me at times. I was glad to see her develop a backbone and do some investigating into her own history. When her nana died, she was basically alone, so I was glad to see her show an interest in her family history. I don't want to give away the story, so I will just tell you that this was a book with some complex storylines that all come together at the end and I was rooting for Charlee to find happiness, especially at Christmas. As always, the narrative itself flows effortlessly and is a quick read. This is a well-plotted story, with a lot happening, and enjoyed this story from beginning to end. If you enjoy stories about new beginnings, family and community, especially when set around the holidays, then you will enjoy this story.
July 24, 2021
This wasn't my first book by Jessica Redland, precisely it was my third one. Having got to know her through social media and live events and interviews, it always amazes me just what a lovely, nice, caring person she is! And it reflects in her writing, in her characters and in her stories, they all touch you and stay with you for a long time.
This book doesn't make any exceptions: it's a lovely story with adorable characters (and some mean ones, too, of course!) that reads easily and highly pleasurably, unfortunately in a too short time, because you just can't put it down.
It was a great way to start my Christmas reading, let's be honest: it's never early enough!
Thank you Jessica for another great one!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book doesn't make any exceptions: it's a lovely story with adorable characters (and some mean ones, too, of course!) that reads easily and highly pleasurably, unfortunately in a too short time, because you just can't put it down.
It was a great way to start my Christmas reading, let's be honest: it's never early enough!
Thank you Jessica for another great one!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2021
Master chocolatier, Charlee Chambers has plans to open Charlee's Chocolates on Castle Street, located in the North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough. Raised by her grandparents, Charlee is scattering her gran's ashes alongside those of her grandad and realises that something in her life needs to change. Her current boyfriend Ricky, a joiner and labourer, has landed a new job and is moving to Whitsborough Bay which is also where he grew up so he persuades Charlee to sell her grandparents home and follow him there hence her decision to open her new chocolate shop. The shop is to be ready for Christmas opening but can Charlee have everything ready by then and is she ready to face the future and move on from her memories?
I easily warmed to Charlee who had a sad start to her life when her mum abandoned her. I adored the charming setting of Castle Street in the North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay. This is my sixth book by Jessica Redland and I enjoyed as just as much as the others. The characters are adorable and even the unpleasant ones such as Gabby were great in their roles. Once again, I really enjoyed how the author developed her characters. I appreciated the supporting cast, especially her best friend, Jodie and her new friend, Matt. Jessica Redland's descriptions of Castle Street and Whitsborough Bay were perfect and I dreamt of walking down the cobbles and popping into the various shops located there.
The Christmas theme was enchanting with its festive allure and the story's overall tone was mostly snug and magical, bringing with it all that delicious chocolatey goodness and sweet, heady aromas. Along with the pleasing characters, there were dashes of smouldering romance, an abundance of scrummy sounding treats, and touching moments. All in all, Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop is a lovely, heartwarming, and emotional novel of cosiness and of romantic opportunity that I have no hesitation in recommending. I look forward to reading more from Jessica Redland.
Disclosure: Thank you to Boldwood Books for providing a digital ARC of Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop by Jessica Redland, via Netgalley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I easily warmed to Charlee who had a sad start to her life when her mum abandoned her. I adored the charming setting of Castle Street in the North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay. This is my sixth book by Jessica Redland and I enjoyed as just as much as the others. The characters are adorable and even the unpleasant ones such as Gabby were great in their roles. Once again, I really enjoyed how the author developed her characters. I appreciated the supporting cast, especially her best friend, Jodie and her new friend, Matt. Jessica Redland's descriptions of Castle Street and Whitsborough Bay were perfect and I dreamt of walking down the cobbles and popping into the various shops located there.
The Christmas theme was enchanting with its festive allure and the story's overall tone was mostly snug and magical, bringing with it all that delicious chocolatey goodness and sweet, heady aromas. Along with the pleasing characters, there were dashes of smouldering romance, an abundance of scrummy sounding treats, and touching moments. All in all, Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop is a lovely, heartwarming, and emotional novel of cosiness and of romantic opportunity that I have no hesitation in recommending. I look forward to reading more from Jessica Redland.
Disclosure: Thank you to Boldwood Books for providing a digital ARC of Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop by Jessica Redland, via Netgalley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 22, 2022
*Hopes and Dreams*
This is a tale of misunderstandings, heartbreak and a touch of comedy
Charlee abandoned by her birth her mum and brought up by her grandparents. With no siblings they are a family of 3. She has a childhood best friend and all seems well until her family slowly shrinks to just her.
She loves chocolate and is trained by the man who is French and is like her surrogate father. His daughter is very frosty, why?
Without saying more we see Charlee who is now a master chocolatier trying to find true love and the heartbreak that comes with finding the one, will she get her wish? What is on the horizon….
I recommend the accompanying audio narration to the kindle version
This is a tale of misunderstandings, heartbreak and a touch of comedy
Charlee abandoned by her birth her mum and brought up by her grandparents. With no siblings they are a family of 3. She has a childhood best friend and all seems well until her family slowly shrinks to just her.
She loves chocolate and is trained by the man who is French and is like her surrogate father. His daughter is very frosty, why?
Without saying more we see Charlee who is now a master chocolatier trying to find true love and the heartbreak that comes with finding the one, will she get her wish? What is on the horizon….
I recommend the accompanying audio narration to the kindle version
October 10, 2021
I absolutely love Castle Street I’m Whitsborough Bay and couldn’t wait to return again, especially at Christmas! There’s just something so magical about these books of Jessica’s that I really hope we get another return to Castle Street at some point. (I think I’ve only got Seaside Blooms to read now)
From the very start there was something off with Ricky but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it until Charlee makes the move to Whitsborough Bay. It was then that I started getting a few ideas, especially when we meet Matt, I mean, Hello! but didn’t imagine things going down quite the way that they do (and that was an accidental innuendo btw).
I loved Charlee and the chocolate shop sounds absolutely incredible, I kept having visions of Hotel Chocolat but even better… all the little figures and the smell as you walk in… just 👌. But anyway, best move on before I start to drool! Charlee is such a lovely character and to see her as she was on the first Christmas was heartbreaking, I so wanted something good to happen to her and for her fortunes to change along with the shop.
My wish was answered and the next Christmas thankfully went a lot better, and I mean a LOT better. I loved the secret that Charlee uncovered and it really does fill your heart with a bit of joy when you see family, friends and communities coming together which is exactly what’s Jessica achieved with this.
And I can’t not mention the Christmas light switch on, I mean it sounded amazing in Christmas at Carly’s Cupcakes and Starry Skies over the Chocolate Pot Cafe but it just keeps getting better. I’d love to be somewhere like this one Christmas, such a special, close and unique moment.
As always, an absolute cracker of a book that I absolutely loved and will definitely be returning to! Can’t wait for the next instalment (pretty please!)
From the very start there was something off with Ricky but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it until Charlee makes the move to Whitsborough Bay. It was then that I started getting a few ideas, especially when we meet Matt, I mean, Hello! but didn’t imagine things going down quite the way that they do (and that was an accidental innuendo btw).
I loved Charlee and the chocolate shop sounds absolutely incredible, I kept having visions of Hotel Chocolat but even better… all the little figures and the smell as you walk in… just 👌. But anyway, best move on before I start to drool! Charlee is such a lovely character and to see her as she was on the first Christmas was heartbreaking, I so wanted something good to happen to her and for her fortunes to change along with the shop.
My wish was answered and the next Christmas thankfully went a lot better, and I mean a LOT better. I loved the secret that Charlee uncovered and it really does fill your heart with a bit of joy when you see family, friends and communities coming together which is exactly what’s Jessica achieved with this.
And I can’t not mention the Christmas light switch on, I mean it sounded amazing in Christmas at Carly’s Cupcakes and Starry Skies over the Chocolate Pot Cafe but it just keeps getting better. I’d love to be somewhere like this one Christmas, such a special, close and unique moment.
As always, an absolute cracker of a book that I absolutely loved and will definitely be returning to! Can’t wait for the next instalment (pretty please!)
September 22, 2021
When Charlee’s beloved Nana passes away, she feels a little bit lost, as you can imagine. Her boyfriend suggests that she take her inheritance and start over in a new town, and since her boss is retiring and she doesn’t get along with the girl who would be her new boss, she decides to go for it, and move and fulfill a dream of opening her own chocolate shop. Her best friend comes with her and in the process of opening the shop, she finds out who’s really in her corner and that new friends can help to deal with loss better than you would think.
This wasn’t my fav holiday book, but it was an easy read. A little bit of steam, but not overt. My criticism if you can call it that was the writing style felt a bit choppy and the pacing was kind of off the mark. That being said, if you’re in the mood to settle in for a few hours and enjoy your typical hallmark type romance then you will probably enjoy this one.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
This wasn’t my fav holiday book, but it was an easy read. A little bit of steam, but not overt. My criticism if you can call it that was the writing style felt a bit choppy and the pacing was kind of off the mark. That being said, if you’re in the mood to settle in for a few hours and enjoy your typical hallmark type romance then you will probably enjoy this one.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
October 29, 2021
A gorgeous book and the perfect start to my Christmas reading.
Such a lovely story about Charlee, a master chocolatier. After losing both her beloved grandparents, she decides to sell the house they brought her up in and move to the seaside town that she’s always loved, after a lot of encouragement from her boyfriend Ricky.
She is in search of the perfect premises to start up her own chocolate shop. After finding the perfect location in Castle Street, she now has to find the perfect shop!
This follows Charles’s story, which obviously has its ups and downs, but has a very happy ending and you know what, I’m not ashamed fo say it, I adore a good chick lit story with a happy ending!
This made me feel all the loves and emotions so a definite ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!
Such a lovely story about Charlee, a master chocolatier. After losing both her beloved grandparents, she decides to sell the house they brought her up in and move to the seaside town that she’s always loved, after a lot of encouragement from her boyfriend Ricky.
She is in search of the perfect premises to start up her own chocolate shop. After finding the perfect location in Castle Street, she now has to find the perfect shop!
This follows Charles’s story, which obviously has its ups and downs, but has a very happy ending and you know what, I’m not ashamed fo say it, I adore a good chick lit story with a happy ending!
This made me feel all the loves and emotions so a definite ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me!
July 27, 2021
I always look forward to reading Jessica Redland’s books as they are always very easy to read and the characters are lovely. Even though this one was set with a Christmassy theme it didn’t matter that I was reading it in the middle of summer. I do hope there will be more from this author. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
December 7, 2025
easy read and ends with lots of Christmassy joy!
January 2, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
December 21, 2024
You know when you're only a chapter in and you already want to punch a character in the face... Ricky, I'm looking at you.
December 30, 2022
This was an all round happy romantic Christmas novel, perfect thing to warm the heart. This surrounded around the importance of family and the ones you choose, a troubled relationship and that Christmas wishes can come true.
I love that this was set in a chocolate shop, it made it that much more enjoyable, reading about the different festive chocolates that were on display and all the different flavours, the decorations and descriptions made the novel more immersive.
The book starts on quite a somber note but hopeful about finding a love like her grandparents and continuing her grandfather’s legacy as a chocolatier, as the story progresses we see her dreams developing and we’re taken on that journey along with the emotions and uncertainty of her new life.
I really like how this tackled topics of grief and loneliness as well as relationship difficulties, all with a pinch of optimism and hope. Despite the despair in her life, she found the joy in her new business and family in her best friend. I loved the community atmosphere and togetherness which foiled the absent boyfriend. Matt is such a wonderful character and really highlighted how terrible Ricky (her ex was). The relationship turmoil and toxicity doesn’t feel forced or rushed and I like how Matt has come in and has been a lovely breath of fresh air, being sweet and romantic.
This had a great plot and a lovely emotional pull, it was lovely reading about all of her dreams coming true. This just gave me such a warm happy feeling and that alone deserves 5 stars!
I love that this was set in a chocolate shop, it made it that much more enjoyable, reading about the different festive chocolates that were on display and all the different flavours, the decorations and descriptions made the novel more immersive.
The book starts on quite a somber note but hopeful about finding a love like her grandparents and continuing her grandfather’s legacy as a chocolatier, as the story progresses we see her dreams developing and we’re taken on that journey along with the emotions and uncertainty of her new life.
I really like how this tackled topics of grief and loneliness as well as relationship difficulties, all with a pinch of optimism and hope. Despite the despair in her life, she found the joy in her new business and family in her best friend. I loved the community atmosphere and togetherness which foiled the absent boyfriend. Matt is such a wonderful character and really highlighted how terrible Ricky (her ex was). The relationship turmoil and toxicity doesn’t feel forced or rushed and I like how Matt has come in and has been a lovely breath of fresh air, being sweet and romantic.
This had a great plot and a lovely emotional pull, it was lovely reading about all of her dreams coming true. This just gave me such a warm happy feeling and that alone deserves 5 stars!
December 14, 2025
Ma note : 4/5 ✨
Une romance de Noël entre moments de doutes et reconstruction. 🤍
J’ai adoré découvrir cette belle romance hivernale qui se déroule dans un small town comme on les aime !
Les personnages sont vraiment attachants et je dois dire que j’ai vraiment apprécié Charlee, même si j’avais parfois envie de la secouer pour qu’elle ouvre les yeux ! 👀
J’ai vraiment aimé tout le côté amour impossible avec Matt et le fait que tout se mettait en travers de leur chemin… La protagoniste principale rencontre beaucoup de péripéties au fil du roman et on la voit vraiment évoluer au fur et à mesure ! Et évidemment, la magie de noël fait bien son travail et l’histoire finit comme on l’espère pour tout le monde 🥹
Le début est un peu long et le fait que le couple soit vraiment redflag au départ m’a légèrement dérangée mais c’était pour mieux amener le couple que l’on attendait vraiment ! 👀
Bref, c’était une chouette lecture pour la période et je dois dire que je ne m’attendais pas à autant apprécier ! 🤍
Une romance de Noël entre moments de doutes et reconstruction. 🤍
J’ai adoré découvrir cette belle romance hivernale qui se déroule dans un small town comme on les aime !
Les personnages sont vraiment attachants et je dois dire que j’ai vraiment apprécié Charlee, même si j’avais parfois envie de la secouer pour qu’elle ouvre les yeux ! 👀
J’ai vraiment aimé tout le côté amour impossible avec Matt et le fait que tout se mettait en travers de leur chemin… La protagoniste principale rencontre beaucoup de péripéties au fil du roman et on la voit vraiment évoluer au fur et à mesure ! Et évidemment, la magie de noël fait bien son travail et l’histoire finit comme on l’espère pour tout le monde 🥹
Le début est un peu long et le fait que le couple soit vraiment redflag au départ m’a légèrement dérangée mais c’était pour mieux amener le couple que l’on attendait vraiment ! 👀
Bref, c’était une chouette lecture pour la période et je dois dire que je ne m’attendais pas à autant apprécier ! 🤍
October 12, 2021
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley, too,
For my copy of this book, here's my honest review:
Following the deaths of her grandparents Charlee decides
To change the location of where she resides.
With her boyfriend, Ricky, she moves to Whitborough Bay
Where she's previously spent many a happy summer's day.
She's a highly skilled master chocolatier,
So she's chasing her dreams instead of her fear.
Setting up Charlee's Chocolates on Castle Street
Is such a great plan, and her chocs are a real tasty treat!
However, with plans there come some surprises
Including meeting great folks as she soon realises.
This story has lots of family secrets to warm up your heart
As hearts start to heal that had fallen apart.
It is a delightful, festive story, with love and romance
From friends, family and others all given a chance.
I'm thrilled to have a chance to revisit this street
Where folks support and work together, its really neat,
I really enjoyed returning to this community so caring
And the opportunity again to see how they're all faring.
The story is heartwarming, emotive and uplifting, too,
I can't resist highly recommend it to you!
For my copy of this book, here's my honest review:
Following the deaths of her grandparents Charlee decides
To change the location of where she resides.
With her boyfriend, Ricky, she moves to Whitborough Bay
Where she's previously spent many a happy summer's day.
She's a highly skilled master chocolatier,
So she's chasing her dreams instead of her fear.
Setting up Charlee's Chocolates on Castle Street
Is such a great plan, and her chocs are a real tasty treat!
However, with plans there come some surprises
Including meeting great folks as she soon realises.
This story has lots of family secrets to warm up your heart
As hearts start to heal that had fallen apart.
It is a delightful, festive story, with love and romance
From friends, family and others all given a chance.
I'm thrilled to have a chance to revisit this street
Where folks support and work together, its really neat,
I really enjoyed returning to this community so caring
And the opportunity again to see how they're all faring.
The story is heartwarming, emotive and uplifting, too,
I can't resist highly recommend it to you!
December 31, 2021
When Charlee's grandmother dies she decides she needs a fresh start and to follow her dreams of owning her own Chocolate shop - so with some encouragement from her boyfriend she moves to Whitsborough Bay and Charlee's Chocolates is born.
Along with her best friend, local plumber Matt and the other traders she sets up just in time for Chirstmas.
Light, festive read
Along with her best friend, local plumber Matt and the other traders she sets up just in time for Chirstmas.
Light, festive read
November 21, 2021
Boldwood is really coming in clutch this christmas season.
Anyways, justice for Smurf. Homeboy really had a rough time and deserved better.
Anyways, justice for Smurf. Homeboy really had a rough time and deserved better.
November 3, 2021
Ahhhh what a lovely feel good story of love, friendship, Chocolate, family, more Chocolate, dreams coming true and CHRISTMAS!!
A hug in book form which left me feeling all warm and fuzzy and excited for Christmas. Oh and also wanting to train as a chocolatier and open my own chocolate shop!
When Charlee’s beloved nanna dies she decides to make a new start and move to Whitsborough Bay with her boyfriend, Ricky, and follow her dreams by opening her own chocolate shop.
Having reluctantly sold her nanna’s house where she was brought up as her mother abandoned her, she finds the shop premises she has fallen in love with has surprisingly just come up for sale. She jumps at the chance to buy it. As her dream is taking off, her life with her boyfriend is going downhill as he seems to want to spend his evenings getting drunk with his old mates. She begins to have serious doubts about him and when she meets the handsome Matt, the plumber who saves her shop from disaster, it is love at first sight. Only problem is he is engaged to be married to someone else!
The close circle of independent and supportive shopkeepers gives this such a warm community feel. I would love to visit this little street to do my Christmas shopping.
I loved so many of the characters in this book. The villains of the story were also really well written and I loved to hate them!
Tears were shed on more than one occasion during the reading of this book so if you are a sensitive soul like me get those tissues ready!
A fabulous uplifting read to get you in the mood for Christmas which I would not hesitate to recommend
A hug in book form which left me feeling all warm and fuzzy and excited for Christmas. Oh and also wanting to train as a chocolatier and open my own chocolate shop!
When Charlee’s beloved nanna dies she decides to make a new start and move to Whitsborough Bay with her boyfriend, Ricky, and follow her dreams by opening her own chocolate shop.
Having reluctantly sold her nanna’s house where she was brought up as her mother abandoned her, she finds the shop premises she has fallen in love with has surprisingly just come up for sale. She jumps at the chance to buy it. As her dream is taking off, her life with her boyfriend is going downhill as he seems to want to spend his evenings getting drunk with his old mates. She begins to have serious doubts about him and when she meets the handsome Matt, the plumber who saves her shop from disaster, it is love at first sight. Only problem is he is engaged to be married to someone else!
The close circle of independent and supportive shopkeepers gives this such a warm community feel. I would love to visit this little street to do my Christmas shopping.
I loved so many of the characters in this book. The villains of the story were also really well written and I loved to hate them!
Tears were shed on more than one occasion during the reading of this book so if you are a sensitive soul like me get those tissues ready!
A fabulous uplifting read to get you in the mood for Christmas which I would not hesitate to recommend
October 13, 2021
Review
In the words of Charlee 'Whitsborough Bay rocks'.
Yet another of Jessica's books that I loved and couldn't put down.
Charlee and Matt's friendship is just beautiful and I was really rooting for them to get their happy ever after.
Jessica writes so beautifully and this book left tears in my eyes.
I'm obsessed with Whitsborough Bay and I love that characters from the other books in the series make an appearance.
If you've never read anything by Jessica, you absolutely need to pick one up, you wont be disappointed.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In the words of Charlee 'Whitsborough Bay rocks'.
Yet another of Jessica's books that I loved and couldn't put down.
Charlee and Matt's friendship is just beautiful and I was really rooting for them to get their happy ever after.
Jessica writes so beautifully and this book left tears in my eyes.
I'm obsessed with Whitsborough Bay and I love that characters from the other books in the series make an appearance.
If you've never read anything by Jessica, you absolutely need to pick one up, you wont be disappointed.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 21, 2022
Quite irritating with the main character letting herself be used at one point and making excuses for the culprit.
Her friend was a bossy so-and-so, yet she let herself be bossed about.
I wanted to know what happened or I wouldn't have bothered finishing it. So maybe the author got something right.
It drove me nuts!!!!
Her friend was a bossy so-and-so, yet she let herself be bossed about.
I wanted to know what happened or I wouldn't have bothered finishing it. So maybe the author got something right.
It drove me nuts!!!!
July 30, 2021
This book was such a delight to end (Christmas in) July with! It was a breezy, cozy read that got me excited for the holiday season.
Thank you Net Galley & Boldwood Books for an early copy of this book which comes out on August 3rd!
Charlee Chambers had not had an easy life growing up. Her mother abandoned right after she was born and she did not know who her father was so she was raised by her maternal grandparents. They have both passed and we open the book with Charlee scattering her grandmother's ashes where her grandfather's ashes were also laid. She is stuck in a dark place now not having any biological family members. We meet her boyfriend Ricky who she had been seeing for a few months. Right off the back, you think something is up with him. He just doesn't scream a good book boyfriend.
Charlee decides that she has to sell her grandparent's house. She is too consumed with memories of them while being inside. Her boyfriend convinces her to quit her job as a master chocolatier at her grandfather's old chocolate shop (It was sold & owned by a gentlemen name Pierre) and to move with him to Whitsborough. Part of the plan of moving there would be to open her own chocolate shop.
She ended up finding a space on the highly appealing Castle Street. Her friend Jodie ends up moving into the apartment above the shop and becomes her assistant. Throughout all these changes, she can feel Ricky and her growing apart. He was spending all this overtime and not paying any bills and Charlee was pretty much taking care of them both. One night while Jodie was taking a shower, water started dripping down into the Chocolate shop. Ricky was unavailable, Ricky's friend who worked on the plumbing was not picking up and so Charlee ran to a nearby shop to see if local Sarah knew anyone. And then we meet Matt Richards.
Right from meeting him Charlee is smitten. The chemistry between Matt and Charlee is something we do not see between he and Ricky. There are several series of events that occurred that I won't spoil but Charlee is worth so much more than any man. One thing I was surprised is that we get a time jump to a year later and we really see how much Charlee has changed and grown. Does Matt and Charlee get together? How does Ricky ruin their relationship? Does Charlee connect with her mother? Does Charlee find out who her dad is? You will need to read to find out!
This movie like any Hallmark or Lifetime ends on a sweet note (not pun intended). I definitely could see this being a movie as when reading any book, I picture the scenes in my head. Everything was wrapped up in a nice bow! I recommend this book as a light, easy, Christmas book that will give you all the feels.
Thank you Net Galley & Boldwood Books for an early copy of this book which comes out on August 3rd!
Charlee Chambers had not had an easy life growing up. Her mother abandoned right after she was born and she did not know who her father was so she was raised by her maternal grandparents. They have both passed and we open the book with Charlee scattering her grandmother's ashes where her grandfather's ashes were also laid. She is stuck in a dark place now not having any biological family members. We meet her boyfriend Ricky who she had been seeing for a few months. Right off the back, you think something is up with him. He just doesn't scream a good book boyfriend.
Charlee decides that she has to sell her grandparent's house. She is too consumed with memories of them while being inside. Her boyfriend convinces her to quit her job as a master chocolatier at her grandfather's old chocolate shop (It was sold & owned by a gentlemen name Pierre) and to move with him to Whitsborough. Part of the plan of moving there would be to open her own chocolate shop.
She ended up finding a space on the highly appealing Castle Street. Her friend Jodie ends up moving into the apartment above the shop and becomes her assistant. Throughout all these changes, she can feel Ricky and her growing apart. He was spending all this overtime and not paying any bills and Charlee was pretty much taking care of them both. One night while Jodie was taking a shower, water started dripping down into the Chocolate shop. Ricky was unavailable, Ricky's friend who worked on the plumbing was not picking up and so Charlee ran to a nearby shop to see if local Sarah knew anyone. And then we meet Matt Richards.
Right from meeting him Charlee is smitten. The chemistry between Matt and Charlee is something we do not see between he and Ricky. There are several series of events that occurred that I won't spoil but Charlee is worth so much more than any man. One thing I was surprised is that we get a time jump to a year later and we really see how much Charlee has changed and grown. Does Matt and Charlee get together? How does Ricky ruin their relationship? Does Charlee connect with her mother? Does Charlee find out who her dad is? You will need to read to find out!
This movie like any Hallmark or Lifetime ends on a sweet note (not pun intended). I definitely could see this being a movie as when reading any book, I picture the scenes in my head. Everything was wrapped up in a nice bow! I recommend this book as a light, easy, Christmas book that will give you all the feels.
August 7, 2023
Another great story of Whitsborough Bay!
After Charlee mum walked out on her and losing the two people who raised her (her nan and granddad) she decides to move to Whitsborough Bay to open a chocolate shop. Her boyfriend Ricky let’s say isn’t the best of boyfriend.
Ricky had to find work in Whitsborough Bay as he couldn’t find any work in the area that he and Charlee were living in. Charlee decides to move to Whitsbourogh Bay as her arch enemy (her boss’s daughter) is now the manager of the Chocolate shop. I was glad she stood up to Gabby (boss’s daughter). You could see Gabby wasn’t too happy about Charlee leaving and yet she still acted like a cow towards her. We later find out that it was because Charlee and Gabby were half-sisters (as Charlee mum come back because of a letter that Charlee had sent). And obviously Gabby wasn’t too happy about that.
Ricky and Charlee are living together. Ricky is basically living rent free and not contributing too anything, Ricky was blaming his debt on not being able to pay towards anything. We then learn that Ricky had been sleeping with ex-girlfriend who is also his best friend’s girlfriend.
As her business is growing, with the help of her best friend Jodie she meets Matt a local plumber and his fiancé, Libby. We soon learn about Libby and Matt past and how they ended up together and learnt that they would be better off as friends. And Matt and Charlee relationship started.
After Charlee mum walked out on her and losing the two people who raised her (her nan and granddad) she decides to move to Whitsborough Bay to open a chocolate shop. Her boyfriend Ricky let’s say isn’t the best of boyfriend.
Ricky had to find work in Whitsborough Bay as he couldn’t find any work in the area that he and Charlee were living in. Charlee decides to move to Whitsbourogh Bay as her arch enemy (her boss’s daughter) is now the manager of the Chocolate shop. I was glad she stood up to Gabby (boss’s daughter). You could see Gabby wasn’t too happy about Charlee leaving and yet she still acted like a cow towards her. We later find out that it was because Charlee and Gabby were half-sisters (as Charlee mum come back because of a letter that Charlee had sent). And obviously Gabby wasn’t too happy about that.
Ricky and Charlee are living together. Ricky is basically living rent free and not contributing too anything, Ricky was blaming his debt on not being able to pay towards anything. We then learn that Ricky had been sleeping with ex-girlfriend who is also his best friend’s girlfriend.
As her business is growing, with the help of her best friend Jodie she meets Matt a local plumber and his fiancé, Libby. We soon learn about Libby and Matt past and how they ended up together and learnt that they would be better off as friends. And Matt and Charlee relationship started.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2022
For fun tips while/after reading skip to PS at the bottom
(There are spoilers in this review but I have suggestions at the bottom if you want;)
I read this book to get me into the Christmas spirit and it did not disappoint! I enjoyed the character development, I thought the end was bit of a step too big like I get they were friends for a year and wanted to be more than that but people can be very different in relationships and especially living together so I thought going from dating to living together to engagement in the span of like two weeks was way to fast and unrealistic (but I’ll let it slide bc it’s Christmas) also I think ALOT of monumental things awards, finding both of you parents, dating, moving, engaged! I was struggling to keep up with it all. Not as much romance as I would have liked. Didn’t really like the cheating factor thought I loved when he came crawling back. Jodie is the best we love her.💗 another thing I noticed is that there was basically 0 diversity in race,sexuality or disability. Although it didn’t stop me from relating at all but I personally like books with that as I find it refreshing and gives the book more points on my record
Over all is was a good book and i do recommend.
P.S
- best read with your favourite chocolates (seriously do it, it add so mush to the experience)
- try listening to “season greetings” by Linneah after reading
(It will remind you of Ricky and Charlee)
(There are spoilers in this review but I have suggestions at the bottom if you want;)
I read this book to get me into the Christmas spirit and it did not disappoint! I enjoyed the character development, I thought the end was bit of a step too big like I get they were friends for a year and wanted to be more than that but people can be very different in relationships and especially living together so I thought going from dating to living together to engagement in the span of like two weeks was way to fast and unrealistic (but I’ll let it slide bc it’s Christmas) also I think ALOT of monumental things awards, finding both of you parents, dating, moving, engaged! I was struggling to keep up with it all. Not as much romance as I would have liked. Didn’t really like the cheating factor thought I loved when he came crawling back. Jodie is the best we love her.💗 another thing I noticed is that there was basically 0 diversity in race,sexuality or disability. Although it didn’t stop me from relating at all but I personally like books with that as I find it refreshing and gives the book more points on my record
Over all is was a good book and i do recommend.
P.S
- best read with your favourite chocolates (seriously do it, it add so mush to the experience)
- try listening to “season greetings” by Linneah after reading
(It will remind you of Ricky and Charlee)
August 18, 2021
This is another book set in Whitsborough and continues to provide us with the backstories of the people who run businesses in the town. The first half of the book talks about Charlee and her relationship with her boyfriend and with chocolate.
The premise is unique and has different family dynamics to some of the other stories that I have encountered by the author set in this town. It is hard to rally around a lead protagonist, though, who does not make an effort to adjust to her surroundings or investigate any odd incidents. This annoyed me during the first half, even as I liked the build-up that was being provided. I kept waiting for the inevitable bombshell to be dropped. The second half had Charlee set up her business and take it off the ground with the help of trusted friends, old and new. This part was well done, and I liked watching everything fall into place.
I did not buy into the ultimate pairing, which explains my rating of this book. The characters were individually fantastic to read about. I liked the feelings they generated, but I did not wait for their happily ever after!
This author does a great job of describing a location and the characters within it. She invites us in and lets us wander around. I will continue to pick up others books by her even though my reads have been 50-50 in the like/did not enjoy category. I do this because the ones I like, I really like, and this makes every read worth the effort. The narrative itself flows effortlessly and is a quick, almost one-sitting read.
I would recommend the author and the overall series to fans of the genre.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
The premise is unique and has different family dynamics to some of the other stories that I have encountered by the author set in this town. It is hard to rally around a lead protagonist, though, who does not make an effort to adjust to her surroundings or investigate any odd incidents. This annoyed me during the first half, even as I liked the build-up that was being provided. I kept waiting for the inevitable bombshell to be dropped. The second half had Charlee set up her business and take it off the ground with the help of trusted friends, old and new. This part was well done, and I liked watching everything fall into place.
I did not buy into the ultimate pairing, which explains my rating of this book. The characters were individually fantastic to read about. I liked the feelings they generated, but I did not wait for their happily ever after!
This author does a great job of describing a location and the characters within it. She invites us in and lets us wander around. I will continue to pick up others books by her even though my reads have been 50-50 in the like/did not enjoy category. I do this because the ones I like, I really like, and this makes every read worth the effort. The narrative itself flows effortlessly and is a quick, almost one-sitting read.
I would recommend the author and the overall series to fans of the genre.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
November 2, 2021
This is my first book from this author and I thought it was cute. A very easy read for the holiday season, so if you're looking for a quick read to get you in the holiday spirit, this could be it!
I thought the plot was sweet. Loved the idea of a woman starting her very own chocolate shop in the season leading up to Christmas. What I loved most was the setting. Give me an adorable small town any day! Especially when it was described with the close knit community, quaint buildings and the Christmas decor...love!
I will say that the reason for the three stars was mostly because of the pacing and the characters. The story was cute, but felt a bit rushed at times. I love a good romance story but the way this one came together also felt very rushed at the end. The characters were not all that likeable. Fun enough and I enjoyed bits of them but overall, I found them to be a bit annoying at times. I wanted to love main character Charlee, but found her very naive to the point that I wanted to shout at her to give her head a shake!
Overall though, this was a good little read that got me feeling festive!
I thought the plot was sweet. Loved the idea of a woman starting her very own chocolate shop in the season leading up to Christmas. What I loved most was the setting. Give me an adorable small town any day! Especially when it was described with the close knit community, quaint buildings and the Christmas decor...love!
I will say that the reason for the three stars was mostly because of the pacing and the characters. The story was cute, but felt a bit rushed at times. I love a good romance story but the way this one came together also felt very rushed at the end. The characters were not all that likeable. Fun enough and I enjoyed bits of them but overall, I found them to be a bit annoying at times. I wanted to love main character Charlee, but found her very naive to the point that I wanted to shout at her to give her head a shake!
Overall though, this was a good little read that got me feeling festive!
October 14, 2021
Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate shop is another reworked title from Jessica Redland’s back catalogue. I discovered Jessica at just the right time, as I’ve read so many of her books, but been able to resist the previous titles, as I knew it was receiving the ‘Boldwood Touch’.
Once again, the characters and story, in this gorgeous book, captured my imagination. As we’re back on Castle Street, there are some familiar faces, but don’t worry if you’ve not been before, you’ll still enjoy this visit. Charlee is the kind of person that I would welcome as a friend. Kind-hearted and willing to go the extra mile, despite a history of heartache. Let’s face it, there aren’t many of us who reach 30 without carrying a fair share of emotional baggage.
Charlee’s background is perfectly developed to reveal both joy and heartache in her past. It was impossible not to hope that she would see the light over her ‘useless boyfriend’, I spent several chapters waiting for the penny to drop and for her to see him in his true colours.
Jessica had obviously carried out thorough research into the life of a chocolatier. I found myself craving a taste of some of the confections mentioned in this story. The development of the chocolate shop was a joy to follow, and like Charlee’s love-life, it wasn’t without the odd hiccup. It was wonderful to see that with the right people and support, even the most hopeless of situations can prove to be the answer to our hopes and prayers.
This story is about chocolate, friendship, family and forgiveness. It looks at the damage we do to ourselves when we put loyalty above our instincts and tolerate behaviour that should be unacceptable. It also shines a light on the problems caused by making assumptions!
Once again, the characters and story, in this gorgeous book, captured my imagination. As we’re back on Castle Street, there are some familiar faces, but don’t worry if you’ve not been before, you’ll still enjoy this visit. Charlee is the kind of person that I would welcome as a friend. Kind-hearted and willing to go the extra mile, despite a history of heartache. Let’s face it, there aren’t many of us who reach 30 without carrying a fair share of emotional baggage.
Charlee’s background is perfectly developed to reveal both joy and heartache in her past. It was impossible not to hope that she would see the light over her ‘useless boyfriend’, I spent several chapters waiting for the penny to drop and for her to see him in his true colours.
Jessica had obviously carried out thorough research into the life of a chocolatier. I found myself craving a taste of some of the confections mentioned in this story. The development of the chocolate shop was a joy to follow, and like Charlee’s love-life, it wasn’t without the odd hiccup. It was wonderful to see that with the right people and support, even the most hopeless of situations can prove to be the answer to our hopes and prayers.
This story is about chocolate, friendship, family and forgiveness. It looks at the damage we do to ourselves when we put loyalty above our instincts and tolerate behaviour that should be unacceptable. It also shines a light on the problems caused by making assumptions!
August 7, 2021
I really want to say I loved this book. While I didn’t dislike it, it was not a favorite read for me.
The main character, Charlee, made the most ridiculous and stupid decisions! I found myself getting exasperated with her over and over again. It took her FOREVER to see what was going on with her boyfriend. Ricky. Like really???? I cheered when she kicked him to the curb. And, to be honest, some of the situations that arose were just way out there/unrealistic.
What I did like and did keep me engaged was the humorous aspects, the relationship between Charlee and Matt and the friendship between Charlee and Jodie. The authors description of Whitsborough was lovely.
Overall, a ok read but not one I’d want to read again.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
The main character, Charlee, made the most ridiculous and stupid decisions! I found myself getting exasperated with her over and over again. It took her FOREVER to see what was going on with her boyfriend. Ricky. Like really???? I cheered when she kicked him to the curb. And, to be honest, some of the situations that arose were just way out there/unrealistic.
What I did like and did keep me engaged was the humorous aspects, the relationship between Charlee and Matt and the friendship between Charlee and Jodie. The authors description of Whitsborough was lovely.
Overall, a ok read but not one I’d want to read again.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2021
This wasn't my first book by Jessica Redland, precisely it was my third one. Having got to know her through social media and live events and interviews, it always amazes me just what a lovely, nice, caring person she is! And it reflects in her writing, in her characters and in her stories, they all touch you and stay with you for a long time.
This book doesn't make any exceptions: it's a lovely story with adorable characters (and some mean ones, too, of course!) that reads easily and highly pleasurably, unfortunately in a too short time, because you just can't put it down.
It was a great way to start my Christmas reading, let's be honest: it's never early enough!
Thank you Jessica for another great one!
This book doesn't make any exceptions: it's a lovely story with adorable characters (and some mean ones, too, of course!) that reads easily and highly pleasurably, unfortunately in a too short time, because you just can't put it down.
It was a great way to start my Christmas reading, let's be honest: it's never early enough!
Thank you Jessica for another great one!
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