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Sugarville Grove #10
Christmas Encore
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
15 days and 15:01:33
100 copies available
U.S. only
Some love stories never take their final bow.
He left her without a word. Now he’s back—with scars, regrets, and a love he can’t outrun.
Fifteen years ago, Roan Hayes vanished from Sugarville Grove, leaving behind the girl he loved and a town that never forgave him. Now, a career-ending stuntman injury sends him home, determined to start over quietly with a gritty new gym. But his fresh start collides head-on with the past when he discovers his business shares a wall with hers.
Reese Monroe has been back in Sugarville Grove for years, running her beloved Sugar Plum Dance Studio after a dazzling ballet career that ended too soon. Outwardly, she’s thriving—teaching young dancers, filling her days with music and movement—but privately, the pressure to stay in control still haunts her. The last thing she needs is Roan walking back into her world… still magnetic, still stubborn, and still capable of upending everything.
As their lives—and their businesses—intertwine, old sparks burn hotter than ever. But forgiveness doesn’t come easy, and trust is even harder. Can Roan prove that first love deserves a second chance, or will past heartbreak take its final bow?
Christmas Encore is a tender, slow-burn small-town Christmas romance about first love, hidden wounds, and the kind of chemistry you never forget. Perfect for fans of heartfelt, clean & wholesome holiday love stories with plenty of small-town sparkle and a happily-ever-after.
He left her without a word. Now he’s back—with scars, regrets, and a love he can’t outrun.
Fifteen years ago, Roan Hayes vanished from Sugarville Grove, leaving behind the girl he loved and a town that never forgave him. Now, a career-ending stuntman injury sends him home, determined to start over quietly with a gritty new gym. But his fresh start collides head-on with the past when he discovers his business shares a wall with hers.
Reese Monroe has been back in Sugarville Grove for years, running her beloved Sugar Plum Dance Studio after a dazzling ballet career that ended too soon. Outwardly, she’s thriving—teaching young dancers, filling her days with music and movement—but privately, the pressure to stay in control still haunts her. The last thing she needs is Roan walking back into her world… still magnetic, still stubborn, and still capable of upending everything.
As their lives—and their businesses—intertwine, old sparks burn hotter than ever. But forgiveness doesn’t come easy, and trust is even harder. Can Roan prove that first love deserves a second chance, or will past heartbreak take its final bow?
Christmas Encore is a tender, slow-burn small-town Christmas romance about first love, hidden wounds, and the kind of chemistry you never forget. Perfect for fans of heartfelt, clean & wholesome holiday love stories with plenty of small-town sparkle and a happily-ever-after.
- GenresRomance
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2026
115 people are currently reading
930 people want to read
About the author
Tess Thompson
104 books1,749 followersTess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.
She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.
Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.
She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.
She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.
Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites
Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 12, 2026
Christmas Encore is a good second chance at love and a found family story.
When Roan career of stuntman ended with an injury, he decided to came back to his hometown and open a gym next to his ex high school girlfriend's ballett studio, because he wants to apologize as he left her fifteen years before. He didn't expect that enrolling in a community project to help some at risk kids would have brought him such a bliss and it also let him to get closer to Reese.
I adored Roan and Reese's journey. It was clear from the start that they still love each other, but after so many years it's understandable that they did need time to get to know and trust each other again.
I loved to see how they care for these hurting kids, providing them a safe place without any judgment.
Tess Thompson outdid herself writing this heartwarming and uplifting novel that filled my heart of joy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read next book in the series.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
Review of advance copy
I’m always here for a good second-chance romance — and this one delivered all the feels.
Reese and Roan were high school sweethearts until tragedy and outside world tore them apart. Roan disappeared without a goodbye and left Reese waiting for him on prom night. I know he was young but that was a d@#k move.
Fifteen years later, Roan is back, carrying regrets, and hoping for forgiveness from the girl he never forgot.
Reese lived her dream as a ballerina in New York and now she's home running her own dance studio. She never forgot Roan and when she learns hes back she wants to resist, but love like theirs was only on pause and was waiting for the right moment to be awaken again.
Such a sweet small-town romance filled with longing that will make you root for Roan to win back his girl, even if you don't want him too.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Reese and Roan were high school sweethearts until tragedy and outside world tore them apart. Roan disappeared without a goodbye and left Reese waiting for him on prom night. I know he was young but that was a d@#k move.
Fifteen years later, Roan is back, carrying regrets, and hoping for forgiveness from the girl he never forgot.
Reese lived her dream as a ballerina in New York and now she's home running her own dance studio. She never forgot Roan and when she learns hes back she wants to resist, but love like theirs was only on pause and was waiting for the right moment to be awaken again.
Such a sweet small-town romance filled with longing that will make you root for Roan to win back his girl, even if you don't want him too.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
February 17, 2026
Yep, Dolly Parton nailed it perfectly: “Here You Come Again.” Here he was again, and how was Reese going to survive Roan’s return?
Author Tess Thompson writes the best love stories. No matter the setting, time period or circumstances the characters will captivate you and the story will keep you enthralled with its depth, layers and surprises. After ten books in the series a new book centered in Sugarville Grove feels like coming home. Between author Clara Pines’ books about the Lawrence Family and Thompson’s focusing on the Hayes Family you are surrounded by people who pique your interest and keep it, real-life dilemmas and tragedies and the beauty of true love and romance.
Christmas Encore opens with the return of Roan Hayes, nephew of Grace and Walter and who along with his twin brother Jason is cousin to Luke, Nolan, Max and Logan. In Roan’s mind he’s a failed, has-been stuntman at age 33, returning home after fifteen years to try and clean up the mess he left behind, ran away from. There was a hint of his and Reese’s history from Reese’s point of view in Thompson’s previous book in the series, Savoring Christmas, and it was a perfect teaser for this book. I was so excited to start reading Christmas Encore and that excitement was not misplaced.
Roan thinks that being able to purchase the gym right next door to Reese’s dance studio may be a sign that he can finally put things right. Not win her heart again. He has no hope of that. But he owes her an apology, if not a full explanation. But that explanation will be complicated and risky, involving old lies and secrets and betrayals. A story he’s kept within for the past fifteen years. Reese is not happy to see Roan, not at all. She was shattered when he abandoned her without a word then or since. He was all she had, the only person who made her feel worthwhile and secure, and he deserted her. But that’s not to say that whatever was between them in high school is still there. Amplified if possible because they are adults now, with mature feelings, wants, desires – and insecurities and trust issues.
Don’t be fooled into thinking Thompson has “just” written a love story. Christmas Encore is so much more. Aunt Grace has a community project in mind involving at-risk teenagers and thinks both Roan and Reese would be able to contribute and participate and hopefully connect with these teens. And Grace isn’t afraid to meddle a little and try a little matchmaking while she’s at it.
Roan and Reese’s story will have you smiling and swooning and feeling their emotions, but what will really tug at your heartstrings is the four teens that are the first in the program: Cody, Marcus, Emma and Julia. All in different circumstances, at different ages, with and without parents, with and without homes. But all suffering and ripe to fall through the cracks, if not be subjected to abuse, neglect and danger. Seeing Reese and Roan find unique ways to touch these youngsters and to learn to communicate with each other is heartwarming. As always, the citizens of Sugarville Grove step up when needed – except of course for those few bad apples that must be weeded out.
I received an advance copy of Christmas Encore as part of Tesser’s Review Crewsters team. It made me laugh and cry, feel warm and fuzzy inside, be worried and scared, and rejoice. Sugarville Grove is so full of activity it feels like a big bustling town, yet at the same time warm, cozy and intimate. I recommend this book and every other thing Tess Thompson writes. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Author Tess Thompson writes the best love stories. No matter the setting, time period or circumstances the characters will captivate you and the story will keep you enthralled with its depth, layers and surprises. After ten books in the series a new book centered in Sugarville Grove feels like coming home. Between author Clara Pines’ books about the Lawrence Family and Thompson’s focusing on the Hayes Family you are surrounded by people who pique your interest and keep it, real-life dilemmas and tragedies and the beauty of true love and romance.
Christmas Encore opens with the return of Roan Hayes, nephew of Grace and Walter and who along with his twin brother Jason is cousin to Luke, Nolan, Max and Logan. In Roan’s mind he’s a failed, has-been stuntman at age 33, returning home after fifteen years to try and clean up the mess he left behind, ran away from. There was a hint of his and Reese’s history from Reese’s point of view in Thompson’s previous book in the series, Savoring Christmas, and it was a perfect teaser for this book. I was so excited to start reading Christmas Encore and that excitement was not misplaced.
Roan thinks that being able to purchase the gym right next door to Reese’s dance studio may be a sign that he can finally put things right. Not win her heart again. He has no hope of that. But he owes her an apology, if not a full explanation. But that explanation will be complicated and risky, involving old lies and secrets and betrayals. A story he’s kept within for the past fifteen years. Reese is not happy to see Roan, not at all. She was shattered when he abandoned her without a word then or since. He was all she had, the only person who made her feel worthwhile and secure, and he deserted her. But that’s not to say that whatever was between them in high school is still there. Amplified if possible because they are adults now, with mature feelings, wants, desires – and insecurities and trust issues.
Don’t be fooled into thinking Thompson has “just” written a love story. Christmas Encore is so much more. Aunt Grace has a community project in mind involving at-risk teenagers and thinks both Roan and Reese would be able to contribute and participate and hopefully connect with these teens. And Grace isn’t afraid to meddle a little and try a little matchmaking while she’s at it.
Roan and Reese’s story will have you smiling and swooning and feeling their emotions, but what will really tug at your heartstrings is the four teens that are the first in the program: Cody, Marcus, Emma and Julia. All in different circumstances, at different ages, with and without parents, with and without homes. But all suffering and ripe to fall through the cracks, if not be subjected to abuse, neglect and danger. Seeing Reese and Roan find unique ways to touch these youngsters and to learn to communicate with each other is heartwarming. As always, the citizens of Sugarville Grove step up when needed – except of course for those few bad apples that must be weeded out.
I received an advance copy of Christmas Encore as part of Tesser’s Review Crewsters team. It made me laugh and cry, feel warm and fuzzy inside, be worried and scared, and rejoice. Sugarville Grove is so full of activity it feels like a big bustling town, yet at the same time warm, cozy and intimate. I recommend this book and every other thing Tess Thompson writes. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Christmas Encore (Sugarville Grove Book 10)
By: Tess Thompson
5 Stars
We met Reese a bit earlier in this series, but this story really paints a broader, clearer story. After a horrible breakup when they were kids, Reese and Roan haven't talked in 15 years. Now they are both back. Roan is opening a gym after an injury ends his stuntman career and Reese is running her dance studio. They will have to learn to heal from their past hurts, together. Not just for themselves, but for the young teens of Sugarville Grove and what better time than Christmas?
Wow. I have loved this series, but this story was just so heartwarming. From the story between Reese and Roan, to the plight of the teens, this story had me emotional. It was sad and heartbreaking. It was also beautiful and magical and amazing. Maybe having the childhood that I had played into the amount of love I felt for and from this book, but it truly warmed my heart and soul. By the first page I was hooked. By the last page I was captivated and emotional and so much more in love with this story, these people, and this town.
Tess surprises me with each book. This was another amazing book by an amazing author.
*I want to thank the publisher and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: Tess Thompson
5 Stars
We met Reese a bit earlier in this series, but this story really paints a broader, clearer story. After a horrible breakup when they were kids, Reese and Roan haven't talked in 15 years. Now they are both back. Roan is opening a gym after an injury ends his stuntman career and Reese is running her dance studio. They will have to learn to heal from their past hurts, together. Not just for themselves, but for the young teens of Sugarville Grove and what better time than Christmas?
Wow. I have loved this series, but this story was just so heartwarming. From the story between Reese and Roan, to the plight of the teens, this story had me emotional. It was sad and heartbreaking. It was also beautiful and magical and amazing. Maybe having the childhood that I had played into the amount of love I felt for and from this book, but it truly warmed my heart and soul. By the first page I was hooked. By the last page I was captivated and emotional and so much more in love with this story, these people, and this town.
Tess surprises me with each book. This was another amazing book by an amazing author.
*I want to thank the publisher and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
February 12, 2026
I have written a review of this book in multiple ways but each time I end up erasing it because it either gives too much information or is too vague. This is one of the few times that I just can’t put it all together. It isn’t because the book is bad, it is because it is so good and pulls so many strings of your heart. I needed Kleenex a few times because of what the children are going through. The teenagers are often lost in so many ways and don’t have a path to go down that will lead them to where they should be. Roan Hayes lost his mother too soon in his life and what he went through after that not only affected him, but the girl he was in love with Reese Monroe. While they should have been together forever, decisions made by Roan kept them apart for 15 years. Now a chance has presented itself to not only renew their relationship, but also help others along the way. If it all works out it can lead to so many amazing things,
This is Tess Thompson’s new addition to the Sugarville Grove series. Make sure you have the time and like I mentioned, Kleenex is needed. You might also get mad at a few things along the way but in the end it is a clean, HEA romance that you need to read!!
Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is Tess Thompson’s new addition to the Sugarville Grove series. Make sure you have the time and like I mentioned, Kleenex is needed. You might also get mad at a few things along the way but in the end it is a clean, HEA romance that you need to read!!
Thanks to 1852 Media and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love second chance romance or an encore in this case. Reese and Roan were high school sweethearts, sole mates with plans for the future. When unexpectedly Roan’s mother passed away and Reese’s controlling father interferes, Roan ups and leaves without a good bye. And making it worse was he stood up Reese on prom night. Now years later and still in love with Reese, feeling guilty and full of regrets he takes his stuntman career ending accident as a sign to ask forgiveness and moves back home.
Reese ballet career is over in New York, she succeeded fulfilling her dream and now back home and owning her own dance studio has filled her with joy. She loves her small town and her BBF has also moved here, but she still wonders what happened 15 years ago when the love of her life just disappeared. And now he reappears and owns the gym next door. Determined not to let him know how bad he broke her heart, but fate has different ideas.
Also this is a beautiful story of giving second chances to the innocent children who have no say or control in their life’s. Once again a wonderful small town romance, if you read previous books you may remember Reese. Thank you for allowing me to read this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.
Reese ballet career is over in New York, she succeeded fulfilling her dream and now back home and owning her own dance studio has filled her with joy. She loves her small town and her BBF has also moved here, but she still wonders what happened 15 years ago when the love of her life just disappeared. And now he reappears and owns the gym next door. Determined not to let him know how bad he broke her heart, but fate has different ideas.
Also this is a beautiful story of giving second chances to the innocent children who have no say or control in their life’s. Once again a wonderful small town romance, if you read previous books you may remember Reese. Thank you for allowing me to read this ARC, all opinions expressed are my own.
February 17, 2026
This was a wonderful story! One of the best in this series.
Amazon synopsis:
Some love stories never take their final bow.
He left her without a word. Now he’s back—with scars, regrets, and a love he can’t outrun.
Fifteen years ago, Roan Hayes vanished from Sugarville Grove, leaving behind the girl he loved and a town that never forgave him. Now, a career-ending stuntman injury sends him home, determined to start over quietly with a gritty new gym. But his fresh start collides head-on with the past when he discovers his business shares a wall with hers.
Reese Monroe has been back in Sugarville Grove for years, running her beloved Sugar Plum Dance Studio after a dazzling ballet career that ended too soon. Outwardly, she’s thriving—teaching young dancers, filling her days with music and movement—but privately, the pressure to stay in control still haunts her. The last thing she needs is Roan walking back into her world… still magnetic, still stubborn, and still capable of upending everything.
As their lives—and their businesses—intertwine, old sparks burn hotter than ever. But forgiveness doesn’t come easy, and trust is even harder. Can Roan prove that first love deserves a second chance, or will past heartbreak take its final bow?
Amazon synopsis:
Some love stories never take their final bow.
He left her without a word. Now he’s back—with scars, regrets, and a love he can’t outrun.
Fifteen years ago, Roan Hayes vanished from Sugarville Grove, leaving behind the girl he loved and a town that never forgave him. Now, a career-ending stuntman injury sends him home, determined to start over quietly with a gritty new gym. But his fresh start collides head-on with the past when he discovers his business shares a wall with hers.
Reese Monroe has been back in Sugarville Grove for years, running her beloved Sugar Plum Dance Studio after a dazzling ballet career that ended too soon. Outwardly, she’s thriving—teaching young dancers, filling her days with music and movement—but privately, the pressure to stay in control still haunts her. The last thing she needs is Roan walking back into her world… still magnetic, still stubborn, and still capable of upending everything.
As their lives—and their businesses—intertwine, old sparks burn hotter than ever. But forgiveness doesn’t come easy, and trust is even harder. Can Roan prove that first love deserves a second chance, or will past heartbreak take its final bow?
February 18, 2026
Another wonderful Sugarville Grove story. Reese was stood up for prom by Roan fifteen years ago. He had left and headed to California to work as a stuntman. But an injury sends him back home to open a gym. A way to use his training to support himself. Reese spent time in New York as a ballerina but had decided it was time to give up her life there and return to her hometown. She opened a dance studio which happens to be right next door to the location Roan is looking to open his gym. Roan hopes he can get Reese to at least forgive him for what he did if he can tell her the truth about why he left. They end up working together with some other members of the town on a project to help disadvantaged youth. Between the gym and the dance studio they are hoping to help the kids. As they work together and get to know the kids and work with them, they begin to speak to each other. Reese has to work through what Roan told her about why he left like he did. It takes some time for her to work through that. And Roan has to work through how he had hurt Reese. The stories about the kids are so true of today’s situations. Such a warm and wonderful story.
February 13, 2026
Sugarville Grove is a perfect town with great families who would do anything for their friends and family. Roan and Reese have a past that broke both of their hearts. She hasn't forgiven him for the way he ended things and he has never moved on from her. There is a fine line between love and hate, but will she believe him when he tells her why he left the way he did? As they spend time toghether, helping young teens who have fallen on hard times, their feelings come to the surface. Whether she can move past what happened remains to be seen.
I loved their relationship and how the teenagers helped them realize some truths about themselves. Just when they have decided to make some huge steps in their relationship with each other and the teens, a winter storm hits out of nowhere and history might repeat itself. I loved the fact that they both attended the program the other was in charge of (for the program) to support each other. I love this series and can't wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
I loved their relationship and how the teenagers helped them realize some truths about themselves. Just when they have decided to make some huge steps in their relationship with each other and the teens, a winter storm hits out of nowhere and history might repeat itself. I loved the fact that they both attended the program the other was in charge of (for the program) to support each other. I love this series and can't wait to see what happens next. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
February 11, 2026
Roan Hayes is back home in Sugarville Grove after being gone for years. He left home after his mother passed away and the love of his life, Reese Monroe’s father told him he wasn’t good enough. He told Roan that he would hold Reese back from her dreams of being a ballerina in NYC. He broke her heart because he really thought he wasn’t good enough. Roan returned home because of an injury that could have killed him after being a stuntman in Hollywood. Now that he’s retired he opens a gym next door to Reese’s dance studio. She is retired and now is teaching others. She’s surprised to see Roan and is still hurt by him leaving her without saying goodbye. Roan’s aunt asked the two of them to be sponsors for four underprivileged teens. Can they help them? The teens are in bad situations. Between Reese and Roan, they work hard and show the them that they are worth it. They are loved. As they spend time together, Roan apologizes to her and tells her what he father did. Can she forgive him? Will they let the past go? Now as they move forward, they end up helping the teens get off the streets, get in a safe environment so they can move forward too. The characters are wonderful, including the teens. It’s all about forgiveness, showing love and understanding. Second chances can happen and so can becoming a family. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Christmas Encore is Roan Hayes and Reese Monroe’s second chance love story set in the small town of Sugarville Grove. This is book ten in A Small Town Christmas Romance: Sugarville Grove and i loved everything about this heartwarming story that movies are made from.
Roan and Reese were high school sweethearts but he left home after his mother passed away without even saying goodbye but now his back and opening gym next door to Reese’s dance studio. So what happens when these two find themselves on the same side trying to help a group of disadvantaged teenagers come into their own…….
This is a beautifully written story that touched my heart, I fell hard and fast for Roan and I adored Reese but what took this book to the next level was watching them interact with teenagers who weren’t looking for mentors or help. This book took over my life and didn’t let me go until the final line was read.
Roan and Reese were high school sweethearts but he left home after his mother passed away without even saying goodbye but now his back and opening gym next door to Reese’s dance studio. So what happens when these two find themselves on the same side trying to help a group of disadvantaged teenagers come into their own…….
This is a beautifully written story that touched my heart, I fell hard and fast for Roan and I adored Reese but what took this book to the next level was watching them interact with teenagers who weren’t looking for mentors or help. This book took over my life and didn’t let me go until the final line was read.
February 15, 2026
This small town second chance romance is heartwarming and engaging. Reese is incredibly forgiving after Roan apologizes for not showing up on prom night 15 years earlier. Granted, he had a good excuse, but he should have communicated in some way with Reese at the time. The two of them have basically been pining for each other since then, as no one else could measure up. (I love that Reese's best friend is a speech therapist BTW, there should be more in literature!😊)
The Hayes family devises a way to mentor at-risk teens, assisted by Reese's dance studio and Roan's gym. Our MCs throw themselves into this whole heartedly; I have to admit that some of those scenes made me a little teary-eyed. The writing was terrific and the secondary characters were every bit as likeable as the MCs. The book is another beautiful addition to this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Hayes family devises a way to mentor at-risk teens, assisted by Reese's dance studio and Roan's gym. Our MCs throw themselves into this whole heartedly; I have to admit that some of those scenes made me a little teary-eyed. The writing was terrific and the secondary characters were every bit as likeable as the MCs. The book is another beautiful addition to this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 16, 2026
Every good act deserves an encore
Roan would walk through a whiteout blizzard, soaking wet, going just one step at a time for Reese's love, oh wait - he did!
The love they had know torn them apart, a grown up love would bring them back together and enrich their lives in ways they could never have imagined.
This story deals with some heartbreaking topics, grief, abandonment, homelessness in teens, forgiveness, anger, teen pregnancy, and does it in a loving way. Everyone deserves a chance to make their lives better. It takes people with a heart of Christ to love the unlovable and give then the hope,encouragement, love, faith in themselves. This story brought a few tears and some chuckles and a lot of insight to just how dark and cruel people can be, of all ages and it tells how loving,caring and just how community can change directions for the young people of today.
Thank you, Tess Thompson for writing such a moving story.
Roan would walk through a whiteout blizzard, soaking wet, going just one step at a time for Reese's love, oh wait - he did!
The love they had know torn them apart, a grown up love would bring them back together and enrich their lives in ways they could never have imagined.
This story deals with some heartbreaking topics, grief, abandonment, homelessness in teens, forgiveness, anger, teen pregnancy, and does it in a loving way. Everyone deserves a chance to make their lives better. It takes people with a heart of Christ to love the unlovable and give then the hope,encouragement, love, faith in themselves. This story brought a few tears and some chuckles and a lot of insight to just how dark and cruel people can be, of all ages and it tells how loving,caring and just how community can change directions for the young people of today.
Thank you, Tess Thompson for writing such a moving story.
Review of advance copy
Christmas Encore will pull at your heart. I loved this so much. The sweetness in this just hit me just right. This is a second chance for Reese and Roan. Reese never knew why Roan ghosted her all those years ago as she went on with her dance career until an injury sent her home. She is an amazing teacher with a huge heart. Roan is back in town after forced retirement from stunt work and looking to heal and reconnect with his past. I love the chemistry as Reese and Roan get to know each other as adults. I love how they go all in with the kids they are mentoring together. Roan has a lot to prove to Reese and nothing is going to stop them. You're heart will be so full with this on. I love being back with the Hayes family. I cannot wait for more to come in the Sugarville Grove series. Go one click this today.
February 12, 2026
I don't know how Tess Thompson and Clara Pines do it. The first books in this series were really good, yet this series continues to get better and better. Christmas Encore is a second chance romance, which is not a trope that I really like, and I was annoyed when Reese began to soften toward Roan so quickly. In fact, I put the book down for a day. But I am so glad I continued to read it. The teens are realistic, well written characters, and seeing them helps Reese to understand Roan better, and offers her a way to understand his actions in the past. The empathy between the teens and their mentors is beautiful, and the growth in the characters is encouraging and believable. This story brought me to tears, which is uncommon for me. I was happy to receive an advance copy of this book to read. I recommend this book, and the entire series.
February 13, 2026
4.5 stars
Christmas in Sugarville Grove is an ‘all-resident involvement’ time, whether for the festivities or for community projects. For dance teacher, Reese, and ex-stuntman, Roan, it means they are obliged to work together after an inexplicable silence lasting fifteen years!
Working with ‘at-risk’ kids is always a doubtful undertaking, even more so for those without professional training, but can also potentially be a very satisfying prospect, which Roan and Reese accept, albeit with some initial misgivings.
Ms Thompson has offered her readers another heart-warming story in this special series; however, the easy outcome of the “Bridge” project, and, more significantly, the immediate aftermath of the life-threatening predicament Roan experiences are too improbable to earn a 5-star rating. I received a free copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Christmas in Sugarville Grove is an ‘all-resident involvement’ time, whether for the festivities or for community projects. For dance teacher, Reese, and ex-stuntman, Roan, it means they are obliged to work together after an inexplicable silence lasting fifteen years!
Working with ‘at-risk’ kids is always a doubtful undertaking, even more so for those without professional training, but can also potentially be a very satisfying prospect, which Roan and Reese accept, albeit with some initial misgivings.
Ms Thompson has offered her readers another heart-warming story in this special series; however, the easy outcome of the “Bridge” project, and, more significantly, the immediate aftermath of the life-threatening predicament Roan experiences are too improbable to earn a 5-star rating. I received a free copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
February 24, 2026
Oh how I love Roan and Reese's story! Roan and Reese were high school sweethearts and planned on going to New York together while Reese pursued her dancing dream. Prom night, he stood her up with no explanation and she hasn't been the same since. Roan's Mother passed away and put him in a tail spin. Reese's Dad also convinced him he was not good for Reese. He went on to pursue his a career in Los Angeles as a stunt man. He gained an injury and 15 years later he is home and opens a business next door to Reese hoping to mend fences and tell her the whole story. They both end up put in group to help children in the community and have to work together. I just loved this sweet story. You can read this book alone or in the series.
I appreciate the publisher for a chance to read this book. My opinions are my own.
I appreciate the publisher for a chance to read this book. My opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
What a beautiful story this book was. A second chance, new beginnings and acceptance of life situations. Roan is home again in Sugarville Grove and excited but hesitant. He left abruptly with no warning and feels guilty about that even 15 years later. Reese is back also and running her dance studio. She was so devastated by Roan’s actions when she was younger. When she realizes he owns the gym next door will they resolve their feelings? When a Bridge Program is proposed by his Aunt will they find their way? Will past secrets help them on their way? Will the four teenagers in the program or help them both to understand grief, compassion and gratitude for what they had and do have. You don’t want to miss this story. You will laugh, be happy and maybe shed a tear or two. 5+ stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Christmas Encore is Roan and Reese’s second chance love story. They were high school sweethearts, but Roan left Sugerville Grove after his mother died without saying a word to Reese. After being away 15 years, he’s back after being injured in a stunt went bad. He decided to come back and open a gym. It just happens to be next door to Reese’s dance studio. He wants nothing more than to make what he did to Reese right. Close proximity and helping with a group of disadvantaged teens draws them together again. Will they be able to let the hurt from their past go and move on to a wonderful life together? I love all Sugarville Grove books! Christmas Encore is my favorite of all! I can’t wait the next one!
February 12, 2026
What an emotional rollercoaster this book was! Tess Thompson did it again. My new favourite book!
I loved the story that brought together Reese and Roan after 15 years of their breakup. As luck would have it they are working together as mentors for four teenagers with tragic circumstances.
The most important thing of the story is about forgiveness, empathy and hope that brings the people of unfortunate situations onto the same path that lead them toward better future. The other important part is that family can be made not just by blood but also by heart and love.
Small town, family and community that really cares are the key elements for happiness and second chances.
I highly recommend reading this book and the whole series.
I loved the story that brought together Reese and Roan after 15 years of their breakup. As luck would have it they are working together as mentors for four teenagers with tragic circumstances.
The most important thing of the story is about forgiveness, empathy and hope that brings the people of unfortunate situations onto the same path that lead them toward better future. The other important part is that family can be made not just by blood but also by heart and love.
Small town, family and community that really cares are the key elements for happiness and second chances.
I highly recommend reading this book and the whole series.
February 16, 2026
Such an emotional touching story of love and caring. This book was both heartbreaking and yet so beautiful at the same time. I felt so much for each of these kids. This goes to show just how much love and believing in someone can do for a person. I loved seeing how each one of these kids grew in confidence and loving each other & themselves. Roan and Reese along with the Hayes family and the towns people showed so much love to these lost kids. Roan and Reese have been in love since an early age but circumstances led them on different paths. They each had some growing up to do and lessons to learn before they could truly be happy. Tess Thompson did a phenomenal job on this book. It tugged on my heartstrings so much. I highly recommend this book and this entire series to everyone.
February 18, 2026
This is a great installment in the Sugarville Grove series, a small town that always celebrates Christmas in a big way. Roan Hayes comes back to town after 15 years, opening a local gym after one too many injuries as a Hollywood stuntman ends his career. He left town & his high school sweetheart/soulmate Reece after his mom died and her Dad threatened him. After all these years, these two have never forgotten each other (Reece also back in town after an injury ended her dancing career in New York City), and Roan desperately wants the chance to apologize - even if he thinks she can’t ever forgive him. Do these two get their second chance at a forever love? I think we all know the answer in this beautifully written story. Loved it!
February 21, 2026
What an AMAZING book. Christmas Encore has become an ultimate favorite book of mine that Tess Thompson has written!!! Throughout the story, the visualization that was brought alive by her descriptive narrative was outstanding. I could picture myself living in this town with all of its wonderful people. This story is not only about Roan and Reese’s adventures but the many caring and creative people that they are connected to. It is such an uplifting book and one that will inspire many to revisit their life choices to possibly discover if they can open their hearts more. A huge thank you shout out to Tess Thompson, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. It is one that I highly recommend to all.
February 12, 2026
Roan returns to Sugarville Grove after a stuntman accident. He invests in buying a gym next to his high school sweetheart Reese. Roan stood Reese up the night of prom after threats from her banker father.
The pair unit on a project helping at risk students. They soon prove you do not have to be related to care for each other. Family may look out of the ordinary. The story of Arian and Reese plus the fragile lives of four students is truly heart warming. What a difference it makes when teenagers feel love and supported.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
The pair unit on a project helping at risk students. They soon prove you do not have to be related to care for each other. Family may look out of the ordinary. The story of Arian and Reese plus the fragile lives of four students is truly heart warming. What a difference it makes when teenagers feel love and supported.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
February 12, 2026
A wonderful second chance story. A very emotional story with so much depth it brought tears to my eyes. Roan Hayes, who lost his mother at a young age, moves back to Sugarville Grove after an injury with stunt moves. Reese is a dancer who was injured and moved back, childhood sweethearts apart for 15 years. Then Aunt Grace Hayes comes up with a mentorship program to help troubled teenagers. The perfect people to help, Reese and Roan. I loved how the story developed from here, a story with real feelings, emotions, love and kindness. Young kids who were able to feel that they really are loved. An absolutely a beautiful story you don’t want to miss.
February 13, 2026
When Roan left Reese the night of her prom without a word, she hated him. Her dancing career in New York is over so she now she is back home teaching dance. Fifteen years later, Roan comes home and buys the building by her dance studio. He has worked as a Hollywood stuntman until injuries ended his career. His plan is to open a gym. He never stopped loving Reese and wants to apologize to her for hurting her. When a Bridge Program is created for at-risk teens, Reese and Roan are asked to work with them in the gym and dance studio. Can they get over the past and learn to work together, and maybe learn to love again? I am thankful for the opportunity to read an ARC.
February 23, 2026
This clean, standalone, HEA romance delivers a wonderful feelgood story that will leave you wishing you lived in Sugarville Grove. Second chance romances are common, chances are you've read both good and bad examples, but I don't think I've ever read one quite like this. Roan comes home to make a new life for himself, which includes apologising to Reese for leaving her high and dry the night of their high school Prom. So, Roan apologises, Reese accepts and life moves on for both of them, this time together. I loved it! No huge drama, just shared love and acceptance. Meanwhile, the subplot of the community project and helping the local teenagers was great to read.
February 13, 2026
absolutely loved this story
Christmas Encore is another great story set in Sugarville Grove by Tess Thompson. Roan returns after bad accident ends his career as a stuntman in Hollywood. His goal is to win back his high school sweetheart, Reese. He broke her heart in high school but has never stopped loving her. Reese, after a career as a ballerina in NYC has returned home and is now teaching in her dance studio, still trying to deal with her feelings for Roan. They begin working together in a program for “At Risk Kids.” Really good story.
Christmas Encore is another great story set in Sugarville Grove by Tess Thompson. Roan returns after bad accident ends his career as a stuntman in Hollywood. His goal is to win back his high school sweetheart, Reese. He broke her heart in high school but has never stopped loving her. Reese, after a career as a ballerina in NYC has returned home and is now teaching in her dance studio, still trying to deal with her feelings for Roan. They begin working together in a program for “At Risk Kids.” Really good story.
February 16, 2026
This small town Christmas story is Reese and Roan's story, and what a story it is! This was such a feel good story. Everything about it made me want to pack up and move to Vermont. All of the books in this series by Tess Thompson and Clara Pines overlap, and we see all the families and couples in each story. I never want these books to end, and somehow they don't. Each story lives on in the next books in the series. Keep writing ladies! We love your books! I received an ARC from the author and this review is all mine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A very emotional story. Reese and Roan work together initially just for the sake of the teens. Every one of them have a tragic history. I loved watching them all grow emotionally and come together with commitment. Roan’s determination, persistence and love during the snowstorm shine through so brightly. Absolutely loved this story and highly recommend it.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
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