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Echo Ridge Romance #1
Christmas Kisses: An Echo Ridge Anthology
Christmas Kisses is a collection from five bestselling and award-winning authors. Set in the snowy town of Echo Ridge in upstate New York, these inspirational romances are sure to delight while you sip cocoa by the fire and listen to Christmas carols.
Christmas Makeover by Cami Checketts bestselling author
Chelsea Jamison has been infatuated with Drew Stirling longer than she's loved playing basketball, high-top sneakers, and the Knicks. Unfortunately, all Drew sees is the kid who kicked his trash in the high school free throw contest and not the girl whose heart breaks into a fast dribble when he's near.
Drew makes an unexpected visit home to Echo Ridge and their friendship picks up where they left off as they scheme to make a teenaged boy's Christmas dreams come true. When Chelsea realizes she's fallen for her best friend, she wonders if there is any hope of a relationship with Drew or if she's stuck in buddy-status for life.
The Candy Counter Heiress by Lucy McConnell bestselling author
Someday Reese Gates will own The Candy Counter at Kenworth's; but someday can't come fast enough when the manager threatens to bring in a national candy provider. Reese secretly takes matters into her own hands hoping to save her parents from additional worry and prove herself capable of running the company. Her deception deepens as she ropes computer guru Andy Edwards into helping her expand the business. Reese wanted to shake things up, but she wasn't planning on her heart getting caught in the mix by Andy's stolen kisses. If she can hold it together until after Christmas, then she can reveal her successful online company and her feelings for Andy. Unfortunately for Reese, even the best laid plans can melt like chocolate.
Soda Fountain Christmas by Connie E. Sokol bestselling author
Keira Kenworth has one focus this holiday save her father's old-time department store from bankruptcy. She is not focused on Tayton Wells, the tall, dark, and genius marketing guru from downtown New York, hired to make it happen. He is as doubtful that her nostalgic connect-the-town ideas will succeed as she is about his numbers-first plan. However, it's not just their different approaches that cause sparks to fly. Working together on a fast deadline to save the store before Christmas, the unspoken connection between them grows. But will the tough decisions they face drive them back to their separate worlds, or will they lead to the beginning of love?
One Winter Night by Heather Tullis bestselling author
Jonah Owens thought moving to Echo Ridge to open his art gallery would solve all of his problems. The need to sell his grandma's house adds an unexpected complication. It would be easier if his neighbor didn't have all those farm animals.
Kaya Feidler's family has owned their land for nearly a hundred years--long before the neighbors were there. There's no way she's giving up the animal therapy business she's been struggling to make profitable. She gets a temp job helping Jonah in the gallery. Spending time together is a recipe for romance, but can they overcome their own hangups to be more than friends?
Hope for Christmas by Rachelle J. Christensen bestselling & award-winning author
Anika Fletcher hates Christmas--its promises of good tidings and hope for the future are as tinseled as the ornaments on Kenworth's Hope Tree. Despite her feelings, Anika wants to maintain her daughter's faith in the magic of the season and gladly accepts a second job working with the handsome Carlos Rodriguez to restore Kenworth's old fashioned soda fountain. Carlos is no stranger to hard times and slowly shares his life of light and joy with Anika as they work together. Just as her fragile soul begins to feel hope again, an ill-timed act of charity changes everything. Anika isn't sure who she can trust or if hope is worth nurturing--especially at Christmas when it's easy to enjoy a kiss and believe love can last longer than the season.
Christmas Makeover by Cami Checketts bestselling author
Chelsea Jamison has been infatuated with Drew Stirling longer than she's loved playing basketball, high-top sneakers, and the Knicks. Unfortunately, all Drew sees is the kid who kicked his trash in the high school free throw contest and not the girl whose heart breaks into a fast dribble when he's near.
Drew makes an unexpected visit home to Echo Ridge and their friendship picks up where they left off as they scheme to make a teenaged boy's Christmas dreams come true. When Chelsea realizes she's fallen for her best friend, she wonders if there is any hope of a relationship with Drew or if she's stuck in buddy-status for life.
The Candy Counter Heiress by Lucy McConnell bestselling author
Someday Reese Gates will own The Candy Counter at Kenworth's; but someday can't come fast enough when the manager threatens to bring in a national candy provider. Reese secretly takes matters into her own hands hoping to save her parents from additional worry and prove herself capable of running the company. Her deception deepens as she ropes computer guru Andy Edwards into helping her expand the business. Reese wanted to shake things up, but she wasn't planning on her heart getting caught in the mix by Andy's stolen kisses. If she can hold it together until after Christmas, then she can reveal her successful online company and her feelings for Andy. Unfortunately for Reese, even the best laid plans can melt like chocolate.
Soda Fountain Christmas by Connie E. Sokol bestselling author
Keira Kenworth has one focus this holiday save her father's old-time department store from bankruptcy. She is not focused on Tayton Wells, the tall, dark, and genius marketing guru from downtown New York, hired to make it happen. He is as doubtful that her nostalgic connect-the-town ideas will succeed as she is about his numbers-first plan. However, it's not just their different approaches that cause sparks to fly. Working together on a fast deadline to save the store before Christmas, the unspoken connection between them grows. But will the tough decisions they face drive them back to their separate worlds, or will they lead to the beginning of love?
One Winter Night by Heather Tullis bestselling author
Jonah Owens thought moving to Echo Ridge to open his art gallery would solve all of his problems. The need to sell his grandma's house adds an unexpected complication. It would be easier if his neighbor didn't have all those farm animals.
Kaya Feidler's family has owned their land for nearly a hundred years--long before the neighbors were there. There's no way she's giving up the animal therapy business she's been struggling to make profitable. She gets a temp job helping Jonah in the gallery. Spending time together is a recipe for romance, but can they overcome their own hangups to be more than friends?
Hope for Christmas by Rachelle J. Christensen bestselling & award-winning author
Anika Fletcher hates Christmas--its promises of good tidings and hope for the future are as tinseled as the ornaments on Kenworth's Hope Tree. Despite her feelings, Anika wants to maintain her daughter's faith in the magic of the season and gladly accepts a second job working with the handsome Carlos Rodriguez to restore Kenworth's old fashioned soda fountain. Carlos is no stranger to hard times and slowly shares his life of light and joy with Anika as they work together. Just as her fragile soul begins to feel hope again, an ill-timed act of charity changes everything. Anika isn't sure who she can trust or if hope is worth nurturing--especially at Christmas when it's easy to enjoy a kiss and believe love can last longer than the season.
517 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2015
28 people are currently reading
1053 people want to read
About the author
Cami Checketts
298 books1,131 followersCami Checketts is a USA Today Bestselling author of over a hundred clean romance novels. Her journey began on an Idaho dairy farm daydreaming book ideas on her bike or tractor and landing herself in the hospital numerous times for head wounds. She settled down after college (retired the bike at least) to raise four crazy boys and write down all those fabulous ideas. Cami's life is busy but she thoroughly enjoys rarely living in reality.
Cami loves the Savior, her husband, her boys, her daughter-in-law, her grandson, traveling, chocolate, and exercise.
Get a free book when you sign up for Cami's VAP (Very Awesome People) list - www.camichecketts.com
Cami loves the Savior, her husband, her boys, her daughter-in-law, her grandson, traveling, chocolate, and exercise.
Get a free book when you sign up for Cami's VAP (Very Awesome People) list - www.camichecketts.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
November 6, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but I'll be honest. As soon as I heard this was being released, I pre-ordered a copy. I've read books by each of these authors before and have loved the way they each tell a story and I knew I wouldn't be disappointed.
One thing that I absolutely loved about this anthology is that each story takes place in a great new setting--Echo Ridge, NY--with characters that make appearances in each story. How great is that?! I loved getting glimpses into the many characters lives and seeing them through different eyes in the other stories. I love the description of the store where they all have a connection to--Kenworth's.
Years and years ago, my grandmother worked at a department store in a smallish town and Kenworth's has that same type of nostalgic feel to it. I could picture the candy counter, the soda fountain, the women's department, the window displays, and most of all the Hope Tree. I love the contribution each character had to this charming store and community. There are stories of hope, stories of second chances, stories of moving on, stories with Christmas magic, and most of all, stories of love. I would love to find a town such as this to finish raising my family in!
For me, it's impossible to choose a favorite of the bunch. Each is so unique and they all tie together so nicely. I'm really hoping that we get more of this place and the people who live there (a summer anthology?). This is the perfect book for lovers of clean romance and heartwarming Christmas stories.
Content: mild religious elements in most of the stories; no language; mild romance (kissing); mild violence in one story. Clean!
One thing that I absolutely loved about this anthology is that each story takes place in a great new setting--Echo Ridge, NY--with characters that make appearances in each story. How great is that?! I loved getting glimpses into the many characters lives and seeing them through different eyes in the other stories. I love the description of the store where they all have a connection to--Kenworth's.
Years and years ago, my grandmother worked at a department store in a smallish town and Kenworth's has that same type of nostalgic feel to it. I could picture the candy counter, the soda fountain, the women's department, the window displays, and most of all the Hope Tree. I love the contribution each character had to this charming store and community. There are stories of hope, stories of second chances, stories of moving on, stories with Christmas magic, and most of all, stories of love. I would love to find a town such as this to finish raising my family in!
For me, it's impossible to choose a favorite of the bunch. Each is so unique and they all tie together so nicely. I'm really hoping that we get more of this place and the people who live there (a summer anthology?). This is the perfect book for lovers of clean romance and heartwarming Christmas stories.
Content: mild religious elements in most of the stories; no language; mild romance (kissing); mild violence in one story. Clean!
September 9, 2016
4 Christmas Kisses
I loved this collection of stories; each love story is unique and fun, sometimes sad but always uplifting. And has the spirit of Christmas which is really what it’s all about.
I know it’s only September and I am reading this book I say who cares it can be Christmas all year round. Can you tell Christmas is my favorite time of year? Ha ha. It is about family and friends that is what this story feels like. It feels like your reading about people you know. You can’t help but root for them.
The first story is about chocolate!! I mean what could be better than that? Add a childhood love that totally made it better. I swear I could smell the chocolate!
The Second story isn’t just one love story we get two! I loved the hope, and the feels from this story. I think it’s probably my favorite of all of them. We have Chelsea and Drew who were friends from high school. Who reconnect years later. I was rooting for the teens Mason and Katlyn.
The Third story is of a single mom who needs a little bit of a break. This was heartwarming. Her daughter is just special and totally a dolly girl I loved that.
The Forth story is about Keira, and she is mostly responsible for the story that all these stories take place in and around. She needed hope and hope is what she gets.
The Fifth story is a heartwarming, I loved that this was about animals and helping others. Eye opening for both characters, I really enjoyed that.
I loved both narrators; Tanya Eby, Kate Rudd they are 2 of my favorites to listen to. They bring the stories to life for me. It never feels stilted or choppy.
*All my Reviews are 100% honest and my own.*
I loved this collection of stories; each love story is unique and fun, sometimes sad but always uplifting. And has the spirit of Christmas which is really what it’s all about.
I know it’s only September and I am reading this book I say who cares it can be Christmas all year round. Can you tell Christmas is my favorite time of year? Ha ha. It is about family and friends that is what this story feels like. It feels like your reading about people you know. You can’t help but root for them.
The first story is about chocolate!! I mean what could be better than that? Add a childhood love that totally made it better. I swear I could smell the chocolate!
The Second story isn’t just one love story we get two! I loved the hope, and the feels from this story. I think it’s probably my favorite of all of them. We have Chelsea and Drew who were friends from high school. Who reconnect years later. I was rooting for the teens Mason and Katlyn.
The Third story is of a single mom who needs a little bit of a break. This was heartwarming. Her daughter is just special and totally a dolly girl I loved that.
The Forth story is about Keira, and she is mostly responsible for the story that all these stories take place in and around. She needed hope and hope is what she gets.
The Fifth story is a heartwarming, I loved that this was about animals and helping others. Eye opening for both characters, I really enjoyed that.
I loved both narrators; Tanya Eby, Kate Rudd they are 2 of my favorites to listen to. They bring the stories to life for me. It never feels stilted or choppy.
*All my Reviews are 100% honest and my own.*
November 3, 2015
Okay...this book is awesome! I loved everyone of the stories. I loved that they were all set in the same little town in upstate New York, Echo Ridge. I thought that it was really fun that each of these stories encompasses the same time period so you see the same events happen, just through the eyes of different characters. The way it was done not only does the little town become almost a character on it's own, but also the things that happen in the little town. So fun!
I loved Reese in The Candy Counter Heiress by Lucy McConnell, she's a down to earth girl who loves to make chocolate (a girl after my own heart) but she has certain ideas for the family business. Unfortunately, her mom is currently in charge of the business and is really unwilling to listen to any of her ideas, even if they are good ones, leaving Reese feeling a little as though she doesn't belong. She's also trying to keep her heart safe from her long-time crush Andy, she doesn't want to give him power to break her heart again. But that keeps getting harder and harder, it seems like Andy's always there and when he offers to help Reese out with a website she knows her mom doesn't want, he's around even more. I loved this one!
Christmas Makeover by Cami Checketts was way fun too! I loved Chelsea, it was so funny the way that she was trying to sneak around to stay off her best friend, Jessica's, radar so that she wouldn't try to give her yet another makeover. Chelsea has always been content to live in workout clothes, but Drew her best friend and guy she's liked forever, has finally come back to town. He's always seen her as just the hang out and do sports buddy. Maybe a little makeover wouldn't hurt and would make him look at her another way. Such a fun story!
Hope for Christmas by Rachelle J Christensen is next. This one made me a bit sad, because of the way that Annika felt that she had to push everyone away and do everything on her own. But I did love that as she and Carlos kept getting thrown together at work she learned to trust him bit by bit and eventually knew that she loved him. Her sweet daughter Megan was adorable and I loved how she is so playful and fun. What a sweet love story.
Soda Fountain Christmas by Connie E Sokol was great too! I loved Keira and how she tries to work so hard to maintain and even grow the family business, even though she is continually shot down by the grinchy Cecillia. She's sure it's going to be more of the same when hotshot Tayton Wells shows up to try to do some advertising. But she's pleasantly surprised that he is willing to listen and even implement her ideas. But is she really willing to give up the family business for him? Loved the love story in this one! So cute, and fun!
One Winter Night by Heather Tullis, I stayed up late finishing this cute story! I loved Kaya, she's a bit feisty and pretty much willing to do whatever it takes to keep her dream of animal therapy for those that need it alive. She has a farm in the middle of a subdivision and she doesn't realize that it's making it hard for Jonah Owens to sell his grandmothers house. I loved the way that when he confronts her, she pretty much forgives him right away and notices good things about him. It was fun that she ended up working with him to try to open his art gallery. Such a fun love story as well!
Bottom line: I LOVED this set of books. Each of the books has a great love story that's clean and fun and puts you in the mood for Christmas. I'm really hoping for a follow up set, I'd love to learn more about some of the background characters and maybe see them get a happy ending as well!
I loved Reese in The Candy Counter Heiress by Lucy McConnell, she's a down to earth girl who loves to make chocolate (a girl after my own heart) but she has certain ideas for the family business. Unfortunately, her mom is currently in charge of the business and is really unwilling to listen to any of her ideas, even if they are good ones, leaving Reese feeling a little as though she doesn't belong. She's also trying to keep her heart safe from her long-time crush Andy, she doesn't want to give him power to break her heart again. But that keeps getting harder and harder, it seems like Andy's always there and when he offers to help Reese out with a website she knows her mom doesn't want, he's around even more. I loved this one!
Christmas Makeover by Cami Checketts was way fun too! I loved Chelsea, it was so funny the way that she was trying to sneak around to stay off her best friend, Jessica's, radar so that she wouldn't try to give her yet another makeover. Chelsea has always been content to live in workout clothes, but Drew her best friend and guy she's liked forever, has finally come back to town. He's always seen her as just the hang out and do sports buddy. Maybe a little makeover wouldn't hurt and would make him look at her another way. Such a fun story!
Hope for Christmas by Rachelle J Christensen is next. This one made me a bit sad, because of the way that Annika felt that she had to push everyone away and do everything on her own. But I did love that as she and Carlos kept getting thrown together at work she learned to trust him bit by bit and eventually knew that she loved him. Her sweet daughter Megan was adorable and I loved how she is so playful and fun. What a sweet love story.
Soda Fountain Christmas by Connie E Sokol was great too! I loved Keira and how she tries to work so hard to maintain and even grow the family business, even though she is continually shot down by the grinchy Cecillia. She's sure it's going to be more of the same when hotshot Tayton Wells shows up to try to do some advertising. But she's pleasantly surprised that he is willing to listen and even implement her ideas. But is she really willing to give up the family business for him? Loved the love story in this one! So cute, and fun!
One Winter Night by Heather Tullis, I stayed up late finishing this cute story! I loved Kaya, she's a bit feisty and pretty much willing to do whatever it takes to keep her dream of animal therapy for those that need it alive. She has a farm in the middle of a subdivision and she doesn't realize that it's making it hard for Jonah Owens to sell his grandmothers house. I loved the way that when he confronts her, she pretty much forgives him right away and notices good things about him. It was fun that she ended up working with him to try to open his art gallery. Such a fun love story as well!
Bottom line: I LOVED this set of books. Each of the books has a great love story that's clean and fun and puts you in the mood for Christmas. I'm really hoping for a follow up set, I'd love to learn more about some of the background characters and maybe see them get a happy ending as well!
October 27, 2015
Each of these stories builds upon the holiday theme of the small town of Echo Ridge in upstate New York. They were such a delight to read, helping to get me into the holiday spirit already! I can't wait to hear what everyone thinks of this anthology. I'd love to go walk the streets of Echo Ridge and meet some of these characters!
September 1, 2015
I've read all the stories in this anthology and I love each one. The department store being central to each story really made it fun to have so many of the characters interact.
October 28, 2015
Every story has an original voice and characters. It's great to watch romance bloom as the snow is falling in Echo Ridge. Each author brings her story and the town to life while being consistent in "setting" content from story to story. The stories are told with heart and passion but without "steam." Thank you ladies. All the characters were likable, believable, and had me cheering for them every step of the way. The writing is top notch, and while I expected that caliber based on past readings by most of these authors, I wondered if the "unkown to me" authors would be able to match the high bar. I wasn't disappointed and now have some new authors to check out. If you're looking for a heartwarming read to snuggle up with by the fire, then grab your cozy blanket and hot chocolate because this one is a winner!
October 21, 2015
This is a fun collection of stories that all center around a department store in a small town. A couple of the stories seemed very similar, but the rest were unique. All the stories were fun and interesting. Seeing some of the characters show up in one of the other stories gave a nice perspective. It showed that we can't always know what struggles others are going through. Excellent book.
November 10, 2015
This is a collection of five sweet, fun Christmas stories! I loved how so many of the characters crossed over into other stories. All the stories took place in Echo Ridge and centered around the Kenworth's store. Keira Kenworth is a sweet and determined and devoted daughter. Her father's health is failing and so is his store (Kenworth's). I was glad to see Keira get her own story and her own happily ever after. Cecilia is the stingy, awful CEO who is making everything difficult for everyone, especially Keira. I loved the character of Jessica and I wish she had gotten her own story, too - she helped so many others get their happily ever after!
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon.com
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon.com
November 3, 2015
Christmas Kisses is a collection from five bestselling and award-winning authors. Set in the snowy town of Echo Ridge in upstate New York, these inspirational romances are sure to delight while you sip cocoa by the fire and listen to Christmas carols.
I loved this Christmas collection! I am familiar with almost all these authors, so I was very excited to read these stories knowing that they would be awesome!
I love that this collection can be read in random order because they are stand alone stories, but they are all centered around the same town-Echo Ridge and their department store.
"Christmas Makeover" by Cami Checketts was really delightful and romantic! I was saddened by some of the things that happened to Chelsea's high school students (I won't post spoilers-you'll have to read the book!) but unfortunately it's real life and I liked how the town helped and supported each other. Chelsea was a great character and I would love to read more of her story in another ebook! I liked her and Drew's friendship and how they could tease and hang out together. I think relationships that start out as friendships are the best kind!
I love romantic, feel good stories and I LOVE Christmas stories, so this collection was really enjoyable for me! You will not be disappointed if you purchase this clean, romantic, "Christmas Kisses" collection of stories to read!
I received a complimentary copy of this collection in exchange for an honest review on my blog and social media. All opinions are my own.
I loved this Christmas collection! I am familiar with almost all these authors, so I was very excited to read these stories knowing that they would be awesome!
I love that this collection can be read in random order because they are stand alone stories, but they are all centered around the same town-Echo Ridge and their department store.
"Christmas Makeover" by Cami Checketts was really delightful and romantic! I was saddened by some of the things that happened to Chelsea's high school students (I won't post spoilers-you'll have to read the book!) but unfortunately it's real life and I liked how the town helped and supported each other. Chelsea was a great character and I would love to read more of her story in another ebook! I liked her and Drew's friendship and how they could tease and hang out together. I think relationships that start out as friendships are the best kind!
I love romantic, feel good stories and I LOVE Christmas stories, so this collection was really enjoyable for me! You will not be disappointed if you purchase this clean, romantic, "Christmas Kisses" collection of stories to read!
I received a complimentary copy of this collection in exchange for an honest review on my blog and social media. All opinions are my own.
November 11, 2015
I loved this collection! I loved the setting of Echo Ridge in upstate New York. It's a town I would love to live in, or visit. I am thrilled that this is only the first book being set in Echo Ridge, and that I can look forward to more.
The five novellas in this collection were linked by the setting in Echo Ridge. They also all occurred around Christmas, and involved Kenworth's department store. I loved seeing the overlap of setting and characters.
The stories themselves were funny and sweet. At around 100 pages each, there was plenty of time for well developed plots and characters. My favorite story was the Candy Counter Heiress. It is all Lucy McConnell's fault that I have been craving hand-dipped chocolate ever since reading it! It was also a nice touch that there is a recipe after each story. I haven't tried to make any of them yet, but I am excited to.
Christmas Kisses was a great holiday read!
Content: clean (some kissing, no language)
The five novellas in this collection were linked by the setting in Echo Ridge. They also all occurred around Christmas, and involved Kenworth's department store. I loved seeing the overlap of setting and characters.
The stories themselves were funny and sweet. At around 100 pages each, there was plenty of time for well developed plots and characters. My favorite story was the Candy Counter Heiress. It is all Lucy McConnell's fault that I have been craving hand-dipped chocolate ever since reading it! It was also a nice touch that there is a recipe after each story. I haven't tried to make any of them yet, but I am excited to.
Christmas Kisses was a great holiday read!
Content: clean (some kissing, no language)
November 4, 2015
Ooh, this was such a fun getaway to Echo Ridge and Kenworth's Department Store. I love how each of these novellas revolve around the same place but with different people. It really felt like I was getting to know everyone. It was also fun to see the characters cross paths in each story. It was like making friends with people and still seeing them around. I love that!
Each novella had it's own flavor because each was written by a different author. These are some of my favorite authors and it was just like, well, Christmas having stories from all of them together in one place.
Each of these novellas will bring the warmth of Christmas and the flutterings of new love. They are clean and so sweet. Just perfect for this time of year! I loved them. And seriously? For just a dollar you can read them all. You just cannot beat that price. Awesome!!!
Each novella had it's own flavor because each was written by a different author. These are some of my favorite authors and it was just like, well, Christmas having stories from all of them together in one place.
Each of these novellas will bring the warmth of Christmas and the flutterings of new love. They are clean and so sweet. Just perfect for this time of year! I loved them. And seriously? For just a dollar you can read them all. You just cannot beat that price. Awesome!!!
November 2, 2015
The Echo Ridge Anthology has five stories primed around the Christmas season. The plot is set around Kenworth's shopping center, where most of the characters work. You get glimpses into the lives of a loving community sprinkled with holiday cheer.
Love (for some) was lost years ago. This Christmas it will be found, but only if the characters are open to the idea that love isn't lost forever.
Each novella in this collection is unique. They don't stray from the title "Christmas Kisses". Romance, and drama are found in all. If your looking for a holiday read, you have found five! With Christmas coming up, the snow will start to fall, the mistletoe will be hung, the music will be played, and snuggling down with a good book will make your holiday even brighter.
Love (for some) was lost years ago. This Christmas it will be found, but only if the characters are open to the idea that love isn't lost forever.
Each novella in this collection is unique. They don't stray from the title "Christmas Kisses". Romance, and drama are found in all. If your looking for a holiday read, you have found five! With Christmas coming up, the snow will start to fall, the mistletoe will be hung, the music will be played, and snuggling down with a good book will make your holiday even brighter.
November 1, 2015
Christmas Kisses was a delight to read. Each story is set in Echo Ridge and features some of the same settings and characters through the series. The quality of writing is consistent throughout and made me long for the Christmas Season. I wish Echo Ridge was a real place I could go visit so I could go see Reese at the Candy Counter at Kenworths, or the skating rink to peek in on Jonah and Kaya or the local diner to see Keira and Tayton. I melted into my chair whenever I picked up this book!
November 1, 2015
Each story was nice watching the relationships evolve with all the snow falling. The content stays the same from story to story the authors did a great job in not wavering. The characters are all likable you will want to keep reading to learn about each one. You will want to wish you had your won Echo Ridge to go away too. Great stories by all the authors.
November 2, 2015
For me reading this was just like snuggling up with a sweet romantic movie during the holidays! Great stories by some super great authors!
November 6, 2015
*I received an ARC of this book free from Jelly Bean Press in exchange for an honest review*
The Candy Counter Heiress:
Reese’s job is chocolate, it’s the family business, but she wants to make her mark on the company and has her own idea on how. She’s all business and doesn’t think a man like Andy would ever be interested in her, but thanks to her grandmother she might have more signs than she’d expected. And her chocolate thief might want to steal more than a sampling of her morning batch of chocolate.
“Why not stake your claim?” Grandma shimmied her shoulders. “You two would make beautiful babies.”
Andy wants Reese in his life, but he had to wait until she was ready for him and he believes he’s finally starting to get through. For she’s his heiress and he’d do anything for her…including helping her with her secret business idea. Too bad he didn’t realize it was a secret.
“You’re a good girl, Reese. Would you consider my son? Not for his ungrateful behavior, but for my sake?”
Sometimes even the best intentions can cause people to get hurt. Thanks to the meddling of a few family members though these two will realize they’re meant for each other.
Christmas Makeover:
Chelsea doesn’t enjoy fashion at all, and as the PE teacher she can enjoy all the yoga pants and T-shirts she wants, but her best friend tries at every opportunity to dress her up. She’d never even considered the idea until Drew showed back up in town. He was her childhood best friend and she’d had a crush on him for forever. But suddenly he isn’t the only one vying for her attention.
“Hook up? Be my girlfriend? Love me forever? What’s the proper terminology?”
Drew didn’t want to come back to town, but when he ran into his once best friend, Chelsea, it was suddenly the only place he wanted to be. He’d known she was the one, but he needed to be worthy of her before he ever decided to take their friendship further. Only problem now was that he had competition, and if that didn’t make it bad the fact that he was a nice guy only made it worse.
Drew gave her a sad smile. “Well, have fun. Remember who you are and who you’d rather be dating.” He mouthed, Me, then he opened her door and ushered her inside.
When past insecurities can finally be laid to rest these two make such a sweet couple. The best friends who fell in love. It may sound typical, but that doesn’t make it any less sweet.
Hope for Christmas:
Anika is a single mother just trying to make ends meet. She works hard, even though her boss is the equivalent to the Grinch. She works extra hours helping restore the Soda Fountain with Carlos to earn extra money in hopes of having enough for the one thing her daughter truly wants for Christmas. And she is one of the sweetest people to work at Kenworth’s.
Carlos is a carpenter and volunteer fireman. It’s his carpentry skills that caused his path to cross with Anika’s and he couldn’t be happier. He’d do anything to make her happy and to bring a little joy into her life…even if those efforts completely backfire and cause more hurt than he ever would have wanted. Carlos’ love of her daughter and the way he always includes her in everything is wonderful.
“Hello, I’m here to pick up two beautiful ladies,” Carlos said and then he lowered his voice to a stage-whisper, “They didn’t tell me that you would be this pretty though.”
They’re a sweet couple and the three of them make a beautiful family that was simply meant to be.
Soda Fountain Christmas:
Keira’s father owns Kenworth’s, but with his mental abilities deteriorating and a woman who seems to hate everyone and everything running the store, she is worried about what the future holds for the store. With a new man there in charge of promotions and trying to get the store in the black by the end of the year, she feels she’s lost any say so in what happens, but that doesn’t stop her from trying to be heard.
“I meant, what do you want me to call you?”
Awkward pause. “Tayton is fine.” Another pause. “Almighty Zeus for the big moments, of course.”
Tayton had planned on doing the job the way he always had, analysis and implementation, but what he didn’t plan on was the fierce Keira with all of her ideas. Although, he quickly learns how to combine his ideas with hers to get the best outcome…it just takes a little holiday spirit to get him there.
“Genius doesn’t need a team. Just a minion. That would be me.”
Keira learns that Tayton isn’t the button down city boy she expected him to be. He has no problem getting his hands dirty and helping wherever needed to get the job done, which only makes him that much more desirable. And Keira’s heart and love of the community has Tayton falling hard. Together they’re unstoppable and the way the work throughout the community is heartwarming.
One Winter Night:
Kaya has a farm where she uses animals to help people. She loves every aspect of it, from the animals to the people she’s able to help. But when she needs a part time job to help take care of the animals it’s Jonah’s grandmother who recommends the perfect solution.
“Wow. Seriously, this is so beautiful. I can’t believe you painted me. It’s fantastic. And very, very flattering. I know I didn’t look half that good.”
Jonah has sunk everything he owns into opening his own art gallery, but when the only employee he has gets injured he’s in need of someone quick. When Kaya shows up for the position he almost doesn’t let her in, because of her and her animals no one wants to buy his grandmother’s house and he’s a little frustrated and angry at her for it even though it isn’t exactly her fault. But he does. And once he gets to know her he realizes that nothing could have prepared him for the joy she brings to his life; from her help at the gallery, to watching her with her animals and clients, to just holding her hand.
They’re both living their dreams, but together they’ll have a reason to enjoy it instead of just living it.
*****
All five stories take place in the same town, all have connections to Kenworth’s, and all take place over the same time period. They are all sweet and heartwarming and remind me of Christmas Hallmark movies. If you want to read a few holiday stories that will make you smile and leave you feeling warm and blessed then this is the anthology for you.
I think my favorite one had to be Christmas Makeover, but they were all very good and I enjoyed them all.
The Candy Counter Heiress:
Reese’s job is chocolate, it’s the family business, but she wants to make her mark on the company and has her own idea on how. She’s all business and doesn’t think a man like Andy would ever be interested in her, but thanks to her grandmother she might have more signs than she’d expected. And her chocolate thief might want to steal more than a sampling of her morning batch of chocolate.
“Why not stake your claim?” Grandma shimmied her shoulders. “You two would make beautiful babies.”
Andy wants Reese in his life, but he had to wait until she was ready for him and he believes he’s finally starting to get through. For she’s his heiress and he’d do anything for her…including helping her with her secret business idea. Too bad he didn’t realize it was a secret.
“You’re a good girl, Reese. Would you consider my son? Not for his ungrateful behavior, but for my sake?”
Sometimes even the best intentions can cause people to get hurt. Thanks to the meddling of a few family members though these two will realize they’re meant for each other.
Christmas Makeover:
Chelsea doesn’t enjoy fashion at all, and as the PE teacher she can enjoy all the yoga pants and T-shirts she wants, but her best friend tries at every opportunity to dress her up. She’d never even considered the idea until Drew showed back up in town. He was her childhood best friend and she’d had a crush on him for forever. But suddenly he isn’t the only one vying for her attention.
“Hook up? Be my girlfriend? Love me forever? What’s the proper terminology?”
Drew didn’t want to come back to town, but when he ran into his once best friend, Chelsea, it was suddenly the only place he wanted to be. He’d known she was the one, but he needed to be worthy of her before he ever decided to take their friendship further. Only problem now was that he had competition, and if that didn’t make it bad the fact that he was a nice guy only made it worse.
Drew gave her a sad smile. “Well, have fun. Remember who you are and who you’d rather be dating.” He mouthed, Me, then he opened her door and ushered her inside.
When past insecurities can finally be laid to rest these two make such a sweet couple. The best friends who fell in love. It may sound typical, but that doesn’t make it any less sweet.
Hope for Christmas:
Anika is a single mother just trying to make ends meet. She works hard, even though her boss is the equivalent to the Grinch. She works extra hours helping restore the Soda Fountain with Carlos to earn extra money in hopes of having enough for the one thing her daughter truly wants for Christmas. And she is one of the sweetest people to work at Kenworth’s.
Carlos is a carpenter and volunteer fireman. It’s his carpentry skills that caused his path to cross with Anika’s and he couldn’t be happier. He’d do anything to make her happy and to bring a little joy into her life…even if those efforts completely backfire and cause more hurt than he ever would have wanted. Carlos’ love of her daughter and the way he always includes her in everything is wonderful.
“Hello, I’m here to pick up two beautiful ladies,” Carlos said and then he lowered his voice to a stage-whisper, “They didn’t tell me that you would be this pretty though.”
They’re a sweet couple and the three of them make a beautiful family that was simply meant to be.
Soda Fountain Christmas:
Keira’s father owns Kenworth’s, but with his mental abilities deteriorating and a woman who seems to hate everyone and everything running the store, she is worried about what the future holds for the store. With a new man there in charge of promotions and trying to get the store in the black by the end of the year, she feels she’s lost any say so in what happens, but that doesn’t stop her from trying to be heard.
“I meant, what do you want me to call you?”
Awkward pause. “Tayton is fine.” Another pause. “Almighty Zeus for the big moments, of course.”
Tayton had planned on doing the job the way he always had, analysis and implementation, but what he didn’t plan on was the fierce Keira with all of her ideas. Although, he quickly learns how to combine his ideas with hers to get the best outcome…it just takes a little holiday spirit to get him there.
“Genius doesn’t need a team. Just a minion. That would be me.”
Keira learns that Tayton isn’t the button down city boy she expected him to be. He has no problem getting his hands dirty and helping wherever needed to get the job done, which only makes him that much more desirable. And Keira’s heart and love of the community has Tayton falling hard. Together they’re unstoppable and the way the work throughout the community is heartwarming.
One Winter Night:
Kaya has a farm where she uses animals to help people. She loves every aspect of it, from the animals to the people she’s able to help. But when she needs a part time job to help take care of the animals it’s Jonah’s grandmother who recommends the perfect solution.
“Wow. Seriously, this is so beautiful. I can’t believe you painted me. It’s fantastic. And very, very flattering. I know I didn’t look half that good.”
Jonah has sunk everything he owns into opening his own art gallery, but when the only employee he has gets injured he’s in need of someone quick. When Kaya shows up for the position he almost doesn’t let her in, because of her and her animals no one wants to buy his grandmother’s house and he’s a little frustrated and angry at her for it even though it isn’t exactly her fault. But he does. And once he gets to know her he realizes that nothing could have prepared him for the joy she brings to his life; from her help at the gallery, to watching her with her animals and clients, to just holding her hand.
They’re both living their dreams, but together they’ll have a reason to enjoy it instead of just living it.
*****
All five stories take place in the same town, all have connections to Kenworth’s, and all take place over the same time period. They are all sweet and heartwarming and remind me of Christmas Hallmark movies. If you want to read a few holiday stories that will make you smile and leave you feeling warm and blessed then this is the anthology for you.
I think my favorite one had to be Christmas Makeover, but they were all very good and I enjoyed them all.
February 26, 2018
I really liked this Christmas themed collection of 5 stories that take place in the small town of Echo Ridge, New York. Usually when I review a collection I review each story in the collection, but since I'm catching up on my reviews I'm not doing that this time.
Each one of the stories in this collection revolves around Kenworth's Department Store, and the people who work there, with some of the characters appearing in other other stories, which I liked.
I loved the description of Kenworth's, and it reminded me of some of the department stores when I was very young, even though I didn't grow up in a small town. I'm old enough to remember when some of them had candy counters that sold chocolates that were made in small batches, not national brands, already packaged. I also remember the window displays the stores had, especially at Christmas time, and the huge tree they would have, and the special area set aside for visits and pictures with Santa.
Each novella stands alone although some of the characters cross over from other stories. I can't pick a favorite because they're all different. They're all clean romances and will make you feel all the good feelings the Christmas season brings. I read it after Christmas but before Valentine's Day and I still felt all warm inside.
I like anthologies because I get to read stories by authors I know and love, but I also get to find new authors too.
Caution: do not read THE CANDY COUNTER HEIRESS if you're hungry--I could almost smell the caramel and chocolate. 😊
Each one of the stories in this collection revolves around Kenworth's Department Store, and the people who work there, with some of the characters appearing in other other stories, which I liked.
I loved the description of Kenworth's, and it reminded me of some of the department stores when I was very young, even though I didn't grow up in a small town. I'm old enough to remember when some of them had candy counters that sold chocolates that were made in small batches, not national brands, already packaged. I also remember the window displays the stores had, especially at Christmas time, and the huge tree they would have, and the special area set aside for visits and pictures with Santa.
Each novella stands alone although some of the characters cross over from other stories. I can't pick a favorite because they're all different. They're all clean romances and will make you feel all the good feelings the Christmas season brings. I read it after Christmas but before Valentine's Day and I still felt all warm inside.
I like anthologies because I get to read stories by authors I know and love, but I also get to find new authors too.
Caution: do not read THE CANDY COUNTER HEIRESS if you're hungry--I could almost smell the caramel and chocolate. 😊
November 12, 2015
Great collection of stories based in a town called Echo ridge. I bought this book because I recognized some of the authors and I have enjoyed their books. I was not disappointed. I enjoyed every story in this collection. It starts out with Reese who us trying to save her family's chocolate buisness. Her mother won't listen to her suggestions to help the buisness. Reese decides to open a website and sell the candy online without her mother knowing. She is risking a lot by doing this. She is risking her mother's anger and she is lying to Andy the man she has been in love with since childhood. Next is Chelsea who is the coach at the local high school. She is comfortable in yoga pants and exercise clothes. She has been in love with her best friend Drew since high school but thinks he sees her as only one of the guys. She runs into Drew in Kenworth's department store after not seeing him for years. The two work together to help a family in need. Will Drew see Chelsea as more than one of the guys? The next story is about Anika Fletcher a single mom struggling to make ends meet. She is working at the department store and meets Carlos a local handyman. Anika ends up working with Carlos to get the store's soda shop ready for a Christmas fundraiser. The two are attracted to each other but Anika has been hurt and does not trust. Can Carlos win her trust? The next story is about Keira. Her family owns the department store. She is trying to save the store because it is in the red and close to bankruptcy. Tayton has been hired to help the store turn around. He is from New York city and just there to do a job. The two start off on rocky ground but as they learn to work together they make an incredible team. Will the romance last past Christmas? The last one is about Jonah who is struggling to help his grandma, open an art gallery and rediscover his artistic muse after losing his girlfriend to a fatal car accident. Kaya lives close to his grandma and needs a job for the holidays o help supplement her struggling buisness. Kaya helps heal Jonah's heart with her kind loving ways and Jonah is able to paint again. Each story is sweet and heartwarming. I highly recommend this collection.
November 10, 2015
Christmas Kisses: An Echo Ridge Anthology (Echo Ridge Romance Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I received this book as an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Welcome to Echo Ridge. It's an anthology of stories by multiple authors about a small town called Echo Ridge which kind of centers around Kenworth's department store. The Candy Store Heiress by Lucy McConnell starts the anthology off. It's the story of Reese and Andy childhood friends who refuse to admit their attraction to each other. Reese wants to stake her claim in her families candy business, but her mother always extinguishes her hopes. So, she enlist the help of Andy (conveniently leaving out that her family doesn't know about it nor are they on board with it). In between her grandmother getting sick, taking on extra shifts for her mother, finally admitting to her feelings for Andy, and maintaining her lie, life snowballs on her. Can she out her life back in order and claim her man? One Winter Night by Heather Tullis brings up the rear of the anthology. It's the story of Kaya and Jonah. Jonah has come to Echo Ridge in hopes of starting over, look after his grandmother, and sell her home. Which is not an easy task since her neighbor has therapy animals which includes horses, goats, chickens, and sometimes pigs. Jonah thinks that Kaya is leaving the lap of luxury because she inherited the land. Little does he know exactly what she does have to go through. Kaya has built her therapy farm with sweat and tears after her grandmother leaves her the land. She even takes a second job at Kenworth's for the holiday season. All seems to be going well until the manager decides to change Kaya's hours which causes her to have to quit. In dire need of another jobs he agrees to help Jonah although he has been rude and judgemental with her. through working together they develop a strong attraction and in the end fins a little slice of happiness. Buy the anthology and enjoy all of the heart warming stories.
I received this book as an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Welcome to Echo Ridge. It's an anthology of stories by multiple authors about a small town called Echo Ridge which kind of centers around Kenworth's department store. The Candy Store Heiress by Lucy McConnell starts the anthology off. It's the story of Reese and Andy childhood friends who refuse to admit their attraction to each other. Reese wants to stake her claim in her families candy business, but her mother always extinguishes her hopes. So, she enlist the help of Andy (conveniently leaving out that her family doesn't know about it nor are they on board with it). In between her grandmother getting sick, taking on extra shifts for her mother, finally admitting to her feelings for Andy, and maintaining her lie, life snowballs on her. Can she out her life back in order and claim her man? One Winter Night by Heather Tullis brings up the rear of the anthology. It's the story of Kaya and Jonah. Jonah has come to Echo Ridge in hopes of starting over, look after his grandmother, and sell her home. Which is not an easy task since her neighbor has therapy animals which includes horses, goats, chickens, and sometimes pigs. Jonah thinks that Kaya is leaving the lap of luxury because she inherited the land. Little does he know exactly what she does have to go through. Kaya has built her therapy farm with sweat and tears after her grandmother leaves her the land. She even takes a second job at Kenworth's for the holiday season. All seems to be going well until the manager decides to change Kaya's hours which causes her to have to quit. In dire need of another jobs he agrees to help Jonah although he has been rude and judgemental with her. through working together they develop a strong attraction and in the end fins a little slice of happiness. Buy the anthology and enjoy all of the heart warming stories.
November 7, 2015
One Winter's Night-Heather Tullis
Jonah Owens was struggling with his art, opening his new gallery and trying to sell his grandmothers house after her fall. Selling the house would be a lot easier if it wasn't next door to the Red Star Ranch. Farm animals in a residential area wasn't the best selling point. Kaya loved the Ranch working with the children and animals was her dream. The equine therapy business barely kept her head above water, so out of necessity she had to take a part time job over the winter. Jonah losing his part time help takes it out on Kaya. When Kaya leaves her job and is looking for a new one, Jonah's grandmothers send her his way. Desperate enough for the help he hires her. He never planed on the feelings that she brought out in him as her got to know her.
Wonderful book. It wasn't a love at first sight, it is a slow build up story. Way before the end. So don't think it is one where they get together in the last chapter. Kaya is open, honest and a hard worker. Jonah is struggling with not being able to paint after a tragedy in his past but slowly comes back into his own. A sweet romantic story where you fall in love with all the characters. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jonah Owens was struggling with his art, opening his new gallery and trying to sell his grandmothers house after her fall. Selling the house would be a lot easier if it wasn't next door to the Red Star Ranch. Farm animals in a residential area wasn't the best selling point. Kaya loved the Ranch working with the children and animals was her dream. The equine therapy business barely kept her head above water, so out of necessity she had to take a part time job over the winter. Jonah losing his part time help takes it out on Kaya. When Kaya leaves her job and is looking for a new one, Jonah's grandmothers send her his way. Desperate enough for the help he hires her. He never planed on the feelings that she brought out in him as her got to know her.
Wonderful book. It wasn't a love at first sight, it is a slow build up story. Way before the end. So don't think it is one where they get together in the last chapter. Kaya is open, honest and a hard worker. Jonah is struggling with not being able to paint after a tragedy in his past but slowly comes back into his own. A sweet romantic story where you fall in love with all the characters. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2015
I have read a lot of anthologies that are very good. Some are all connected around a certain theme. This anthology for example is centered around Christmas time. What makes this anthology even better though, is that all of the stories take place in the same small town in New York, centered around the local town's 100 year old department store called Kenworths. Most of the characters know each other and interact some what in each story. I liked how connected this made all of the stories feel, even though they were written by five different authors.
Each story has a clean romance where the characters had either given up on love or thought it would never come. Some of the stories moved along faster than the others, but I particularly enjoyed the characters and the romances found in Christmas Makeover and Hope for Christmas. If you are looking for some nice romances to get you into the spirit of Christmas, this anthology, along with a nice cup of hot chocolate, will surely do the trick.
Each story has a clean romance where the characters had either given up on love or thought it would never come. Some of the stories moved along faster than the others, but I particularly enjoyed the characters and the romances found in Christmas Makeover and Hope for Christmas. If you are looking for some nice romances to get you into the spirit of Christmas, this anthology, along with a nice cup of hot chocolate, will surely do the trick.
December 21, 2015
Totally Clean!
Language: no bad language
Violence: no violence
Sex: no sex, but some very sweet kisses.
There are five stories and four of them are a little like Groundhog Day except they tell the same story through the eyes of different characters. It's a nice Christmas anthology, but not anything riveting that I couldn't put down for a long time. Perfect for this season.
Language: no bad language
Violence: no violence
Sex: no sex, but some very sweet kisses.
There are five stories and four of them are a little like Groundhog Day except they tell the same story through the eyes of different characters. It's a nice Christmas anthology, but not anything riveting that I couldn't put down for a long time. Perfect for this season.
November 2, 2015
Loved each story with its unique voice but continued theme of Echo Ridge. I want to live here! I loved the characters, the intertwining stories, even the recipes. A joy to read, makes me long for Christmas!
June 8, 2016
These Christmas stories were enjoyable (I read all but the last one). I love how they take place in an upstate New York town and share several characters, locations, and events. I'm adding a few authors to my to-read list.
November 18, 2016
4.5/5.0
The Echo Ridge Anthology is a compilation of short stories involving the men and women living in Echo Ridge. The pivotal point in each story is not only the town but also Kenworth’s Department Store, with which most of the romances have a connection.
Read full review in the 2016 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
The Echo Ridge Anthology is a compilation of short stories involving the men and women living in Echo Ridge. The pivotal point in each story is not only the town but also Kenworth’s Department Store, with which most of the romances have a connection.
Read full review in the 2016 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 14, 2018
☺☺☺☺
A really nice anthology of stories, all set in fictional Echo Ridge. With each story written by a different writer, and focused on a different couple, it's interesting that the feel of the stories remains consistent. It's also a nice touch that the main characters in one story are secondary in others, giving a good feeling of continuity.
A really nice anthology of stories, all set in fictional Echo Ridge. With each story written by a different writer, and focused on a different couple, it's interesting that the feel of the stories remains consistent. It's also a nice touch that the main characters in one story are secondary in others, giving a good feeling of continuity.
November 27, 2024
This is exactly what I was looking for in a Christmas book. It was fun to have some wholesome Christmas books to read. I liked how they overlapped too. It was kinda fun to see how the storylines connected and developed. In some ways it was sort of spoiling though to have some key moments told of before their time.
October 13, 2021
Cute stories where we get to see many different people in a small town around Christmas. So fun!
February 15, 2022
The Candy Counter Heiress - 3
Christmas Makeover - 3
Hope for Christmas - 3
Soda Fountain Christmas - 4
One Winter Night - 4
Christmas Makeover - 3
Hope for Christmas - 3
Soda Fountain Christmas - 4
One Winter Night - 4
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews