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Eternity Springs #12
Christmas in Eternity Springs
Can Miss Christmas find her spirit again?
After a devastating betrayal, Claire Branham packs up the pieces of her life, along with a twenty-million-dollar secret, and moves to Eternity Springs. She opens a specialty shop—Forever Christmas—and, with the help of a surprise romance with the town’s sexy new handyman, Claire’s heart begins to heal. Until her past comes knocking…
Jax Lancaster never questioned the need to abandon his career as a Navy submariner in order to care for his young son in the wake of his ex-wife’s death. Desperate to help with this loss, Jax straps on a tool belt to give Nicholas the one thing he wants: A life in Eternity Springs. What Jax never expected to find a second chance at love with a fascinating woman for whom Christmas has become a business. But when the truth about Claire threatens their newfound happiness, can Jax prove to her that in Eternity Springs, the spirit of Christmas is real. . .and will last a lifetime?
Christmas in Eternity Springs is the twelfth installment in Emily March's acclaimed Eternity Springs series.
After a devastating betrayal, Claire Branham packs up the pieces of her life, along with a twenty-million-dollar secret, and moves to Eternity Springs. She opens a specialty shop—Forever Christmas—and, with the help of a surprise romance with the town’s sexy new handyman, Claire’s heart begins to heal. Until her past comes knocking…
Jax Lancaster never questioned the need to abandon his career as a Navy submariner in order to care for his young son in the wake of his ex-wife’s death. Desperate to help with this loss, Jax straps on a tool belt to give Nicholas the one thing he wants: A life in Eternity Springs. What Jax never expected to find a second chance at love with a fascinating woman for whom Christmas has become a business. But when the truth about Claire threatens their newfound happiness, can Jax prove to her that in Eternity Springs, the spirit of Christmas is real. . .and will last a lifetime?
Christmas in Eternity Springs is the twelfth installment in Emily March's acclaimed Eternity Springs series.
318 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 4, 2016
207 people are currently reading
1608 people want to read
About the author
Emily March
62 books1,464 followersPseudonym(s): Geralyn Dawson
Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a "master of delightful banter," and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America.
Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a "master of delightful banter," and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
September 22, 2016
Christmas in Eternity Springs by Emily March is a 2016 St. Martin’s Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
With all the holiday themed books to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones will make the cut, but I never miss Emily March’s heartwarming Christmas stories.
Claire had finally rebounded from a long Christmas slump after a personal family tragedy. She was floating on air, delirious with the spirit of Christmas, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again.
Running away from her troubles, she settled in Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas shop, refusing to let her painful past win the war against Christmas. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself.
Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident, which led him to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel curveballs and keep from falling into despair. So they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends… and maybe a little something more.
What a terrific story! I absolutely adored Nicholas, and the way the whole story developed and expanded. I enjoyed the leisurely pacing and the magical quality of watching Claire and Jax fall in love, but wasn’t at all prepared for that stunning twist, and how everything took shape from there, but of course Christmas and Eternity Springs make great partners, and they have never let us down yet!
I fell in love with Jax just a little bit myself, and have to say, I love it when a guy stands up and proves what he’s made of, fighting for the woman he loves, showing her how love can heal the pain and heartache of the past, and can pave the way for true love and happily ever after.
This tender story of hope and healing may cause a lump in the throat and few standing tears, because it will definitely touch your heart. I love visiting Eternity Springs, especially during the holidays and I think you will too!
With all the holiday themed books to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones will make the cut, but I never miss Emily March’s heartwarming Christmas stories.
Claire had finally rebounded from a long Christmas slump after a personal family tragedy. She was floating on air, delirious with the spirit of Christmas, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again.
Running away from her troubles, she settled in Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas shop, refusing to let her painful past win the war against Christmas. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself.
Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident, which led him to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel curveballs and keep from falling into despair. So they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends… and maybe a little something more.
What a terrific story! I absolutely adored Nicholas, and the way the whole story developed and expanded. I enjoyed the leisurely pacing and the magical quality of watching Claire and Jax fall in love, but wasn’t at all prepared for that stunning twist, and how everything took shape from there, but of course Christmas and Eternity Springs make great partners, and they have never let us down yet!
I fell in love with Jax just a little bit myself, and have to say, I love it when a guy stands up and proves what he’s made of, fighting for the woman he loves, showing her how love can heal the pain and heartache of the past, and can pave the way for true love and happily ever after.
This tender story of hope and healing may cause a lump in the throat and few standing tears, because it will definitely touch your heart. I love visiting Eternity Springs, especially during the holidays and I think you will too!
December 10, 2018
This was a super-sweet Christmas story and had all the elements I love. Great romance with wonderful backstory? Check. Jax and his son Nicholas have experienced tough times and need a fresh start. Claire’s horrible ex-fiance broke her heart and shattered her faith and she needs to start over? What better place to do it than a cozy small town.
Then we add a great dose of Christmas in both a connection to Nicholas’ story and also Claire’s shop in town. Check! I love it when holiday books go extra cinnamon-sprinkles on the holidays. Add in a dose of puppy cuteness (check!) and I was so sold on this one. Heartwarming and a dose of sweetness and small-town life as broken pieces of two families come together to form a new one. Really loved this one.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Then we add a great dose of Christmas in both a connection to Nicholas’ story and also Claire’s shop in town. Check! I love it when holiday books go extra cinnamon-sprinkles on the holidays. Add in a dose of puppy cuteness (check!) and I was so sold on this one. Heartwarming and a dose of sweetness and small-town life as broken pieces of two families come together to form a new one. Really loved this one.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
November 6, 2018
I have been visiting Eternity Springs via Emily March's series off and on for the past year. Christmas in Eternity Springs was a delight. I love Christmas stories, but with the romance, community and in this one a young boy with a Christmas phobia, I will not miss another Christmas story in this series.
Claire Branham has relocated to Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas Shop. The residents are not aware of her past tragedies. She had finally gotten over her family tragedy that occurred on a Christmas in her past, and was full of the Christmas Spirit, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself. Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident. He also found his way to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel events, so they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends. Together Claire, Nicholas and Jax all help each other to heal and find Christmas again.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved Nicholas, and the way his honest openness brought Jax and Claire together. Emily March did a beautiful job with the pacing of this story, adding in the magical magic of Eternity Springs. The slow, realistic relationship of Jax and Claire falling in love while being careful to protect Nicholas and their own hearts. Just when I thought the story was wrapping up nicely, there was a stunning twist, that changed the course of the story and had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I loved the character of Jax, as a father and a man who stands up and proves what he’s made of. He stepped back and realized that he was wrong and fought for the woman he loved, showing her how love can heal the pain and heartache of the past. This is a great addition to the Eternity Springs series, showing how magic, love and angels can heal the heart and spirit. If you like a romance with a little magic, some angst and a happy ever after, pick this one up and enjoy a Christmas Romance.
Claire Branham has relocated to Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas Shop. The residents are not aware of her past tragedies. She had finally gotten over her family tragedy that occurred on a Christmas in her past, and was full of the Christmas Spirit, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself. Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident. He also found his way to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel events, so they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends. Together Claire, Nicholas and Jax all help each other to heal and find Christmas again.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved Nicholas, and the way his honest openness brought Jax and Claire together. Emily March did a beautiful job with the pacing of this story, adding in the magical magic of Eternity Springs. The slow, realistic relationship of Jax and Claire falling in love while being careful to protect Nicholas and their own hearts. Just when I thought the story was wrapping up nicely, there was a stunning twist, that changed the course of the story and had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I loved the character of Jax, as a father and a man who stands up and proves what he’s made of. He stepped back and realized that he was wrong and fought for the woman he loved, showing her how love can heal the pain and heartache of the past. This is a great addition to the Eternity Springs series, showing how magic, love and angels can heal the heart and spirit. If you like a romance with a little magic, some angst and a happy ever after, pick this one up and enjoy a Christmas Romance.
December 24, 2022
Audible Plus
cheap romance dnf
cheap romance dnf
December 15, 2021
This book was ok. I have read some of Emily March other books. Claire finds her fiance with another women which is his wife. She moves to Eternity Springs. While there Jax passes by and ends up staying. He has a child that has went through trauma so he doesn't like Christmas. Jax is afraid to introduce him to Christmas in Eternity Springs. Claire is able to get him comfortable around Christmas. Jax and Claire get into it.
December 21, 2016
I don't normally give holiday themed books such a low rating. Even though a holiday story has potential to be hokey and predictable, they are usually exactly what I am looking for in a holiday book. I want hokey. I want predictable. I want everything to work out perfectly despite reality. For that reason I give holiday novels a wide range of forgiveness when it comes to plot and characters. But for some reason this story didn't work for me. I have a feeling that those already familiar and in love with the Eternity Springs series would love this story. There is obviously a lot of love to be found in this quaint little village. I was looking for a holiday romance to read, and this one was liked by several people, so I grabbed it. Unfortunately, because I was not already familiar with the people in this village I felt like I was missing A LOT of inside information. I felt like I was supposed to know and understand all of the back stories for the various side characters of this novel. I have jumped into series like this before, and usually I don't get too worried about the inside stories that I've missed because of skipping earlier books in a series. It usually doesn't matter all that much. In this story I felt like it mattered. I feel like I was missing some of the HEART of the story because I didn't understand the underlying histories that made this town function. But, although this lessened my enjoyment of the story, it didn't ruin it. What really upset me enough to give this a two star rating was the actions of the heroine of this story. I really have issues when people fall in love with someone and then don't have the common courtesy to STOP and LISTEN to one another when there is some point of conflict. I get it. Jax really made a bone-headed mistake and said something hurtful and kind. I. Get. It. But when you are in love you should allow people to apologize when they screw up. Listen to their side of the story. Claire just ran away without a word. Cowardly. Disappointing. Irritating. If I understand a little more about the things that led to her neuroses, or if more time was spent in the book with her (or Jax) talking about their struggles, I might have been able to stick with Claire as she went through her freakout. Unfortunately, I felt like the majority of this book was just skimming the surface of these people's lives. It was just a series of events, but I never felt the heart of what was going on, despite the presence of a million events that were intended to make me feel something. I never felt like the reactions of the characters were compatible with the events of their lives. Claire's reaction to Christmas seemed completely overblown when we finally learned what was behind it. Jax's son's reactions to things didn't make much sense either. They showed up whenever it was convenient, but when it suited the author to have him magically "cured", then he was magically "cured." I'm sorry, but that is not reality when you are dealing with severe childhood trauma, and you can't explain that away by simply declaring that Eternity Springs is just this magical place that can heal all ills. But maybe I was just feeling grinchy this week. I know many love this series, but this story didn't work for me. Two stars. It was okay.
September 29, 2016
I know lots of people who begin thinking about Christmas in July or earlier. If you're one of those, or you just simply need a syrup sweet romance read, this is your book. It's not that we spend the entirety of the story during the actual holiday season, no this story spans months, and in fact, begins in July.
What makes this story about Christmas is the “Forever Christmas” store owned by our heroine Claire, and the fact that there is something about the holiday that is trigger of trauma and grief, not only for Claire, but also for one Nicholas Lancaster. Odd huh? The Christmas lady of Eternity Springs almost dreads the very holiday season she spends her life surrounded by. But, it makes for an interesting quandary and I was anxious to find out exactly why Claire felt this way and what prompted Nicholas’ fear. March very cleverly brings the two plot points together and creates a super sweet and hope filled romance as the other key character in Nicholas’ father Jax. There’s something magical about Eternity Springs, and a little magic is what Claire, Jax, and Nicholas need.
The backstories that March creates are emotionally rich and I found myself completely engulfed in Claire's and Jax’s connection. There are obstacles that get in the way but nothing quite like themselves. March does a great job with respect to the PTSD that Nicholas experiences and how his issues are worked through. the story is propped up with well thought out symbols and also sprinkles the story with sentimental notions of the holiday season. With March’s descriptions of Claire’s shop and the town prepping for the holidays, you will find yourself getting excited for Christmas (and snow. Yes I said it, I’m looking forward to snow).
This is only the 2nd book in this series that I’ve read but the cast is familiar enough to really pick up on the nuances of the characters that make up Eternity Springs. This can be read as standalone and while it's not a terribly angsty love story, there is conflict that provides for some groveling and need of a certain someone redeeming themselves. Christmas in Eternity Springs is a solid 4 Star read!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
What makes this story about Christmas is the “Forever Christmas” store owned by our heroine Claire, and the fact that there is something about the holiday that is trigger of trauma and grief, not only for Claire, but also for one Nicholas Lancaster. Odd huh? The Christmas lady of Eternity Springs almost dreads the very holiday season she spends her life surrounded by. But, it makes for an interesting quandary and I was anxious to find out exactly why Claire felt this way and what prompted Nicholas’ fear. March very cleverly brings the two plot points together and creates a super sweet and hope filled romance as the other key character in Nicholas’ father Jax. There’s something magical about Eternity Springs, and a little magic is what Claire, Jax, and Nicholas need.
The backstories that March creates are emotionally rich and I found myself completely engulfed in Claire's and Jax’s connection. There are obstacles that get in the way but nothing quite like themselves. March does a great job with respect to the PTSD that Nicholas experiences and how his issues are worked through. the story is propped up with well thought out symbols and also sprinkles the story with sentimental notions of the holiday season. With March’s descriptions of Claire’s shop and the town prepping for the holidays, you will find yourself getting excited for Christmas (and snow. Yes I said it, I’m looking forward to snow).
This is only the 2nd book in this series that I’ve read but the cast is familiar enough to really pick up on the nuances of the characters that make up Eternity Springs. This can be read as standalone and while it's not a terribly angsty love story, there is conflict that provides for some groveling and need of a certain someone redeeming themselves. Christmas in Eternity Springs is a solid 4 Star read!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
October 10, 2016
Christmas in Eternity Springs by Emily March
Emotionally fulfilling. Probably my favorite of the series and that's saying a lot. Loved it and cried copious tears. All good. It's not sad like a death or anything. Just so adorable wth the son and his recovery and he teaches...No spoilers.
Read it if you love a god heart warming family romance.
I think this book is going on my keeper shelf.
Mostly G rated. The below just confirms the romance of the story.
Excerpt:
"What is a mistletoe fling?"
"Whatever we want to make it." He nibbled her finger and sent a shiver racing up her spine. "Though, since it is mistletoe, I think we should include kissing."
"OK." Her cheeks grew warm.
His blue eyes glittered. "Lots of kissing."
Heat flushed her entire body. "OK."
"I really like the way you kiss, Miss Christmas "
Claire was floundering. She didn't have experience with this sort of...frankness...and it seemed that her brazenness had evaporated. Landon had been her first serious relationship since college, and he been Mr. Smooth Seduction not Mr. Circling-Like-a-Shark while flashing a grin that telegraphed the message that he was waiting for the perfect moment to take a bite.
"You're a flirt, Mr. Lancaster."
Excerpt from "Christmas in Eternity Springs" by Emily March
Emotionally fulfilling. Probably my favorite of the series and that's saying a lot. Loved it and cried copious tears. All good. It's not sad like a death or anything. Just so adorable wth the son and his recovery and he teaches...No spoilers.
Read it if you love a god heart warming family romance.
I think this book is going on my keeper shelf.
Mostly G rated. The below just confirms the romance of the story.
Excerpt:
"What is a mistletoe fling?"
"Whatever we want to make it." He nibbled her finger and sent a shiver racing up her spine. "Though, since it is mistletoe, I think we should include kissing."
"OK." Her cheeks grew warm.
His blue eyes glittered. "Lots of kissing."
Heat flushed her entire body. "OK."
"I really like the way you kiss, Miss Christmas "
Claire was floundering. She didn't have experience with this sort of...frankness...and it seemed that her brazenness had evaporated. Landon had been her first serious relationship since college, and he been Mr. Smooth Seduction not Mr. Circling-Like-a-Shark while flashing a grin that telegraphed the message that he was waiting for the perfect moment to take a bite.
"You're a flirt, Mr. Lancaster."
Excerpt from "Christmas in Eternity Springs" by Emily March
January 8, 2019
Claire had hated Christmas ever since her sister died at Christmas but had finally found the joy again and was going all out for Christmas when she found out her fiancé was married. She moves to Eternity Springs and decides to open an all Christmas store to bring back good memories. she also wrote a children’s book for Christmas. She meets a man whose 8 year old son has a terrible fear of anything Christmas because he was in a car wreck that killed his mother listening to Christmas carols. The magic of Christmas and Eternity springs brings back the magic for both of them.
December 29, 2018
It was the healing of the little boy that made this holiday romance special. There was plenty of action that moved right along except for the seduction scene which was so slow that I skimmed a lot. Then the main characters got overly stubborn. Christmas store owner Claire and Jax, ex-Navy widowed father of a troubled boy, have a chance meeting and make a pact to try to be positive.
April 8, 2025
This book just didn't have much action and I felt like I was in a Hallmark movie.
September 7, 2016
Emily March writes some heart warming stories with her Eternity Springs series and this one was no different. I love a good Christmas story and put it with a romance is a total win.
Claire no longer believes in Christmas but she tries to change that around for her fiancé, Logan. When she decides to make a donation to the children's hospital she feels more in the holiday sprit that is until she sees her fiancé there with another woman. Yikes. Come to find out he's married but she is determined to start all over and Eternity Springs is the perfect new start she needs.
Jax has just recently got of the navy and needs to be with his son. After a terrible accident has killed his ex wife and trapped his son he's really trying to find out what the right thing for him would be. Jax never expected to meet a woman like Claire but even after months of not seeing her he still can't get her off his mind. When him and his son move to Eternity Springs he starts to believes that maybe this place is special after all.
I'm not one for reading novellas but this one really appealed to me after reading the blurb. This story was emotional and had me believing in not only HEA but the joy and love that comes along Christmas. March did an outstanding job on bringing Jax and Claire together and really giving them time to sort through things in their life before the romance got going.
While this story is kind of about Christmas I enjoyed how it starts earlier and gave me a inside look to what happened to the character during a three month period. I really teared up at certain parts but they were the good kind. The kind that you just can't help when a story is so touching and this one was. The way Claire took to Jax's son was sweet and I loved how being with them helped her move on a little from her past and trust issues. Even though both characters had no desire to have a relationship I could see that was changing but it was done at a slow pace I felt it was so realistic.
I'm really looking forward to reading more of this series. If you are looking for heartfelt stories with lots of warm characters that will fill the pages you won't want to miss this read.
Claire no longer believes in Christmas but she tries to change that around for her fiancé, Logan. When she decides to make a donation to the children's hospital she feels more in the holiday sprit that is until she sees her fiancé there with another woman. Yikes. Come to find out he's married but she is determined to start all over and Eternity Springs is the perfect new start she needs.
Jax has just recently got of the navy and needs to be with his son. After a terrible accident has killed his ex wife and trapped his son he's really trying to find out what the right thing for him would be. Jax never expected to meet a woman like Claire but even after months of not seeing her he still can't get her off his mind. When him and his son move to Eternity Springs he starts to believes that maybe this place is special after all.
I'm not one for reading novellas but this one really appealed to me after reading the blurb. This story was emotional and had me believing in not only HEA but the joy and love that comes along Christmas. March did an outstanding job on bringing Jax and Claire together and really giving them time to sort through things in their life before the romance got going.
While this story is kind of about Christmas I enjoyed how it starts earlier and gave me a inside look to what happened to the character during a three month period. I really teared up at certain parts but they were the good kind. The kind that you just can't help when a story is so touching and this one was. The way Claire took to Jax's son was sweet and I loved how being with them helped her move on a little from her past and trust issues. Even though both characters had no desire to have a relationship I could see that was changing but it was done at a slow pace I felt it was so realistic.
I'm really looking forward to reading more of this series. If you are looking for heartfelt stories with lots of warm characters that will fill the pages you won't want to miss this read.
October 8, 2016
This is my second Emily March read and returning to the town of Eternity Springs was a joy, it really does feel like coming home. It's the perfect read leading up to Christmas and actually after finishing this book I swear I could have flipped right back to the beginning and started the journey all over again. It's such a charming and satisfying read. Emily March is a genius she just knows how to mix in enough loss, heartbreak, love, family and secrets to make the perfect kind of story to warm your heart.
Jax is just perfect I seriously think you fall a little in love with his character and Nicholas is just a beautiful little darling of a boy I was so so so happy when I discovered that this book was about him after learning a bit about him in Reunion Pass I couldn't wait to get started. I loved all the new characters Claire (AKA Miss Christmas) was brilliant I loved her approach with Nicholas on Christmas and the slow burning romance with Jax was just a treat.
I honestly say this every time but reading an Eternity springs book really does warm your heart they are just bursting with love, loss, heartache, family and a lot of healing a perfect read in my opinion as I said before in a previous review everyone needs at least one heartwarming magical tale a year let Christmas in Eternity Springs be yours.
I received this book from the author via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Review part of the book blog tour.
Jax is just perfect I seriously think you fall a little in love with his character and Nicholas is just a beautiful little darling of a boy I was so so so happy when I discovered that this book was about him after learning a bit about him in Reunion Pass I couldn't wait to get started. I loved all the new characters Claire (AKA Miss Christmas) was brilliant I loved her approach with Nicholas on Christmas and the slow burning romance with Jax was just a treat.
I honestly say this every time but reading an Eternity springs book really does warm your heart they are just bursting with love, loss, heartache, family and a lot of healing a perfect read in my opinion as I said before in a previous review everyone needs at least one heartwarming magical tale a year let Christmas in Eternity Springs be yours.
I received this book from the author via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Review part of the book blog tour.
September 27, 2016
Eternity Springs represents new beginnings. The chance to leave behind the baggage and look toward the future that awaits. Ms. March has a way with words. The pull of the characters and the tragic circumstances that bring them to this majestic fantasy makes for a prolific tale. Both Claire and Jax see Eternity Springs as a beacon in an otherwise stormy time within their lives. In a time of turmoil the healing power of this magical community seems the perfect escape for Claire as she sorts through the dramatic whirlwind that is her life and come to terms with her demons. Jax is looking for a place to help his son through a dark time. There are so many chances in life we take for granted, the message of the story is to hold on to any chance at happiness sent your way because every moment is special and fleeting. I love Eternity Springs.
October 30, 2016
If you like a heartwarming and feel good Christmas story with kids and puppies, Christmas in Eternity Springs is the story for you.
November 11, 2020
OMG! You are going to need tissues for this one. Oh, by what a wonderful happily ever after! Outstanding. ;)
November 22, 2022
3.5 star
November 25, 2022
This was a fairly good book. The only part I didn't care for was how long the ending played out for. I think they could have ended the story a few chapters earlier then playing out the drama.
December 31, 2018
Can't believe it took me this long to read!!
October 3, 2016
Claire's festive season memories are associated with the unhappy chapters of her life. She has opened a shop called 'Forever Christmas' at Eternity Springs, hoping to defeat one thing she is most afraid of - Christmas. Jax had come to town with his son, who suffers from a trauma after his estranged wife's death. On a summer day in July, Claire and Jax meet at the Mineral Springs pool and then began a new chapter of their life.
Don't know how she does it! Emily March, the New York Times bestseller, has blown me away with yet another amazing story of love, family and second chances. I'm starting to believe that Eternity Springs is magical and a perfect haven for every reader to run into. CHRISTMAS IN ETERNITY SPRINGS has put me in high spirits - not only for Christmas, but also to keep a positive attitude towards life.
I'm so touched by the message of this beautiful, endearing and inspiring story - BELIEVE. The author has become like an angel to me, 'cause throughout the story, I felt she was talking to me through Celeste - an inevitable character in Eternity Springs series. Celeste is Eternity Spring's own angel- an expert at mending hearts and offering words of profound wisdom. Each time I cracked open the book, I l was looking forward to reading her words mostly and noted them down to read again later. Celeste is an amazing character that every reader should befriend.
I liked Claire a lot, a down-to-earth, amiable and lively character: a sparkling personality with so much audacity to challenge the life that mocked at her, many a time. I couldn't be happier when she decided not to dwell on the past and move forward in life. Jax was also charming and his son Nicholas was a sweetheart. I liked reading how Jax and his boy worked together to recover from Nicholas's trauma, the whole process felt so genuine and true. In fact, the whole story had an authentic touch, devoid of any fluffy dialogues and incidents we usually encounter in the contemporary novels.
Emily March's writing is lucid, simple and evocative; can easily slip into the story and enjoy thoroughly. She has beautifully captured the essence of Christmas in this novel and also has an important message for readers - a message to renew the faith and love in the family, in this festive season.
In a nutshell, CHRISTMAS IN ETERNITY SPRINGS tells a festive, feel-good, endearing tale of belief, hope and love. It's a book that should not be missed! It's a book that you must have on your shelves! Trust me when I say Eternity Springs series are worthwhile reading :)
Don't know how she does it! Emily March, the New York Times bestseller, has blown me away with yet another amazing story of love, family and second chances. I'm starting to believe that Eternity Springs is magical and a perfect haven for every reader to run into. CHRISTMAS IN ETERNITY SPRINGS has put me in high spirits - not only for Christmas, but also to keep a positive attitude towards life.
I'm so touched by the message of this beautiful, endearing and inspiring story - BELIEVE. The author has become like an angel to me, 'cause throughout the story, I felt she was talking to me through Celeste - an inevitable character in Eternity Springs series. Celeste is Eternity Spring's own angel- an expert at mending hearts and offering words of profound wisdom. Each time I cracked open the book, I l was looking forward to reading her words mostly and noted them down to read again later. Celeste is an amazing character that every reader should befriend.
I liked Claire a lot, a down-to-earth, amiable and lively character: a sparkling personality with so much audacity to challenge the life that mocked at her, many a time. I couldn't be happier when she decided not to dwell on the past and move forward in life. Jax was also charming and his son Nicholas was a sweetheart. I liked reading how Jax and his boy worked together to recover from Nicholas's trauma, the whole process felt so genuine and true. In fact, the whole story had an authentic touch, devoid of any fluffy dialogues and incidents we usually encounter in the contemporary novels.
Emily March's writing is lucid, simple and evocative; can easily slip into the story and enjoy thoroughly. She has beautifully captured the essence of Christmas in this novel and also has an important message for readers - a message to renew the faith and love in the family, in this festive season.
In a nutshell, CHRISTMAS IN ETERNITY SPRINGS tells a festive, feel-good, endearing tale of belief, hope and love. It's a book that should not be missed! It's a book that you must have on your shelves! Trust me when I say Eternity Springs series are worthwhile reading :)
September 5, 2016
Another terrific heartwarming story to add to the otherworldly reputation of Eternity Springs! Emily March has a terrific way of writing that brings the town of Eternity Springs to life every time we open the cover of one of the books. Claire Branham has ran away from trouble in her life. Due to her sisters illness & the loss of her family, Claire has lost any joy in Christmas. Just when she is beginning to believe in the magic again, she is dealt another blow. As she is running away from her life, she happens to run into Celeste Blessing who encourages her to visit Eternity Springs.
Jax Lancaster is visiting Angel's Rest Healing Center & Spa in Eternity Springs. He has recently left his career with the US Navy & is in town to pick up his son from the Rocking L summer camp. Jax was deployed when his ex-wife died & his son was traumatized. His son panics & has issues with anything to do with Christmas. He was deathly afraid of dogs but his time at Rocking L has cured that. Jax ends up having trouble with his ex-wife's family overstepping their bounds & decides to relocate to Eternity Springs to see if the town & atmosphere can continue to help his son Nicholas recover.
Emily engages the readers emotions the minute they start to read. As you learn of Claire, Jax & Nicholas's issues, your heart is torn & you have to keep reading to see what happens as they travel along their journey. With a combination of humor, sympathy & love, Emily manages to keep the reader engrossed in reading throughout twists, turns, confrontations & miracles to the end. It wouldn't be an Emily March book if you didn't laugh, cry & smile while reading & this one doesn't disappoint. The characters of this small town become as real & beloved to the reader as their own neighbors. This book is one of the series but can be read as a stand alone without feeling lost. Returning characters are introduced in such a masterful way that new readers gain an understanding at the same time that returning readers just welcome an old friend. If you didn't believe in the miracles of the Christmas season & of the angels that exist among us daily, this book will make you a believer! As Nicholas conquers his fears, the reader will fall in love with him!
I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
Jax Lancaster is visiting Angel's Rest Healing Center & Spa in Eternity Springs. He has recently left his career with the US Navy & is in town to pick up his son from the Rocking L summer camp. Jax was deployed when his ex-wife died & his son was traumatized. His son panics & has issues with anything to do with Christmas. He was deathly afraid of dogs but his time at Rocking L has cured that. Jax ends up having trouble with his ex-wife's family overstepping their bounds & decides to relocate to Eternity Springs to see if the town & atmosphere can continue to help his son Nicholas recover.
Emily engages the readers emotions the minute they start to read. As you learn of Claire, Jax & Nicholas's issues, your heart is torn & you have to keep reading to see what happens as they travel along their journey. With a combination of humor, sympathy & love, Emily manages to keep the reader engrossed in reading throughout twists, turns, confrontations & miracles to the end. It wouldn't be an Emily March book if you didn't laugh, cry & smile while reading & this one doesn't disappoint. The characters of this small town become as real & beloved to the reader as their own neighbors. This book is one of the series but can be read as a stand alone without feeling lost. Returning characters are introduced in such a masterful way that new readers gain an understanding at the same time that returning readers just welcome an old friend. If you didn't believe in the miracles of the Christmas season & of the angels that exist among us daily, this book will make you a believer! As Nicholas conquers his fears, the reader will fall in love with him!
I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 26, 2024
Emily March again delighted me with another story set in Eternity Springs, her town in Colorado, where Celeste, the town angel, over sees and facilitates unobtrusively the healing of many a broken heart and person.
Christmas in Eternity Springs is #12 in the series, but don't let that put you off. This can easily be read as a stand alone. However I have read them all and loved every minute of it.
This is partly the story of Nicholas, a little boy traumatised by an accident that has left him afraid of all things Christmas. We actually met him in the previous book where he overcame a fear or two. When he and his Dad pass through Eternity Springs they meet up with the gorgeous red head, Claire. Jax, Nicholas' dad, is entranced at the first meeting.
However like many of the people who wind up in Eternity Springs they both have wounds and places that need healing. Claire has been taken for a ride by a scoundrel, and so she is leery of all things men. She no longer trusts and believes. As well, she has issues with Christmas because of previous experiences. She has some hidden talents and a secret that haunts her. Facing her dislike of Christmas she has opened a town store called Forever Christmas.
Jax is just re-establishing himself with Nicholas, he has been a navy Dad and so absent a lot. He is finding his way into fatherhood and a new life outside the navy. He has been burnt in his relationship with his previous wife - Nicholas' mother. Her family was wealthy and he felt somewhat threatened as well. He won't make the mistake of becoming involved with someone who has more money than him.
While this is a Christmas story it really tracks through the months leading up to Christmas, so perfect for reading now. If you feel a little blah about this festive time, this is a great read for you to renew your belief and love. If you love the season then it will just underline for you what the spirit of the season is all about.
Christmas in Eternity Springs is #12 in the series, but don't let that put you off. This can easily be read as a stand alone. However I have read them all and loved every minute of it.
This is partly the story of Nicholas, a little boy traumatised by an accident that has left him afraid of all things Christmas. We actually met him in the previous book where he overcame a fear or two. When he and his Dad pass through Eternity Springs they meet up with the gorgeous red head, Claire. Jax, Nicholas' dad, is entranced at the first meeting.
However like many of the people who wind up in Eternity Springs they both have wounds and places that need healing. Claire has been taken for a ride by a scoundrel, and so she is leery of all things men. She no longer trusts and believes. As well, she has issues with Christmas because of previous experiences. She has some hidden talents and a secret that haunts her. Facing her dislike of Christmas she has opened a town store called Forever Christmas.
Jax is just re-establishing himself with Nicholas, he has been a navy Dad and so absent a lot. He is finding his way into fatherhood and a new life outside the navy. He has been burnt in his relationship with his previous wife - Nicholas' mother. Her family was wealthy and he felt somewhat threatened as well. He won't make the mistake of becoming involved with someone who has more money than him.
While this is a Christmas story it really tracks through the months leading up to Christmas, so perfect for reading now. If you feel a little blah about this festive time, this is a great read for you to renew your belief and love. If you love the season then it will just underline for you what the spirit of the season is all about.
October 3, 2016
Eternity Springs is a place anyone would love to live. The people are a loving, caring, exceptional group of people that believe that where they live is special and each story in the series proves that Eternity Springs for some reason has positive energy in abundance for those that are willing to tap into it.
Claire Branham has reason aplenty to dislike Christmas after experiencing more than one event that soured her feelings related to the holiday. When she ran from the last negative Christmas disaster she found herself in Eternity Springs opening Forever Christmas – of all things. She hopes one day to have positive feelings regarding more than just Christmas but is unsure her heart will open enough for the joy of Christmas and the ability to trust to return.
Jax Lancaster meets Claire when he goes to pick his son, Nicholas, up from summer camp. Jax and Claire talk and share then agree to keep journals that will keep the positive spirit of Eternity Springs in their lives as he heads out of Eternity Springs to create a life with his son. Several months later Jax returns to town with Nicholas hoping that the positive energy he felt before when visiting will provide his son with the support he needs to overcome his fears.
This is a wonderful story of healing, trust, community, family, believing and love. I recommend it highly to those of you looking for an uplifting holiday novel with a happy ending.
Also…each book sees at least one person getting their “wings” and what a powerful thing getting one’s wings is in this community :)
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars
Claire Branham has reason aplenty to dislike Christmas after experiencing more than one event that soured her feelings related to the holiday. When she ran from the last negative Christmas disaster she found herself in Eternity Springs opening Forever Christmas – of all things. She hopes one day to have positive feelings regarding more than just Christmas but is unsure her heart will open enough for the joy of Christmas and the ability to trust to return.
Jax Lancaster meets Claire when he goes to pick his son, Nicholas, up from summer camp. Jax and Claire talk and share then agree to keep journals that will keep the positive spirit of Eternity Springs in their lives as he heads out of Eternity Springs to create a life with his son. Several months later Jax returns to town with Nicholas hoping that the positive energy he felt before when visiting will provide his son with the support he needs to overcome his fears.
This is a wonderful story of healing, trust, community, family, believing and love. I recommend it highly to those of you looking for an uplifting holiday novel with a happy ending.
Also…each book sees at least one person getting their “wings” and what a powerful thing getting one’s wings is in this community :)
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars
July 23, 2022
#12 in the Eternity Springs romance series
This was another winner in what's becoming one of my favorite series. We first met Jax and Nicholas in the previous book, Jax dealing with his son's fear of dogs and of all things Christmas after the death of his mother. Chase and Lori work with Nicholas to help him overcome his fears. Now we meet Jax as he tries to start a new life after the Navy. He's struggling to settle down while dealing with his overbearing in-laws. Eventually he and Nicholas move to Eternity Springs to start fresh, and Nicholas fits right in. Enter Claire, owner of Forever Christmas, a Christmas store. She and Jax hit it off, flirting through a large portion of the book, building the sexual tension very slowly and carefully. They become almost a family, as she and Jax care for Nicholas, gradually easing him into facing his fears and working on his PTSD. And, of course, we know that there's some secret in Claire's past that has traumatized her about Christmas as well. The romance is nice, Nicholas is sweet, and revisiting with Eternity Springs townspeople is always enjoyable. Celeste offers her helpful advice, as usual, but each of the main characters really needs to struggle through their own choices, facing their demons on their own, but with loving support. This was a warm story, definitely feel-good, mostly set around Christmas (not always timewise, but rather based around the year-round Christmas shop). I especially liked Jax--we really get inside his head. Claire is a little more elusive, but she is also appealing. Amy Landon did her usual excellent job of narration. I look forward to finally reading Brick's story next.
This was another winner in what's becoming one of my favorite series. We first met Jax and Nicholas in the previous book, Jax dealing with his son's fear of dogs and of all things Christmas after the death of his mother. Chase and Lori work with Nicholas to help him overcome his fears. Now we meet Jax as he tries to start a new life after the Navy. He's struggling to settle down while dealing with his overbearing in-laws. Eventually he and Nicholas move to Eternity Springs to start fresh, and Nicholas fits right in. Enter Claire, owner of Forever Christmas, a Christmas store. She and Jax hit it off, flirting through a large portion of the book, building the sexual tension very slowly and carefully. They become almost a family, as she and Jax care for Nicholas, gradually easing him into facing his fears and working on his PTSD. And, of course, we know that there's some secret in Claire's past that has traumatized her about Christmas as well. The romance is nice, Nicholas is sweet, and revisiting with Eternity Springs townspeople is always enjoyable. Celeste offers her helpful advice, as usual, but each of the main characters really needs to struggle through their own choices, facing their demons on their own, but with loving support. This was a warm story, definitely feel-good, mostly set around Christmas (not always timewise, but rather based around the year-round Christmas shop). I especially liked Jax--we really get inside his head. Claire is a little more elusive, but she is also appealing. Amy Landon did her usual excellent job of narration. I look forward to finally reading Brick's story next.
February 14, 2017
Another lovely visit to Eternity Springs and its quirky, sometimes eccentric inhabitants. This is Clair and Jax's story of healing their hearts and finding love. Enjoyable read.
November 1, 2017
The book wasn't bad (2 stars = it was okay) but it just wasn't as enjoyable as the others in the series. Normally I like these novels. I understand that they're a little cheesy and inspirational like a Hallmark movie. Eternity Springs is a picture perfect town where everything is wonderful. There was just something about this novel, though, that didn't work for me even knowing what to expect. It might have to do with listening to it on audio and hearing how borderline corny some of the dialogue sounded. I also wasn't a big fan of Claire's. She was too perfect and yet so much of her was kept secret. I wanted to see her as more flawed.
I do like this series and I understand that some will be better than others. This one just didn't do it for me.
I do like this series and I understand that some will be better than others. This one just didn't do it for me.
November 7, 2016
Emily March has created a town that heals. Eternity Springs is one of those places that we wish were real and, who knows, perhaps they are. This one is a delightful place that helps children and adults close wounds and begin to live their lives more happily. Nicholas is a wonderful kid and I am glad he bumped into Emily so she could take him to Eternity Springs.
Read
March 12, 2017Lost interest and did not finish.
February 23, 2019
THIS SUMMARY/REVIEW WAS COPIED FROM OTHER SOURCES AND IS USED ONLY AS A REMINDER OF WHAT THE BOOK WAS ABOUT FOR MY PERSONAL INTEREST. ANY PERSONAL NOTATIONS ARE FOR MY RECOLLECTION ONLY
**
I have been visiting Eternity Springs via Emily March's series off and on for the past year. Christmas in Eternity Springs was a delight. I love Christmas stories, but with the romance, community and in this one a young boy with a Christmas phobia, I will not miss another Christmas story in this series.
Claire Branham has relocated to Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas Shop. The residents are not aware of her past tragedies. She had finally gotten over her family tragedy that occurred on a Christmas in her past, and was full of the Christmas Spirit, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself. Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident. He also found his way to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel events, so they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends. Together Claire, Nicholas and Jax all help each other to heal and find Christmas again.
Enjoyed this story. Loved Nicholas, and the way his honest openness brought Jax and Claire together. Emily March did a beautiful job with the pacing of this story, adding in the magical magic of Eternity Springs. The slow, realistic relationship of Jax and Claire falling in love while being careful to protect Nicholas and their own hearts. Just when I thought the story was wrapping up nicely, there was a stunning twist, that changed the course of the story and had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I loved the character of Jax, as a father and a man who stands up and proves what he’s made of. He stepped back and realized that he was wrong and fought for the woman he loved, showing her how love can heal the pain and heartache of the past. This is a great addition to the Eternity Springs series, showing how magic, love and angels can heal the heart and spirit.
**
Christmas in Eternity Springs by Emily March is a 2016 St. Martin’s Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
With all the holiday themed books to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones will make the cut, but I never miss Emily March’s heartwarming Christmas stories.
Claire had finally rebounded from a long Christmas slump after a personal family tragedy. She was floating on air, delirious with the spirit of Christmas, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again.
Running away from her troubles, she settled in Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas shop, refusing to let her painful past win the war against Christmas. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself.
Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident, which led him to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel curveballs and keep from falling into despair. So they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends… and maybe a little something more.
**
**
I have been visiting Eternity Springs via Emily March's series off and on for the past year. Christmas in Eternity Springs was a delight. I love Christmas stories, but with the romance, community and in this one a young boy with a Christmas phobia, I will not miss another Christmas story in this series.
Claire Branham has relocated to Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas Shop. The residents are not aware of her past tragedies. She had finally gotten over her family tragedy that occurred on a Christmas in her past, and was full of the Christmas Spirit, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself. Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident. He also found his way to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel events, so they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends. Together Claire, Nicholas and Jax all help each other to heal and find Christmas again.
Enjoyed this story. Loved Nicholas, and the way his honest openness brought Jax and Claire together. Emily March did a beautiful job with the pacing of this story, adding in the magical magic of Eternity Springs. The slow, realistic relationship of Jax and Claire falling in love while being careful to protect Nicholas and their own hearts. Just when I thought the story was wrapping up nicely, there was a stunning twist, that changed the course of the story and had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I loved the character of Jax, as a father and a man who stands up and proves what he’s made of. He stepped back and realized that he was wrong and fought for the woman he loved, showing her how love can heal the pain and heartache of the past. This is a great addition to the Eternity Springs series, showing how magic, love and angels can heal the heart and spirit.
**
Christmas in Eternity Springs by Emily March is a 2016 St. Martin’s Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
With all the holiday themed books to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones will make the cut, but I never miss Emily March’s heartwarming Christmas stories.
Claire had finally rebounded from a long Christmas slump after a personal family tragedy. She was floating on air, delirious with the spirit of Christmas, when she discovered a horrible betrayal that shattered her heart, causing her to lose Christmas all over again.
Running away from her troubles, she settled in Eternity Springs and opened a Christmas shop, refusing to let her painful past win the war against Christmas. Little did she know that Eternity Springs is a magical place, and it’s her turn to see and feel that magic for herself.
Jax is a single father trying to help his son, Nicholas, recover from a traumatic accident, which led him to Eternity Springs, where he meets, Claire, aka- ‘Miss Christmas’. After a brief conversation, the two recognize they are kindred spirits, both trying to deal with life’s cruel curveballs and keep from falling into despair. So they challenge each other to write down one positive thing each day, and soon find themselves cheering each other up and becoming friends… and maybe a little something more.
**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2024
Could Have Been Charming, But ...
This book has a great title, one that gets you in the mood for a holiday story, so I was a bit surprised that the book didn't start in November or December. Instead, the hero and heroine have their meet-cute in July. The meeting strongly affected them both, two lonely souls finding a sympathetic compatriot—but then the author shifts us very quickly to the hero only, now returned to his home in the Pacific Northwest. Those kinds of leaps are really hard to follow in an audiobook; it isn't quite as easy as it is with a physical book or even an ebook to flip back and forth to puzzle out what just happened. The author wanted to show us what was going on in the hero's life when he wasn't on vacation, as he was when he and the heroine met. It should have been executed better to make it less confusing.
The book had further problems. Once the hero, heroine, and the hero's son are finally in the same town again, the story shifts uncomfortably between the budding romance and the issues the hero's young son has with various things, including Christmas and dogs. We know from nearly the start this, in part, is his reaction to the trauma of his mother's death a few years ago, but not until much later in the book do we find out the full circumstances that explain why the child has particular issues. Romantic books featuring a parent with a young child are very apt to tug the most at the heartstrings, and this one certainly did. (And the heroine is wonderful with the child, seeming to know just what he needs and giving him space to find his own way; we learn later that their stories have parallels.) But the story still felt like an uncomfortable mashup of traumatic psychological subplots with a wanting-to-be-steamy (but not quite making it!) “mistletoe fling” contemporary romance. Again, the execution just felt off.
I did like all the quirky characters in the small town of Eternity Springs. It truly felt like a small community with people who care for and protect each other. They weren't apt to jump to conclusions about anyone or anything, allowing each other grace not found in larger communities, yet they accepted newcomers willingly into the fold. The story also had a bit of a mystical feel occasionally, with one store owner and others’ strong belief in angels.
I'm a fan of what I would term “spicy-sweet” romantic stories. I don't want the descriptions to be as explicit as one might see in a medical or nursing textbook (speaking as an RN!), but I don't mind a little spice so long as everything is romantic, special, and truly reflects the couple. Again, I found myself a bit disappointed with this element of the story. The couple flirted a lot and even stole a kiss or two before setting up their first naughty getaway weekend. I was hoping for a little fun but was disappointed in two ways. First, we weren't provided much detail about this getaway: most were described generally, and not in the most romantic way. But second, the one scene that the author did describe a bit more was a “quickie” because they just both wanted to get that first time over. Seriously? Does anybody do that? Even if they do in real life, it is not satisfying romantic fodder for a fictionalized love story. We want those intimate scenes to be at least as good as the best that could happen in real life, and preferably, actually better!
The book has the dark moment that all love stories must have, but it didn't feel truly in line with the characters as we knew them before it happened. The hero had unreasonable expectations and a real block that said more about his past than about the heroine. And this happened after their naughty weekend—actually the tail end of it—and I at least want to see a couple who's just gotten together physically for the first time enjoy a little bit of that early romance glow before things go south!
This is a book I so wanted to recommend, but for all the reasons listed above, I do not feel like I can wholeheartedly say it is a good holiday listen.
I listened to this audiobook through my Audible Plus subscription.
This book has a great title, one that gets you in the mood for a holiday story, so I was a bit surprised that the book didn't start in November or December. Instead, the hero and heroine have their meet-cute in July. The meeting strongly affected them both, two lonely souls finding a sympathetic compatriot—but then the author shifts us very quickly to the hero only, now returned to his home in the Pacific Northwest. Those kinds of leaps are really hard to follow in an audiobook; it isn't quite as easy as it is with a physical book or even an ebook to flip back and forth to puzzle out what just happened. The author wanted to show us what was going on in the hero's life when he wasn't on vacation, as he was when he and the heroine met. It should have been executed better to make it less confusing.
The book had further problems. Once the hero, heroine, and the hero's son are finally in the same town again, the story shifts uncomfortably between the budding romance and the issues the hero's young son has with various things, including Christmas and dogs. We know from nearly the start this, in part, is his reaction to the trauma of his mother's death a few years ago, but not until much later in the book do we find out the full circumstances that explain why the child has particular issues. Romantic books featuring a parent with a young child are very apt to tug the most at the heartstrings, and this one certainly did. (And the heroine is wonderful with the child, seeming to know just what he needs and giving him space to find his own way; we learn later that their stories have parallels.) But the story still felt like an uncomfortable mashup of traumatic psychological subplots with a wanting-to-be-steamy (but not quite making it!) “mistletoe fling” contemporary romance. Again, the execution just felt off.
I did like all the quirky characters in the small town of Eternity Springs. It truly felt like a small community with people who care for and protect each other. They weren't apt to jump to conclusions about anyone or anything, allowing each other grace not found in larger communities, yet they accepted newcomers willingly into the fold. The story also had a bit of a mystical feel occasionally, with one store owner and others’ strong belief in angels.
I'm a fan of what I would term “spicy-sweet” romantic stories. I don't want the descriptions to be as explicit as one might see in a medical or nursing textbook (speaking as an RN!), but I don't mind a little spice so long as everything is romantic, special, and truly reflects the couple. Again, I found myself a bit disappointed with this element of the story. The couple flirted a lot and even stole a kiss or two before setting up their first naughty getaway weekend. I was hoping for a little fun but was disappointed in two ways. First, we weren't provided much detail about this getaway: most were described generally, and not in the most romantic way. But second, the one scene that the author did describe a bit more was a “quickie” because they just both wanted to get that first time over. Seriously? Does anybody do that? Even if they do in real life, it is not satisfying romantic fodder for a fictionalized love story. We want those intimate scenes to be at least as good as the best that could happen in real life, and preferably, actually better!
The book has the dark moment that all love stories must have, but it didn't feel truly in line with the characters as we knew them before it happened. The hero had unreasonable expectations and a real block that said more about his past than about the heroine. And this happened after their naughty weekend—actually the tail end of it—and I at least want to see a couple who's just gotten together physically for the first time enjoy a little bit of that early romance glow before things go south!
This is a book I so wanted to recommend, but for all the reasons listed above, I do not feel like I can wholeheartedly say it is a good holiday listen.
I listened to this audiobook through my Audible Plus subscription.
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