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Harmony Harbor #1
Mistletoe Cottage
Tis the season for love . . .
Sophie DiRossi loved growing up in Harmony Harbor. But after fleeing in disgrace many years ago, it is the last place she wants to be. Left homeless by a fire, she's forced to go back to the small coastal town that harbors a million secrets, including her own. Sophie sees this secret reflected every day in her daughter's blue eyes-and she must keep it hidden from the only man she has ever loved.
Sophie's return is a shock for everyone . . . especially Liam Gallagher. The firefighter had some serious feelings for Sophie-and seeing her again sparks a desire so fierce it takes his breath away. Now Liam will do whatever it takes to show Sophie that they deserve a second chance at love, even if everything they've concealed threatens to keep them apart. In this special town at this special time of the year, Sophie and Liam can only hope for a little holiday magic...
Sophie DiRossi loved growing up in Harmony Harbor. But after fleeing in disgrace many years ago, it is the last place she wants to be. Left homeless by a fire, she's forced to go back to the small coastal town that harbors a million secrets, including her own. Sophie sees this secret reflected every day in her daughter's blue eyes-and she must keep it hidden from the only man she has ever loved.
Sophie's return is a shock for everyone . . . especially Liam Gallagher. The firefighter had some serious feelings for Sophie-and seeing her again sparks a desire so fierce it takes his breath away. Now Liam will do whatever it takes to show Sophie that they deserve a second chance at love, even if everything they've concealed threatens to keep them apart. In this special town at this special time of the year, Sophie and Liam can only hope for a little holiday magic...
10 pages, Audiobook
First published October 25, 2016
716 people are currently reading
2808 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Mason
38 books1,695 followersDebbie Mason is the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series and the Harmony Harbor series. The first book in her Christmas, Colorado series, “The Trouble with Christmas,” was the inspiration for Hallmark’s “Welcome to Christmas.” Her books have been praised by RT Book Reviews for their “likable characters, clever dialogue, and juicy plots.” When Debbie isn’t writing, she enjoys spending time with her family in Ottawa, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews
October 25, 2016
4 Because of A Child Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free It's Live!!!
When I pick up a Debbie Mason book, I know I will experience a full, well thought out story which will touch me in a number of ways. I will have a complete sense of the community, characters and the tone and feel of the tale. There will be complications to work out but while the characters are figuring out their own path through them... there will also be humor, caring and joy.
Starting a new series always has two burdens to overcome...the first entry must lay the groundwork for the rest of the books and it must make us care... not only for the story being told in this book... but also care about the community, secondary characters and what is to come...It is a big task... but with Debbie Mason, she makes it feel easy.
In this book we have a heartwarming tale, as well, as the stretch of outside forces making everything come together. I do not want to give anything away as reading it cold was enjoyable to me. What I will share outside of the what you get in the blurb was how intricately drawn the whole feel of the series is...There are secrets galore with wonderful characters to become attached to...There are enough seeds planted to make this a series of many entries.
Oh and in case you think I forgot...there is the romance of two who loved each other from afar as teenagers and a beautiful child that brings them together. It all falls into place as a delightful, easy read.
A gifted copy was provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free It's Live!!!
When I pick up a Debbie Mason book, I know I will experience a full, well thought out story which will touch me in a number of ways. I will have a complete sense of the community, characters and the tone and feel of the tale. There will be complications to work out but while the characters are figuring out their own path through them... there will also be humor, caring and joy.
Starting a new series always has two burdens to overcome...the first entry must lay the groundwork for the rest of the books and it must make us care... not only for the story being told in this book... but also care about the community, secondary characters and what is to come...It is a big task... but with Debbie Mason, she makes it feel easy.
In this book we have a heartwarming tale, as well, as the stretch of outside forces making everything come together. I do not want to give anything away as reading it cold was enjoyable to me. What I will share outside of the what you get in the blurb was how intricately drawn the whole feel of the series is...There are secrets galore with wonderful characters to become attached to...There are enough seeds planted to make this a series of many entries.
Oh and in case you think I forgot...there is the romance of two who loved each other from afar as teenagers and a beautiful child that brings them together. It all falls into place as a delightful, easy read.
A gifted copy was provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 6, 2016
Copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Mistletoe Cottage by Debbie Mason was a sweet, heartfelt romance that absolutely warmed up my heart. This book had me smiling big as I am sucker for small town romance. There is just something about meddlesome townsfolk and two people reuniting and discovering that spark of love. So if you are looking for a romance that had a dash of charm and a whole heaping of love then look no further than this book. Debbie Mason did an excellent job laying out the groundwork and character developments in this first installment to get readers like myself for this series.
Mistletoe Cottage by Debbie Mason was a sweet, heartfelt romance that absolutely warmed up my heart. This book had me smiling big as I am sucker for small town romance. There is just something about meddlesome townsfolk and two people reuniting and discovering that spark of love. So if you are looking for a romance that had a dash of charm and a whole heaping of love then look no further than this book. Debbie Mason did an excellent job laying out the groundwork and character developments in this first installment to get readers like myself for this series.
December 20, 2021
Too many characters! I can't remember the last time I was this frustrated reading a book. I understand this is the first novel in the Harmony Harbor series but not every character in the town needs to pop up in the story for an appearance. I read a lot and juggling characters in my head is usually not this big of a problem. I wish there was a cast of characters and a family tree at the beginning of the book because that would have helped me out a bit.
Sophie DiRossi left Harmony Harbor years ago and didn't look back. Well, until now. After a fire leaves her homeless, she comes back to her hometown with her young daughter, hoping to find work. Firefighter Liam Gallagher is thrilled to see Sophie again as he had a thing for her way back when. But a second shot at love might not be so easy especially if certain things from the past come to light.
The romance gets off to a good start as Sophie and Liam have chemistry. It's worth mentioning there is a tiny supernatural subplot but even if you aren't into that type of thing, it does manage to fit in fine with the rest of the story. At some point, a large bombshell is dropped and for me that's when my interest in the two characters really took a nosedive. I thought the revelation was handled rather awkwardly and warranted much more discussion. Rather than have all these minor conflicts afterwards, I wish more attention was given to that storyline.
It's a shame this holiday read turned out to be a not so fun reading experience. Sometimes a book just isn't a good fit. I've read other positive reviews so keep that in mind. I read the 2nd book in the series years ago, and while the cast of characters was very long in that one as well, it was a slightly better read for me.
Thank you to Forever for providing me with a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Sophie DiRossi left Harmony Harbor years ago and didn't look back. Well, until now. After a fire leaves her homeless, she comes back to her hometown with her young daughter, hoping to find work. Firefighter Liam Gallagher is thrilled to see Sophie again as he had a thing for her way back when. But a second shot at love might not be so easy especially if certain things from the past come to light.
The romance gets off to a good start as Sophie and Liam have chemistry. It's worth mentioning there is a tiny supernatural subplot but even if you aren't into that type of thing, it does manage to fit in fine with the rest of the story. At some point, a large bombshell is dropped and for me that's when my interest in the two characters really took a nosedive. I thought the revelation was handled rather awkwardly and warranted much more discussion. Rather than have all these minor conflicts afterwards, I wish more attention was given to that storyline.
It's a shame this holiday read turned out to be a not so fun reading experience. Sometimes a book just isn't a good fit. I've read other positive reviews so keep that in mind. I read the 2nd book in the series years ago, and while the cast of characters was very long in that one as well, it was a slightly better read for me.
Thank you to Forever for providing me with a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
December 13, 2021
I really enjoyed Debbie Mason’s The Higland Falls series so I was looking forward to reading Mistletoe Cottage — the first book in The Harmony Harbor series. Needless to say, I was disappointed.
The characters aren’t that complex and for the most part, they don’t exude any warmth for a holiday romance. Especially since Sophie’s daughter, Mia is suffering from PTSD, and Sophie is struggling to make ends meet. There are many other family characters and unfortunately, I lost track of who’s who in the scheme of things.
The storyline is a bit depressing as it starts out with Sophie being forced to move back to Harmony Harbor to escape homelessness and Child Protective Services. Added to that, the character of Colleen, the matriarch of Greystone Manor passes away and there’s a lengthly dedication to her passing and funeral services.
The second chance romance aspect of the story isn’t much and in my opinion, it was pretty shallow. There wasn’t any build up or “push-pull,” between Liam and Sophie and the suspense as well as the spark was lacking.
Mistletoe Cottage was a letdown. Especially since I do generally enjoy Mason’s work. Would I read more in The Harmony Harbor series? No. I don’t believe I will. Rating this book okay since I managed to finish it. One and a half stars.
I received a paperback copy of the book from Forever (GCP.) The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The characters aren’t that complex and for the most part, they don’t exude any warmth for a holiday romance. Especially since Sophie’s daughter, Mia is suffering from PTSD, and Sophie is struggling to make ends meet. There are many other family characters and unfortunately, I lost track of who’s who in the scheme of things.
The storyline is a bit depressing as it starts out with Sophie being forced to move back to Harmony Harbor to escape homelessness and Child Protective Services. Added to that, the character of Colleen, the matriarch of Greystone Manor passes away and there’s a lengthly dedication to her passing and funeral services.
The second chance romance aspect of the story isn’t much and in my opinion, it was pretty shallow. There wasn’t any build up or “push-pull,” between Liam and Sophie and the suspense as well as the spark was lacking.
Mistletoe Cottage was a letdown. Especially since I do generally enjoy Mason’s work. Would I read more in The Harmony Harbor series? No. I don’t believe I will. Rating this book okay since I managed to finish it. One and a half stars.
I received a paperback copy of the book from Forever (GCP.) The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 6, 2016
What is the best Christmas present a child could receive, one that every child deserves? The love and stability of family and a feeling of security and being protected, while being able to trust those around her. Has young Mia's time finally come? When Sophie became pregnant, she wasn’t much more than a child herself, so she fled to avoid the pain, shame and gossip that would surely start in the small town of Harmony Harbor. Now disaster brings her back, her tail between her legs, filled with secrets she vows never to share, including the name of the father.
What she returns to are family feuds, an opportunity to save a failing business and the one man she always loved, even as a teen, but Liam, never noticed her, she was off-limits, the kid sister of his best friend. Then there is the truth of Mia’s parentage to contend with. What Sophie never knew was that Liam loved her, too, but he carries a guilty secret of his own.
Is it possible that time and a little girl who no longer speaks will bring these two together or will the secrets they keep build a wall that cannot be torn down
MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Debbie Mason is an angst and drama-filled tale of lies, secrets, and lost chances as one young woman tries to do the right thing for her young daughter and herself. It is Liam who steals the show as young Mia steals his heart and he pulls out all of the stops to let Sophie know how much he cares, well almost all of the stops, there is that secret... Sophie is clearly in crisis mode, her behavior is often erratic, but in her defense, she has more than a full plate to handle.
Debbie Mason has provided more than a Holiday Romance, she has taken the season of miracles and given it a special meaning for both her characters and her readers!
I received this copy from Forever in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Forever (October 25, 2016)
Publication Date: October 25, 2016
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
What she returns to are family feuds, an opportunity to save a failing business and the one man she always loved, even as a teen, but Liam, never noticed her, she was off-limits, the kid sister of his best friend. Then there is the truth of Mia’s parentage to contend with. What Sophie never knew was that Liam loved her, too, but he carries a guilty secret of his own.
Is it possible that time and a little girl who no longer speaks will bring these two together or will the secrets they keep build a wall that cannot be torn down
MISTLETOE COTTAGE by Debbie Mason is an angst and drama-filled tale of lies, secrets, and lost chances as one young woman tries to do the right thing for her young daughter and herself. It is Liam who steals the show as young Mia steals his heart and he pulls out all of the stops to let Sophie know how much he cares, well almost all of the stops, there is that secret... Sophie is clearly in crisis mode, her behavior is often erratic, but in her defense, she has more than a full plate to handle.
Debbie Mason has provided more than a Holiday Romance, she has taken the season of miracles and given it a special meaning for both her characters and her readers!
I received this copy from Forever in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Forever (October 25, 2016)
Publication Date: October 25, 2016
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 352 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 18, 2016
I was so excited to see a new series beginning by Debbie Mason, one of my favorites. She really knows how to build that small town, the one that all the characters just need to find their way back to. The one full of gossip, drama, neighbors who care, and families interconnecting. She also seems to know just how to hit me in the feels with each book I read of hers, and Mistletoe Cottage was no exception. Like a perfect Christmas cookie recipe, this book has the key ingredients.
Firstly, we have single mom Sophie headed home for the first time since her daughter was born. Cue small town antics and tears and welcomes. Then, there is the run in with sexy fireman Liam. Oh, here come the fireman. Those are such a weakness of mine.
Wait, because it's not sweet enough yet, we have to have the steamy fireman fall as hard for the little girl as he does for her mother. Cue swoons, and sighs. I cannot resist a man who is good with kids. Always punches me right in feels.
Next, we stir in an old family feud, fueled by the elderly matriarchs. Throw in a dash of almost nobody knows why it started and mostly they just want to match make the younger generation to end it, and you get that perfect rise.
Let it all bake for about 350 pages, then take it out of the oven just before you get tired of the main characters dancing around their feelings. Sprinkle it with a happy ending that brings you to tears, and serve it up to all of your friends. I promise, you'll be the life of the party! ~ George, 5 stars
Firstly, we have single mom Sophie headed home for the first time since her daughter was born. Cue small town antics and tears and welcomes. Then, there is the run in with sexy fireman Liam. Oh, here come the fireman. Those are such a weakness of mine.
Wait, because it's not sweet enough yet, we have to have the steamy fireman fall as hard for the little girl as he does for her mother. Cue swoons, and sighs. I cannot resist a man who is good with kids. Always punches me right in feels.
Next, we stir in an old family feud, fueled by the elderly matriarchs. Throw in a dash of almost nobody knows why it started and mostly they just want to match make the younger generation to end it, and you get that perfect rise.
Let it all bake for about 350 pages, then take it out of the oven just before you get tired of the main characters dancing around their feelings. Sprinkle it with a happy ending that brings you to tears, and serve it up to all of your friends. I promise, you'll be the life of the party! ~ George, 5 stars
June 18, 2020
Sophie DiRossi left town 8 yrs and now slinks back town broke and after a near fatal loss. So when there is a possible fire, and she can't find her 7 yr old daughter she thinks she may be cursed. What she least expects is the eyes and arms of the boy turned man she crushed on all those years ago.
The last thing Liam Gallagher expects pulling up to a fire is Sophie and no less her daughter, Mia, how doesn't talk. Hero he was, hero he will be. Now he pulled into warring with himself to stay away from the two beauties all while being drawn to them.
This is a well written story, with a little paranormal thrown in which I actually loved. A great cast of secondary characters. The hero and heroine are both strong characters fighting through their own flaws. Mia is a little scene stealer even when she can't talk. I loved Colleen, the great grandmother or GG.
Can't wait for book #2
The last thing Liam Gallagher expects pulling up to a fire is Sophie and no less her daughter, Mia, how doesn't talk. Hero he was, hero he will be. Now he pulled into warring with himself to stay away from the two beauties all while being drawn to them.
This is a well written story, with a little paranormal thrown in which I actually loved. A great cast of secondary characters. The hero and heroine are both strong characters fighting through their own flaws. Mia is a little scene stealer even when she can't talk. I loved Colleen, the great grandmother or GG.
Can't wait for book #2
November 28, 2020
Sweet, quick, Christmassy read. Just what I was looking for. This was a new to me author, and I'll probably try some of her other books.
October 17, 2016
Liam has wanted his best friends sister, Sophie as long as he could remember but she ended up dating his cousin was she turned 18 and left. Now 7 years later she has returned with her daughter and finds out that the spark they had all those years ago is still as strong as ever.
Sophie loved Liam but he never asked her out and always treated her just as a friend so when his cousin asks her out she agrees. One night after too many drinks she ends up pregnant and leaves town without telling the father of her child. Now that she back old secrets are brought to the surface and with this family there is more to come.
I really enjoy Mason's writing and the uniqueness she brings to stories. I can honestly say I have never read a story with so my heart and secrets that just really had me wondering what else was going to pop up next.
There were a few moments when I did get a teary but it was worth it and the emotional trauma that these characters went through just showed. Right away I could see Sophie and Liam were meant to be together even though they just saw one another for the first time in years. They both had gone through their own ordeals yet never gave up on the idea of them in the present.
The one thing that I didn't connect with so well were all the family members that were in and out of this one. I had a hard time on keeping track of who was who, the multiple ex wife's of some of them and who was actually with who. Other then that I really liked this story and I'm excited to read more of these families and learn the secrets of this new small town. Some sound so juicy! Yay!
Sophie loved Liam but he never asked her out and always treated her just as a friend so when his cousin asks her out she agrees. One night after too many drinks she ends up pregnant and leaves town without telling the father of her child. Now that she back old secrets are brought to the surface and with this family there is more to come.
I really enjoy Mason's writing and the uniqueness she brings to stories. I can honestly say I have never read a story with so my heart and secrets that just really had me wondering what else was going to pop up next.
There were a few moments when I did get a teary but it was worth it and the emotional trauma that these characters went through just showed. Right away I could see Sophie and Liam were meant to be together even though they just saw one another for the first time in years. They both had gone through their own ordeals yet never gave up on the idea of them in the present.
The one thing that I didn't connect with so well were all the family members that were in and out of this one. I had a hard time on keeping track of who was who, the multiple ex wife's of some of them and who was actually with who. Other then that I really liked this story and I'm excited to read more of these families and learn the secrets of this new small town. Some sound so juicy! Yay!
October 27, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
Colleen thought it was rather ironic that she’d died on All Saints’ Day. She was hardly a saint. She had her secrets too. But if she wanted to be ready the next time heaven rolled out the welcome mat, she had work to do.
Her fifty-four-year-old mother had left her father and turned into an incense burning, om chanting, tantra-practicing nymphomaniac…
My Review:
Every woman in town was desperate to find the lost manuscript that a recently deceased one-hundred-and-four-year-old town matriarch had written, her last video informed her Widows’ Club that she had written a tell-all memoir detailing the various secrets of the town’s populace, hers included. The manuscript was supposedly lost, or was it? What the town was not aware of, the meddlesome spirit was still watching over her estate, as she seemed to have missed her entry to the hereafter when the bright light came.
Mistletoe Cottage was an entertaining and active story with wry humor and several subplots of sabotage, long-standing feuds, greed, family secrets, compounded lies, PTSD, jealousy, shady histories, wedding planning with a horrid bridezilla, a meddlesome spirit, and a selectively mute child who sees dead people. Prepare for lots of drama, a bit of intrigue, a bit of romance, and surprising twists and turns. I am already eager to uncover more of their secrets in the next book.
Colleen thought it was rather ironic that she’d died on All Saints’ Day. She was hardly a saint. She had her secrets too. But if she wanted to be ready the next time heaven rolled out the welcome mat, she had work to do.
Her fifty-four-year-old mother had left her father and turned into an incense burning, om chanting, tantra-practicing nymphomaniac…
My Review:
Every woman in town was desperate to find the lost manuscript that a recently deceased one-hundred-and-four-year-old town matriarch had written, her last video informed her Widows’ Club that she had written a tell-all memoir detailing the various secrets of the town’s populace, hers included. The manuscript was supposedly lost, or was it? What the town was not aware of, the meddlesome spirit was still watching over her estate, as she seemed to have missed her entry to the hereafter when the bright light came.
Mistletoe Cottage was an entertaining and active story with wry humor and several subplots of sabotage, long-standing feuds, greed, family secrets, compounded lies, PTSD, jealousy, shady histories, wedding planning with a horrid bridezilla, a meddlesome spirit, and a selectively mute child who sees dead people. Prepare for lots of drama, a bit of intrigue, a bit of romance, and surprising twists and turns. I am already eager to uncover more of their secrets in the next book.
November 11, 2016
So this is my first time ever reading any book by Debbie Mason and I loved it. This is a wonderful holiday read and definitely gets you into the spirit of the season.
I won’t burden you by recapturing the blurb in my review. And I won’t really tell you what happens because that just takes away from the full affect of the story. But I will tell you that Debbie builds the perfect scenario – not just for this book, but for the whole series.
Harmony Harbor is a small town and Debbie does a great job of building this world. Developing all the characters and how everything intertwines. But not once do you feel pulled from the story. If anything, all the building helps add to this story and helps prep you for what’s to come in the future.
As for this book in particular, you will love Sophie, her daughter and Liam. Everything is a slow burn and it’s well worth the hit. There is some angst and some drama to keep you glud to these pages. The dialogue was perfect combination of whit and seriousness. Don’t think this story is all rainbows – there are few storms that come crashing through to keep things unstable.
Debbie writes a story with a great mixture of ups and downs. She makes you root for the HEA between Sophie and Liam. I am looking forward to reading more from this series.
I won’t burden you by recapturing the blurb in my review. And I won’t really tell you what happens because that just takes away from the full affect of the story. But I will tell you that Debbie builds the perfect scenario – not just for this book, but for the whole series.
Harmony Harbor is a small town and Debbie does a great job of building this world. Developing all the characters and how everything intertwines. But not once do you feel pulled from the story. If anything, all the building helps add to this story and helps prep you for what’s to come in the future.
As for this book in particular, you will love Sophie, her daughter and Liam. Everything is a slow burn and it’s well worth the hit. There is some angst and some drama to keep you glud to these pages. The dialogue was perfect combination of whit and seriousness. Don’t think this story is all rainbows – there are few storms that come crashing through to keep things unstable.
Debbie writes a story with a great mixture of ups and downs. She makes you root for the HEA between Sophie and Liam. I am looking forward to reading more from this series.
November 19, 2023
This was my first Debbie Mason book. Will it be my last? No siree bub!
What a great start to what I hope will be a most enjoyable series.
The funning thing is the lead female character, Sophie, in this book was found to be slightly irksome by me. Yet somehow, I still adored this book. I love Debbie’s style of writing.
There were SO many laugh out loud moments for me. I shall not say why though because I cannot give any of the plot away. But overall the book was heartwarming.
My one little complaint, if you will, is the massive number of characters. But I know it is a series all taking place in the town of Harmony Harbor so the groundwork needs to be set. I’m sure by the second book I’ll know who everybody is.
What a great start to what I hope will be a most enjoyable series.
The funning thing is the lead female character, Sophie, in this book was found to be slightly irksome by me. Yet somehow, I still adored this book. I love Debbie’s style of writing.
There were SO many laugh out loud moments for me. I shall not say why though because I cannot give any of the plot away. But overall the book was heartwarming.
My one little complaint, if you will, is the massive number of characters. But I know it is a series all taking place in the town of Harmony Harbor so the groundwork needs to be set. I’m sure by the second book I’ll know who everybody is.
August 12, 2024
I absolutely hated this book
November 6, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2eocnkM
I'm a huge fan of Debbie Mason and her Christmas, Co. series so I was excited to see a new series...Harmony Harbor. I ended up having some mixed reactions to it...
So the Quick of it:
Sophie has come back home with her daughter to start over and lands the gig of revitalizing the town's Inn. Something that'll prove quite the challenge with needing to win over the cantankerous staff, certain townsfolk doing their best to make the Inn fail, and having to be around the man she loved years ago and is keeping one serious secret from.
The Yay:
I really loved the set up for the series and trying to save a town's landmark from being razed and turned into condos. The inn's seen better days but there's a hope that it'll survive and bring life back to not only it's grounds but the town and it's other businesses as well. I loved that.
And the hero was pretty hero-y too. lol He's a good guy dealing with PTSD after losing one of his fellow firefighters. He does what's right and was just easy to like. As was the heroine's young daughter who is going through her own struggles after surviving a fire. Some of the secondary characters peaked my interest, too.
The Nay:
The heroine. Usually I freaking LOVE Mason's heroines but Sophia and I did not get along at all and that made me struggle with the book overall. In my eyes she was just an awful woman and barely managed to recover from the things she did during the book. Lies about her daughter's father, keeping the child from him for 7 years, slapping the hero when she was upset (if you want to know why, watch this), acting like a father needs to prove himself before being in his child's life or shouldn't have joint custody (something she was adamant against). She was selfish and I had no sympathy for her struggles over the years. Grr!
There was also some woo-woo with a ghost that felt awkward to me.
The Verdict:
Proceed with caution. I struggled with Mistletoe Cottage. It was mainly because of the heroine but really influenced my overall feelings. There were lots of excellent elements that have me excited for the coming books and really saved this one from being rated lower but goodness this heroine tested my patience.
October 30, 2016
Wow. What an amazing book! I'd give it 10 stars if it were possible, but I'll have to settle for 5. If you’re looking for a sweet Christmas romance and a beautiful series starter that will have you hooked by chapter one, you should definitely pick up Debbie Mason’s latest release.
I usually tend to ramble on and on about a book I’ve liked, but not even all the words in the world could express how much I loved this book and how it touched my heart deeply. I just want you to please trust me on this and go buy your own copy of Mistletoe Cottage right now.
If you’ve enjoyed the books in the Christmas, Colorado series, you’ll love the people of Harmony Harbor just as much. The small-town setting, the camaraderie, the funny scenes that will have you laugh out loud, the chemistry that’s always kept on the clean side of the spectrum—all the distinctive elements that made me (and all the other fans of Christmas) love the previous books are all included in this new series. Add a crazy (and super funny) Italian matriarch, an Irish family with a meddling great-grandmother who can’t stop meddling even after her heart’s stopped beating, a family feud between the hero’s and the heroine’s families, and an adorable little girl who will steal your heart from the very first scene. Not to mention a very handsome, very Irish, and very romantic firefighter. And here’s the recipe for another best-selling series you’ll never get enough of.
If you’ve yet to discover Debbie Mason’s books, this will be the perfect first book. I have no doubt you’ll fall in love with the people of Harmony Harbor.
read my full review here: http://robertasdreamworld.blogspot.it...
*** I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I wasn't compensated for my review.***
I usually tend to ramble on and on about a book I’ve liked, but not even all the words in the world could express how much I loved this book and how it touched my heart deeply. I just want you to please trust me on this and go buy your own copy of Mistletoe Cottage right now.
If you’ve enjoyed the books in the Christmas, Colorado series, you’ll love the people of Harmony Harbor just as much. The small-town setting, the camaraderie, the funny scenes that will have you laugh out loud, the chemistry that’s always kept on the clean side of the spectrum—all the distinctive elements that made me (and all the other fans of Christmas) love the previous books are all included in this new series. Add a crazy (and super funny) Italian matriarch, an Irish family with a meddling great-grandmother who can’t stop meddling even after her heart’s stopped beating, a family feud between the hero’s and the heroine’s families, and an adorable little girl who will steal your heart from the very first scene. Not to mention a very handsome, very Irish, and very romantic firefighter. And here’s the recipe for another best-selling series you’ll never get enough of.
If you’ve yet to discover Debbie Mason’s books, this will be the perfect first book. I have no doubt you’ll fall in love with the people of Harmony Harbor.
read my full review here: http://robertasdreamworld.blogspot.it...
*** I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I wasn't compensated for my review.***
October 28, 2016
I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't put it down. It has a lot feels. It's definitely a make you feel good book. The characters are fantastic. The emotion, humor, and storyline just grabbed me. I loved that it took place during the holidays because the magic of the season just added so much to the book for me. I really liked Liam. He's great hero material. It takes place in a small town and you have that feel. I can't wait for more from this series because I'm hooked.
February 3, 2017
Sophie DiRossi fled Harmony Harbor out of embarrassment years ago, only to return to the place she once grew up with after her other home went she lived in went up in flames. Now Sophia is back in Harmony and is a carrier of a heavy secret herself. It's bad enough she is afraid that the secret about her daughter will come out, it's worse that she has child services on her tail due to the fire that happened to traumatize her little girl - who is now refusing to speak.
Mistletoe Cottage is the first book in Harmony Harbor series from Debbie Mason and it was a decent start to what is looking like an interesting series.
I really liked the little girl Mia, the DiRossi loud and funny family and Liam Gallagher, the hero of this story. It was a relaxing read after all the dark stuff in October and I thought it was a great read to start of the pile of upcoming Holiday stuff.
The story was interesting as Sophie tries to put together a high profile wedding to save the mansion that Liam's family happens to own. She is hired as a manager to make it happen right before Colleen, Liam's great-grandmother passes away. Now Sophie is all stressed because she is planning a Michael's wedding and that is the last person she wants to see. Not because she is in love with him, but because of the secrets she thinks she is keeping from him.
This was... it started out cute and promising, bu t somewhere along the way I felt a bit of confusion. I did enjoy the story, as it sets a lot of interesting potential for the upcoming books. I really, really want to know what happened to Sophie's cousin Ava and her ex-husband and kind of hope we won't be left waiting too long.
I loved the interaction between Liam and Mia, it was so heartwarming the way he took to the little girl right away and how she took to him.
There was romance, but it didn't feel like it overpowered the book. When it happened it was nice and added warmth to the book, especially due to Liam.
My biggest issue was Sophie, I just couldn't like her and her mood swings gave me a whiplash. I didn't like the way she behaved with Mia's father and telling him he didn't earn the right after SHE was the one who kept the secret away from him for seven years. I also didn't like the fact that she had the nerve to slap him.
I was a fan of Mason's other series, this one felt a bit rushed, especially the ending - it left my head spinning as things started to go wickedly fast and scenes just skipping and bouncing all over the place.
Overall, the series has my attention. I am especially interested in Ava and hope she gets her book next. It was a good holiday read with some tender moments and I am looking forward to more
Excerpt
The door to the bathroom opened. Liam lowered his razor to smile at Mia and Sophie.
Sophie slammed the door in his face.“You stay right where you are,” she ordered him from the other side. “Mia baby, let’s go check out your bedroom.”
He heard the sound of their retreating footsteps and shrugged. He wasn’t sure what the problem was. He’d just lifted the razor to his chin when the door reopened and Sophie stepped inside, closing it behind her. Her eyes flitted over him, then she raised her gaze to meet his, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. He grinned at her reaction. At least he wasn’t the only one feeling the attraction.
She glared at him. “If you wanted to give me a welcome-to-the-apartment present, flowers or a plant would have been a better idea than . . . than this.” Her hand fluttered between them.
“You think I’m your welcome-to-the-apartment present?” he said, unable to keep the amusement from his voice.
“It’s not funny, Liam. I have an impressionable daughter. You can’t just show up at my apartment half naked, expecting to—”
He put the razor down and turned to her, crossing his arms. “Think what?”
“Don’t do that. It won’t work,” she said, her eyes landing somewhere between his chest and the towel.
“Soph, you’ve lost me. I don’t have a clue—”
“Please, as if you don’t know how sexy you look right now standing there all naked and wet with your muscles on display.”
He looked down at himself then raised his gaze to hers while holding back a full-out grin as it hit him what was going on. He didn’t plan to enlighten her just yet. He was having too much fun. “You forgot my impressive abs.”
Her eyes narrowed. “Where are your clothes? You need to get dressed and . . . What are you doing?” she asked as he closed the distance between.
Her palms landed on his chest when he crowded her against the door. “I just thought, since I went to all this trouble to surprise you, you could at least give me a kiss.”
“No, Mia is in the next room.” She stared at his mouth. “And even if I wanted to kiss you, you have shaving cream on your face.”
“Admit it. You like your present. And you really, really want to kiss me.”
The corner of her mouth lifted as her hands inched their way up his chest and around his neck. She leaned into him. “Yes, I like my present. But I’d like it a whole lot more if Mia wasn’t with me. And I might want to kiss you a little.”
“A lot,” he said and cupped her face in his hands, lowering his mouth to hers. He wanted to linger, to explore her sweet mouth with a deep, consuming kiss. Instead, because Mia was down the hall, he went with soft and tender and long enough that she’d feel how much he wanted her.
He pulled back. Her face was tipped up, her eyes closed. He smiled at the shaving cream covering the lower half of her face and slowly trailed his finger through it to draw a foamy line of white down her neck. With her eyes still closed, she leaned back against the door, a small hum of pleasure escaping from between her parted lips. He ducked his head and whispered. “You like that, don’t you?”
She opened her heavy-lidded eyes and nodded, watching him as he dipped his fingers beneath the V of her caramel-colored sweater.
He felt her shiver beneath his fingers and moved her hair off her shoulders with his other hand before rubbing his cheek against hers. He’d never look at shaving cream the same way. He wanted to cover every inch of her . . .
A knock sounded on the door. She shoved him away. Her eyes wide and glazed, she wiped frantically at her face. “Be right there, baby.”
Liam grimaced. He’d gotten so carried away he’d forgotten about Mia. “Sorry, Soph. Give me a sec, and I’ll get some clothes on.” He turned to open the door leading into his apartment.
“You have got to be kidding me,” she said.
Liam glanced over his shoulder. “Nope, your apartment shares a bathroom with mine. Welcome to the neighborhood,” he said with a wink.
RAFFLECOPTER
December 16, 2023
There was some promise to the plot and characters, but it just fell flat for me.
The setting was interesting but not all that special (it's pretty much just like any other small town setting). The two big families and their histories was promising, given that one member of those families was a ghost. And I also enjoyed the premise of a working mother getting a job as a hotel manager.
But for me, it never lived up to it's promise. The romance was cloying and unrealistic. The mother was a bit of a goofball and was kind of an insult to many busy and stressed working mothers (and had practically given her child away mid-book). I think the author had a good idea, but just didn't have the life experience necessary to inject some realism and reader-identification into the plot or characters.
The setting was interesting but not all that special (it's pretty much just like any other small town setting). The two big families and their histories was promising, given that one member of those families was a ghost. And I also enjoyed the premise of a working mother getting a job as a hotel manager.
But for me, it never lived up to it's promise. The romance was cloying and unrealistic. The mother was a bit of a goofball and was kind of an insult to many busy and stressed working mothers (and had practically given her child away mid-book). I think the author had a good idea, but just didn't have the life experience necessary to inject some realism and reader-identification into the plot or characters.
December 25, 2019
Minu arvamuse leiab blogist https://triinuraamatud.wordpress.com/...
December 7, 2021
A lovely read for the holiday season that’s filled with fun and heart. Having a ghost in this story was a pleasantly unexpected surprise.
I can see a lot of set up happening for more books to come. I look forward to reading more.
I can see a lot of set up happening for more books to come. I look forward to reading more.
December 8, 2017
My Disclaimer:
I purchased a copy of this book at the current price. I am voluntarily providing an honest review in which all opinions are fully my own. I am not being compensated in any way.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
What it’s about…
Sophie DiRossi was the “bad girl” who got pregnant by one of the boys from the manor when she was young and left town. She and her daughter are back in town and Sophie’s working at the manor again. Her daughter, Mia, was traumatized in a fire and doesn’t speak. Sophie’s got secrets she’s protecting with her life.
Liam Gallagher is a son of the manor, a firefighter, who’s taking a break after a traumatic fire that caused the death of a friend. He can’t seem to get past the trauma of the fire, but he doesn’t want anyone to know. He was once in love with Sophie DiRossi when they were younger.
Colleen Gallagher, the family matriarch, dies at the age of 104. She has been a strong hand on the helm for so many years. She has been the keeper of the secrets as well. In fact she wrote all the secrets down in a book, but she can’t remember where she put it. But everyone wants to find that book before someone else does so that their secret doesn’t get out. Because Colleen knew everyone’s secrets.
Can Sophie and Liam work out their own secrets before someone causes any more harm? Can they admit what everyone else already knows about them? Can Mia speak up in time?
Technical Tidbits…
The cover is beautiful with all its rich color and Christmas theme. The red boots with snowflakes are right out of the book, too! Nicely done and not overdone!
The story line is a familiar one with the young woman with child returning to town and meeting her childhood love. They both have to deal with all the secrets that a small town has as well as the secrets they each have before they can come together and be a happy couple.
The characters were outrageous! These people were so real that you felt like you knew them from somewhere. Colleen as the matriarch was familiar as she went through trying to do the best for each of her family members. She was a delightful character. The two primary characters, Sophie and Liam were so well written, too. They were exactly what they should be. Two young people caught in a situation not quite of their own making. They each had their own secret to reveal and pain to deal with before they could come close enough to really fall in love. And Mia! Wow, what a dynamite little character she was even when she wasn’t speaking. She was a strong presence and made herself felt in every situation perhaps especially because of her silence.
The pace was smooth and brisk. There was no choppiness here. You moved from one event to another rapidly, but the transitions were fluid.
The tension, perhaps due to the smoothness of the transitions, built nicely. A slow, steady building of pressure as events unfolded.
The writing quality is wonderful. Ms. Mason has a style of writing that invites you in and takes you for a ride. She writes wonderful dialog as well as colorful description. And yet, her action scenes make you feel that you are part of the action, too. No stilted conversation here. Everything sounds just like you would expect it to really sound if someone were speaking. You can hear the accents of the butler greeting a guest compared to the tones of the Italian grandmother scolding her adult grandson. She can create a playful character and a depressed character just with the way she describes them and makes them speak. You can actually feel the emotion of the character.
And this is where you STOP if you don’t want to see any SPOILERS…
The good, the bad, and the ugly…and how much it lit up my life… ✰✰✰✰✰
I already said so much up above, is there more to say here? Well, let’s see what my notes say. There’s Colleen Gallagher, the matriarch of the family. She’s so cool! She has managed her family for her whole life, 104 years. Now she has a heart attach and dies. But she resists going to heaven, so she ends up haunting the family while they work out who’s going to be in charge now. Kitty is the grandmother, but she has her issues and not everyone would follow Kitty. Kitty wants to be in charge at the manor and bring it back to its former splendor. Kitty’s ideas haven’t been successful so far. A number of the grandchildren, Liam included feel that the manor should be sold and the money divided throughout the family. They see the manor as a drain on the family resources and not something that they want to be involved in. Their lives aren’t focused on Greystone Manor. Liam, for instance, is a firefighter up in Boston. He’s only at home currently resting after the traumatic incident of his buddy’s death. Liam’s still having flashbacks, which is his secret. Or so he thinks. His father, Colin, is the local fire chief. And his best friend, Marco DiRossi, works as a firefighter under his father’s command. They both recognize what’s going on with Liam. But for Liam, the manor doesn’t play a large part in his current future the way he sees it. At least not until he reconnects with Sophie.
But even the town isn’t necessarily all of one mind about the manor. The mayor and a real estate agent seem to be in cahoots with a developer who wants to buy up the manor and tear it down to built condominiums there or something. The retailers are all for the manor getting itself pulled together and doing business as it has in the past or as Sophie and her team foresee, as a location for weddings and other special events. With that solution, everyone wins because the manor would use the unique local retailers as their resources and everyone would prosper.
I always love a book that has a cat in it that plays a special role. Simon is a black cat with blue eyes. He was with Colleen when she died. And he keeps her company on her haunts after she dies and does small things for her. He also likes Mia, who seems to see Colleen, also.
Michael Gallagher is Liam’s cousin. He’s the young man that Sophie had been seeing before she left town seven years ago. Now, he’s engaged to Bethany and it’s their wedding that’s supposed to save the manor by providing some great press! So what does he do at the rehearsal party? He stands up to give his speech and tells them all, Bethany included, that he no longer wants to be a Senator or a lawyer even, but that he has applied to the Police Academy. His future mother-in-law is the first one to react with the vitriol she is famous for. Then Bethany seems to finally wake up and realizes what he’s said. She whips off her engagement ring and flings it at him with her by now famous vitriol. He makes a comment about it’s a good thing he found this out before they got married and had kids. And, of course, her comment is, “What kids?” And with that, the wedding is off for Michael and Bethany. But never fear, there’s always someone willing to step into the spotlight. This was the only wrong note for me. Liam goes down on one knee and proposes to Sophie and they get married in Michael and Bethany’s place. Not that we get to go to the wedding, but I just thought it was a bit hokey. Oh well. I suppose it had to happen.
This book left us with some questions. Who is Dana? Through the whole story she’s an older woman who changes wigs and such to change her appearance. She’s obviously been around the upper crust as she’s very comfortable with them and they don’t ruffle her at all. She has a wonderful knack for decorating beautiful homes and planning events. And she has an extensive wardrobe with beautiful clothes. So, who is Dana?
What is Julia’s secret? Julia wins Mistletoe Cottage in the drawing. Simon put his paw prints all over he tickets when she was filling them out. Then Mia made sure she got one of those tickets at the drawing so that Julia won. Then Julia read the tag on the key that said “to Mia” and knew it was from Santa. Since she’s a Santa’s Helper and has taken the pledge, she has to give the cottage to Mia. She and Mia whisper back and forth a bit and Julia leaves. But Colleen knows that Julia has a secret that has to be revealed. What is her secret and why does it have to be revealed? What does it have to do with her shop Book and Beans?
And last of all, where is Colleen’s book? In her video message to the Widow’s Club, she’s just about to tell them where her memoirs are when she leans against the TV for support and falls into it instead. That destroys the video and no one knows where the book is. They do know what it looks like because she was holding it in her hand in the video before it went all static. But Colleen knew everyone’s secrets. And everyone has a secret. So, now everyone wants to find that book so that they can hide their secret before it gets out. So, someone has it, but who? And what will they do with all those secrets?
Highly Recommended
I purchased a copy of this book at the current price. I am voluntarily providing an honest review in which all opinions are fully my own. I am not being compensated in any way.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
What it’s about…
Sophie DiRossi was the “bad girl” who got pregnant by one of the boys from the manor when she was young and left town. She and her daughter are back in town and Sophie’s working at the manor again. Her daughter, Mia, was traumatized in a fire and doesn’t speak. Sophie’s got secrets she’s protecting with her life.
Liam Gallagher is a son of the manor, a firefighter, who’s taking a break after a traumatic fire that caused the death of a friend. He can’t seem to get past the trauma of the fire, but he doesn’t want anyone to know. He was once in love with Sophie DiRossi when they were younger.
Colleen Gallagher, the family matriarch, dies at the age of 104. She has been a strong hand on the helm for so many years. She has been the keeper of the secrets as well. In fact she wrote all the secrets down in a book, but she can’t remember where she put it. But everyone wants to find that book before someone else does so that their secret doesn’t get out. Because Colleen knew everyone’s secrets.
Can Sophie and Liam work out their own secrets before someone causes any more harm? Can they admit what everyone else already knows about them? Can Mia speak up in time?
Technical Tidbits…
The cover is beautiful with all its rich color and Christmas theme. The red boots with snowflakes are right out of the book, too! Nicely done and not overdone!
The story line is a familiar one with the young woman with child returning to town and meeting her childhood love. They both have to deal with all the secrets that a small town has as well as the secrets they each have before they can come together and be a happy couple.
The characters were outrageous! These people were so real that you felt like you knew them from somewhere. Colleen as the matriarch was familiar as she went through trying to do the best for each of her family members. She was a delightful character. The two primary characters, Sophie and Liam were so well written, too. They were exactly what they should be. Two young people caught in a situation not quite of their own making. They each had their own secret to reveal and pain to deal with before they could come close enough to really fall in love. And Mia! Wow, what a dynamite little character she was even when she wasn’t speaking. She was a strong presence and made herself felt in every situation perhaps especially because of her silence.
The pace was smooth and brisk. There was no choppiness here. You moved from one event to another rapidly, but the transitions were fluid.
The tension, perhaps due to the smoothness of the transitions, built nicely. A slow, steady building of pressure as events unfolded.
The writing quality is wonderful. Ms. Mason has a style of writing that invites you in and takes you for a ride. She writes wonderful dialog as well as colorful description. And yet, her action scenes make you feel that you are part of the action, too. No stilted conversation here. Everything sounds just like you would expect it to really sound if someone were speaking. You can hear the accents of the butler greeting a guest compared to the tones of the Italian grandmother scolding her adult grandson. She can create a playful character and a depressed character just with the way she describes them and makes them speak. You can actually feel the emotion of the character.
And this is where you STOP if you don’t want to see any SPOILERS…
The good, the bad, and the ugly…and how much it lit up my life… ✰✰✰✰✰
I already said so much up above, is there more to say here? Well, let’s see what my notes say. There’s Colleen Gallagher, the matriarch of the family. She’s so cool! She has managed her family for her whole life, 104 years. Now she has a heart attach and dies. But she resists going to heaven, so she ends up haunting the family while they work out who’s going to be in charge now. Kitty is the grandmother, but she has her issues and not everyone would follow Kitty. Kitty wants to be in charge at the manor and bring it back to its former splendor. Kitty’s ideas haven’t been successful so far. A number of the grandchildren, Liam included feel that the manor should be sold and the money divided throughout the family. They see the manor as a drain on the family resources and not something that they want to be involved in. Their lives aren’t focused on Greystone Manor. Liam, for instance, is a firefighter up in Boston. He’s only at home currently resting after the traumatic incident of his buddy’s death. Liam’s still having flashbacks, which is his secret. Or so he thinks. His father, Colin, is the local fire chief. And his best friend, Marco DiRossi, works as a firefighter under his father’s command. They both recognize what’s going on with Liam. But for Liam, the manor doesn’t play a large part in his current future the way he sees it. At least not until he reconnects with Sophie.
But even the town isn’t necessarily all of one mind about the manor. The mayor and a real estate agent seem to be in cahoots with a developer who wants to buy up the manor and tear it down to built condominiums there or something. The retailers are all for the manor getting itself pulled together and doing business as it has in the past or as Sophie and her team foresee, as a location for weddings and other special events. With that solution, everyone wins because the manor would use the unique local retailers as their resources and everyone would prosper.
I always love a book that has a cat in it that plays a special role. Simon is a black cat with blue eyes. He was with Colleen when she died. And he keeps her company on her haunts after she dies and does small things for her. He also likes Mia, who seems to see Colleen, also.
Michael Gallagher is Liam’s cousin. He’s the young man that Sophie had been seeing before she left town seven years ago. Now, he’s engaged to Bethany and it’s their wedding that’s supposed to save the manor by providing some great press! So what does he do at the rehearsal party? He stands up to give his speech and tells them all, Bethany included, that he no longer wants to be a Senator or a lawyer even, but that he has applied to the Police Academy. His future mother-in-law is the first one to react with the vitriol she is famous for. Then Bethany seems to finally wake up and realizes what he’s said. She whips off her engagement ring and flings it at him with her by now famous vitriol. He makes a comment about it’s a good thing he found this out before they got married and had kids. And, of course, her comment is, “What kids?” And with that, the wedding is off for Michael and Bethany. But never fear, there’s always someone willing to step into the spotlight. This was the only wrong note for me. Liam goes down on one knee and proposes to Sophie and they get married in Michael and Bethany’s place. Not that we get to go to the wedding, but I just thought it was a bit hokey. Oh well. I suppose it had to happen.
This book left us with some questions. Who is Dana? Through the whole story she’s an older woman who changes wigs and such to change her appearance. She’s obviously been around the upper crust as she’s very comfortable with them and they don’t ruffle her at all. She has a wonderful knack for decorating beautiful homes and planning events. And she has an extensive wardrobe with beautiful clothes. So, who is Dana?
What is Julia’s secret? Julia wins Mistletoe Cottage in the drawing. Simon put his paw prints all over he tickets when she was filling them out. Then Mia made sure she got one of those tickets at the drawing so that Julia won. Then Julia read the tag on the key that said “to Mia” and knew it was from Santa. Since she’s a Santa’s Helper and has taken the pledge, she has to give the cottage to Mia. She and Mia whisper back and forth a bit and Julia leaves. But Colleen knows that Julia has a secret that has to be revealed. What is her secret and why does it have to be revealed? What does it have to do with her shop Book and Beans?
And last of all, where is Colleen’s book? In her video message to the Widow’s Club, she’s just about to tell them where her memoirs are when she leans against the TV for support and falls into it instead. That destroys the video and no one knows where the book is. They do know what it looks like because she was holding it in her hand in the video before it went all static. But Colleen knew everyone’s secrets. And everyone has a secret. So, now everyone wants to find that book so that they can hide their secret before it gets out. So, someone has it, but who? And what will they do with all those secrets?
Highly Recommended
December 20, 2016
Harmony Harbor used to be Sophie's hometown. She left when she was eighteen years old hiding a big secret from the people she used to spend time with. When she and her daughter Mia become homeless after a fire she decides it's time to return to her family. Sophie takes a risk because people will want to know what happened all those years ago and she can't avoid their questions. There's one man she especially doesn't want to tell, her childhood crush Liam.
Liam is a few years older than Sophie and when she started to become a woman he knew he loved her straight away. He never had the chance to ask her to be his and he still regrets that. He's surprised to see Sophie after so many years of absence. While Sophie is running his family's hotel he can spend some more time with her and knows his feelings are still the same. However, what made Sophie leave town might come between them. Will they have a chance to be happy together or are they too late?
Sophie is a kindhearted woman. She has been through a lot and she needs a break. Her little girl Mia is traumatized and she needs time and extra love and attention to recover. They are a strong team, which is something I really liked about Mistletoe Cottage. Liam is a good man. He's caring, he's generous and he's altruistic. I immediately loved his connection with Sophie. What they have is rare and beautiful and I adored Debbie Mason's endearing descriptions of their bond.
Mistletoe Cottage is an enchanting story and I fell in love with the story straight away. Reading about the locations was fantastic. The hotel might need a bit of fixing up, but it's a magical place and the same goes for the cottage. Debbie Mason writes about her settings in a wonderful vivid way and she makes everything come to life incredibly well. Harmony Harbor is a great town with interesting inhabitants and I enjoyed reading about all of them.
Mistletoe Cottage is a sweet and romantic story. It has that amazing Christmas spirit. There is a lot of heartbreak, but the festive winter atmosphere makes everything better. It's exactly what I think a good Christmas book should be like. I like that extra spark, the togetherness of people who love each other and the spellbinding effect of wishes that might come true. This first Harmony Harbor book is really special, it's heartwarming and endearing and it brings an abundance of joy and big smiles.
Liam is a few years older than Sophie and when she started to become a woman he knew he loved her straight away. He never had the chance to ask her to be his and he still regrets that. He's surprised to see Sophie after so many years of absence. While Sophie is running his family's hotel he can spend some more time with her and knows his feelings are still the same. However, what made Sophie leave town might come between them. Will they have a chance to be happy together or are they too late?
Sophie is a kindhearted woman. She has been through a lot and she needs a break. Her little girl Mia is traumatized and she needs time and extra love and attention to recover. They are a strong team, which is something I really liked about Mistletoe Cottage. Liam is a good man. He's caring, he's generous and he's altruistic. I immediately loved his connection with Sophie. What they have is rare and beautiful and I adored Debbie Mason's endearing descriptions of their bond.
Mistletoe Cottage is an enchanting story and I fell in love with the story straight away. Reading about the locations was fantastic. The hotel might need a bit of fixing up, but it's a magical place and the same goes for the cottage. Debbie Mason writes about her settings in a wonderful vivid way and she makes everything come to life incredibly well. Harmony Harbor is a great town with interesting inhabitants and I enjoyed reading about all of them.
Mistletoe Cottage is a sweet and romantic story. It has that amazing Christmas spirit. There is a lot of heartbreak, but the festive winter atmosphere makes everything better. It's exactly what I think a good Christmas book should be like. I like that extra spark, the togetherness of people who love each other and the spellbinding effect of wishes that might come true. This first Harmony Harbor book is really special, it's heartwarming and endearing and it brings an abundance of joy and big smiles.
December 6, 2016
I don't know about you but I always have trouble getting into a new series by a author that has a series I already love. For me reading is more then just finding out the story. I feel like I've lived in each town, known all the people, and have gone through all the crap that they have.
Yes, I know none of it is real, but that's just how I read. Might be why I also like to read a series in order, I like the big picture.
So for about one quarter of Mistletoe Cottage I had to force myself to read it. Then the people started to click for me. I started to see them, instead of just read about them. Since I love Debbie Mason's book I can't tell you how thrilled I was. Over the top!!
It might have taken me a little while to get into (it was me, not the book) but once I did the story really moved for me. Soon I was lost...and didn't want to leave.
So much happens in Mistletoe Cottage that I'd love to talk to you about but I don't want to ruin it for you. Believe me you'll want to find out the secrets as they happen, not by a reviewer. Just let me tell you once you start learning secrets, you'll want more of them.
So many of the charcters you meet you'll want to know more about. Like Mason's other series, Christmas, Colorado this is well-written with fun humor. You want to know these people, or at least I did.
Liam is so sexy hot!!! I just couldn't get enough of him. He is one of the most sweetest, understanding hero's that I've ever read. (don't shot me if I've said this before. what can I say, I like my hero's) You want the best for him.
You'll like Sophie too. She's worked so hard for her daughter you can't help but see what a wonderful mother she is. And Mia is such a charmer.
After I finished the story all I could think of was...what and who is next! That's how much I ended up loving it. I'm happy to say that she has Christmas with a Angel out on December 6th, and Starlight Bridge is out on February 28th. I have no clue who either book is about. (I have a idea) But I already have them on my list to get.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
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ARC received for a honest review
Yes, I know none of it is real, but that's just how I read. Might be why I also like to read a series in order, I like the big picture.
So for about one quarter of Mistletoe Cottage I had to force myself to read it. Then the people started to click for me. I started to see them, instead of just read about them. Since I love Debbie Mason's book I can't tell you how thrilled I was. Over the top!!
It might have taken me a little while to get into (it was me, not the book) but once I did the story really moved for me. Soon I was lost...and didn't want to leave.
So much happens in Mistletoe Cottage that I'd love to talk to you about but I don't want to ruin it for you. Believe me you'll want to find out the secrets as they happen, not by a reviewer. Just let me tell you once you start learning secrets, you'll want more of them.
So many of the charcters you meet you'll want to know more about. Like Mason's other series, Christmas, Colorado this is well-written with fun humor. You want to know these people, or at least I did.
Liam is so sexy hot!!! I just couldn't get enough of him. He is one of the most sweetest, understanding hero's that I've ever read. (don't shot me if I've said this before. what can I say, I like my hero's) You want the best for him.
You'll like Sophie too. She's worked so hard for her daughter you can't help but see what a wonderful mother she is. And Mia is such a charmer.
After I finished the story all I could think of was...what and who is next! That's how much I ended up loving it. I'm happy to say that she has Christmas with a Angel out on December 6th, and Starlight Bridge is out on February 28th. I have no clue who either book is about. (I have a idea) But I already have them on my list to get.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Follow Me On:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
December 10, 2016
ARC REVIEW
Full disclosure, I've never read Debbie Mason before. I'm glad I was able to find this series at the first book because it does look like it's going to be a great series, it has a great introduction to all the characters and the town but especially the Widow's Club. Romance, Christmas, a wedding, a mischievous ghost, and a equally mischievous cat; top all that off with a deep secret that has everyone looking for a lost diary.
The romance was perfect because Sophie and Liam have always loved each other but never thought the other was interested. Sophie after graduation suddenly left Harmony Harbor she stayed way for years until disaster struck and she had no other option except to go back home and move in with her Grandmother. She didn't come back alone she has a young daughter with her, a young daughter that does not speak. Sophie is working hard to find her place back in the small town and avoid Liam.
Liam moved from Harmony Harbor and went to work as a Firefighter in Boston but when he lost his best friend in a fire and injured himself he went back home to recuperate and deal with his PTSD. His father the chief of HHFD asks him to help out in town and Liam's chief back in BFD agrees that it might be better to get back in a small town setting rather than back in Boston. Liam hesitant at first soon accepts it especially because Sophie is back in town and the attraction is stronger than ever not to mention he has found a kindred spirit with her daughter.
Sophie doesn't want to get involved with Liam, she knows he plans on going back to Boston, and the fact that she's hiding something from everyone that just might make her an outcast in the towns eyes and Liam might not like it. But the friendly ghost that recently started haunting the house is set to make everything as it should be.
Overall, a really enjoyable and Debbie Mason has a wonderful active setting, the entire town and their inhabitants are very likeable, and relatable. I look forward to the series.
Full disclosure, I've never read Debbie Mason before. I'm glad I was able to find this series at the first book because it does look like it's going to be a great series, it has a great introduction to all the characters and the town but especially the Widow's Club. Romance, Christmas, a wedding, a mischievous ghost, and a equally mischievous cat; top all that off with a deep secret that has everyone looking for a lost diary.
The romance was perfect because Sophie and Liam have always loved each other but never thought the other was interested. Sophie after graduation suddenly left Harmony Harbor she stayed way for years until disaster struck and she had no other option except to go back home and move in with her Grandmother. She didn't come back alone she has a young daughter with her, a young daughter that does not speak. Sophie is working hard to find her place back in the small town and avoid Liam.
Liam moved from Harmony Harbor and went to work as a Firefighter in Boston but when he lost his best friend in a fire and injured himself he went back home to recuperate and deal with his PTSD. His father the chief of HHFD asks him to help out in town and Liam's chief back in BFD agrees that it might be better to get back in a small town setting rather than back in Boston. Liam hesitant at first soon accepts it especially because Sophie is back in town and the attraction is stronger than ever not to mention he has found a kindred spirit with her daughter.
Sophie doesn't want to get involved with Liam, she knows he plans on going back to Boston, and the fact that she's hiding something from everyone that just might make her an outcast in the towns eyes and Liam might not like it. But the friendly ghost that recently started haunting the house is set to make everything as it should be.
Overall, a really enjoyable and Debbie Mason has a wonderful active setting, the entire town and their inhabitants are very likeable, and relatable. I look forward to the series.
February 19, 2017
Very good book. Can't wait til book 2 is out!
October 26, 2016
I received the ebook free of charge.
There are times when an author's name makes me interested in a book. This time, it was the blurb pulling my attention towards the book along with the author's name. I have enjoyed it as much as her other stories.
The starting was intriguing and had quite a backstory to get to know before being able to completely connect with the protagonists. Before fully understanding their situation, it was still easy to relate to them. Sophie is both strong and vulnerable. She has a spine of steel to go through what she had to and come out on top. Liam is such a sweetheart. I seriously felt for him. I loved his character and I believe I might be a tad more on his side than Sophie's in the tale.
Though the protagonists are clearly characterised and are crisp in their roles, I felt the secondary set of characters were slightly blurred. At times, I felt there were too many persons involved. Most times, though, they did do their roles perfectly and they were colourful too to add to the flow of the novel.
It wasn't a smooth ride in terms of surprises. The biggest shock was totally out of the blue. I really didn't see it coming though there were subtle hints. And add the layer of supernatural activity it was a winner for me!
The romance was sweet and heartwarming. The pace was perfect for a romance and I loved the read. It engaged all my emotions and had me feeling empty and full at the same time at the end. I look forward to reading more of Colleen's machinations.
My rating : 5/5
There are times when an author's name makes me interested in a book. This time, it was the blurb pulling my attention towards the book along with the author's name. I have enjoyed it as much as her other stories.
The starting was intriguing and had quite a backstory to get to know before being able to completely connect with the protagonists. Before fully understanding their situation, it was still easy to relate to them. Sophie is both strong and vulnerable. She has a spine of steel to go through what she had to and come out on top. Liam is such a sweetheart. I seriously felt for him. I loved his character and I believe I might be a tad more on his side than Sophie's in the tale.
Though the protagonists are clearly characterised and are crisp in their roles, I felt the secondary set of characters were slightly blurred. At times, I felt there were too many persons involved. Most times, though, they did do their roles perfectly and they were colourful too to add to the flow of the novel.
It wasn't a smooth ride in terms of surprises. The biggest shock was totally out of the blue. I really didn't see it coming though there were subtle hints. And add the layer of supernatural activity it was a winner for me!
The romance was sweet and heartwarming. The pace was perfect for a romance and I loved the read. It engaged all my emotions and had me feeling empty and full at the same time at the end. I look forward to reading more of Colleen's machinations.
My rating : 5/5
October 25, 2016
www.bookworm221.tumblr.com
I’m so happy that I found Debbie Mason, I truly am!
From the moment I found her books I’ve looking forward to the next one and the next one and so on. And I’m so excited that now I get to be a part from the start!! This is the first book in a new series called Harmony Harbor and let me tell you that it is shaping up to be equally amazing and heartfelt as her previous one.
This was the perfect book to start a series with, we get the main two characters Sophie and Liam that have a bit of a past, they’ve know each other their whole lives until one day Sophie leaves town and everyone in it behind, that is until a few years later when she is forced to move back home and face everyone she left behind.
Their story was so beautiful! Liam was so good to her, he is the kind of male protagonist that I really love because if he wants something or someone he is going to let you know, he is going to make sure you know he is interested and that he is there for you. Their reconciliation and everything that that entailed was written beautifully, it kept giving me flutters in my heart and I was so glad about how everything turned out.
As I said before this was the perfect introduction to Harmony Harbor and its inhabitants, I’m already hoping for several characters to get their books and to know more about the second one!
Keep Calm and Read On
Instagram and Twitter @bookquotes221
I’m so happy that I found Debbie Mason, I truly am!
From the moment I found her books I’ve looking forward to the next one and the next one and so on. And I’m so excited that now I get to be a part from the start!! This is the first book in a new series called Harmony Harbor and let me tell you that it is shaping up to be equally amazing and heartfelt as her previous one.
This was the perfect book to start a series with, we get the main two characters Sophie and Liam that have a bit of a past, they’ve know each other their whole lives until one day Sophie leaves town and everyone in it behind, that is until a few years later when she is forced to move back home and face everyone she left behind.
Their story was so beautiful! Liam was so good to her, he is the kind of male protagonist that I really love because if he wants something or someone he is going to let you know, he is going to make sure you know he is interested and that he is there for you. Their reconciliation and everything that that entailed was written beautifully, it kept giving me flutters in my heart and I was so glad about how everything turned out.
As I said before this was the perfect introduction to Harmony Harbor and its inhabitants, I’m already hoping for several characters to get their books and to know more about the second one!
Keep Calm and Read On
Instagram and Twitter @bookquotes221
January 1, 2017
** May contain spoilers! **
I really did enjoy this book but do have a few complaints about it that might make it sound like I didn't.
First off it was not as Christmas themed as I was hoping for. Secondly, I had some issues with the main character, Sophie & her parenting ways. Thirdly, the entire baby daddy thing was completely unbelievable. Would've been more believeable if she'd just been too drunk to remember it at all.
But the storyline was done well enough & kept me hooked so I was able to overlook them. My other major complaint is we learned no one's secrets!...I would've liked at least one particular persons secret revealed.
Guess I'll just have to wait for Starlight Bridge.
I really did enjoy this book but do have a few complaints about it that might make it sound like I didn't.
First off it was not as Christmas themed as I was hoping for. Secondly, I had some issues with the main character, Sophie & her parenting ways. Thirdly, the entire baby daddy thing was completely unbelievable. Would've been more believeable if she'd just been too drunk to remember it at all.
But the storyline was done well enough & kept me hooked so I was able to overlook them. My other major complaint is we learned no one's secrets!...I would've liked at least one particular persons secret revealed.
Guess I'll just have to wait for Starlight Bridge.
October 27, 2016
This new series begins with this book. It is a lovely way to get to know the residents of Harmony Harbor. Sophie comes back to her hometown after being gone for many years. She brings with her a daughter that she intends to keep secret as she reconnects with Liam.
Liam is such a strong and honest character. He almost seemed too level headed for Sophie.
The writing was gentle and so loving, I was pulling for them to get back together. Ms. Mason really has a lovely way of telling a story so that you are fully involved and care what is happening to the characters.
Liam is such a strong and honest character. He almost seemed too level headed for Sophie.
The writing was gentle and so loving, I was pulling for them to get back together. Ms. Mason really has a lovely way of telling a story so that you are fully involved and care what is happening to the characters.
Read
December 7, 2016Review and rating to come!
Review will be posted as a collective review with 4 other books via Forever Romance
*Copy kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Review will be posted as a collective review with 4 other books via Forever Romance
*Copy kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
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