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Christmas Wishes #4
A Second Christmas Wish
Do you believe in Father Christmas?
For Melissa, Christmas has always been overrated. From her cold, distant parents to her manipulative ex-husband, Lawrence, she’s never experienced the warmth and contentment of the festive season with a big, happy family sitting around the table.
And Melissa has learned to live with it, but it breaks her heart that her seven-year-old son, William, has had to live with it too. Whilst most little boys wait with excitement for the big day, William finds it difficult to believe that Father Christmas even exists.
But then Daniel McCormick comes into their lives. And with his help, Melissa and William might just be able to find their festive spirit, and finally have a Christmas where all of their wishes come true …
For Melissa, Christmas has always been overrated. From her cold, distant parents to her manipulative ex-husband, Lawrence, she’s never experienced the warmth and contentment of the festive season with a big, happy family sitting around the table.
And Melissa has learned to live with it, but it breaks her heart that her seven-year-old son, William, has had to live with it too. Whilst most little boys wait with excitement for the big day, William finds it difficult to believe that Father Christmas even exists.
But then Daniel McCormick comes into their lives. And with his help, Melissa and William might just be able to find their festive spirit, and finally have a Christmas where all of their wishes come true …
288 pages, ebook
First published October 30, 2016
70 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Freeman
28 books447 followersI was born in Wallingford, England and have spent most of my life living in a village outside Windsor. A former pharmacist, former pharmaceutical industry employee I’m now a self-employed medical writer who also loves to write romance. Some days a racing heart is a medical condition, others it’s the reaction to a hunky hero…
I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises
I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
November 11, 2017
A sweet story with a beautiful cover about restoring a shy child's faith in the goodness of people after his mentally abusive father destroys it. Keep tissues handy this really tugs on the heartstrings!
Pub Date 07 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Choc Lit for a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date 07 Nov 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Choc Lit for a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2017
Thank you Choc-Lit for this fun, heartwarming, and festive Christmas read. Kathryn Freeman does a wonderful job writing characters that you can’t help but want that fairytale ending for. I look forward to reading more books by this author!
September 18, 2017
Kathryn Freeman is a new to me author. I saw this book on Netgalley and the book sounded interesting, so I thought I would give this a read. Christmas is a few months away, but hey I've watched Christmas films at other times of the year, so reading a Christmas novel in September is OK for me. This was a quick and easy, relaxing Sunday morning read that I read in one sitting. An enjoyable read, with a predictable storyline, but isn't that what romance novels are all about!
Melissa had told her husband Lawrence Raven that their marriage was over. She asked him, not to mention anything to anyone until after Christmas. However, being the controlling and pompous ass that he is, Lawrence blurted out everything to his parents and son William, when they were all in the middle of eating their Christmas lunch. Lawrence also told his son that there is no Father Christmas. William, being only 5 years old is absolutely devastated, but Lawrence has no affection at all for his son, so couldn't care less about his son's feelings .
Fast forward a couple of years. Melissa is now divorced and has a successful career as a fashion designer. Her and William are living quite solitary lives, but she is trying to encourage William out of his shyness. She decides to send William for tennis lessons at Daniel McCormick's tennis school. Daniel is a former Wimbledon tennis champion, so is highly qualified. He is also the uncle of Simon, William's school friend.
Alice, Daniel's sister, warns him not to behave himself with Melissa. She explains that Melissa, following her divorce, is now totally off men for good. However, as soon as Daniel sees Melissa he is instantly attracted and vice versa.
William, now 7 years old, very quickly starts to come out of his shell and forms a bond with Daniel. During a conversation about Father Christmas, Daniel suggests that William should send a letter to Father Christmas asking for the tennis racquet that he wants, but not to tell his mother Melissa. That way, if he gets the tennis racquet, William will know that Father Christmas is real. William sends the letter asking for two things, but will not disclose what the other thing is.
Christmas draws nearer and Daniel helps out with William's school nativity play. The relationship between Daniel and Melissa blossoms, but then comes crashing to an end. Lawrence is now putting pressure on Melissa for access to see his son, but William is still petrified of his father. Looks like Christmas is going to be a very miserable occasion for all concerned.........is it?
Many thanks to Netgalley and Choc Lit for the digital copy in return for the above review.
Melissa had told her husband Lawrence Raven that their marriage was over. She asked him, not to mention anything to anyone until after Christmas. However, being the controlling and pompous ass that he is, Lawrence blurted out everything to his parents and son William, when they were all in the middle of eating their Christmas lunch. Lawrence also told his son that there is no Father Christmas. William, being only 5 years old is absolutely devastated, but Lawrence has no affection at all for his son, so couldn't care less about his son's feelings .
Fast forward a couple of years. Melissa is now divorced and has a successful career as a fashion designer. Her and William are living quite solitary lives, but she is trying to encourage William out of his shyness. She decides to send William for tennis lessons at Daniel McCormick's tennis school. Daniel is a former Wimbledon tennis champion, so is highly qualified. He is also the uncle of Simon, William's school friend.
Alice, Daniel's sister, warns him not to behave himself with Melissa. She explains that Melissa, following her divorce, is now totally off men for good. However, as soon as Daniel sees Melissa he is instantly attracted and vice versa.
William, now 7 years old, very quickly starts to come out of his shell and forms a bond with Daniel. During a conversation about Father Christmas, Daniel suggests that William should send a letter to Father Christmas asking for the tennis racquet that he wants, but not to tell his mother Melissa. That way, if he gets the tennis racquet, William will know that Father Christmas is real. William sends the letter asking for two things, but will not disclose what the other thing is.
Christmas draws nearer and Daniel helps out with William's school nativity play. The relationship between Daniel and Melissa blossoms, but then comes crashing to an end. Lawrence is now putting pressure on Melissa for access to see his son, but William is still petrified of his father. Looks like Christmas is going to be a very miserable occasion for all concerned.........is it?
Many thanks to Netgalley and Choc Lit for the digital copy in return for the above review.
November 15, 2017
A SECOND CHRISTMAS WISH by Kathryn Freeman is a heartwarming and emotional tale about taking chances and finding the strength to trust again.
Melissa learned the hard way that looks can be deceiving. Married young to a wealthy, older man, Melissa lost herself in the process of always trying to be perfect for her husband. But when she had her beautiful little boy William and she began to see him falter in the shadow of his cruel father, Melissa finally found the strength and courage to walk away. Now she has everything she wants with her son and her blossoming career but if she could convince William to believe in Santa again, this Christmas may just be their best yet. And with the help of charismatic and considerate tennis coach, Daniel McCormick, who knows what magic this season may hold. However, the past isn't always so willing to be left behind ...
A SECOND CHRISTMAS WISH by Kathryn Freeman is brimming with festive spirit, likeable characters, and a refreshing plot that will capture your heart and soul. Melissa would do anything for her child and watching her protective instincts kick in is completely understandable, but as a reader, you really hope that she can learn to trust again after the cold relationships that were the foundation of her life so far.
A SECOND CHRISTMAS WISH by Kathryn Freeman is a fabulous Christmas story that should definitely be on your reading wish list this winter.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.com
Melissa learned the hard way that looks can be deceiving. Married young to a wealthy, older man, Melissa lost herself in the process of always trying to be perfect for her husband. But when she had her beautiful little boy William and she began to see him falter in the shadow of his cruel father, Melissa finally found the strength and courage to walk away. Now she has everything she wants with her son and her blossoming career but if she could convince William to believe in Santa again, this Christmas may just be their best yet. And with the help of charismatic and considerate tennis coach, Daniel McCormick, who knows what magic this season may hold. However, the past isn't always so willing to be left behind ...
A SECOND CHRISTMAS WISH by Kathryn Freeman is brimming with festive spirit, likeable characters, and a refreshing plot that will capture your heart and soul. Melissa would do anything for her child and watching her protective instincts kick in is completely understandable, but as a reader, you really hope that she can learn to trust again after the cold relationships that were the foundation of her life so far.
A SECOND CHRISTMAS WISH by Kathryn Freeman is a fabulous Christmas story that should definitely be on your reading wish list this winter.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.com
November 18, 2019
Een extra wens voor kerst van Kathryn Freeman. Het boek is vertaald door Nikki Greveling.
Dit boek gaat over Melissa die 3 jaar terug is gescheiden na een vreselijk huwelijk. Ze heeft nog nooit een echte, warme en heerlijke kerst gevierd. Ze hoopt dat dit jaar anders is, want het breekt haar hart dat haar 7-jarige zoon William niet beter weet. William heeft moeite te geloven dat de kerstman echt bestaat terwijl andere kinderen van zijn leeftijd met smacht zitten te wachten tot de kerstman is geweest.
Doordat ze wil dat William wat meer uit zijn schulp kruipt meld ze hem, met behulp van de moeder van William's vriendje Simon en haar vriendin Alice, voor tennislessen bij de tennisschool van Alice's broer Daniel. Daniel speelde professioneel tennis tot hij een blessure kreeg waarna hij niet meer professioneel kon tennissen. Met behulp van Daniel hebben Melissa en William eindelijk de kans om erachter te komen wat de ware kerstgedachte is.
Ik vond het een leuk verhaal. Daniel is echt een schatje, maar Melissa wilde ik af en toe door elkaar schudden. De schrijfstijl vond ik erg prettig lezen. Ik zou best nog een boek van deze auteur willen lezen.
Dit boek gaat over Melissa die 3 jaar terug is gescheiden na een vreselijk huwelijk. Ze heeft nog nooit een echte, warme en heerlijke kerst gevierd. Ze hoopt dat dit jaar anders is, want het breekt haar hart dat haar 7-jarige zoon William niet beter weet. William heeft moeite te geloven dat de kerstman echt bestaat terwijl andere kinderen van zijn leeftijd met smacht zitten te wachten tot de kerstman is geweest.
Doordat ze wil dat William wat meer uit zijn schulp kruipt meld ze hem, met behulp van de moeder van William's vriendje Simon en haar vriendin Alice, voor tennislessen bij de tennisschool van Alice's broer Daniel. Daniel speelde professioneel tennis tot hij een blessure kreeg waarna hij niet meer professioneel kon tennissen. Met behulp van Daniel hebben Melissa en William eindelijk de kans om erachter te komen wat de ware kerstgedachte is.
Ik vond het een leuk verhaal. Daniel is echt een schatje, maar Melissa wilde ik af en toe door elkaar schudden. De schrijfstijl vond ik erg prettig lezen. Ik zou best nog een boek van deze auteur willen lezen.
December 29, 2016
Melissa's Christmases were never festive. Her parents didn't love her and her ex-husband Lawrence was cruel to her and their son William, so she never had the chance to discover the magic of a warm and inviting family holiday. Simon even told his young boy that Father Christmas doesn't exist. Melissa left her husband and tries to convince William of the opposite. William is seven years old and dispirited, but the verdict is still out. Writing a letter containing his Christmas wish might give him the proof he needs.
Melissa has taken William to tennis lessons given by Daniel, who used to be a professional tennis player. Daniel instantly likes Melissa, but she doesn't date and the last thing she wants is another relationship. After Lawrence a new domineering presence in her life is something Melissa dreads. William is shy and scared and that's all because of her ex-husband's bullying. Daniel doesn't give up easily though and is determined to give Melissa and her young boy the Christmas they deserve. Will she eventually give him the chance to show her that men can also be kind and caring?
A Second Christmas Wish is a heartwarming Christmas story. Melissa grew up without love and when she was a teenage model she thought the charming older Lawrence would give her the affection she so desperately wanted, but instead he was controlling and cold. Reading about his bullying brought tears to my eyes and I was glad Melissa and her son are finally experiencing some happier times. William is timid and doesn't say much at first, which is heartbreaking. He's smart and absolutely adorable and I kept wishing he would eventually feel more like himself again. Tennis is exactly what he needs and I loved his connection with Daniel. They instantly click and they both grow because of their bond. I loved that Kathryn Freeman has given them a special and equal friendship. It was beautiful to see how the grown man and the child connect. Daniel also has an amazing click with Melissa and I was anxious to find out if she would give love another chance or not.
I like it when Christmas stories are festive and romantic and a Second Christmas Wish has all the right ingredients. It has gorgeous main characters, an endearing child, stunning clothes, cozy homes and decorations and plenty of sparks and charm. Kathryn Freeman's writing flows easily and she has a lovely tone of voice that gives her story a fantastic atmosphere. I really enjoyed reading this Christmas book, it's absolutely wonderful.
Melissa has taken William to tennis lessons given by Daniel, who used to be a professional tennis player. Daniel instantly likes Melissa, but she doesn't date and the last thing she wants is another relationship. After Lawrence a new domineering presence in her life is something Melissa dreads. William is shy and scared and that's all because of her ex-husband's bullying. Daniel doesn't give up easily though and is determined to give Melissa and her young boy the Christmas they deserve. Will she eventually give him the chance to show her that men can also be kind and caring?
A Second Christmas Wish is a heartwarming Christmas story. Melissa grew up without love and when she was a teenage model she thought the charming older Lawrence would give her the affection she so desperately wanted, but instead he was controlling and cold. Reading about his bullying brought tears to my eyes and I was glad Melissa and her son are finally experiencing some happier times. William is timid and doesn't say much at first, which is heartbreaking. He's smart and absolutely adorable and I kept wishing he would eventually feel more like himself again. Tennis is exactly what he needs and I loved his connection with Daniel. They instantly click and they both grow because of their bond. I loved that Kathryn Freeman has given them a special and equal friendship. It was beautiful to see how the grown man and the child connect. Daniel also has an amazing click with Melissa and I was anxious to find out if she would give love another chance or not.
I like it when Christmas stories are festive and romantic and a Second Christmas Wish has all the right ingredients. It has gorgeous main characters, an endearing child, stunning clothes, cozy homes and decorations and plenty of sparks and charm. Kathryn Freeman's writing flows easily and she has a lovely tone of voice that gives her story a fantastic atmosphere. I really enjoyed reading this Christmas book, it's absolutely wonderful.
October 18, 2016
A Second Christmas Wish is just one of those heart warming, and absolutely loveable Christmas stories. It clearly has taken a small influence from one specific Christmas film that I can think of, but I won't say which one, as it may give away one of the sweetest, most charming and emotional moments of the whole book.
In fact I could easily see this story on at the very least the small screen, as it is the sort of tale that I think can be enjoyed year on year and become a family favourite.
The quality of the writing and the way the prologue was written was enough for me to be hooked on this book. I loved every part of this story, with the obvious exception of Melissa's ex-husband who I really didn't take to, but he wasn't meant to be loved.
Melissa has come out of a controlling marriage, and lives with her 7 year old son William. William is painfully shy to start with, and is scared of his own father. Melissa persuades him to have tennis lessons in the run up to Christmas, alongside his best friend, Simon.
It just so happens Simon's uncle is the tennis instructor and is the gorgeous ex-grand slam winner Daniel McCormick, who had to retire due to injury. Daniel is warned against even flirting with Melissa but as they all get to know each other better, feelings develop.
The question is whether Melissa and William's past has hurt them to the extent to whether they can still enjoy Christmas and enjoy the magic of the season, and Daniel does his best to put a smile on both of their faces.
A Second Christmas Wish is a relatively easy going book to read, that brought me a huge amount of enjoyment.
Thank you so much to Choc Lit and Netgalley for my copy of this book. This was my honest opinion.
In fact I could easily see this story on at the very least the small screen, as it is the sort of tale that I think can be enjoyed year on year and become a family favourite.
The quality of the writing and the way the prologue was written was enough for me to be hooked on this book. I loved every part of this story, with the obvious exception of Melissa's ex-husband who I really didn't take to, but he wasn't meant to be loved.
Melissa has come out of a controlling marriage, and lives with her 7 year old son William. William is painfully shy to start with, and is scared of his own father. Melissa persuades him to have tennis lessons in the run up to Christmas, alongside his best friend, Simon.
It just so happens Simon's uncle is the tennis instructor and is the gorgeous ex-grand slam winner Daniel McCormick, who had to retire due to injury. Daniel is warned against even flirting with Melissa but as they all get to know each other better, feelings develop.
The question is whether Melissa and William's past has hurt them to the extent to whether they can still enjoy Christmas and enjoy the magic of the season, and Daniel does his best to put a smile on both of their faces.
A Second Christmas Wish is a relatively easy going book to read, that brought me a huge amount of enjoyment.
Thank you so much to Choc Lit and Netgalley for my copy of this book. This was my honest opinion.
November 3, 2016
This has been an absolutely heartwarming and thoroughly absorbing Christmas read and just proves that Christmas wishes do come true!
We first meet Melissa, an ex model, and her 5 year old son as they suffer through the hands of Lawrence, her controlling and ghastly husband. He is from a family where you have to follow the rules and he shows no heart or compassion towards his family, especially towards his very shy sweet son. Melissa eventually plucks up the courage to leave him and we then get to see her as she tries to move on with her life.
The story moves on a couple of years and Lawrence has shown very little interest in his son, but is now back on the scene with his glamorous new girlfriend, and Melissa has to deal again with his arrogance and bullying. Her son is still quite affected by the past so she signs him up to tennis lessons at the local sports centre, run by the ex tennis pro Daniel. He is used to having women falling at his feet and was the best player in the world until injury cut his career short.
The sparks between the two are immediate but Melissa is, understandably, reluctant to commit to anyone considering her past, and this is where we see the best of Daniel as he is the perfect gentleman and never pushes or rushes her for a decision. William becomes besotted though with Daniel and it is so touching to see the bond they begin to form just through Daniel treating him in the right way.
With Christmas approaching, Melissa has to make decisions concerning her past and her future and the reader gets to share her joys and doubts along the way.
A fun and easy to read Christmas cracker of a book!
We first meet Melissa, an ex model, and her 5 year old son as they suffer through the hands of Lawrence, her controlling and ghastly husband. He is from a family where you have to follow the rules and he shows no heart or compassion towards his family, especially towards his very shy sweet son. Melissa eventually plucks up the courage to leave him and we then get to see her as she tries to move on with her life.
The story moves on a couple of years and Lawrence has shown very little interest in his son, but is now back on the scene with his glamorous new girlfriend, and Melissa has to deal again with his arrogance and bullying. Her son is still quite affected by the past so she signs him up to tennis lessons at the local sports centre, run by the ex tennis pro Daniel. He is used to having women falling at his feet and was the best player in the world until injury cut his career short.
The sparks between the two are immediate but Melissa is, understandably, reluctant to commit to anyone considering her past, and this is where we see the best of Daniel as he is the perfect gentleman and never pushes or rushes her for a decision. William becomes besotted though with Daniel and it is so touching to see the bond they begin to form just through Daniel treating him in the right way.
With Christmas approaching, Melissa has to make decisions concerning her past and her future and the reader gets to share her joys and doubts along the way.
A fun and easy to read Christmas cracker of a book!
November 1, 2016
This book has such a beautifully inviting cover that you couldn’t fail to pick it up and add it to your festive tbr pile! It’s such a lovely read. Full of Christmas cheer, romance and a charming tennis pro. The characters are lovely and warm (barring the ex husband) and really well developed.
It takes us through the magic of Christmas- the festive feel all around you as you read on, eagerly turning the pages and losing yourself in a Christmas bubble. Perfect for grabbing a mug of hot cocoa and a biscuit and relaxing in your favourite armchair. It’s my first book by Kathryn Freeman- but I’m very keen to seek out more of her books. I was so sad to come to the end of this one.
I voluntarily read an arc of this book with thanks to Net Galley
It takes us through the magic of Christmas- the festive feel all around you as you read on, eagerly turning the pages and losing yourself in a Christmas bubble. Perfect for grabbing a mug of hot cocoa and a biscuit and relaxing in your favourite armchair. It’s my first book by Kathryn Freeman- but I’m very keen to seek out more of her books. I was so sad to come to the end of this one.
I voluntarily read an arc of this book with thanks to Net Galley
November 19, 2019
Ik mocht deelnemen aan de Blogtour van Choclit met het ebook 'Een extra wens voor kerst'.
De cover geeft alvast veel kerstsfeer weer, waardoor je alweer kan gaan dromen van een witte kerst.
In een 'extra wens voor kerst' komt Melissa nadat ze drie jaar geleden gescheiden is van de manipulatieve Lawrence voor het eerst weer iemand tegen die haar hart probeert te veroveren en daar misschien wel in kan slagen. Echter is ze in het verleden al enorm gekwetst geweest en durft ze niemand meer toelaten in haar leven, ondanks dat Daniel wel heel hard probeert om haar te laten zien dat niet alle mannen hetzelfde zijn. Haar zoontje William en zijzelf hebben samen een leven opgebouwd en Lawrence heeft zijn zoon sinds de scheiding niet vaak meer gezien. Kerst komt er bijna weer aan en de 8-jarige jongen weet niet zeker of de kerstman wel echt bestaat en besluit hem te testen door hem 2 dingen te vragen.
Een romantisch, enigszins voorspelbaar, verhaal dat ideaal is om tijdens de kerstdagen te lezen. De schrijfstijl is makkelijk, soms eerder simpel. De perspectieven van verschillende personages worden ook wat door elkaar gebruikt.
Daniel vond ik een echt leuk personage voor een feeldgood verhaal. Melissa sprak me wat minder aan aangezien ze voor mij wat girlpower miste. Maar haar zoontje William maakt het weer helemaal goed door de manier waarop hij doorheen het verhaal openbloeide.
De kerstlichtjes aan, een kerstmuziekje op de achtergrond en in het beste geval een wit sneeuwtapijt buiten, en de sfeer is compleet om van dit boek te genieten. Een leuke feelgood met een happy end en een mooie kerstwens.
De cover geeft alvast veel kerstsfeer weer, waardoor je alweer kan gaan dromen van een witte kerst.
In een 'extra wens voor kerst' komt Melissa nadat ze drie jaar geleden gescheiden is van de manipulatieve Lawrence voor het eerst weer iemand tegen die haar hart probeert te veroveren en daar misschien wel in kan slagen. Echter is ze in het verleden al enorm gekwetst geweest en durft ze niemand meer toelaten in haar leven, ondanks dat Daniel wel heel hard probeert om haar te laten zien dat niet alle mannen hetzelfde zijn. Haar zoontje William en zijzelf hebben samen een leven opgebouwd en Lawrence heeft zijn zoon sinds de scheiding niet vaak meer gezien. Kerst komt er bijna weer aan en de 8-jarige jongen weet niet zeker of de kerstman wel echt bestaat en besluit hem te testen door hem 2 dingen te vragen.
Een romantisch, enigszins voorspelbaar, verhaal dat ideaal is om tijdens de kerstdagen te lezen. De schrijfstijl is makkelijk, soms eerder simpel. De perspectieven van verschillende personages worden ook wat door elkaar gebruikt.
Daniel vond ik een echt leuk personage voor een feeldgood verhaal. Melissa sprak me wat minder aan aangezien ze voor mij wat girlpower miste. Maar haar zoontje William maakt het weer helemaal goed door de manier waarop hij doorheen het verhaal openbloeide.
De kerstlichtjes aan, een kerstmuziekje op de achtergrond en in het beste geval een wit sneeuwtapijt buiten, en de sfeer is compleet om van dit boek te genieten. Een leuke feelgood met een happy end en een mooie kerstwens.
November 17, 2017
This was a gentle, enjoyable read. The plot elements are common to the genre of romance, but they are crafted together with details that drew me in and kept me wanting more. I thought I knew where things were headed and I wasn't wrong, but that didn't make the journey any less enjoyable for me. Lead and secondary characters are fleshed out with emotional motivations that drive their actions. They may not always be likable, but they are consistent with who they are. I enjoyed seeing the leads grow into more emotionally mature individuals as spending time together grew their relationship.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley. I offer my honest opinion in return.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley. I offer my honest opinion in return.
October 23, 2017
A Second Christmas Wish by Kathryn Freeman is a wonderful holiday story about a young boys second wish for Father Christmas. Only William knows the purpose of his second Christmas wish!
The story begins with an unpleasant holiday meal with Melissa’s husband and in-laws. Melissa believes Christmas is a day for family, smiles, and having fun. On this holiday the turkey is too dry, the mother-in-law is too critical, and her husband Lawrence is too harsh about everything. Melissa and Lawrence have decided to divorce but she had asked her husband not to discuss it with the family during the holidays. He is very churlish and behaves badly. The tells little four year old William that Father Christmas does not exist.
The next chapter skips to Halloween three years later and Melissa is scheduling William for tennis lessons.The tennis pro now turned an instructor is the brother of Melissa's best friend Alice. When Melissa and Daniel meet at the courts for Williams lesson, they both feel an attraction. But Melissa is very protective of her son and she has no plans for a serious romance which could possibly cause problems for William. As the holidays approach Melissa and Daniel become more than friends. This is a very sweet holiday story with a lot of serious issues to think about mixed in with the holiday cheer.
How much should a mother give up to ensure her child never feels that he is second place in her life?? Happy Holidays! (The Cover of this book is Beautiful!)
The story begins with an unpleasant holiday meal with Melissa’s husband and in-laws. Melissa believes Christmas is a day for family, smiles, and having fun. On this holiday the turkey is too dry, the mother-in-law is too critical, and her husband Lawrence is too harsh about everything. Melissa and Lawrence have decided to divorce but she had asked her husband not to discuss it with the family during the holidays. He is very churlish and behaves badly. The tells little four year old William that Father Christmas does not exist.
The next chapter skips to Halloween three years later and Melissa is scheduling William for tennis lessons.The tennis pro now turned an instructor is the brother of Melissa's best friend Alice. When Melissa and Daniel meet at the courts for Williams lesson, they both feel an attraction. But Melissa is very protective of her son and she has no plans for a serious romance which could possibly cause problems for William. As the holidays approach Melissa and Daniel become more than friends. This is a very sweet holiday story with a lot of serious issues to think about mixed in with the holiday cheer.
How much should a mother give up to ensure her child never feels that he is second place in her life?? Happy Holidays! (The Cover of this book is Beautiful!)
October 6, 2017
My third and final Christmas-themed ARC for awhile. This was good not great. I’m giving it a 3.5 for its wonderful hero (the heroine not so much). It’s really a so-so for me as it’s a bit too fluffy and stereotypical. Beautiful ex-model turned designer with son divorces her controlling hubby, falls for ex tennis star but is afraid to trust...until she’s not. 😊 Maybe I’m being just a bit bah humbug-ey... the writing was fine, just not a very original plot. Thanks #NetGalley.
November 10, 2016
Aww what a sweet and loveable Christmas story. This book reminded me of a Christmas film one that I love and watch every year. But I didn't want to give away which one as it wil spoil it for those who are yet to discover this wonderfully festive read.
What I will say is that now is the time to grab a lovely hot drink, a yummy bar of chocolate, your favourite blanket and chair and clear some space in your diary. For this book will warm your cockles and have you hooked from the very first page.
Just look at the front cover it truely is stunning it reminds me of a hallmark card. So I was instantly drawn to it and I instantly couldn't wait to start reading. When I read the bio on the back I thought yep this is one for me and I can happily say that I wasn't disappointed at all and I didn't think that you will be either.
I really love the writing style of this book and that helped me to get even more into this book if that was even possible from the very beginning.
I really loved all the characters in this book. Well apart from Melissa's ex husband who is a real douche bag who I couldn't stand but I believe that was how it was meant to be and so the writer did well with that too as she made me real dislike him.
Melissa had just got out of an abusive relationship with her ex husband. (Now you are why I hated him) Melissa has taken her son with her and had never felt the true meaning of the word Christmas and so had always hated the festive season.
Williams Melissa's son is withdrawn and hardly mutters a word. William sadly doesn't believe in Santa any more or the magic that Christmas can bring thanks to her massive arse of a dad.
Enter Daniel Williams tennis coach who Melissa hopes will bring her son out of his shell. Daniel has been warned to not even think about flirting with Melissa but as we all know in these romance stories something's are easier said then done.
Can Daniel help Melissa and William in more ways then one? Can he change their hearts and minds about Christmas and love?
Can Daniel help put their lives back together again as finally get rid of Laurence once and for all?
A lovely festive romantic book that had me say ahh more times then I can count.
Thank you to Netgalley, Choc Lit andKathryn Freeman for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review
Happy reading everyone
What I will say is that now is the time to grab a lovely hot drink, a yummy bar of chocolate, your favourite blanket and chair and clear some space in your diary. For this book will warm your cockles and have you hooked from the very first page.
Just look at the front cover it truely is stunning it reminds me of a hallmark card. So I was instantly drawn to it and I instantly couldn't wait to start reading. When I read the bio on the back I thought yep this is one for me and I can happily say that I wasn't disappointed at all and I didn't think that you will be either.
I really love the writing style of this book and that helped me to get even more into this book if that was even possible from the very beginning.
I really loved all the characters in this book. Well apart from Melissa's ex husband who is a real douche bag who I couldn't stand but I believe that was how it was meant to be and so the writer did well with that too as she made me real dislike him.
Melissa had just got out of an abusive relationship with her ex husband. (Now you are why I hated him) Melissa has taken her son with her and had never felt the true meaning of the word Christmas and so had always hated the festive season.
Williams Melissa's son is withdrawn and hardly mutters a word. William sadly doesn't believe in Santa any more or the magic that Christmas can bring thanks to her massive arse of a dad.
Enter Daniel Williams tennis coach who Melissa hopes will bring her son out of his shell. Daniel has been warned to not even think about flirting with Melissa but as we all know in these romance stories something's are easier said then done.
Can Daniel help Melissa and William in more ways then one? Can he change their hearts and minds about Christmas and love?
Can Daniel help put their lives back together again as finally get rid of Laurence once and for all?
A lovely festive romantic book that had me say ahh more times then I can count.
Thank you to Netgalley, Choc Lit andKathryn Freeman for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review
Happy reading everyone
October 25, 2016
Melissa and her seven-year old son, William, have left a disastrous marriage with a controlling man, Lawrence. This controlling man has even led William to doubt the existence of Father Christmas, and what normal seven-year old ever has a doubt like this one? In fact, both Melissa and William have difficulty with and have never experienced the normal kind of Christmas just about everyone can relate to--love, warmth, contentment with a big family sitting around a table or opening gifts, etc. In addition, William is painfully shy and afraid of his own father, who has had little contact with William since he and his mother left. Melissa persuades her son to have tennis lessons, along with his best friend Simon. Simon’s uncle, Daniel, a former tennis star with an injury that forced him to leave professional tennis, is the tennis instructor/coach. Early on, Daniel begins to understand his sister’s caution that Melissa is a hurt woman and not someone with whom he can casually flirt or to whom he can casually come on, as is his pattern, though he is, nevertheless, terribly attracted to her. He sees the pain and hurt in Melissa and William, and tries to make things brighter for them, all the while getting to know and become closer to Melissa and William. Still, can anyone, let alone Daniel, manage to break through the walls that Melissa and William have built around them for protection?
This is an easy-going, moving story that truly shows the true spirit of the Christmas season. I fell right into the story from the very beginning. The author writes very well. The characters are well developed and realistically portrayed. I ended up practically reading the whole book without stop, unable to put it down, as I wanted to know what was going to happen next in this struggling relationship with these two damaged personalities. I think this is a fantastic holiday read, for it can and will immediately put a reader right into the season’s spirit as you follow Melissa’s and William’s healing journey, restoring themselves and their faith in life, others and love. I was sorry to see it end (though glad for the ending) because I hated to put down such a memorable book. I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy to read and review.
This is an easy-going, moving story that truly shows the true spirit of the Christmas season. I fell right into the story from the very beginning. The author writes very well. The characters are well developed and realistically portrayed. I ended up practically reading the whole book without stop, unable to put it down, as I wanted to know what was going to happen next in this struggling relationship with these two damaged personalities. I think this is a fantastic holiday read, for it can and will immediately put a reader right into the season’s spirit as you follow Melissa’s and William’s healing journey, restoring themselves and their faith in life, others and love. I was sorry to see it end (though glad for the ending) because I hated to put down such a memorable book. I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy to read and review.
November 4, 2016
What two wishes for Christmas are written inside a small boy’s letter to Father Christmas? One is a new tennis racket but what is the second? And most importantly, does Father Christmas really exist?
In A Second Christmas Wish by Kathryn Freeman begins her story with Melissa finally standing up for herself and her young son and leaving her horrible marriage. As a young runway model, she had fallen for Lawrence, a successful middle-aged fashion designer. When she became pregnant, he told her that he didn’t want the child, William, and her life began to dissolve. She has remained with him thinking that a mother and father should remain together, until Lawrence who has only ever yelled at the child, tells William there is no Father Christmas. As a result of how William has been treated, he has become painfully shy and afraid of the man who is his father.
Now it has been 3 years since Melissa got her divorce and she has become a successful fashion designer on her own, but has vowed never to be so dependent on anyone again. However, her son remains shy and afraid. William does have one good friend, Simon, who takes tennis lessons from his Uncle Daniel, a former tennis champion. Melissa’s good friend arranges for William to join his friend for tennis lessons. Melissa hopes that the lessons will provide William with some self-confidence.
Daniel immediately falls for the mother of his young pupil and
hopes to break down Melissa’s defenses while helping William. Melissa is determined that love and marriage are out of the question. Can Daniel show Melissa that she can love and trust again? Can William begin to heal from the affects of his hateful father? Can Melissa and Daniel together prove to William that Father Christmas does exist by figuring out what is written in the letter to Father Christmas?
Thanks to NetGalley and Choc Lit for the ARC of this book and I have voluntarily reviewed it.
In A Second Christmas Wish by Kathryn Freeman begins her story with Melissa finally standing up for herself and her young son and leaving her horrible marriage. As a young runway model, she had fallen for Lawrence, a successful middle-aged fashion designer. When she became pregnant, he told her that he didn’t want the child, William, and her life began to dissolve. She has remained with him thinking that a mother and father should remain together, until Lawrence who has only ever yelled at the child, tells William there is no Father Christmas. As a result of how William has been treated, he has become painfully shy and afraid of the man who is his father.
Now it has been 3 years since Melissa got her divorce and she has become a successful fashion designer on her own, but has vowed never to be so dependent on anyone again. However, her son remains shy and afraid. William does have one good friend, Simon, who takes tennis lessons from his Uncle Daniel, a former tennis champion. Melissa’s good friend arranges for William to join his friend for tennis lessons. Melissa hopes that the lessons will provide William with some self-confidence.
Daniel immediately falls for the mother of his young pupil and
hopes to break down Melissa’s defenses while helping William. Melissa is determined that love and marriage are out of the question. Can Daniel show Melissa that she can love and trust again? Can William begin to heal from the affects of his hateful father? Can Melissa and Daniel together prove to William that Father Christmas does exist by figuring out what is written in the letter to Father Christmas?
Thanks to NetGalley and Choc Lit for the ARC of this book and I have voluntarily reviewed it.
September 23, 2017
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review via Netgalley.
Although it is billed as a Christmas book, I read it in September and did not find this a problem. If anything, Christmas is slightly incidental to the story most of the time.
I enjoyed this book, by a new author to me. I don't believe that I found it any higher than a three star rating however. The hero and heroine, Melissa and Daniel I liked, and the children, especially William brought extra warmth and indeed mild peril at times to the story.
Melissa is attempting to make a new life for herself and her son after a failed first marriage to an essentially bullying first husband. Daniel, a former tennis pro is the brother of a friend of hers, and uncle to that person's son, so, so far so good. Melissa lacks confidence, and her son suffers from the result of his bullying father to such an extent, tennis lessons from Daniel seem like a great idea to build his confidence and get them both out of the house.
The story is a solid one, but there is nothing particularly new there. You know that Daniel will be good for Melissa and William as much as you know that Melissa's ex will be causing problems as soon as that happens!
It was a good read however, with the sweet twist of William's Christmas wish. A nice, undemanding read for the Christmas holidays.
Although it is billed as a Christmas book, I read it in September and did not find this a problem. If anything, Christmas is slightly incidental to the story most of the time.
I enjoyed this book, by a new author to me. I don't believe that I found it any higher than a three star rating however. The hero and heroine, Melissa and Daniel I liked, and the children, especially William brought extra warmth and indeed mild peril at times to the story.
Melissa is attempting to make a new life for herself and her son after a failed first marriage to an essentially bullying first husband. Daniel, a former tennis pro is the brother of a friend of hers, and uncle to that person's son, so, so far so good. Melissa lacks confidence, and her son suffers from the result of his bullying father to such an extent, tennis lessons from Daniel seem like a great idea to build his confidence and get them both out of the house.
The story is a solid one, but there is nothing particularly new there. You know that Daniel will be good for Melissa and William as much as you know that Melissa's ex will be causing problems as soon as that happens!
It was a good read however, with the sweet twist of William's Christmas wish. A nice, undemanding read for the Christmas holidays.
December 17, 2016
This was a delightful sweet heartwarming Christmas story. Melissa and her seven year old son, William, are living peacefully on their own away from Lawrence, her cruel, unloving ex husband.
Former model, now a successful fashion designer, Melissa, wants to protect William and herself from critical, controlling and mentally abusive men like Lawrence. William fears his father, but longs for a loving "dad". Is his tennis coach, Daniel, the man to fill that role?
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet Christmas themed romance story. Although this is not my usual genre, I may even read it again next Christmas. For those who relish sweet romances, this would probably be a 5 star read. Oh, it is Christmas ....5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley, Choc Lit Limited and author, Kathryn Freeman for an ARC of this book.
Former model, now a successful fashion designer, Melissa, wants to protect William and herself from critical, controlling and mentally abusive men like Lawrence. William fears his father, but longs for a loving "dad". Is his tennis coach, Daniel, the man to fill that role?
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet Christmas themed romance story. Although this is not my usual genre, I may even read it again next Christmas. For those who relish sweet romances, this would probably be a 5 star read. Oh, it is Christmas ....5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley, Choc Lit Limited and author, Kathryn Freeman for an ARC of this book.
February 28, 2020
Een echte kerst feelgood waar je het einde al kan voorspellen, maar dit mag de pret niet drukken. De wisselwerking tussen Melissa en Daniel is soms humoristisch om te lezen, maar kan soms ook een zucht van frustratie geven. Een ander niet onbelangrijk personage is William, de zoon van Melissa. Hij heeft twee wensen voor kerst, de eerste vertelt die aan Daniel, maar de tweede… wat kan dit zijn…?
De rest van de recensie lees je hier:
https://divabooks.nl/2019/11/18/blogt...
De rest van de recensie lees je hier:
https://divabooks.nl/2019/11/18/blogt...
January 2, 2020
Heeft ‘Een extra wens voor kerst’ mij omver geblazen? Neen. Bestempel ik het daarom als een slecht boek? Neen, absoluut niet. Het was leuk om even weg te dromen in de kerstsfeer, het was leuk om terug eens een voorspelbaar boek te lezen, waarvan je weet dat alles goed komt. Alleen de schrijfstijl belemmerde mij wat om volledig van het boek te kunnen genieten. Maar al bij al wel een leuk boekje voor tussendoor.
Volledige recensies kan je vinden op www.celinezoalszeis.be
Volledige recensies kan je vinden op www.celinezoalszeis.be
December 24, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
If your time crunch or budget only has space for a few select Christmas stories for yourself this holiday season then I’d strongly suggest that you put A Second Christmas Wish on the top of your list. You’ll discover a wonderful, heartwarming story of one disillusioned woman, one quiet and sad little boy and a man who has the power to heal them both – if they all can simply believe in themselves as a group that deserves to be happy together.
An emotionally abusive man can do far more damage with a few select words than with a physical strike, at least in my opinion. For the emotional damage goes on for years with the destruction of self-worth, doubts, fears and the determination to never be put in that place again… even when the best person ever comes along. Trust is shattered and difficult to regain.
This is where Melissa and her son, William are this Christmas season. She’s left behind an emotionally abusive husband and begun a new life with her son. Yet they each still bear the scars of Lawrence and his need to defile and destroy with words. William is closed off and far too quiet these days, but he does want to learn to play tennis with his best friend. This decision will open up a chance for normal for both son and mother, if they can simply believe in love. And for them, that’s a difficult task.
A Second Christmas Wish is so visually formed that it is so easy to picture scenes and people as they live their lives. In truth, this has all the go to buttons of a lovely Christmas holiday movie. Big screen. The book’s cover is the perfect opening scene that sets the tone for the rest of this story. Simple and stunning, and yes I do love that cover and can’t help but comment on it here.
Daniel is at the core a nice man. A talented athlete, yes, but a nice, compassionate man as well. His easy touch, the confidence he builds in William and the acceptance of William for exactly who he is makes him a perfect father figure for this young child. A father is not made from a blood connection, that’s DNA, what makes a parent is the love that flows to a child, the acceptance of the good and the bad moments but all tinged with an unshakable love that never harms but encourages. That is what I saw between Daniel and William, and it made this story all the sweeter and realistic for those touches.
While Melissa may have never known the family closeness that she longs for in her past, it could be there in her future. She has to go past what she’s known and believe that Daniel could love and treasure both her and her son in order to take a risk on what Daniel offers to them. It won’t be easy for Melissa to trust once again, that’s been destroyed. But if she can let go of what was and trust, just a little at first, then there is happiness and joy and security in the love Daniel has for them both… if she will take that chance. I never saw Melissa as weak, beaten down yes, but she has strength that she’s only beginning to understand. It’s that newfound strength that will help her make the best decision of her life – letting love lead the way.
One small child’s second Christmas wish is about to be answered in the most wonderful fashion. And isn’t that what believing in Christmas miracles is truly all about?
This story is one that I will bring out to read once again for years to come – thank goodness a digital copy cannot get frayed around the edges or damaged with hot chocolate spills. *smile* In all seriousness – A Second Christmas Wish is a delightful feel good story with believable characters and situations, and an absolutely brilliant solution. I loved this one and would highly recommend it for any reader no matter your preferred genre. Give yourself a gift this season and take a journey of discovery with Melissa, William and Daniel – you’ll have the time of your life.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
If your time crunch or budget only has space for a few select Christmas stories for yourself this holiday season then I’d strongly suggest that you put A Second Christmas Wish on the top of your list. You’ll discover a wonderful, heartwarming story of one disillusioned woman, one quiet and sad little boy and a man who has the power to heal them both – if they all can simply believe in themselves as a group that deserves to be happy together.
An emotionally abusive man can do far more damage with a few select words than with a physical strike, at least in my opinion. For the emotional damage goes on for years with the destruction of self-worth, doubts, fears and the determination to never be put in that place again… even when the best person ever comes along. Trust is shattered and difficult to regain.
This is where Melissa and her son, William are this Christmas season. She’s left behind an emotionally abusive husband and begun a new life with her son. Yet they each still bear the scars of Lawrence and his need to defile and destroy with words. William is closed off and far too quiet these days, but he does want to learn to play tennis with his best friend. This decision will open up a chance for normal for both son and mother, if they can simply believe in love. And for them, that’s a difficult task.
A Second Christmas Wish is so visually formed that it is so easy to picture scenes and people as they live their lives. In truth, this has all the go to buttons of a lovely Christmas holiday movie. Big screen. The book’s cover is the perfect opening scene that sets the tone for the rest of this story. Simple and stunning, and yes I do love that cover and can’t help but comment on it here.
Daniel is at the core a nice man. A talented athlete, yes, but a nice, compassionate man as well. His easy touch, the confidence he builds in William and the acceptance of William for exactly who he is makes him a perfect father figure for this young child. A father is not made from a blood connection, that’s DNA, what makes a parent is the love that flows to a child, the acceptance of the good and the bad moments but all tinged with an unshakable love that never harms but encourages. That is what I saw between Daniel and William, and it made this story all the sweeter and realistic for those touches.
While Melissa may have never known the family closeness that she longs for in her past, it could be there in her future. She has to go past what she’s known and believe that Daniel could love and treasure both her and her son in order to take a risk on what Daniel offers to them. It won’t be easy for Melissa to trust once again, that’s been destroyed. But if she can let go of what was and trust, just a little at first, then there is happiness and joy and security in the love Daniel has for them both… if she will take that chance. I never saw Melissa as weak, beaten down yes, but she has strength that she’s only beginning to understand. It’s that newfound strength that will help her make the best decision of her life – letting love lead the way.
One small child’s second Christmas wish is about to be answered in the most wonderful fashion. And isn’t that what believing in Christmas miracles is truly all about?
This story is one that I will bring out to read once again for years to come – thank goodness a digital copy cannot get frayed around the edges or damaged with hot chocolate spills. *smile* In all seriousness – A Second Christmas Wish is a delightful feel good story with believable characters and situations, and an absolutely brilliant solution. I loved this one and would highly recommend it for any reader no matter your preferred genre. Give yourself a gift this season and take a journey of discovery with Melissa, William and Daniel – you’ll have the time of your life.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
October 8, 2017
**ARC provided for an honest Review**
Most people think of Christmas as a joyous season, the main character in Kathryn Freeman’s A Second Christmas Wish, Melissa has had a few Christmases that weren’t so joyous. Can Melissa’s stroke of bad luck be turned around by a handsome tennis player named Daniel?
In the beginning of the story we meet Melissa who is under the controlling thumb of her soon to be ex -husband, Lawrence. During a Christmas dinner in front guests and their small son he lets the cat out of the bag that Melissa no longer wants to be with him. He also tells his son that Father Christmas does not exist. Melissa had begged him to stop, but in a manner typical of him he went ahead and did it anyway.
Fast forward years later, Melissa and her son are out on their own. Melissa is now a successful designer who swears off any man except for her son. Her friend Alice has some plans up her sleeve to fix that. Alice thinks that Melissa will be great with her brother Daniel. For weeks, Melissa plays cat and mouse with Daniel because like her previous relationship she feels pressured to be in something she isn’t ready for. Enter William, a shy chap who loves his mother more than anything and just wants to see her happy. Daniel puts in William’s ear that Father Christmas does still exist. Will his wishes to Father Christmas be able to put the holiday spirit back into the little boy?
It seems wishes do come true for the young and the old alike. William wishes for something materialistic along with something from the heart. His wish from the heart will make you melt and cheer for the underdog, while scolding Melissa under your breath at her stubbornness.
Kathryn Freeman gives us a heartwarming story for the season, it will leave you turning the pages to find out when Melissa gets her backbone again. This book keeps the spirit of Christmas alive for a small boy who once had his dreams crushed. And a mother who thought she would never love again. I give it a solid four stars.
Most people think of Christmas as a joyous season, the main character in Kathryn Freeman’s A Second Christmas Wish, Melissa has had a few Christmases that weren’t so joyous. Can Melissa’s stroke of bad luck be turned around by a handsome tennis player named Daniel?
In the beginning of the story we meet Melissa who is under the controlling thumb of her soon to be ex -husband, Lawrence. During a Christmas dinner in front guests and their small son he lets the cat out of the bag that Melissa no longer wants to be with him. He also tells his son that Father Christmas does not exist. Melissa had begged him to stop, but in a manner typical of him he went ahead and did it anyway.
Fast forward years later, Melissa and her son are out on their own. Melissa is now a successful designer who swears off any man except for her son. Her friend Alice has some plans up her sleeve to fix that. Alice thinks that Melissa will be great with her brother Daniel. For weeks, Melissa plays cat and mouse with Daniel because like her previous relationship she feels pressured to be in something she isn’t ready for. Enter William, a shy chap who loves his mother more than anything and just wants to see her happy. Daniel puts in William’s ear that Father Christmas does still exist. Will his wishes to Father Christmas be able to put the holiday spirit back into the little boy?
It seems wishes do come true for the young and the old alike. William wishes for something materialistic along with something from the heart. His wish from the heart will make you melt and cheer for the underdog, while scolding Melissa under your breath at her stubbornness.
Kathryn Freeman gives us a heartwarming story for the season, it will leave you turning the pages to find out when Melissa gets her backbone again. This book keeps the spirit of Christmas alive for a small boy who once had his dreams crushed. And a mother who thought she would never love again. I give it a solid four stars.
September 29, 2017
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher Choc Lit via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'm pretty much always in the mood for a Christmas read; especially ones like this one that remind me from the description of a cozy, Hallmark channel Christmas movie. This was my first experience with a Kathryn Freeman novel, and I was very pleased by this cozy, wintery themed story about an up and coming fashion designer (Melissa) who's recently come out of a bad marriage, and is worried about the strain her marriage has put on her shy and quiet seven year old son (William).
In a move to try and bring William out of his shell, and undo some of the damage that her ex-husband has caused, Melissa decides to sign William up for tennis lessons at the academy where his best friend Simon also attends. However, Melissa is unprepared for Simon's uncle Daniel, and the instantaneous chemistry that exists between them.
Thanks to her cold, caught up in their own lives parent's, and her manipulative and controlling ex-husband Lawrence, Melissa has never cared much for Christmas, and has always found it to be a huge letdown. Unfortunately for her, William has adapted this same attitude towards most children's all time favorite holiday, and doesn't even believe in Father Christmas. With Daniel's help, Melissa is determined to make her son believe in the magic of the season again, and in the process, she might just start to understand what all the fuss about Christmas is about herself. However, as her and Daniel start to grow closer, can she really open her heart to love once again, when she's been burned so badly in the past?
This book was exactly what I was expecting it to be, and it's the perfect read to get in the mood for the holiday season. Full of love, laughter, and the typical Christmas cheer I've come to expect from reading Christmas women's fiction, and I'm so glad I took a chance on this one. As well, I always love romance novels that have the addition of a child character, and William definitely contributed to my overall enjoyment of this story. I gave this one four our of five stars, and I definitely recommend picking it up this holiday season!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Choc Lit for the opportunity to have read this!
I'm pretty much always in the mood for a Christmas read; especially ones like this one that remind me from the description of a cozy, Hallmark channel Christmas movie. This was my first experience with a Kathryn Freeman novel, and I was very pleased by this cozy, wintery themed story about an up and coming fashion designer (Melissa) who's recently come out of a bad marriage, and is worried about the strain her marriage has put on her shy and quiet seven year old son (William).
In a move to try and bring William out of his shell, and undo some of the damage that her ex-husband has caused, Melissa decides to sign William up for tennis lessons at the academy where his best friend Simon also attends. However, Melissa is unprepared for Simon's uncle Daniel, and the instantaneous chemistry that exists between them.
Thanks to her cold, caught up in their own lives parent's, and her manipulative and controlling ex-husband Lawrence, Melissa has never cared much for Christmas, and has always found it to be a huge letdown. Unfortunately for her, William has adapted this same attitude towards most children's all time favorite holiday, and doesn't even believe in Father Christmas. With Daniel's help, Melissa is determined to make her son believe in the magic of the season again, and in the process, she might just start to understand what all the fuss about Christmas is about herself. However, as her and Daniel start to grow closer, can she really open her heart to love once again, when she's been burned so badly in the past?
This book was exactly what I was expecting it to be, and it's the perfect read to get in the mood for the holiday season. Full of love, laughter, and the typical Christmas cheer I've come to expect from reading Christmas women's fiction, and I'm so glad I took a chance on this one. As well, I always love romance novels that have the addition of a child character, and William definitely contributed to my overall enjoyment of this story. I gave this one four our of five stars, and I definitely recommend picking it up this holiday season!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Choc Lit for the opportunity to have read this!
October 2, 2017
A Second Christmas Wish by Kathryn Freeman is just one of those heartwarming and absolutely endearing Christmas stories. A story full of many Christmas possibilities, hope, cheer, and romance. A perfectly feel good Christmas novel. It is truly a wonderful read one I would not hesitate to read again. The characters are well developed and you find yourself cheering them on as the story progresses. The quality of the writing was enough to bring me into this wonderful story relatively easily. It contains much of the well needed magic of Christmas. Does Father Christmas exist for a small nine year old boy? This is the perfect novel to sit on the window seat, drink a mug of hot chocolate and get lost in the Christmas feeling.
This is my first book by Kathryn Freeman. I will definitely be looking up her other books. I was sad to come to the end of this delightful story which brought me a tremendous amount of reading enjoyment.
This book has such a beautiful cover that it makes one feel the story inviting. I could definitely see the Hallmark Channel picking this book up for the Christmas lineup.
Thank you so much to Choc Lit, Kathryn Freeman and NetGalley for my ARC copy of this book. This was my honest opinion.
This is my first book by Kathryn Freeman. I will definitely be looking up her other books. I was sad to come to the end of this delightful story which brought me a tremendous amount of reading enjoyment.
This book has such a beautiful cover that it makes one feel the story inviting. I could definitely see the Hallmark Channel picking this book up for the Christmas lineup.
Thank you so much to Choc Lit, Kathryn Freeman and NetGalley for my ARC copy of this book. This was my honest opinion.
November 5, 2017
Melissa is trying to make the best life for her and her young son. She finally escapes her controlling ex husband but it seems he wants something. Can she protect her son and find a new life to live?
Daniel is finally in a place in his life he's ready to start the next chapter if he could just get his sister off his back. When Melissa walks into his life he wonders what he was thinking and if maybe she might have something to do with the next chapter now all he has to do is convince her. Can he convince her and get out of it what he wants and still remain in one piece?
I was not a huge fan of this book. I found the book very predictable and found Melissa annoying and whiny. I found Daniel charming and I loved Alice she's that annoying "little sister" everyone wants or has and has such a big heart. I really loved the relationship between William and Sammie that just seemed to be up to no good some times and be just like normal little boys. I found Lawrence a bit much and annoying as well. I will say I did enjoy the Christmas aspect of the story and how finding love, family and forgiveness around the holidays is so important. The is adult language in this book and may not find it suitable for all ages.
Daniel is finally in a place in his life he's ready to start the next chapter if he could just get his sister off his back. When Melissa walks into his life he wonders what he was thinking and if maybe she might have something to do with the next chapter now all he has to do is convince her. Can he convince her and get out of it what he wants and still remain in one piece?
I was not a huge fan of this book. I found the book very predictable and found Melissa annoying and whiny. I found Daniel charming and I loved Alice she's that annoying "little sister" everyone wants or has and has such a big heart. I really loved the relationship between William and Sammie that just seemed to be up to no good some times and be just like normal little boys. I found Lawrence a bit much and annoying as well. I will say I did enjoy the Christmas aspect of the story and how finding love, family and forgiveness around the holidays is so important. The is adult language in this book and may not find it suitable for all ages.
September 18, 2017
This is a delightful, seasonal love story.
Melissa and Lawrence have been married for a few years, but the atmosphere between them has soured. This story begins during a fraught Christmas lunch with them sitting with their son, William, and Lawrence's parents. The effect is palpable and Lawrence's displeasure in his wife and son very obvious.
Two years later they are free from Lawrence and making a life for themselves. Melissa is a designer and William settling into primary school. The fact that Melissa was once a top model, Lawrence an up and coming designer, doesn't touch the pair.
Good friend Alice introduces Melissa to her brother. ex-tennis star Daniel. Thus begins a tempestuous time for them both.
The characters are likeable, and the plot works well. There are highs and lows, as with most relationships, but the feel-good factor is eventually all there.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to NetGalley for this opportunity.
Melissa and Lawrence have been married for a few years, but the atmosphere between them has soured. This story begins during a fraught Christmas lunch with them sitting with their son, William, and Lawrence's parents. The effect is palpable and Lawrence's displeasure in his wife and son very obvious.
Two years later they are free from Lawrence and making a life for themselves. Melissa is a designer and William settling into primary school. The fact that Melissa was once a top model, Lawrence an up and coming designer, doesn't touch the pair.
Good friend Alice introduces Melissa to her brother. ex-tennis star Daniel. Thus begins a tempestuous time for them both.
The characters are likeable, and the plot works well. There are highs and lows, as with most relationships, but the feel-good factor is eventually all there.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to NetGalley for this opportunity.
October 1, 2017
An ARC of this book as been provided by the author/ publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
An absolutely delightful and heart warming story which I read in one sitting.
Divorced, mum of one, former model turned designer, Melissa has sworn off men. Growing up with cold parents and married to a bully of a husband as left her disillusioned about Christmas and love. Her seven year old son, William, didn’t escape unscath from the relationship with his father. Belittled and told at the age of five that Father Christmas doesn’t exist, has left him shy and not a fan on Christmas.
Then comes Daniel. Charming Daniel is a grand slam tennis champion turned coach who runs a tennis academy. He is introduced to Melissa by his sister to enrol Williams in his tennis academy.
Melissa’s ‘No Men’ plan is faced off with ‘Play To Win’ tenacious pursuit by Daniel, leads to some angst, sprinkling of Christmas tidings, and second chance at love.
I fell in love (again) with Christmas and love.
An absolutely delightful and heart warming story which I read in one sitting.
Divorced, mum of one, former model turned designer, Melissa has sworn off men. Growing up with cold parents and married to a bully of a husband as left her disillusioned about Christmas and love. Her seven year old son, William, didn’t escape unscath from the relationship with his father. Belittled and told at the age of five that Father Christmas doesn’t exist, has left him shy and not a fan on Christmas.
Then comes Daniel. Charming Daniel is a grand slam tennis champion turned coach who runs a tennis academy. He is introduced to Melissa by his sister to enrol Williams in his tennis academy.
Melissa’s ‘No Men’ plan is faced off with ‘Play To Win’ tenacious pursuit by Daniel, leads to some angst, sprinkling of Christmas tidings, and second chance at love.
I fell in love (again) with Christmas and love.
October 9, 2017
To the outside world, Melissa seemed to have the perfect life - married to Lawrence, a world renowned fashion designer, a successful modelling career and a young son called William. Behind closed doors - her life was far from happy and when Lawrence spoilt Christmas for five year old William, she made the decision that her marriage was over.... and she would never make the mistake of getting married again. A couple of years down the line whilst trying to boost William's confidence - she signs him up for tennis lessons with an ex-pro tennis player that she had a crush on in her younger years. Seeing Daniel again, and those feelings returned and grew with each meeting. Daniel was smitten from the start and set his sights on winning her heart - much to her panic and fear. The story follows his attempts to win her over..... and her reluctance and panic at another man showing her affection. A definite heart warming Christmas love story and you feel the frustrations of Daniel at the battle to melt Melissa's heart.
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