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Moonglow Christmas #2

Silver Bells at Moonglow

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Christmas at the Timberton Hotel arrives each year with a unique set of guests, some returning, some new. When this holiday brings a celebrity seeking reprieve, sisters who are distant yet closer to each other than they think, a widow approaching a new horizon, and an eclectic smattering of local townsfolk and visiting relatives, the season is certain to be eventful. Add in a hint of romance and there's more than snow in the air around the small Montana town.

Elegant decor and exquisite cuisine from resident artist and chef, Mist, form a backdrop to much needed camaraderie, bringing strangers and friends together. When the last note of Christmas carols has faded away, the soft whisper of silver bells from the front door's wreath will usher guests and townsfolk alike back into the world with hope for the coming year.

122 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 2, 2016

374 people are currently reading
307 people want to read

About the author

Deborah Garner

36 books883 followers
Deborah Garner is an accomplished travel writer with a passion for back roads and secret hideaways. Born and raised in California, she studied in France before returning to the U.S. to attend UCLA. After stints in graduate school and teaching, she attempted to clone herself for decades by founding and running a dance and performing arts center, designing and manufacturing clothing and accessories, and tackling both spreadsheets and display racks for corporate retail management. Her passions include photography, hiking and animal rescue. She speaks five languages, some substantially better than others. She now divides her time between California and Wyoming, dragging one human and two canines along whenever possible.

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5 stars
440 (48%)
4 stars
293 (32%)
3 stars
142 (15%)
2 stars
20 (2%)
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8 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for pastbedtimestories.
58 reviews4 followers
January 14, 2025
My third read book of 2025. This is the second in the Moonglow series and it was really nice returning to the Timberton Hotel at Christmas time and seeing Mist, Betty and Clive once more. The nuanced magic of Deborah Garner’s Moonglow books is very appealing and cozy to say the least. I’m also enjoying the budding relationship between Mist and Michael. The characters old and new are great and I love the wintry Montana setting. Makes me want to visit a quaint town lodge each Christmas too! And there are cookie recipes at the end for miles!
Profile Image for JoAn.
2,462 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2020
Silver Bells at Moonglow by Deborah Garner was another sweet story set at the Timberton Hotel that reminds a reader of the value of friends, family, cherished memories and love.
Profile Image for QNPoohBear.
3,589 reviews1,564 followers
December 21, 2018
Christmas has come around again to Timberton, Montana and at the Timberton Hotel's Moonglow Cafe, Mist is hard at work planning the menu for the holiday meals, while Betty and the other ladies are baking up a storm for the annual cookie exchange. Some old guests return and some new ones arrive for the first time. One guest arrives with a bodyguard! This is a first for the Timberton Hotel but Betty and Mist know the woman must be seeking a quiet retreat alone, away from the Hollywood scene. One returning guest is Michael Blanton. Mist is busy trying to deny she is especially looking forward to seeing Michael in particular, while Betty twinkles and winks. Mist isn't sure how he feels about her. She hasn't seen him in a year, despite corresponding. She must put Michael out of her mind for now. Mist is determined to make this a Christmas no one will forget.

The same as the previous book with more local color and a dash more romance. The central story centers around "Belinda Myers", a new guest who turns out to be megastar Catherine Ashley Turner! Even Mist knows who Catherine Turner is! The ladies are determined that the woman be able to maintain her privacy. I felt really sorry for Cathy. Her story illuminates the downside of being famous. I didn't like how she has allowed herself to be so controlled. I didn't like her bodyguard, Simon. I feel he is part of the problem and doesn't allow Cathy to be who she really is. Mrs. Winslow has returned, with a new glow. She deserves to be happy again. I really like Michael. I'd love to have some philosophical debates with him-just not at Christmas. He's so sweet and I love the slow burn relationship with Mist. Personally I find Mist a bit too good and perfect for my taste. Lydia, Helen, and Deirdre Anders, triplets, identical in looks but not personality, come for a reunion of sorts. Deidre is so cranky and annoying. Once she reveals her reason I want to say GET OVER IT! Is she supposed to be a Boston stereotype? The other two seem lovely.

We get to know the locals better. Sally, a thrift shop owner, also gets Mist's personal style and kindly saves Mist anything the young woman would like to makeover into something to wear. Maisie the flower shop owner has a subplot involving her romance with Clayton, the fire chief. Like Mist, Maisie is artistic. She likes to express herself and her personality freely by changing her hair color but she knows this may not settle well with Clayton's family. They sound awful but this is a heartwarming Christmas novella after all! The local women serve to show how Mist has integrated into the community through her interactions with her. William “Wild Bill” Guthrie owns the local dive. He seems good natured because everyone teases him about his with bad food and he puts up with it. We finally see Clive at work in his his gallery. His creations so beautiful, especially his gift for Betty.

There's more local color in this novella and more recipes! This book gets a three star rating just for the cookie recipes! Otherwise I found it a bit too slow and dull for me. I did appreciate the filling in of backstory though.

Read if you like: Hallmark movies
Profile Image for K.A. Davis.
Author 4 books494 followers
December 17, 2016
As Christmas draws closer I enjoy reading inspirational themed stories in addition to cozy mysteries. SILVER BELLS AT MOONGLOW, by Deborah Garner, is a sweet Christmas themed treat which weaves a beautiful mosaic of Christmas sights, sounds, and smells and introduces us to memorable characters. The protagonist, Mist, has a calming magical influence on those she comes in contact with and I’ll be the first to admit, her magic worked on me as I read this story during this most hectic season of the year. I so enjoyed sitting down with a hot cup of honey-sweetened tea, wrapping myself in a cozy comforter, and losing myself in the world of Timberton Hotel in snowy Montana. Deborah has a gift of transporting the reader through eloquent descriptions be it of the delicious baking, the Christmas ornaments, or Mist’s miniature paintings. I was left with the comforting feeling that this really is the most wonderful season of all!

The Timberton Hotel hosts an annual cookie exchange and Deborah has included 22 recipes in her book! They all sound incredibly yummy and is a nice touch to this Christmas story!
2,130 reviews46 followers
December 9, 2016
Deborah Garner has written a sweet holiday romance that warmed my heart. I always love visiting the Timberton Hotel. I'm happy to have Betty and Mist are there to welcome me. I love catching up with familiar characters and meeting some new friends. This novella is a perfect holiday treat filled with kindness and a touch of romance. It's guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
Profile Image for Linda Herreman.
45 reviews
December 17, 2016
Just learning

Light reading with a warm Christmas message. Each guest and resident comes alive and Mist's perspective of holiday joy comes through her vision of what each brings to the experience.
12 reviews
December 8, 2016
Sweet!

As with others of her books I've read, Ms. Garner came up with a simple story then added some magic, a little romance, and a surprise twist or two. I loved it!
Profile Image for Annette.
2,793 reviews48 followers
December 12, 2018
Another good book in the series. It’s like visiting old friends. I would love to find some place like this
Profile Image for Linda.
782 reviews15 followers
November 25, 2019
A visit to Moonglow always promises to reward the senses with Christmas memories from the past while making new ones for the future.
Profile Image for Ferne (Enthusiastic Reader).
1,480 reviews48 followers
December 23, 2022
“Everything is an ingredient of something else. These flowers are ingredients for holiday memories, just like flour and sugar.”
I discovered this series last Christmas and was immediately ensconced in comfort imagining the private hotel in Timberton, Montana, where hospitality is not simply a word but lovingly created for those needing to be away from home for various reasons. It seems hard to believe that it was merely a year ago that hotelkeeper Betty had invited Mist to stay as resident chef and artist with total freedom. Accordingly, a new level of joy and enchantment has been brought to the Timberton Hotel from the moment guests enter the door. Returning or 1st time overnight guests delight in the comfortable, cozy accommodations, the exquisite decor throughout the hotel, and guests and townsfolk alike enjoy delicious breakfasts and/or dinners at the Moonglow Café with unique menus accommodating those with allergies, special diets, and dietary preferences (i.e., vegan, gluten-free).

The author has created a tantalizing setting in Timberton, Montana, and I can't help but wish it was possible to be a recurring guest. The prospect of the cozy hotel, genuine caring by Betty and Mist, the combination of hotel holiday activities and small-town celebrations or simply reading in a cozy room or downstairs by the fire are comforting to imagine. The beauty of Deborah Garner's storytelling gives a new perspective and outlook through Mist's character that not only cheers townsfolk and guests with all of her ingredients during their visit making hearts lighter and also bringing solace and peace to readers. I could easily read the novels all in one holiday season but for now I find it adds to the peace of December as like some of the hotel guests there is an empty chair at our home with the loss all the more poignant at Christmas.
255 reviews2 followers
July 3, 2024
The Timberton Hotel.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this book. What a joy to find a second moonglow book about the Timberton Hotel. It was lovely to see Clara back with a smile instead of the sorrow of losing her husband just before the previous Christmas. Micheal, the mysterious bookworm, who seems to have shared his love of books with Mist. Mist feels a connection with Micheal. They are kindred spirits. The Calahans are new. They are visiting their son Clayton and girlfriend Maisie. Then there were the triplets, Lydia, Deirdre, and Helen, who are new to Timberton and have come for a reunion, squabble a lot about something that happened to one of them many years ago. The mysterious guest who originally booked under a false name turned out to be a celebrity called Cath (Cat)Turner, Betty recieved a call the night before her arrival to ask for a quiet room & another room for her body guard Simon. Cath & Simon turned out to be a couple. Cath & Simon were actually a couple. Cath seemed to relax and take some control back over her life during her stay. Cath said she was going to try and continue to have more control in the things she did instead of her management company. Mist worked her magic with the food, friendly persona, and her paintings. Hopefully some of the new guests will return. Micheal has already told Mist he will visit again in the spring. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
55 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2018
Moonlit magic continues...

The first book in this series, Mistletoe at Moonglow, was a digital free offering. When I chose to download, I didn't realize it was the first in a four book series. Since I loved it, imagine my delight in discovering this story did not end here. Mist, Betty, Clive and the colorful residents of this quaint town, would continue to interact and evolve. I downloaded the other three books, and began reading the second one right away. I was not disappointed, it was just as delightful! And I'm now anxious to start the third, returning to Timberton, the hotel and Moonglow Cafe to catch up with everyone, as well as to discover who will arrive at the hotel this Christmas.
Profile Image for Sandra Earnest.
46 reviews
March 6, 2021
Do you want a story that brings you right into the lives of the characters? That makes you feel as if you were hearing, tasting, and smelling all of the things describes in the scenes? Silver Bells at Moonglow is the 2nd book in the Moonglow Christmas series. It's even better than the first. Betty owns the Timberton Hotel and Mist is the chef in residence. Every year brings a new cast of Christmas guests, along with a few regulars that can't stay away from this welcoming, picturesque town in Montana. I am in love with this series. I would purchase this series as a gift, I would recommend it highly ANY time of the year. You'll be left with the feeling of Christmas whatever time of year it is. Bravo Deborah! I can't wait to read #3!
860 reviews12 followers
March 28, 2022
Christmas at the Timberton Hotel is always a very special occasion. Set in the beautiful state of Montana the hotel attracts guests from all over. Christmas always brings return guests and a few new ones. The town folks also look forward to the Christmas feast cooked by Mist who is the resident artist and chef. There is something magical about Mist. She always seems to know exactly what to do and has an uncanny ability to know just what each person needs. I love this series! You grow to love all the wonderful characters and I do appreciate all the delicious recipes included. There's just something addictive about Mist. I always have a peaceful calm feeling when reading these books. I highly recommend this book and series!
22 reviews
January 2, 2020
This is the second Moonglow book that I have read. I highly recommend this series.
I have to say that Mist is one of my all-time favorite characters. Deborah Garner is a fantastic writer.
I think that each book in the series could be read as a stand-alone, but I think they are even better enjoyed when they are read in order, starting with the book that introduces Mist, Moonglow Cafe, which is one of the Paige MacKenzie books.
If I celebrated Christmas away from my family, the Timberton Hotel is where I would want to be. I have grown very fond, not just of Mist, but of all the regular characters, Betty, Clive, Maisie, Clayton, Wild Bill and so many others.
If you are looking for a sweet, enjoyable Christmas read, you must try the Moonglow series. You will not be disappointed.
1,475 reviews19 followers
August 23, 2017
There are silver bells on the front door wreath of the Timberton Hotel that tell Mist when someone arrives and when someone leaves. This year's Christmas guests include some new faces and some old well loved faces.

As Mist gets to know the newcomers, including a set of triplets that seem to not get along, she thinks about the miniature painting she will give each guest as a gift on Christmas morning. She also finds her own chance at love coming along.

A good Christmas romance with some humor thrown in.
Profile Image for Sheryl.
279 reviews
November 29, 2019
Repeat

I enjoy the clean Christmas stories. No foul language or descriptive sex. Deborah Garner does a great job writing a good story and including realistic characters. Although there were some new characters I felt like I was reading the first book 'Misteltoe at Moonglow' again. Lots of baking and decorating. I did appreciate the potential for some romance for Mist
She deserves a little love!
Profile Image for Kathy .
1,303 reviews3 followers
November 30, 2019
Sweet Christmas story

Moonglow is a cafe in a hotel in a small Montana town. Mist is the chef and also helps around the hotel. She has a unique way of looking at life and has a very intuitive and giving nature. This story is a snapshot in the lives of both townsfolk and hotel guests. There are many things hinted at but not all questions are answered. Still, the author creates a heartwarming Chriatmas tale.
Profile Image for Nancy Wilkinson.
554 reviews3 followers
December 20, 2020
I really love these stories, but Mist is really getting on my nerves. Apart from being a bit too ethereal for me, she was also very stiff throughout this book. She doesn't seen to connect to anyone in town, but floats somewhere above them, warming their bellies as well as their hearts with her thoughtfulness, but never really connects on a human level. The rest of the characters are very real so.... Hopefully it isn't intentional.
Profile Image for Elizabeth H..
1,085 reviews78 followers
December 14, 2024
The Timberton Hotel is a magical place where people can come to heal and to celebrate the joy and magic of the season. I love watching Mist work her special gift to provide people with a holiday experience that stays with them. The townsfolk are lovely and the sparks between Mist and Michael are soft and beautiful. Their simmering fondness for one another is sweet. I love the series and am ready for the next book!
293 reviews
December 28, 2024
Another Perfect Christmas Novel!

Just as sweet, delightful, cheerful and feel good a story as book one. Read it immediately after finishing the first one, read in one sitting. Just the type of wonderful holiday book I needed. A clean read that was uplifting, with interesting characters and great cookie recipes at the end. Some returning visitors, old friends and new guests made for a enjoyable read. Five glittering stars!!
848 reviews
December 5, 2021
Sweet story!

Mist, an artist and chef, is a wise lady with unusual outlooks on life and is the main character in this book The setting for the story is a small hotel in a tiny Montana town. The book spans 2 Christmases and the characters who frequent the town and hotel. It's a sweet drama free story!
Profile Image for R.
32 reviews3 followers
March 14, 2022
The Moonglow Christmas books are so lovely and they make me want to move to a rural town where it snows and find a boutique hotel to live in. This story is cozy and lovely and Christmassy and wonderful and I am so glad I stumbled across this series. Also, try the recipes! You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Suzie.
2,557 reviews23 followers
August 3, 2023
There is magic in the air at the Timberton Hotel, a common occurrence when Mist is creating the perfect ambiance for guests and residents alike. I can smell the goodies cooking, feel the cold, crisp air on my face, and I am ready to soak in the love and hope these novellas offer. They are inspirational-- no matter the season.
Profile Image for Janet C-B.
740 reviews47 followers
December 15, 2024
This is a light, feel-good, Christmas novella set at an inn in Montana. I enjoyed the characters, including Betty, the owner and Mist, the artistic creative chef. I also enjoyed the wide range of characters including the guests at the inn and the townspeople. There is not a lot of “action” in this story. I rate it 5 stars for great Christmas atmosphere in a small town.
Profile Image for L.
56 reviews
December 21, 2018
Another great read

These stories make you want to pack up and spend your Christmas holiday in Montana! I instantly fell in love with each character, the hotel and town. Garner has got me with these Christmas stories! Anyone who loves Christmas needs to read.
Profile Image for Shirley.
212 reviews
December 28, 2018
Resident artist and chef, Mist, manages to bring the hotel guests a special holiday with unique handmade gifts and food that provide them and a few regular town folks just the right spiritual lift they need. A Hallmark type moment with little character development and no plot.
Profile Image for Bobbie.
26 reviews
January 13, 2019
Book 2 of Moonglow Series

Another great little book in this series. I loved Christmas books and this one continues their Christmas Traditions. Some guests return this holiday and new ones are also added into this season.
1,002 reviews4 followers
June 19, 2019
Review

What a beautiful story! I love Christmas stories and this was great. The Moonglow and the Tinberton Hotel sound like a place I'd love to visit, and meet the townspeople. And the guests were interesting, too. I'm glad there are more stories in this series, I'll be looking for them.
35 reviews
December 29, 2019
I enjoyed Silver Bells at Moonglow. I haven't read the other books in this series but i was able to follow along fine. It's a decent and wholesome Christmas themed story that gets you into the holiday spirit. Makes me want to find a place like that to spend the holiday at.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews

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