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Shores of Indian Lake #12

Home for Christmas

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Can a magical Christmas under glass…

…bring them back together for good?

Widowed dad Adam Masterson still doesn’t understand why Joy Boston left Indian Lake and broke his heart all those years ago. Now she’s returned to sell her grandfather’s beloved poinsettia greenhouse—and Joy and Adam’s connection is as strong as ever. But Joy has a life in New York. And Adam has only until Christmas to convince Joy that she belongs in Indian Lake—with him.

368 pages, ebook

Published November 1, 2019

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About the author

Catherine Lanigan

76 books910 followers
Catherine Lanigan is the bestselling author of over thirty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, “Chocolate for a Woman’s Heart”, Chocolate for a Woman’s Spirit”. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into over a dozen languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese. Ms. Lanigan’s novels are also available on audio-cassette, CD and on electronic format. A prolific writer, she is always writing wonderful stories. She has several titles only available in ebook format on Amazon.com Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs. Her novel, The Christmas Star, won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine for December, 2002, and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference. In March, 2006 Divine Nudges: Tales of Angelic Intervention and the second in Lanigan’s Angel Watch series of books, was published by HCI, the Chicken Soup for the Soul publisher.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book344 followers
November 15, 2019
I always love a visit to the fictional shores of Indian Lake, especially at Christmastime. Lanigan has created a charming town with endearing characters and heartwarming stories, where the definitions of ‘friend’ and ‘family’ are nearly synonymous. At Christmas, that dividing line is even thinner, and of course the intriguing Mrs. Beabots is at the heart of it all.

Home for Christmas is a sweet story of second chances at first loves, and the exploration of home and family is truly touching. Adam and Joy have both experienced deep grief, and now they must face a shared loss – while still working through what they were to each other once upon a time. As you might expect, this allows for some great romantic and emotional tension between them, and I loved watching their friendship (and maybe more) begin to reignite. Adam’s young genius son Titus will capture your heart and put a smile on your face whenever he’s on the page, and I never knew what he would be up to – or saying – next.

My favorite part of Home for Christmas, though, isn’t the romance (I hear you gasping in shock – hang with me) or Titus’s precociousness. My favorite aspect of this novel is the way the town comes together for one of their own, no matter how many years she’s been gone or why she left in the first place. The Christmas magic they create is so deliciously Hallmark-y, and the author’s vivid descriptions make the setting – and the Christmas mood – come alive.

Bottom Line: Whether you’ve been a fan of Lanigan’s long-running Shores of Indian Lake series from book one or you’re just arriving on the scene, the close-knit small town’s charm will quickly wrap you in twinkle lights and hot chocolate. Joy and Adam’s story is a look at grief, bitterness, forgiveness, restoration… and coming home again. Second chances abound in more ways than one in Home For Christmas, and you’ll love discovering each one.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
November 13, 2019
Another hit by one of my favorite heart warming authors! Lanigan has done it! Once again, she has created a Hallmark worthy story for readers. Every page turn pulled me farther into the story, and help me captive until the very end.

I absolutely love traveling to Indian Lake and seeing the beautiful scenery and wonderful characters. Lanigan uses vivid detail and wonderful depictions of the town and those that inhabit it, and it creates a wonderful Holiday image for the reader. Joy and Adam's characters are beautifully chiseled and truly captured my heart. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Adam with Joy, seeing him work to convince her that she's already home for Christmas.

Their story is one of second chances, sparking an old flame, and knowing what the heart wants. Lanigan has wonderful messages woven through out the story and it truly made for a relaxing time of reading! If you want a 4 star worthy read, one that will make you feel like it was written just for you, one that will have you warm and cozy for Christmas to be here, then grab a copy of this beautifully written novel. Let Lanigan take you Home for Christmas this Christmas!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,235 reviews139 followers
November 14, 2019
Home for Christmas set a beautiful scene for the upcoming holidays for me as I read it. This second chance love story had such heart ad a great setting. I liked Joy, Adam, and Titus and felt sorry for both Joy and Adam and the various hurts and insecurities they carried from the past. They were definitely attracted to each other again immediately, yet I could see that their past history as friends was as strong as their feelings for each other.

This was a very heartwarming story and was lots of fun to read. Home for Christmas is part of a very large series of books, however, I have only read one other book from the series besides this one. Both of the books that I have read from this series have been able to be enjoyed fully without having read the other stories, even though there are characters who carry through and make appearances across the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Suzie Waltner.
Author 7 books110 followers
November 11, 2019
This settles it. I want to live in Indian Lake surrounded by friends who show up, a mentor like Mrs. Beabots, and the romance that permeates the town.

Joy thought her life was exactly what she wanted but when she returns to town, she discovers more to the town than what her grieving and angry heart left without a backward glance. And, of course, right in the middle of all of it stands her first love.

With Adam’s persistence, an adorable and intelligent miniature Adam (his son), friends who step up without asking, and a little Christmas magic, Joy gets her grandfather’s poinsettia greenhouses up and running for one last Christmas.

Catherine Lanigan gifts readers with a story of second chances, forgiveness, and finding home again through Joy and Adam’s eyes. I didn’t want this story to end.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Profile Image for Karen (BaronessBookTrove).
875 reviews84 followers
November 14, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Prism Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Home for Christmas by Catherine Lanigan is a sweet romantic book set in this beautiful town. 
Is Joy going to keep to her plan?
Joy Boston
Joy Boston has been away from Indian Falls for a decade and is only back to bury her last family member. She is an accountant and works at a big firm in New York. Joy gets back to town and finds a whole lot of things weren't what she thought they were. There are a lot of things that she has to do, and one of them isn't falling for her high school sweetheart again.

What I like about Joy is that she knows what she wants. At least she thought she did. Another thing that I like about her is that once she gets back home, she is a different person.
Adam Masterson
Adam Masterson has been back in town for a bit. Heis widowed and has an almost six-year-old son. He is a great person, as he is trying to do a lot of things for his son. Adam wants to make sure his son eats everything organic. Adam is an excellent father that is doing an excellent job of raising his son. He is an inventor and has come up with a fantastic invention for the greenhouse.

What I like about Adam is that he is a great father that has changed his whole life for his son. He is also an inventor, and he creates worthwhile things. I like his inventions a lot.
Five Stars
Home for Christmas by Catherine Lanigan is a great book that I devoured it. Joy jumped out of the pages and into my head along with the other characters. I love happy endings. Ms. Lanigan is an excellent writer. I am giving Home for Christmas five stars and recommending it to everyone.


Other Books in the Series

Shore of Indian Lake Series

Tour Giveaway
- One winner will receive a $100 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

- Two winners will each receive a signed copy of Home for Christmas with a bookmark (the US only)

- Ends November 27, 2019

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Tour Organized by:

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Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Home for Christmas by Catherine Lanigan. Don't forget to enter the giveaway and check out the other stops.

Until the next time,

Karen Signature

Happy Reading!

This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove

1,537 reviews17 followers
November 17, 2019
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK 

Joy left Indian Lake a decade ago a d hasn’t looked back, except to fly her grandfather to New York to be with her on Thanksgiving. But after his passing away, Joy had no choice but to go back and plan his funeral and take care of business. She wasn’t really expecting to spend time with her high school sweetheart Adam.

Home for Christmas was just the right book to get me in the mood for Christmas. I really enjoyed following Joy and her friends as they prepared to reopen the old greenhouses Joy’s grandfather loved so much. It was interesting  to learn everything involved to reopen the greenhouses. And I had no idea the process of getting enough poinsettias to actually run a greenhouse during the Christmas season.

Author Christine Lanigan does an amazing job of developing her characters, each one unique go the story in their own way. The plot was easy to follow, and well developed as well, and I didn’t want to put the book down for long periods of time. I wanted to find out what happens next. I’ve read several books by Catherine Lanigan from the Harlequin’s Heartwarming and I look forward to what she has next for her readers. I love that her books are clean read, and I know I can enjoy them. If you are looking for good Christmas stories to read during the Holiday season, this is a really great one to check out.

A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Profile Image for Ruth Hill.
1,115 reviews637 followers
November 14, 2019
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

First of all, this is a beautifully-composed, sweet romance with no offensive content. In fact, if you love Christmas rom-coms that appear on the Hallmark Channel every year, this is the book for you. This is just like a Hallmark Christmas movie, except it's even better!

I realize and accept the fact that from the outset, this is a predictable romance. Yes, she comes from the big city. Yes, she's engaged to wealthy guy who's not right for her. She has to go back to her hometown due to a death in the family, and lo and behold, she meets her old flame! And the story goes on from there. Plenty of romance, Christmas memories, and even a little bit of mystery thrown in to spice up the story in the sweetest way possible. If Hallmark is looking for one of the easiest novels out there to adapt to the screen, this one is a winner.

Now, in some author's hands, a story like this could turn rather sappy. I have been known to fault books for that in the past. Sometimes there is way too much syrup and not enough heart. Thankfully, I have no complaints. The characters were well-developed, and the story had every element possible to tell a heart-warming tale. If you're cold this winter, there may not be enough heat to start a fire, but by George, there are enough sparks sprinkled throughout to keep the flame burning!
Profile Image for Nicole.
3,451 reviews41 followers
November 16, 2019
I really loved this book. If you are looking for a book to get you into the holiday spirit look no further. This one did get me a little teary eyed in the beginning because it is sad. This book gave me plenty of heart and feels. It's also a great second chance romance. Joy for me needed this journey back to Indian Lake. Revisit her tragic past to look beneath the surface of of a young girl's perspective to see what truly was there. Adam's little bit Titus is a sweetheart. He was hands down my favorite character in the book. He steals the show in the scenes he is in. Adam has always wanted a family/somewhere to feel like he belongs. With his past and the tragedy he has faced he deserves that HEA. I loved the greenhouse with the poinsettias. It makes me want to visit Indian Lake during the holiday season. This is a book I had a hard time putting down. I highly recommend this book you won't be disappointed. This book also made me appreciate the close relationship I have with my grandparents.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,701 reviews76 followers
November 15, 2019
Home in time for the Holidays but not how Joy wanted it to be.
With the death of a family member she had to drop everything and fly home to take care of everything.
In the process she runs into Adam and his young son whom I fell in love with immediately!! Why you ask? Because he reminds me of my own son who can do anything that Titus could do. Although Titus is 6 and Michael is close to 18 but still you know? It made wonder where he got his smarts and talent.
But anyway, I loved loved this story on 2nd chances. I love that if God wills it He will make a way for certain couples to be together like Joy and Adam.
Her story is putting me in the Christmas spirit and I can almost see this as a Hallmark movie with a happy ending for Joy and Adam.
And I loved learning about the different types of poinsettias too!! I just thought they all looked a like to me. Shows you how much I know about flowers lol!!!
This is a new to me author that I will look forward to in the future. Her writing is sweet. I love sweet and heartwarming stories like this one
My thanks to Prism tours for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rachel DeVaughn.
948 reviews17 followers
November 22, 2019
I love holiday books and I have read other books by this author so I was excited to read this book.This story is book 12 in the "Shores of Indian Lake" series but they can be read as stand alone books. I have only read one other book in this series and I really enjoyed it!

Joy returns to Indian Lake after receiving news about her Grandfather. Joy hadn't been back since her parents had passed away because of all the memories, including leaving Adam behind. Joy has a hard time temporarily leaving her job and fiancee behind in New York to take care of her grandfathers estate and belongings; but as she stays, the harder it is for her to think about leaving again.

I liked reading about the greenhouse and what is involved with a poinsettias greenhouse-it was really interesting! I also liked Adam and his son Titus. They were great characters and I loved how kind and giving he was to the people around them. Adam was a great father figure and a great example of how parents make sacrifices for their children-especially when faced with being a single dad.

This was a sweet romance about second chances, family, and making a home with the people around you. I really enjoyed reading it!

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Harlie Williams.
Author 2 books41 followers
November 22, 2019
By now, yall are probably sick of me singing the praises of the Heartwarming line by Harlequin. Too bad because Ms. Lanigan has proven time again how much I love this line and especially Ms. Lanigan. What is there not to love about Indian Shores? You have the town resident, Ms. Beabots that drips in Chanel and seems to be the town matchmaker, to all of the other characters that have had their stories told, Joy and Adam were a welcome addition. This is a second chance romance that had a bit of sadness about it. No worries though. The sadness is not overwrought in the book. You already know that Adam is a widower raising his son Titus and Joy is back to sell your grandfather’s greenhouse. It’s just that there is something else that broke them up earlier that was even more troubling.

I won’t go into detail about that little nugget but I was boiling mad just like Joy was once the details of it came out when she came back to town. I don’t care if the town has residents that have money and influence over a town. People die and when you know that something can be done to prevent it you take action. Not cover it up or say that it can’t be done. Old bitty…yes, I said that. I don’t speak ill of the old. Grrr…anyway, watching Adam and Joy work together to get the greenhouses ready for sale, it takes on a life of its own. Their friends (characters from the other books in the series) take over and you see the joy that it brings not only to them but to Joy. She realizes that she has to let go of the past and realize to have a future with anyone, is to face the truth and to see that she was the one that was wrong in the past.

Adam is a sweetheart. Raising a tornado of a son, Titus, I can see why he was careful with him but he also needed to see that someone could love Titus for who he was and that person was Joy. Losing his wife was hard enough but he was a bit overprotective when it came to Titus. Adam knew all along that Joy still had feelings for him but he just had to prove to her that she didn’t need New York, that her life in Indian Shores could be just as fulfilling. Especially with him.

Yall, this book had all the feels. I got caught up with all my friends from the other books and it warmed my heart to see them come together for Joy and Adam. Sometimes it does take a village and it was evident here. LOL! Oh my goodness, seeing Jules talk in French!!!!! I just wanted to hug that baby. (His Baby Dilemma is the book) Plus, I loved the interaction between Mica and Adam. You have to understand that Adam is a borderline genius in physics, engineering and went to college with Mica. I loved that connection in the book. Plus, knowing that Joy and most of the women in the book were childhood friends. They never judged Joy for running when she did. All they wanted to was for Joy to understand that life in Indian Shores can be fulfilling, too.

If looking for a feel-good second chance romance with the backdrop of poinsettias, this is for you. Adam and Joy are ranking up there as one of my favorite couples in Indian Shores. Mica and Grace, you have competition. Thank you, Ms. Lanigan, for this book. It is what I needed for the start of the holiday season. Plus, Jules…oh my…

Profile Image for Olivia.
3,054 reviews70 followers
October 10, 2019
HOME FOR CHRISTMAS is a Hallmark Movie in print- full of adorable moments, swoony (clean) romance, and small-town charm. Joy Boston has been living in NYC since she went to college, leaving her grandfather and boyfriend at the time behind. She never wanted to return to the small town after her parents' deaths and left pretty much everything, except her grandfather, behind.

When her grandfather unexpectedly dies, Joy lives her high-powered job and coworker/fiance (more coworker than fiance) behind to finally return to the town and take care of the funeral arrangements. When she arrives, she is surprised to learn that her grandfather's business, a greenhouse which was a big hit around the holidays, has been closed for years. She is also surprised to find Adam, her high school love, working on the pipes.

Spending time with Adam brings her back and convinces her to try to make the greenhouses a business again- which she tells herself is so that she can sell it for more money. But as she goes into the venture, the reasons turn out to be more complex- including Adam and his delightful son, Titus.

The plot is exactly what you would expect and there are not really any surprises along the way. However, the characters are absolutely lovely here from Adam and Titus all the way to the meddling Mrs. Beabots with her impeccable style and enormous closet. The thing that gave me a bit of pause is that Joy is basically cheating on her fiance when she gets back (kisses), even though they don't have much of a relationship. I think I would have liked her to ask for the break before she left to make it a little cleaner.

Regardless, the second chance romance, Christmas setting, and lovely characters all bring the book together in a lovely way. I would highly recommend for fans of Hallmark movies- this is a sweet and heartwarming (clean) book!

Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Cathy Cermele.
721 reviews10 followers
November 18, 2019
Every single time I read a novel set in Indian Lake, I can easily imagine residing there. It sounds like such a charming place where friends and neighbors rally around each other, even when a person feels underserving of it.
Joy Boston receives a warm and welcoming homecoming when she returns to her hometown after having been away for so long. She is surrounded by old friends who want to help her with reviving her beloved grandfather's poinsettia greenhouse. To be honest, I have never been a fan of poinsettias but after reading this book, I kind of want one or two of them and I almost started decorating for Christmas.

Adam Masterson and his young son, Titus stole my heart along with Mrs. Beabots. I would love to have a Mrs. Beabots in my life and not just for her amazing wardrobe but because she is a good person. All of the characters in this book and series have been good and kind which is one of the reasons why I always look forward to returning to the shores of Indian Lake. There is something special about this place the author created and the characters she has so lovingly crafted.
We all make mistakes and without forgiveness and second chances, I think this would be a sad world but it doesn't have to be that way and if you pick up a copy of this book, you will see what I mean.

Catherine Lanigan has become one of my favorite authors because she truly does write heartwarming novels that are suitable for all readers, ones you can share with your daughters, mothers. grandmothers, friends and family. I love a sweet, clean romance and Ms. Lanigan is one of the best authors in this genre.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for C.E. Hart.
Author 5 books41 followers
October 17, 2019
Oh how I love the joyous Christmas spirit. Home for Christmas stirs that spirit, and has me yearning for the holidays.

Joy and Adam have a history in Indian Lake, but she left it long ago after painful events in her life made it too difficult to remain there. Adam stayed in Indian Lake and did the best he knew how, making a life for himself with the townsfolk that became his makeshift family. When their paths meet up again, they’re both a little surprised that the sparks, the dreams, and the emotions they once shared still remain.

I love the small town of Indian Lake. The townsfolk are charming and add so much to the story. I sympathized with Joy and the loss of her grandfather. I understood how the guilt of not visiting him more would hurt and overwhelm her. I also sympathized with Adam. He endured so much without a family to lean on after tragedy strikes. I rooted for them to both find peace and comfort. But my favorite character in this story is young Titus. Wow, what a character. He is as lovable as a big fuzzy dog—clumsy, charming, and completely irresistible.

I absolutely loved the setting, too! The poinsettia greenhouses anchor this story with their potential and fascinating, town-edifying history. Grandfather Frank’s dreams are renewed, and his memory is revived in a surprising and sweet way. Home for Christmas infused me in the spirit of Christmas and satisfied me with its ending.

Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of Prism Book Tours. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
#HomeForChristmas #PrismBookTours
Profile Image for Erin.
1,553 reviews7 followers
November 23, 2019
I don’t read as much pure romance as I’d like to. I just don’t seem to have the time and I really do love a good suspense novel. But when you find a romance as good as this one (and the whole series really) you just have to keep reading!

Home for Christmas will keep you reading. It will feel like you just sat down with a good friend and before you know it, the whole book is over and you’re still longing for more time to chat.

Little Titus stole my heart. All the love eyes for that little one as he’s so sweet and even a bit ornery just like my own kids. The main characters aren’t just characters. They are now friends of yours that you’ve known forever.

The author has a wonderful way of getting you hooked into the story and invested in what happens. It’s not just a book you’re reading but rather you are part of the story. It takes a great author to be able to do that!

Indian Lake is a wonderful community that wraps their arms around their own and it just makes this the perfect book to cuddle up with. I’m off to go find the rest of the books in the series to binge read. See you later!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Prism Book Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

1,624 reviews
November 13, 2019
Who knew coming back home would be so hard? Joy Boston's grandfather has passed away and she needs to leave her life in New York to make arrangements and sell his home and greenhouse. Home to Joy is not a place she wants to come back to. She has avoided going back home for so long, that when she finally returns to settle her grandfather's affairs- she finds out her grandfather was keeping a few things from her.

Joy's parents were killed in an auto accident in her hometown so as soon as she could she ran away. From her grandfather and her serious boyfriend, Adam. Adam is a widower now with a little boy who was just so cute and precocious using his big words. He was a smart kid and I liked his character.

I liked that Adam loved his late wife and did not lament for Joy or that Joy was his only love. Adam had moved on as he should have and he had found another for a while. But when Joy comes back, second chances might just be in store for both of them. Though some sacrificing would need to take place.

This was like Hallmark in a book. Another sweet second chance romance between two people who have had their love rekindled again.

I was provided a copy of this novel by the author. I was not required to post a postitive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Lynn Brooks.
3,022 reviews30 followers
November 12, 2019
A sweet holiday romance to warm your heart! With book twelve in her beloved Shores of Indian Lake series, Catherine Lanigan brings us the story of widowed single dad Adam and his high school sweetheart who has just returned to Indian Lake for the first time since she broke his heart a decade ago.

Joy catches the reader's attention quickly as we learn that her beloved grandfather has passed and it's up to her to return home to the town she swore she'd never step foot into again to sell the poinsettia farm that meant so much to him. She holds a grudge that hasn't budged in all of these years against the town, and she finds it hard to forget her pain even as the memories of the wonderful life she had with her grandfather start pressing in on her.

Adam moved on from Joy once and went on to live a happy life with a wife and child until an illness a few years ago left him carrying the ropes of fatherhood all on his own. He can't deny that seeing Joy makes him feel more than he has in a long time, and that in and of itself brings a load of guilt for the woman he loved and lost.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an emotional holiday read that will tug at your heartstrings time and time again. This entire series has been great, but this one is particularly satisfying!
Profile Image for Katherine.
221 reviews10 followers
November 19, 2019
This was my first book by Catherine but it won’t be my last. Beside sharing a name, and thus automatically qualifying as awesome, she has a talent for weaving a sweet story with just enough depth to keep the characters growing throughout.

While I wish Joy would’ve come around more quickly, I also think that so radically changing her life wouldn’t come easily, making the timeline of the book more realistic. I was also frustrated by how long she held onto her anger, but it provides some necessary tension for the story. I was glad to see her slowly open up to her friends, Titus, and Adam.

At times I loved Adam, and at Times I wanted to shake him. I can’t imagine being a single parent and balancing it with a demanding job, but growing up with an engineer father, I know they can sometimes get stuck in their engineer brain. But, I loved how he made an effort to support his gifted son and to not belittle his intelligence at such a young age nor to push him to be older than what he was.

I look forward to returning to Indian Lake and getting to know the residents better.

I received a copy of this story from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Darlene Fredette.
Author 13 books49 followers
December 20, 2019
4.5 Stars. Book twelve of the Shores of Indian Lake is a perfect holiday read. If you are a fan of this series or a new-comer, you’ll love stepping into this quaint little town and you won’t want to leave. Joy returns after the passing of her grandfather and she is set on selling his greenhouse and returning to New York. But after rekindling her friendship with Adam, and the rest of her childhood friends, she is wrapped up in the warmth of being home. There are so many wonderful scenes in this story. Adam’s son, Titus, is adorable and steals every scene. The coming and going of characters in past books as they help Joy reopen the greenhouse. Ms. Beabots and the mystery that surrounds her past, which we get small hints about in each book. The well-developed characters are what make this series a hit. Their interaction and connection is like one big family. The fun is finding out what everyone has been up to because their story never ends as they continue to grow in future books. The details behind the death of Joy’s parents and a hybrid poinsettia create added interest to this storyline. Adam and Joy made a wonderful addition to the series with a heartwarming and touching tale of a second chance at love. This book is a Christmas must-read. Reviewed for Still Moments Magazine.
Profile Image for LAWonder10.
951 reviews739 followers
January 29, 2022
Joy was settled in New York. She couldn't get away from her hometown quickly enough, Now after a few years, she would have to return long enough to settle her beloved grandfather's estate.

Adam had suffered much loss in his life. The only real family he felt he had, other than his young son, was Frank, and now he was gone.

Joy had accepted his promise ring then fled and never kept in contact with him. Adam had been so close to her grandfather for years so was informed of what was happening in Joy's life. He was surprised, hopeful, and angry when he ran into her. If he helped her, perhaps she wouldn't sell everything and leave again, never to return.

This is a wonderful, heartfelt story of love, betrayal, misunderstandings, confusion, forgiveness and grief. The setting is in a small town during the Holidays.

​The action of the story steadily flows from one scene to another, never allowing the reader's interest to leave the book.

The characters are so endearingly realistic, the scenes are described in a way they are easily visualized. The Book Title and Cover are simple, eye-catching, yet very applicable to the story.

*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Dale Rogers.
31 reviews3 followers
November 5, 2019
Catherine Lanigan's romance, Home for Christmas, brings to mind decisions and regrets, as well as tragedy and second chances. And as we follow the journey Joy Boston makes back to her hometown after the death of her grandfather, we get a sense of how difficult second-chance decisions can be.

Taking a temporary leave of her career and fiance in New York and being reunited with her high school boyfriend, Adam Masterson, Joy is already experiencing mixed emotions, and striving to revive the old greenhouse her grandfather left her rekindles feelings, not only for Adam, but for other relationships in the community as well. As they work together to bring the greenhouse back to life, we're given an idea of how much work goes into preparing a business, and of how many varieties of poinsettias there are.

Lanigan always gets to the heart of the matter in her Indian Lake novels, and Home for Christmas  is no exception as Joy and Adam consider their past, present, and future. It's a perfect read for the holidays, since it encompasses both Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Profile Image for Alyson  L.
146 reviews53 followers
November 19, 2019
What is it about these wonderful heartfelt, Hallmark-ish Holiday stories that always have me becoming a puddle of happy goo by the end of the tale every time I read or watch them? HOME FOR CHRISTMAS, written by Catherine Lanigan is overflowing that feeling in the town of Indian Lake. As is often the case in her heartwarming tales, I loved the detailing of both the characters and scenery to draw me into the story. Joy and Adam's story, a second chance romance, is one of my favorite tropes. Their attraction was so obvious and made me so happy but hang on for a little bit of a ride. Thankfully the town is there to help one another in times of need and you just never know when that will be.😉

If you are ready for some happy tears and heartwarming scenes, start looking for HOME FOR CHRISTMAS. It will have you in a festive and giving mood in no time plus you might just end up a happy puddle of happy Holiday goo!

5❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

3🔥🔥🔥

* I was given this free review copy of this book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Profile Image for Hallie (Hallie Reads).
1,539 reviews108 followers
Shelved as 'reviewed'
November 21, 2019
Travel to Indian Lake for a sweet, second-chance romance this Christmas.

To sell her grandfather’s poinsettia greenhouse, Joy Boston returns to the town she left so long ago. Of course, she cannot return without crossing paths with her first love Adam Masterson—and his adorable, clever son Titus. Her life may no longer be in Indian Lake, but Adam determines to show her that it is still her home (with him). Is there enough Christmas magic to keep her from leaving again?

Catherine Lanigan’s Home for Christmas is everything I love to find in a holiday romance. Heartwarming and feel-good, it’s one to add to the Christmas TBR if you love contemporary romance.

This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Cathleen (Woven From Words).
155 reviews11 followers
November 12, 2019
Home For Christmas is a touching story that involves matters of the heart and community. Joy Boston returns to Indian Lake after suffering the loss of her grandfather. Her task is to sort the affairs of her grandfather’s greenhouses, a timeless staple of her youth during the holidays. Adam Masterson, an old flame from Joy’s past, aids her in restoring the greenhouses to its previous stellar condition. Joy’s life in New York is fast paced, but Adam and the community at Indian Lake show her the secret to a fulfilling, productive life.
Home For Christmas displays how the magic of community and holiday spirit come together to rejuvenate a person’s spirit. Even if you’re away from an extended period time, one can truly return home and find the key to inner peace. I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a holiday tale with a strong sense of community!

Thank you Prism Book Tours for providing me a complimentary digital copy!
Profile Image for Toth Jo-Ann.
676 reviews12 followers
November 11, 2019
I'm not much of a christmas story person but I enjoyed the plot of the story. Its a story of rediscovery. When Joy Boston left she was hurting in so many ways. She left Adam Masterson behind and her grandfather. Now losing him, she was on a road that gives the author alot of different roads to travel. I really like how she develops the story for its a chance to reconnect with the past. Its a well written story and a great second chance romance. I love Adam's son. The description she uses gives makes you see a everyday 6 year old. I've been enjoying myself following "Shores of Indian Lake" and that is what drew me. I wasn't disappointed. Its definitely worth a read. I always look forward to these books and I will be looking for the next one. J
5,453 reviews
November 15, 2019
Home for Christmas is the twelfth installment from Catherine Lanigan’s great series, Shores of Indian Lake. I loved this magical tale! It was great returning back to Indian Lake. I loved how the town has turned into a beautiful winter wonderland. It was great getting to know Adam and Joy. It was so heartwarming to learn some fabulous lessons of moving on and learning where one belongs.

I am giving Home for Christmas a very well deserved five plus stars. It is most definitely a must to add to any reader’s Christmas reading.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,490 reviews11 followers
November 17, 2019
Home for Christmas

Joy gets a call that her Grandfather passed away. He had a poinsettia greenhouse but she didn’t know he had to quit doing it. While she is home they decide to get it going again.

Adam is an widower with a young son. He is also a very good friend from Joy’s past. Will they be able to reconnect?

I loved Adam’s young son Titus. He was such a enjoyable character.

The book has so much meaning to it. There is lessons we can learn. Especially one concerning her grandfather.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author through Prism book tours. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Terry.
Author 2 books5 followers
May 7, 2020
Feeling depressed about having to stay at home, I picked up this book for something completely different. Reading this book transported me from a place of isolation to the warm embrace of the holidays in a close-knit small town. Hallmark Channel, are you listening? This is a Christmas story that can be enjoyed anytime of year.
Profile Image for Kate Vale.
Author 24 books76 followers
November 24, 2019
Another Shores of Indian Lake installment, in which Adam Masterson is thrilled when Joy Boston comes home, even though it's the death of her beloved grandfather that prompts her return. But will she stay?

She says 'no;' all she wants to do is sell the greenhouses and his house and scamper back to NYC and her fiance. But that's not what Adam wants and he sets out to show Joy what she's been missing during those years when she wasn't in Indian Lake. And his charming son, Titus, is all in! So, too, are the people Joy didn't realize remembered her and wanted what was best for her, particularly when she realizes that she has to refurbish the greenhouses if she's ever to sell the business for more than pennies on the dollar.

What results is a revelation for her and a loving tribute to her grandfather. But what about that fiance, Chuck in New York? Will Joy go back to him or change her mind about what she really wants, where she really wants to live, and with whom?
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