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Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea
This winter, curl up with the new festive novella from the author of The Cosy Cottage Café series.
Driving around unfamiliar country lanes, while enduring the scorn of her teenage daughter, wasn’t how Pippa Hardy thought she’d start the Christmas holidays, but her sat nav seems to be more confused than she is.
Joe Roberts has had a difficult year following the loss of his mother. Added to this, he’s trying to run his own business while dealing with pressure from his sister about when he’ll finish renovating their mother’s house. So when his best friend, Luke Hardy, invites him to a remote Welsh cottage to join his family for Christmas, it seems like the break he needs.
Christmas at a cottage by the sea sounds appealing, but sometimes having all the people you care about together in one place can be a festive recipe for disaster – especially when unexpected guests arrive.
As snow falls, carols play and Pippa and Joe face the ghosts of Christmas past under the mistletoe, they realise that there might actually be more than festive magic sparkling between them.
What readers are saying about Rachel Griffiths:
‘a gorgeous story that has a wonderful charm and a lovely uplifting vibe’ – Rae Reads
‘It has a gorgeous feel-good theme running through it and you can sense the story is written from the heart.’ – Adele
‘I just adored every part of it and I have already become attached to the characters. Perfection.’ – Jessica’s Book Biz
‘Such a lovely story with gorgeous characters to fall in love with too! I didn’t want it to end!’ – J.A. Dunham
‘In this book, winter has definitely arrived, Christmas is looming, a romance might just be blossoming and a face from the past is causing emotions to run high.’ – Stacey, Whispering Stories, Goodreads reviewer
‘The thing I love most about Rachel's style of writing, is that it's just such an easy read and her novels always leave you feeling happy and in a better mood. It's an easy escape into a different world and I love it.’ – Stacey, thecosiestcorner.blogspot.com
‘Fantastic smooth writing, a good storyline and a dollop of magic in the air makes this a terrific read.’ – Grace J. Reviewer Lady, Goodreads reviewer
Driving around unfamiliar country lanes, while enduring the scorn of her teenage daughter, wasn’t how Pippa Hardy thought she’d start the Christmas holidays, but her sat nav seems to be more confused than she is.
Joe Roberts has had a difficult year following the loss of his mother. Added to this, he’s trying to run his own business while dealing with pressure from his sister about when he’ll finish renovating their mother’s house. So when his best friend, Luke Hardy, invites him to a remote Welsh cottage to join his family for Christmas, it seems like the break he needs.
Christmas at a cottage by the sea sounds appealing, but sometimes having all the people you care about together in one place can be a festive recipe for disaster – especially when unexpected guests arrive.
As snow falls, carols play and Pippa and Joe face the ghosts of Christmas past under the mistletoe, they realise that there might actually be more than festive magic sparkling between them.
What readers are saying about Rachel Griffiths:
‘a gorgeous story that has a wonderful charm and a lovely uplifting vibe’ – Rae Reads
‘It has a gorgeous feel-good theme running through it and you can sense the story is written from the heart.’ – Adele
‘I just adored every part of it and I have already become attached to the characters. Perfection.’ – Jessica’s Book Biz
‘Such a lovely story with gorgeous characters to fall in love with too! I didn’t want it to end!’ – J.A. Dunham
‘In this book, winter has definitely arrived, Christmas is looming, a romance might just be blossoming and a face from the past is causing emotions to run high.’ – Stacey, Whispering Stories, Goodreads reviewer
‘The thing I love most about Rachel's style of writing, is that it's just such an easy read and her novels always leave you feeling happy and in a better mood. It's an easy escape into a different world and I love it.’ – Stacey, thecosiestcorner.blogspot.com
‘Fantastic smooth writing, a good storyline and a dollop of magic in the air makes this a terrific read.’ – Grace J. Reviewer Lady, Goodreads reviewer
140 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2019
276 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Griffiths
49 books136 followersRachel Griffiths is an author, wife, mother, Earl Grey tea drinker, gin enthusiast, dog walker and fan of the afternoon nap. She loves to read, write and spend time with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 11, 2019
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea is a very sweet festive read about family dynamics and coping with a large family Christmases. Pippa and her teenage daughter Bella are spending Christmas at a cottage in Wales with Pippa’s parents, her grandmother and her brother Luke who has brought his new girlfriend and his friend Joe with him.
Pippa and Joe used to date a long time ago and things didn’t end well between them so they have a lot to say to one another and catching up to do, but could they still hold a spark for one another? Trouble also looms when Luke’s ex-girlfriend arrives, crashing into his car in the process.
One thing is for certain, this is a Christmas that is going to be eventful and one they won’t forget in a hurry.
I love Rachel Griffith’s novellas. She writes such wonderful characters and always includes amazing places that really set the scene. Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea is no exception.
The book felt very realistic and I’ve been to some large family gatherings over the holidays and there is always plenty going on so I could picture the events in this book perfectly. Whilst Pippa was the main character, I really adored her dad. He made me giggle with his too-big Christmas tree, he just wouldn’t listen when they tried to get him to choose a smaller one.
If you are looking for a festive read that is all about family then this is the book to read. It is short enough to read in one sitting and filled with enough magical moments to have you smiling the whole way through.
Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea is a very sweet festive read about family dynamics and coping with a large family Christmases. Pippa and her teenage daughter Bella are spending Christmas at a cottage in Wales with Pippa’s parents, her grandmother and her brother Luke who has brought his new girlfriend and his friend Joe with him.
Pippa and Joe used to date a long time ago and things didn’t end well between them so they have a lot to say to one another and catching up to do, but could they still hold a spark for one another? Trouble also looms when Luke’s ex-girlfriend arrives, crashing into his car in the process.
One thing is for certain, this is a Christmas that is going to be eventful and one they won’t forget in a hurry.
I love Rachel Griffith’s novellas. She writes such wonderful characters and always includes amazing places that really set the scene. Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea is no exception.
The book felt very realistic and I’ve been to some large family gatherings over the holidays and there is always plenty going on so I could picture the events in this book perfectly. Whilst Pippa was the main character, I really adored her dad. He made me giggle with his too-big Christmas tree, he just wouldn’t listen when they tried to get him to choose a smaller one.
If you are looking for a festive read that is all about family then this is the book to read. It is short enough to read in one sitting and filled with enough magical moments to have you smiling the whole way through.
December 15, 2020
3-3.5 stars.
I tried at least three times to get into this story. I was determined to read it.
Christmas at the little cottage by the sea is a proverbial, cutesy little Christmas story.
I tried at least three times to get into this story. I was determined to read it.
Christmas at the little cottage by the sea is a proverbial, cutesy little Christmas story.
November 10, 2020
słodkie:)
January 10, 2021
Bardzo przyjemna świąteczna, nastrojowa opowieść o drugich szansach. Bohaterowie nie są małolatami, oboje po czterdziestce, i spotykają się po dwudziestu latach w domku, bo brat Pippy postanowił zaprosić przyjaciela Joego na święta. W pewnym momencie w domku robi się tłoczno, gdy pojawia się była braciszka, ale dzięki temu on też mógł uporządkować swoje sprawy osobiste. To tego jeszcze babcia seniorka i córka Pippy wprowadzają trochę uśmiechu (akcja z brwiami niezła), naprawdę świetnie się czytało.
November 28, 2019
Rachel Griffiths has long been a favourite author of mine, writing wonderful heart-warming and realistic stories - and this is a Christmas cracker!
Single mother Pippa and her teenage daughter are driving to join her family for Christmas; her parents have rented a cottage in the wilds of Wales for the festive period and if only her satnav would play ball, they may actually find it! When they finally arrive it's to find her brother has a new woman on his arm - AND he has invited his long time friend Joe along. As Pippa and Joe have a bit of history, she's not sure he's a welcome addition to the party ...
In a wonderful coastal setting, this is a magical read set at a favourite time of year. As the family gather together, there are old and new traditions in play and relationships to puzzle over and enjoy. This author specialises in warm, cosy reads with the most wonderful characters and pens a beautifully spun story to keep the reader's attention all the way through which will provide that magical Christmas feeling without joining in the imbibing of the tempting festive drinks described! A marvellous book for this time of year and one I revelled in. No hesitation whatsoever in giving this a full five, shiny golden stars!
My thanks to the author for my copy of her novel; as always, all given opinions are entirely honest and completely my own.
Single mother Pippa and her teenage daughter are driving to join her family for Christmas; her parents have rented a cottage in the wilds of Wales for the festive period and if only her satnav would play ball, they may actually find it! When they finally arrive it's to find her brother has a new woman on his arm - AND he has invited his long time friend Joe along. As Pippa and Joe have a bit of history, she's not sure he's a welcome addition to the party ...
In a wonderful coastal setting, this is a magical read set at a favourite time of year. As the family gather together, there are old and new traditions in play and relationships to puzzle over and enjoy. This author specialises in warm, cosy reads with the most wonderful characters and pens a beautifully spun story to keep the reader's attention all the way through which will provide that magical Christmas feeling without joining in the imbibing of the tempting festive drinks described! A marvellous book for this time of year and one I revelled in. No hesitation whatsoever in giving this a full five, shiny golden stars!
My thanks to the author for my copy of her novel; as always, all given opinions are entirely honest and completely my own.
November 22, 2019
We first meet Pippa and her daughter Bella as they make their way to a remote cottage to spend Christmas with their family and right from the first page I took to Pippa. It was so lovely to meet all of the family along with her brother’s friend Joe. Set at Christmas there is such a festive feel to this book, one that will bring a smile as you read. Let’s just say that I “almost” felt like getting the Christmas decorations out and trimming up!
Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea left me with the biggest smile on my face. Even though this book is a novella there is quite a lot within its pages from second chance romance to relationship and family issues. There were also so many heartwarming moments, a sweet romance and even a little bit of drama to keep things interesting. The story has such a lovely warmth and charm to it making it so easy to enjoy spending time with Pippa and her family.
If you want warmth and romance all wrapped up in a delightful short story then Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea will be perfect for you!
Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea left me with the biggest smile on my face. Even though this book is a novella there is quite a lot within its pages from second chance romance to relationship and family issues. There were also so many heartwarming moments, a sweet romance and even a little bit of drama to keep things interesting. The story has such a lovely warmth and charm to it making it so easy to enjoy spending time with Pippa and her family.
If you want warmth and romance all wrapped up in a delightful short story then Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea will be perfect for you!
January 8, 2023
To Christmas's old and new may they all be happy ones
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book, the people were all so lovely and each character were so individual yet they all fitted together so well and Pippa & Joe deserved a chance to change things for the better. The way they looked at each othe, everyone seemed to see the love except them until a few days had passed and now they have talked and cleared the air have realised they never stopped loving each other. Betsy and Luke decided they loved each other and wanted to spend there lives committed to each other without having to get engaged or married as didn't need a piece of paper to prove their love to each other. This was the best Christmas they could have ever wanted and looked forward to many more to come. X
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book, the people were all so lovely and each character were so individual yet they all fitted together so well and Pippa & Joe deserved a chance to change things for the better. The way they looked at each othe, everyone seemed to see the love except them until a few days had passed and now they have talked and cleared the air have realised they never stopped loving each other. Betsy and Luke decided they loved each other and wanted to spend there lives committed to each other without having to get engaged or married as didn't need a piece of paper to prove their love to each other. This was the best Christmas they could have ever wanted and looked forward to many more to come. X
February 15, 2020
Everything is predictable in this story. But that is in it its charm. Its a simple story, a novella. Two teenagers go their own way, after a short period of intense passion, and can never seem to regain that powerful emotion with anyone else. A child to whom she has dedicated her life is ready to fly the nest, and she is back to spending Christmas with her family, and the unexpected presence of Joe. They find their way back to each other, so does her brother.
November 30, 2019
Such a warm and cosy story!
I enjoy reading short stories and this one was perfectly balanced with a gorgeous setting, a lovely family and the opportunity to see two people fall for each other once more, I’m such a fan of second chances of happiness!
An adorable little read that was entertaining and enjoyable throughout.
I enjoy reading short stories and this one was perfectly balanced with a gorgeous setting, a lovely family and the opportunity to see two people fall for each other once more, I’m such a fan of second chances of happiness!
An adorable little read that was entertaining and enjoyable throughout.
January 2, 2020
Christmas -the time for families and all things Christmas
Pippa and her daughter Bella arrive at her parents cottage by the sea. Some of the guests also brought to share a family Christmas are quite a surprise.
A lovely easy read full of ups and downs but like all good stories.....a happy ending. You too should enjoy it.
Pippa and her daughter Bella arrive at her parents cottage by the sea. Some of the guests also brought to share a family Christmas are quite a surprise.
A lovely easy read full of ups and downs but like all good stories.....a happy ending. You too should enjoy it.
December 12, 2019
A great feel good book
I loved this story and the characters and fully enjoyed reading it ,hence the 5/5 stars.
Thank you for writing this, which was an easy and enjoyable read.
For anyone thinking about reading it, just buy it and enjoy, you won't be dissapointed.
I loved this story and the characters and fully enjoyed reading it ,hence the 5/5 stars.
Thank you for writing this, which was an easy and enjoyable read.
For anyone thinking about reading it, just buy it and enjoy, you won't be dissapointed.
February 16, 2020
Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea
A lovely little story of love rekindled. Just enough for an afternoon by the fire on a cold winters afternoon. Definitely has the feel good factor
A lovely little story of love rekindled. Just enough for an afternoon by the fire on a cold winters afternoon. Definitely has the feel good factor
November 15, 2020
Enjoyed every page
Lovely heart warming story made all the more special because it's set at Christmas time. Having read this author before but I've got sterling she will become a firm favourite.
Lovely heart warming story made all the more special because it's set at Christmas time. Having read this author before but I've got sterling she will become a firm favourite.
November 18, 2019
An absolutely adorable heartwarming read. Sometime you need a warm and cosy story that brings nothing but warmth and joy. A book to be enjoyed by all
November 19, 2019
Christmas
Christmas joy in a quick read to get you in the holiday spirit. Sweet story of love rekindled with a feel good ending.
Christmas joy in a quick read to get you in the holiday spirit. Sweet story of love rekindled with a feel good ending.
November 22, 2019
Christmas curl up book
I live books by Rachel. She keeps you reading into the next chapter. I struggled to put this one down and it leaves a lively warm christmassy feeling in your soul. Brilliant.
I live books by Rachel. She keeps you reading into the next chapter. I struggled to put this one down and it leaves a lively warm christmassy feeling in your soul. Brilliant.
November 26, 2019
A light warm read ideal for Christmas
A lovely romance,with a few twists,well worth the read.Good characters,all believe able.full of nostalgia of family Christmas.
It was lovely
A lovely romance,with a few twists,well worth the read.Good characters,all believe able.full of nostalgia of family Christmas.
It was lovely
December 11, 2019
Great little book
lovely and festive. A fantastic storyline. Will definitely be reading more from this author. Warm and cosy Christmas romance. Must read
lovely and festive. A fantastic storyline. Will definitely be reading more from this author. Warm and cosy Christmas romance. Must read
January 4, 2020
Perfect
A lovely story of 2 couples who each drifted apart and then found each other to make a perfect christmas story
A lovely story of 2 couples who each drifted apart and then found each other to make a perfect christmas story
January 4, 2020
Loved it! Would love a sequel!
January 8, 2020
Heart ❤ warming
Couldn't put it down. Corny but lovely
I've recommended this book to all the readers in my life.
Can't wait to read more of Rachel's books
Couldn't put it down. Corny but lovely
I've recommended this book to all the readers in my life.
Can't wait to read more of Rachel's books
January 15, 2020
Cost read
I loved this book nice and festive . Just what I love to read with a nice coffee and some quiet time. Great story well worth a read. Thank you.
I loved this book nice and festive . Just what I love to read with a nice coffee and some quiet time. Great story well worth a read. Thank you.
January 17, 2020
A sweet Christmas story of long lost love.
I really enjoyed reading Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea. I could not put it down. Loved it.
I really enjoyed reading Christmas at the Little Cottage by the Sea. I could not put it down. Loved it.
January 20, 2020
Cottage at the little cottage by the sea
Yet another one to add to my collection of brilliant to read books to pass titles on to my daughters
Yet another one to add to my collection of brilliant to read books to pass titles on to my daughters
December 15, 2020
Sweet
Nice little Christmas read. Uplifting and that is what I need in 2020. Especially around Christmas time I love this kind of story.
Nice little Christmas read. Uplifting and that is what I need in 2020. Especially around Christmas time I love this kind of story.
July 31, 2021
Love at Christmas
Beautiful story of love that endured through the ages, life, and misunderstandings. These siblings final find their one true love.
Beautiful story of love that endured through the ages, life, and misunderstandings. These siblings final find their one true love.
January 11, 2022
Enjoyed it, a feel good story
July 14, 2022
A tale of Christmas by the sea, love family and Reunions 🫂. Great to read in the heatwave lol x
December 19, 2024
Simple and easy to read book but a little bit dull and predictable. It could do with a bit more of a story to help it along.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews