Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Snowball #1

Snowball's Christmas

Rate this book
Snowball—an aptly named bundle of feline fluff—is thankful to be spending her first Christmas in the comfort of Weber Haus, the Victorian B&B run by Miss Tilly. Emily Diemer, who cooks for the guests, dotes on Snowball, but she’s not thrilled about another new arrival at the B&B: Miss Tilly’s nephew, Lukas. Which is odd, because Snowball’s animal instincts tell her that Lukas and Emily should definitely be friends.
 
Everything Emily needs is in this quaint community—including, she hopes, the chance to open her own bakery one day. She doesn’t think much of Lukas for leaving his aging aunt to struggle while he jets around the world taking photographs. But now that he’s here, helping to spruce up the property and getting mixed up in Snowball’s antics, she begins to soften a little. Until she learns what he has planned . . .
 
Lukas is going to sell Weber Haus so that Miss Tilly can retire. But Snowball is certain that this B&B, and these people, are supposed to be her forever home. Somehow she has to get these stubborn humans to see things through the wisdom of a cat’s eye and a kitten’s loyal, loving heart . . .

“Expertly crafted…the perfect Christmas treat.”
— Booklist , Starred Review

272 pages, Paperback

First published September 29, 2020

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Kristen McKanagh

10 books167 followers
Romance author Kristen McKanagh writes sweet contemporary romance & Amish romance. She loves plots that warm the soul, feisty heroines with sass, heroes with heart, a dash of snark, and oodles of HEAs! Other titles include wife, mother, Star Wars geek, ex-competitive skydiver, spreadsheet lover, eMBA, organizational guru, Texan, Aggie, and chocoholic.

Kristen attempted to find a practical career related to her favorite pastime by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing) and an MBA. However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it.

Kristen currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own swoon-worthy hero, their amazing kids, who are growing up way too fast, and 2 adorable fur babies.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
208 (35%)
4 stars
226 (38%)
3 stars
125 (21%)
2 stars
17 (2%)
1 star
5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,094 reviews1,510 followers
September 21, 2021
Alright, I don’t know who came up with the cover for this one but of course they suckered me right into picking it up… I mean, come on, who can say no to the little face, it’s adorable!! Thankfully for me this holiday contemporary romance was just as sweet on the inside as it was on the outside.

Snowball’s Christmas is a book that changes the point of view between the characters during the story but the special thing with this one is that Snowball, the sweet kitty, also gets a POV. Snowball belongs to Miss Tilly who runs a B&B where she employs Emily. Emily cooks at that B&B and isn’t looking forward to her bosses nephew, Lukas, coming for the holidays. However, Snowball thinks Lukas and Emily are perfect for one another and wants them to figure that out.

Being a huge animal lover every once in a while I just have to pick up a book with an animal point of view and hope for some cuteness galore. Snowball’s Christmas was just such a read and I of course fell immediately in love with little Snowball. It really didn’t hurt that the couple in question were also likable too. Toss in a Christmas setting and of course I became a fan of this sweet romance.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Profile Image for Deanne Patterson.
1,773 reviews126 followers
November 3, 2020
Emily is a baker at Weber Haus a bed and breakfast run by Tilly aka Aunt Tilly to everyone.
Raising her nephew Lukas hasn't been easy for her but she did it and she's thrilled he's coming for a visit after he spent a period away as a traveling photographer.
Emily has a bad opinion of him because he hasn't been to see his aunt in some time despite her having never met him.
Enter sweetheart of a kitten Snowball who's convinced the two humans would be the perfect couple and devises ways to get them together at every opportunity.
Fun antics that kitten owners could see their kitten doing.
Adorable and sweet Christmas romance.

Published September 29th 2020 by Kensington/
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
1,450 reviews13 followers
September 5, 2020
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com

3.75 Hearts This was a quick read that had me read to start the holidays. I will admit it was the cover that dragged me in and then I read the synopsis and thought “Why not?” and I am glad I did. This is a sweet holiday romance set about by a kitten who’s animal instinct tells her Emily and Lukas are supposed to be together.

Having had kittens throughout my life I could imagine every scene of this little furball… I mean Snowball… as it happens.

The story is perfect to start off the season of holiday romances.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Melissa Borsey.
1,478 reviews33 followers
November 16, 2020
I have never read a book where one of the points of view comes from a furry kitten and I loved it! This book is fast, easy, and adorable! Perfect for the holiday season. I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Profile Image for Nursebookie.
1,996 reviews306 followers
December 24, 2020
Such a heartwarming read I really enjoyed! Great Christmas novela that put me in the holiday mood.
Profile Image for Brittany.
228 reviews
December 5, 2021
4.5 rounding up cause if snowball. This was SO FREAKING CUTE. Snowball was the star obviously I loved this so much and it’s perfect for the holiday season. Excited to start the next book!
Profile Image for Daniela O..
234 reviews6 followers
November 25, 2020
Recensione completa sul blog Pieces of Paper Hearts:https://piecesofpaperhearts.blogspot....
[...]

Questo romanzo ha tutte le carte in regola. È dolce, carino e mai totalmente scontato. L’ambiente spicca ma non essendo un elemento davvero cardine è un’ottima cornice per un bel quadro. La narrazione è in terza persona con la sola eccezione del punto di vista di Palla di Neve. La gattina irrompe spesso nel testo per far partecipe il lettore dei suoi piani; ciò è un punto a favore, rende più interessante e intrigante la lettura, però ha anche un difetto. Non c’è una netta distinzione grafica tra la narrazione dei protagonisti umani e quella della gattina quindi è un po’ spiazzante rendersi conto che è un gatto a occuparsi della narrazione. Avrei preferito perciò che ci fosse qualche accorgimento grafico in più che lo rendesse quindi meno disturbante. Ovviamente dopo qualche capitolo ci si abitua, ma dal mio punto di vista sarebbe stato giusto renderlo meglio.
Palla di Neve è il personaggio più carino del romanzo ma Emily, Lukas e Miss Tilly non sono da meno. Sono caratterizzati tutti al meglio ed è facile capire il perché delle loro azioni e le loro emozioni. Non sono figure statiche, stereotipate, anzi sono personaggi a tutto tondo. Hanno personalità complesse pur non sembrandolo di primo acchito per cui man mano che si va avanti nella lettura queste si dipanano sempre più, a loro vantaggio. Emily ha un sogno da realizzare, una famiglia che ama e ricambia il suo amore (forse nel modo sbagliato ma è pur sempre amore); Lukas invece ha solo la zia poiché rimasto orfano di entrambi i genitori. È diventato fotografo per scappare dalla solitudine della sua casa e ritornarci, dopo tanto tempo, è tutta un’altra cosa. Tilly è sola ma sempre circondata da ospiti; ha Emily e la gattina, ma è Lukas la sua unica vera famiglia. Ciononostante la donna è felice e ama Emily e Lukas come fossero i suoi figli. I ragazzi però si sono incontrati da poco e sembrano entrambi aver le idee chiare.
Sono agli antipodi eppure troveranno un punto d’incontro; che esso sia Palla di Neve o altro, sta a loro venirne a capo. Del resto l’amore si presenta in molteplici forme, basta solo saperlo decifrare e accogliere.

Il romanzo non è un capolavoro della narrativa ma è comunque scritto bene. È perfetto per chi ama il Natale e la sua atmosfera di calore e famiglia. Un romanzo che gli amanti degli animali certo non dovrebbero perdere perché Palla di Neve è la gattina più pestifera e dolce che ci sia e fare la sua conoscenza, seguendo i suoi piani amorosi tra il comico e il tragico, è bello, divertente e anche drammatico a volte ma sempre emozionante.

Lettura consigliata senza alcun dubbio. La magia del Natale che il titolo declama fa il suo dovere per cui se ci credete, se il Natale è il periodo dell’anno che preferite, questo è un romanzo da non farvi scappare.
Profile Image for Romance4thebeach.
149 reviews13 followers
November 22, 2020
This is a must-read for the holiday season! In this enchanting Christmas romance we see a small snippet of each chapter told from the point of view of an adorable kitten. I mean, just look at the fluffy wuffy cuteness that is the cover art, and tell me you're not intrigued! As if that wasn't enough, we have a snowy landscape at a picturesque Inn, two people who fall in love, and German Christmas traditions and food on top of everything. While reading this book, believe me when I say it will leave you with a smile on your face pretty much from start to finish, and for a few days afterwards. You'll probably chuckle aloud a time or two, and your toes will curl with glee. If it doesn't? Well you just might be the Grinch of the holiday season.

This was exactly the kind of romance book I didn't know I needed right now. Initially I thought it was way too early in the season for a snowy Christmas read, but it was simply the perfect amount of light-hearted fun and romance necessary to escape all the stresses of the world.

This novel presents us with the perfect recipe of a romance: the book has soul, and these characters have heart. Even during moments which cause friction, we can see that the decisions of Emily and Lukas come from a good place. For example, the synopsis introduces us to the fact that Lukas wants to sell his aunt's Inn, and while I went into this read expecting to see him as a somewhat selfish character, I was surprised to find that his goal of selling the Inn was bred solely from the desire to ensure his aunt was being taken care of. Emily was also intent on hating Lukas for a good portion of the read, as she couldn't help but see him as a neglectful nephew to the woman she's come to love as family. Her oftentimes childish fixation to dislike Lukas became a bit easier to understand when we see it was due to her love of Aunt Tilly.

Even Snowball the kitten had the best of intentions during her moments of craziness! Sure, she could be such a little troublemaker at times, but she just wanted these silly humans to fall in love and kiss already! For those of you who aren't cat people (firstly, how dare you?), don't let that deter you from this read! Snowball was unbelievably adorable in all her fluffy cuteness, and at times even took on the characteristics of a dog. She would fetch things (even if not asked for), she was snuggly and affectionate, and could even follow direction...kind of.
Profile Image for Theresa.
995 reviews18 followers
December 29, 2020
I am a total sucker for sweet Christmas romances with adorable fluffy kittens playing cupid for a young misguided couple. Mischievous Snowball permanently grabbed my heart when she snuck into Emily's purse and hitched a ride on baked good deliveries!

Emily is chief cook/baker/handyman/manager of Weber Haus, a Victorian inn owned by the aging Miss Tilly. Visiting this Christmas is Lukas, Tilly's nephew and a world famous photographer who is too busy globe trotting to visit regularly and see that all is not well with Weber Haus and Miss Tilly. Plus Emily is working on her dream of opening a bakery, although many obstacles stand in her way.

Or so Emily thinks. Never fear, cute fluffy, blue-eyed Snowball is on the job, sorting it all out as only a kitten can, giving everyone a HEA before settling for a long winter's nap.

Utterly charming, with the viewpoint and voice of Snowball coming often enough to bring a smile to your face, I can't wait for Snowball's next Christmas adventure, slated for 2021.
Read
December 27, 2021
Oh my gosh. I love kittens. Everything they do is simply adorable. Snowball is no exception. Well, except for the fact that she keeps sneaking out of Miss Tilly’s Inn, the Weber Haus and just getting into mischief. Snowball is sure that two humans, Lukas and Emily are perfect for each other, although they seem to dislike each other. However, Snowball will not be deterred in bringing these two together and making sure her forever home stays just that.

Kristen McKanagh’s Snowball’s Christmas was a charming read, perfect for Christmas.

**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Profile Image for Margaret Galbraith.
296 reviews4 followers
July 23, 2022
Just another one of my Christmas in July stories. Not bad but it’s more of the story of Lucas and Emily and Miss Tilly and a little bit of Snowball the kitten’s antics. Cute and funny at times if it is very predictable.
Profile Image for Lucie Aran.
868 reviews17 followers
December 11, 2020
Oddechová, příjemně vánoční romantická kniha, která má všechno, co má mít a ještě trochu navíc.
Můžete čekat vánoční atmosféru, malý rodinný penzion, trochu těch vánočních dobrot a aktivit, jednu romantickou lásku s překážkami a jako bonus ještě milé a skotačivé, heboučké kotě, které tropí lumpačiny a v menší míře vás bude provázet celým příběhem. A i když nedostalo tolik prostoru jako třeba kocour v Námluvách s kocourem, vůbec to nevadí, jelikož vám to vynahradí svojí roztomilostí. Co víc si ještě přát?
Profile Image for Kristen Post.
348 reviews5 followers
November 23, 2020
Cute, sweet, and funny—exactly what I needed just now! I like the idea to switch between the perspectives of Lukas, Emily, and Snowball, but would have liked some scenes from Miss Tilly’s POV as well.
Profile Image for Kristen McKanagh.
Author 10 books167 followers
Read
January 4, 2021
If you are looking for the purrfect heartwarming holiday escape, you've found it!

I had so much fun with Snowball's adventures to help Emily and Lukas realize that they are meant to be together and become her forever family. I hope you love it too!

Look for Snowball's Christmas in stores and online everywhere!

eBook:
http://mybook.to/snowballschristmas
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/snow...
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/isbn...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/snow...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...

Print Book:
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/snow...
https://www.target.com/p/snowball-s-c...
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Snowball-s...
Profile Image for Love is in the books.
1,540 reviews29 followers
December 21, 2020




Quest’anno il Natale sembrerà un pelino più freddo per ognuno di noi e per cercare di migliorare il vostro umore non posso che consigliarvi due medicine fondamentali: l’amore e i libri.
In questo volume di cui vi parlerò troviamo: dolcezza, il calore della famiglia, profumo di biscotti appena sfornati e una piccola pallina di pelo che ha un debole per gli addobbi e gli oggetti scintillanti.
La magia del Natale di Kristen Mckanagh, edito Newton Compton Editori è una lettura autoconclusiva adorabile che mi ha tenuto compagnia anche in pomeriggi di solitudine, mi ha sorpreso la narrazione e la cura per i dettagli, anche i personaggi sembrano quasi reali per quanto siano ben caratterizzati.



La mia storia è ovunque sia tu.





I protagonisti di questa storia sono Emily e Lukas. Il loro sembrerà un incontro casuale ma subito vi renderete conto di quanto in realtà siano destinati ad orbitare l’uno attorno all’altra, attratti da una gravità alla quale non potranno opporsi.
Il comune denominatore tra i due è la signorina Tilly, una donna saggia e adorabile che si occupa della gestione di una locanda, Weber Haus.
Questa magica signora, ormai abbastanza avanti con gli anni, troverà un braccio destro in Emily, la quale si occuperà di cucinare con tanto amore i pasti per gli ospiti e, nel mentre, si impegnerà per riuscire a realizzare il suo sogno di aprire una pasticceria tutta sua.

L’aspirante pasticcera non nutrirà subito una profonda simpatia per Lukas, nipote della signorina Tilly,  tornato dopo anni di distanza perché impegnato con la sua carriera di fotografo, che additerà come un menefreghista ingrato.
Tuttavia con lo zampino di Palla di Neve, l’adorabile gattina della padrona di casa, Emily non impiegherà molto nel rivalutare le sue prime impressioni.



I ricordi non fanno più male, e il motivo sei tu.





I personaggi di questo volume mi sono piaciuti tutti, nonostante le vicende siano narrate in terza persona si riesce ad entrare in sintonia con i loro sentimenti e pensieri.
La nostra Emily, dalle manine fatate ai fornelli, è decisamente una donna testarda e determinata, ma percepirete fino alla fine la sua estrema dolcezza e il suo piccato senso dell’umorismo che darà del vero e proprio filo da torcere al protagonista maschile.
Anche Lukas non pecca di carisma, con le sue fossette e la sua indole birbante farà breccia nel cuore di tutti tanto che spesso verrà definito adulatore. Non mancherà però al suo carattere una tenerezza disarmante oltre che una profonda determinazione che impiega nei propri obiettivi.

In ogni caso mentirei se non vi dicessi che tra tutti la mia preferita è stata Palla di Neve, un’incorreggibile cucciolotta che sin da subito si impegnerà nel suo ruolo di Cupido. Le sue scene saranno spesso raccontate in prima persona quindi il tutto sarà reso ancora più dinamico e divertente!



Finalmente aveva trovato quella che sarebbe stata per sempre la sua casa.



La lettura è scorrevole, impeccabile e liscia come l’olio; le descrizioni non sono mai prolisse e stoppos e i dialoghi sono veramente coinvolgenti.
Anche l’ambientazione arriva in modo diretto al lettore, Weber Haus la immagino come un posto caldo e sicuro che profuma di casa e mette subito a suo agio chiunque vi soggiorni, si percepisce subito l’atmosfera natalizia seppur non l’abbia mai trovata invadente o esasperata.

Se dovessi definie questo libro con una parola probabilmente sarebbe dolce, come il pan di zenzero!
Sin dal primo capitolo vi ritroverete in una storia che percepirete come vostra, che vi farà sentire come se foste davanti a un camino scoppiettante, sorseggiando una cioccolata calda, mentre fuori nevica lentamente imbiancando il paesaggi. Stra-consigliato!

 

Profile Image for OpenBookSociety.com .
3,818 reviews116 followers
October 26, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/s...

Title: Snowball’s Christmas
BY: Kristen McKanagh
ISBN: 9781496729903
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra

Summary:

Snowball—an aptly named bundle of feline fluff—is thankful to be spending her first Christmas in the comfort of Weber Haus, the Victorian B&B run by Miss Tilly. Emily Diemer, who cooks for the guests, dotes on Snowball, but she’s not thrilled about another new arrival at the B&B: Miss Tilly’s nephew, Lukas. Which is odd, because Snowball’s animal instincts tell her that Lukas and Emily should definitely be friends.

Everything Emily needs is in this quaint community—including, she hopes, the chance to open her own bakery one day. She doesn’t think much of Lukas for leaving his aging aunt to struggle while he jets around the world taking photographs. But now that he’s here, helping to spruce up the property and getting mixed up in Snowball’s antics, she begins to soften a little. Until she learns what he has planned.

Lukas is going to sell Weber Haus so that Miss Tilly can retire. But Snowball is certain that this B&B, and these people, are supposed to be her forever home. Somehow she has to get these stubborn humans to see things through the wisdom of a cat’s eye and a kitten’s loyal, loving heart . . . (Goodreads)

Review:

Snowball’s Christmas is a cute, short, delightful Christmas themed romance.

The story begins with Miss Tilly telling Snowball (the white fluffy kitten living at Weber Haus – a Victorian B&B) that Lukas (her great nephew) is coming homing for the holidays. Then immediately the narrative switches to Snowball telling the story. If the reader is not paying attention, it can become confusing for a moment until the reader realizes which point of view (POV) i.e. human or kitten, the story is being told from (but only for a moment ☺). The switching between POV happens frequently enough throughout the story – so be on the lookout for this.

Emily cooks (among many other tasks) for the B&B with aspirations of opening her own bakery in the near future. Immediately she has preconceived notions about Lukas – after all – he leaves his great aunt all alone, traveling the world taking photographs and does not even help Miss Tilly! So when they meet, their relationship is off to a rocky start.

Lukas is home for the holidays, to help Miss Tilly with the B&B, and hopefully to convince her to sell and move into a residence more geared towards her advancing age. He first meets Emily when he drives up to the B&B and follows behind her – sees Snowball hidden in Emily’s bag and immediately begins taking some candid shots of the kitten.

As with any love story – it is filled with mishaps and a bumpy ride to the HEA (happily ever after). And this story is no exception – especially with the antics of Snowball and her fluff ball attempts at match making. Throw in a local man who hopes to win Emily’s heart, Miss Tilly’s nephews attempts at showing the inn with the idea of selling (the only home he remembers) and Emily’s hopes and dreams of a bakery and what does the reader have – a holiday themed romance which keeps the reader wondering if Emily and Lukas are ever going to figure out and act on their mutual attraction – even with Snowball’s crazy antics.

Love the cover – very cute!!! I found the main characters had enough depth (even for a shorter story) and the storyline had enough twists and turns (and a bit of intrigue) to keep my interest throughout. And humorous events abounded when Snowball got it into her mind on a course of action, which usually ensued with unexpected consequences.

If you are looking for a quick read, with a holiday theme, an adorable, mischief making kitten and a bit of romance – then pull up a comfy chair with a cup of tea and settle down for an enjoyable read.

*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,266 reviews70 followers
November 9, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Snowball’s Christmas has to be THE cutest Christmas story I’ve read so far in 2020 – and I read a lot of Christmas Romance year-round. And I’m very happy to discover that Snowball will be back next holiday season in 2021 with another tale to be told.

And Snowball does jump in often with her own narrative on the happenings with her stubborn humans that she intends to be her forever home-mates… just keep an eye out for a kitten’s voice every now and then as you dive into this short but fun-packed Christmas Romance.

Emily has some strong preconceived ideas about “Aunt” Tilly’s nephew, Lukas before actually meeting him face to face. Well, after all, he is running around the country taking photos leaving his aging aunt here to run and tend to her B & B alone… well, not really alone but on her own, there are plenty of people who love and adore Tilly to pick up any slack including Emily who cooks for the guests of the B & B while dreaming of opening her own bakery one day.

Lukas enjoys his career, he sees life through the lens of his camera, and most of the time it’s a pretty amazing world. But he does love and worries about his Aunt Tilly, alone at the only real home he’s ever known. She’s getting up in years now, and Lukas is convinced that it’s time to sell and move Tilly into a retirement community… without asking Tilly.

What follows is a quick romantic story that is filled with misconceptions, an adorable kitten, and two people who could be perfect for each other if they would only open their eyes and take the risk that falling in love requires.

I had such a good time with Snowball’s Christmas – and I won’t give a bit more of it away, but if you love a feel-good, funny, emotional Christmas Romance then this is one you will not want to miss.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
March 12, 2021
A cute story with a cute kitten at Christmas.

I’ll start right out with this book seems like it’s tailor-made for being made into a TV movie. It’s got an adorable kitten, an auntie that needs help, plus two people who need each other even if they don’t realize it. It’s truly cute. The writing flows well and I was drawn right into the story. I wanted to root for the characters and loved little Snowball. Lukas is dreamy and he could come to my house to do some home improvement if he’s available.

The one quibble I had with this book was Emily. I like forthright characters. I like the ones who know what they want and won’t quit until they get it. I like characters with ridiculously tremendous drive. Emily is all these things and more, but the one thing she is that drove me bonkers has to be her drive to the point of being off-putting. Some readers might just see her as strong, but it’s almost like she’s got a savior complex. If she’s not saving it, then it won’t be saved. That’s nice, but it got to be too much at times. I wanted to see her warm to Lukas and understand he had a stake in the property, too, but maybe a little faster. While this wasn’t my favorite part of the story, it might be perfectly fine for other readers and that’s great.

Lukas is a flawed character. He’s got his plate full and has a life he wants to live, but I liked that he quickly adapts to what’s thrown his way. He’s handsome and willing to help, even if he’s too busy trying not to get in Emily’s way.

The whole thing truly seems like it was written to be made into a TV movie. The writing was such that I could see the little B&B house, that I could see the characters and feel like I was there. I could almost smell the baked goods Emily made. The Christmas feel is all around in this story, too.

If you want a book that’s cute and sweet, then this might be the holiday read you’re looking for. Try it!
185 reviews
September 13, 2020
Aunt Tilly, who is nearing 80-years-old owns Weber Haus, a Victorian inn at the edge of a small town. Emily works for her as the cook, but is also working on launching her dream business, a bakery. Lukas is Tilly's nephew, but was raised by her after his parents died when he was a child. He's a big shot nature photographer now, spending his days traveling the world, and hasn't been home to visit in years. So, when Lukas comes to visit for Christmas, Emily is suspicious of this good-for-nothing nephew. Lukas is totally into Emily. Emily is into Lukas but doesn't want to give in, because he is just going to leave again. We see Lukas and Emily interact with each other over about a week as they prepare the inn for a big Christmas Eve dinner. Will they get over their differences and their circumstances and end up together?

Oh, and there's a kitten who knows Lukas and Emily are purr-fect for each other, and does everything in her power to push them together. (The kitten does not narrate the whole novel, just usually a couple of pages at the end of each chapter).

I love reading the occasional romance novel, because of their feel-good tropes and their happy endings. This novel did not disappoint! There were:
- A cozy environment with lots of snow flakes and lit fires
- Wonderful descriptions of baking aromas
- Perfect characters who never do anything wrong (except hide their feelings)
- A white fluffball of a kitten

Sexual content:

After a string of 1-2 star books this fall, I needed something lighthearted. I'm glad I had this book on my Kindle. I received this book as a Kindle edition from a Goodreads giveaway.
1,375 reviews18 followers
December 22, 2020
Snowball is a tiny, fluffy white kitten with blue eyes, who lives at Weber Haus, the Victorian B&B run by Miss Tilly. Emily Diemer also lives at Weber Haus, where she cooks for the inn guests and dotes on Snowball. However, Emily is not happy when she learns Miss Tilly’s nephew, Lukas, is arriving. Emily finds it terrible that Lukas has left his aunt, who raised him after his parents were killed when he was ten, alone to run the inn herself (she is well past retirement age) with what little money she has, while he travels the world as a well-known photographer. Initially, Emily finds Lukas totally different from what she had envisioned: an easy-going, friendly, helpful man, always ready to give whatever assistance he can to whoever happens to need it. Snowball also finds Lukas a good person, and concludes that Emily and Lukas need to accept what their fates have in store for them—while he tries, in his own inexperienced way, to make that happen. As Lukas, who is there only for the holidays, spends more time with Emily at the Weber Haus, Emily finds herself liking him more and more, as they grow closer and closer. In fact, knowing they belong to two different worlds, both Lukas and Emily try to fight the mutual attraction that is growing day by day. Sometimes we do not control what happens, as this duo soon finds out.

I loved this book and practically read it in one sitting. Snowball was the most enchanting kitten ever. In the book, sometimes the author took time to put words and thoughts into Snowball’s kitten persona, which only made the kitten more endearing. Snowball’s antics throughout were delightful and provided an interesting interlude. I likewise enjoyed watching Lukas and Emily grow into their relationship, never knowing how they each felt at any one time, and knowing this would be difficult in every respect. The book was absolutely enthralling. It is a wonderful holiday romance story that I will return to read time and time again, for the pleasure it gave/will give me. This is a book every reader will probably enjoy, if not love, once they read it. If I could give it more than five stars, I would. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.




Profile Image for Kelly-Jo Sweeney.
1,002 reviews13 followers
August 14, 2020
As a rule, I'm not a huge fan of sweet romances, I like something with a little bit more spice. The premise of this one appealed to me, even if it's not Christmas right now, the idea of a kitten trying to sort everyone out and get the couple together appealed to me.
Lukas has returned to his Aunt's bed and breakfast for the first time in years. While he's been gone, things have become quite run down and it's clear that she has been struggling. Amazing baker and cook Emily has been helping her out, but it's obvious to Lukas that it's about time that his Aunt retired. What he doesn't count on is the attraction he feels for Emily and with a little help from Snowball the kitten, he soon begins to wonder if selling up is really the best option.
This was quite a sweet romance. I enjoyed the growing romance between Emily and Lukas. She distrusts him from the beginning and although she does her best to keep him at arm's length, it's clear that she can't resist him, any more than he can resist her.
Snowball does try to get things moving along, but the meddling from the kitten is quite funny and almost has the opposite effect from time to time.
I enjoyed this dip into a different kind of read for me and I'd be happy to read more from Kristen McKanagh.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
1,619 reviews13 followers
November 30, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: Not being a big fan of romance books, I do like to read ones with kitties as the hero or heroines. They do not need to be Pulitzer Prize material or something terribly profound. I like gentle and sweet stories that makes the reader smile with content at the end. This book is an excellent example of what I enjoy.

Lukas, a world renowned photographer, returns to his aunt’s B & B where he was raised after the death of his parents. He has tried to help his aunt but she is a stubborn and independent lady who is ably assisted by Emily, an amazing baker who has dreams of opening her own bakery. Lukas is shocked with how frail his aunt seems and how run down the house has become. He steps right in to assist the two women and tries to think of ways to improve their lot. Snowball, the kitten, can see what is happening long before either human twigs and encourages the shift from testiness to love with all her kitten wiles.

But as we all know, humans can be dense. Really dense. So we must go through the obligatory dance of misunderstanding and miscommunication that must hobble the path of true love. In Lukas, Emily finds the confidence and belief in her abilities that her own family deny her. In Emily, Lukas finds the reason to stop running all over the world and settle down. And both of them embrace both Aunt Tilly and of course, Snowball. In this world of chaos and uncertainty, there is a satisfaction to knowing something is going to turn out well, even if it is only fiction.

If you are looking for a light and enchanting Christmas read, this book will do nicely. Five purrs and two paws up.
Profile Image for Janine.
917 reviews22 followers
September 15, 2020
A fun Christmas romance.

Snowball is a cute, but mischievous, kitten who knows what she wants and won't settle for less. So, when she decides Emily Diemer and Lukas Weber belong together, she does everything she can to make it happen.

Lukas has returned to Weber Haus, the B&B where his Aunt Tilly raised him, for the first Christmas in years. As a professional photographer, he was usually traveling all year long. This year he wanted to be home with his aunt. Little did he realize meeting Emily, who makes the fabulous meals at the B&B, would change his life.

Emily has one goal and it's to own her own bakery. She works hard at the B&B while planning her future. Lukas is a distraction she doesn't need. But as they work together, and the romance grows between them, it leaves Emily more confused. She doesn't want to fall for Lukas knowing he will soon be leaving. With the help of Snowball and a Christmas miracle, they just might get their happily ever after.

If Snowball has her way, she will have Lukas and Emily paired up b Christmas. All Snowball wants is a happy family with Lukas, Emily and Tilly.

This was such a cute story. I couldn't get enough of it. I especially liked how Snowball would fend off the advances one man made on Emily so she would end up with Lukas. I hope we will be seeing more of Snowball and her silly antics in the future.
Profile Image for Tammy Moldovan.
1,013 reviews9 followers
October 2, 2020
This was a sweet Christmas romance. If you are a big fan of Hallmark movies this is a perfect read for you. Lukas returns home to his aunt Tilley’s B&B, Weber Haus, for a Christmas visit after a two year absence. He’s a professional photographer who travels extensively for his work. Emily is the baker/cook/assistant for Weber Haus who has never met Lukas but has a poor opinion of him based on her perception of his absence and his apparent lack of attention to his aunt. Tilley raised Lukas after his parents’ death and has lived at Weber Haus her whole life. Rounding out the cast of main characters and whose POV helps to tell the story is Snowball, a white kitten who has a lot of opinions on the behaviors of the humans at Weber Haus. On their way to their happily ever after, Lukas has to see a new direction and a home base for his career, Emily has to learn to trust and rely on others while she pursues her dream of opening a bakery, and Snowball has to stop his grand schemes to get the two of them to marry. Seeing the story from Snowball’s POV was a unique twist and added quite a bit of humor to the story. Especially Snowball’s efforts to sabotage a potential rival for Emily’s affections. This inaugural story by Kristen McKanagh is well worth a read especially curled up on a snowy day by a fireplace.
149 reviews
September 8, 2020
This is the sweetest romance I've read in a while. I couldn't stop smiling through the whole book, especially when we see everything through little Snowball's eyes. Anyone who has had a cat can identify with the antics our white fluff ball gets into. She is determined to make Emily and Lukas see the chemistry between them that she does with her feline instincts. Emily has been working at Weber Haus while dreaming of opening her own bakery. She is not thrilled when the owner's nephew, Lukas, shows up for Christmas. She believes that he does not care as much as he should about his Aunt Tilly while not visiting and traveling the world as a photographer. Little do they know that Snowball has other plans for their future. She has decided that they and Weber Haus are her forever home and she will do whatever it takes to make it that way. There are ups and downs and simply adorable moments throughout this book. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Vicky.
454 reviews2 followers
August 8, 2020
Snowball’s Christmas

What a feel good book that just makes you take a few minutes to relax and think about life & breathe! I have three dogs which help me renew my spirit like Snowball tries to pull Emily & Lukas closer together as a family unit. She wants Tilly and them to recapture and renew that family is the heart ❤️ of the home.
The author is directing this small ball of fur to remind us all what life is about and she has truly done an amazing job in keeping the flow of the book going towards the ending result!
This is the kind of book we all need to take the time to read us back to our roots to slow our lives down and turn off our social media and communications and see each other directly.
What a great message of value to read at Christmas this is a great read for young adults and the mature!
Profile Image for Michelle .
1,000 reviews23 followers
October 17, 2020
Snowball’s Christmas is an animal fiction novel just in time for Christmas by author Kristen McKanagh.

Lucas Weber, Miss Tilly’s nephew, is all grown up and Emily Diemer can’t stand him. Or, can she? Snowball the mischievous cat is in the middle of everything including matchmaking.

This novella would make a great Hallmark romance movie for animal lovers and all things Christmas.

The cover is what tempted me to pick up the book and read it. Some parts of the book were dry and others were quite funny.

This novella would be a good Christmas gift for fans of romance or cat lovers.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Profile Image for Shirley McAllister.
975 reviews122 followers
August 2, 2020
Cat Matchmaker

I loved this light easy reading story about a matchmaking cat named Snowball. Emily helps Tilly at Weber Haus as she saves to start her own bakery. She has a white cat named Snowball who is a bit of a rascal.

Lukas is Tilly’s nephew that she raised. He is a famous photographer and has come home to spend Christmas with his aunt.

Snowball decides that Lukas and Emily should fall in love and get married. This matchmaker cat keeps causing situations to get the two together. The cat made me laugh so hard.

The story has humor, romance and keeps you reading to find out what will happen next. I love the ending and the part Snowball plays in it.

If you need some humor in your life, or just a nice leisurely read you will love this book, especially when you read the cat’s thoughts. I do recommend this book.

Thanks to Kristen McKanagh, Kensington Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
39 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy on NetGalley to review.

The book is a light, fluffy romance that would be perfect for the holidays. Lukas comes home to see his aunt over the holidays and finds the inn that she runs in need of repairs. The cook, Emily, is run down from her work at the house and her side business, baking. Snowball is convinced that they should be together and has made it her mission to bring them together.

The story switches between the POVs of Lukas and Emily, but also includes short pieces from Snowball which are cute and make the story unique. I liked both Lukas and Emily and enjoyed seeing them together, but the story and the problems they faced could get a bit repetitive. Overall, it was an enjoyable romance with a message about the importance of family and following your dreams.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.