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The Elliotts of Montana #1
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm
It’s going to take more than luck to make his Christmas dreams come true
Jim “Lucky” Elliott is the country boy next door – charismatic, handsome and charming. But when he has to drop out of vet school to try and rescue his grandparents’ Marietta-based sleigh ride business and family farm, Lucky faces his hardest struggle yet.
Podcaster Rachel O’Rourke is done with broken hearts, but she can still find joy in other people’s happily-ever-afters. When she holds a contest on her show for the best first kiss story, her bruised heart beats a little faster when she reads Lucky’s submission. He doesn’t have a story, but his grandparents do, and free advertising for the winner is just what he’s looking for.
As they start spending time on the farm, Rachel finds herself not only drawn to the sweet setting, but also to the man. But when a real estate developer sets his sights on the Elliott land, Lucky will have to decide if the money means security for his family, or if he’ll fight for Sleigh Bell with Rachel by his side.
Jim “Lucky” Elliott is the country boy next door – charismatic, handsome and charming. But when he has to drop out of vet school to try and rescue his grandparents’ Marietta-based sleigh ride business and family farm, Lucky faces his hardest struggle yet.
Podcaster Rachel O’Rourke is done with broken hearts, but she can still find joy in other people’s happily-ever-afters. When she holds a contest on her show for the best first kiss story, her bruised heart beats a little faster when she reads Lucky’s submission. He doesn’t have a story, but his grandparents do, and free advertising for the winner is just what he’s looking for.
As they start spending time on the farm, Rachel finds herself not only drawn to the sweet setting, but also to the man. But when a real estate developer sets his sights on the Elliott land, Lucky will have to decide if the money means security for his family, or if he’ll fight for Sleigh Bell with Rachel by his side.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2019
282 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Kaylie Newell
49 books302 followersKaylie Newell lives in Southern Oregon with her husband and two daughters. She’s the proud author of over a dozen romances, including the RITA® finalists, Christmas at The Graff and Tanner’s Promise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 5, 2019
4.5 stars.
It’s been a while since my last visit to Marietta, Montana but I don’t think I could have picked a better time to go back or couple to do so with.
Full of Christmassy romantic goodness, Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm seriously set my festive cheer free as Kaylie Newell brings together all the elements which makes the Marietta community so endearing to readers. And Lucky and Rachel were wonderful characters with an engaging, heartwarming and passionate story that holds family at its heart.
I really didn’t want this story to end but with lots of potential from the Elliott family, my bags are packed and waiting for my next visit.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
It’s been a while since my last visit to Marietta, Montana but I don’t think I could have picked a better time to go back or couple to do so with.
I’ve got a great first kiss story for you…”
Full of Christmassy romantic goodness, Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm seriously set my festive cheer free as Kaylie Newell brings together all the elements which makes the Marietta community so endearing to readers. And Lucky and Rachel were wonderful characters with an engaging, heartwarming and passionate story that holds family at its heart.
I really didn’t want this story to end but with lots of potential from the Elliott family, my bags are packed and waiting for my next visit.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
December 5, 2020
Jim "Lucky" Elliot is a farmer and rancher who dreams of one day opening a sanctuary for elderly and abused horses and donkeys. He meets waitress-turned-podcaster Rachel O'Rourke when her podcast on first kisses features his grandparents. She thinks that they're both dreamers and kindred spirits, but can Lucky break away from his family's expectations long enough to get what he wants?
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is a cute holiday romance. It's short, light, and fun. Plus, it promotes the rescue and humane treatment of animals. It's a great little bit of holiday fluff, but it's not much more than that.
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is a cute holiday romance. It's short, light, and fun. Plus, it promotes the rescue and humane treatment of animals. It's a great little bit of holiday fluff, but it's not much more than that.
December 22, 2022
A lovely romantic read at Christmas time - ticked all the tingly tummy boxes.
November 1, 2019
This was such a beautiful story. From the very beginning I knew this was a special story with characters to match. Thus far this is one of my favorite Christmas reads this year. Believe it or not I have already read at least ten! I have actually read a few other books by this author and enjoyed them all. If you're looking for feel good romance, I do recommend you check out this author.
Rachel and Lucky.....
When Rachel and Lucky first spy each other from a distance, there is attraction. But neither knows the other nor are either looking for a relationship. Lucky is only in town long enough to give a hand to his beloved grandparent's farm. Then he's back to Vet school to fulfill his parent's wishes. Lucky had a horrible incident happen in his past that keeps him from trusting his own instincts, wants and needs. As a result, he finds himself consistently seeking approval from his father. But does he really need it? Is his father that much of a tyrant? Lucky will soon find out that it's important to follow your heart if you want true happiness. In life and in love.
Rachel is a server at the Graff Hotel in Marietta. But her passion lies with podcasting. One day she hopes her show will be popular enough that podcasting could be her only occupation. Rachel is currently running a contest to award free publicity for the month of December to the winner. All the applicants need to do is send in "First Kiss" stories. And when she receives Lucky's story, she is inspired. Lucky entered the contest with the story of his grandparent's first kiss.
When Rachel and Lucky officially meet, their attraction grows and so does their relationship; albeit slowly. The development of Rachel and Lucky's relationship grew from friends to more with a believable pace which I appreciated. I felt connected to these two wonderful characters. As the story rolls on, there is a bit of angst and an obstacle here and there to which gives the story some complexity. Rachel and Lucky will have a bit of work to find that happily-ever-after. Don't worry, I promise you there is a wonderful ending. This was such an enjoyable book and I definitely recommend it for a sit-by-the-fire, comfy chair and hot cocoa Christmas read for anyone looking for a feel-good holiday romance.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
Rachel and Lucky.....
When Rachel and Lucky first spy each other from a distance, there is attraction. But neither knows the other nor are either looking for a relationship. Lucky is only in town long enough to give a hand to his beloved grandparent's farm. Then he's back to Vet school to fulfill his parent's wishes. Lucky had a horrible incident happen in his past that keeps him from trusting his own instincts, wants and needs. As a result, he finds himself consistently seeking approval from his father. But does he really need it? Is his father that much of a tyrant? Lucky will soon find out that it's important to follow your heart if you want true happiness. In life and in love.
Rachel is a server at the Graff Hotel in Marietta. But her passion lies with podcasting. One day she hopes her show will be popular enough that podcasting could be her only occupation. Rachel is currently running a contest to award free publicity for the month of December to the winner. All the applicants need to do is send in "First Kiss" stories. And when she receives Lucky's story, she is inspired. Lucky entered the contest with the story of his grandparent's first kiss.
When Rachel and Lucky officially meet, their attraction grows and so does their relationship; albeit slowly. The development of Rachel and Lucky's relationship grew from friends to more with a believable pace which I appreciated. I felt connected to these two wonderful characters. As the story rolls on, there is a bit of angst and an obstacle here and there to which gives the story some complexity. Rachel and Lucky will have a bit of work to find that happily-ever-after. Don't worry, I promise you there is a wonderful ending. This was such an enjoyable book and I definitely recommend it for a sit-by-the-fire, comfy chair and hot cocoa Christmas read for anyone looking for a feel-good holiday romance.
This is my honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
November 14, 2022
FREE today (November 14, 2022) on Amazon.
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
A very romantic read with a complex, multi-layered hero and an introvert, yet very passionate heroine, “Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm”, by Kaylie Newell (Tule Publishing), is full of magic moments, dreams and hard decisions, all wrapped up in kindness and compassion.
Lucky/Jim is a truly complex hero, one we get to know as layer after layer is revealed – the flirting cowboy, the charmer who doesn’t hide his physical scars, but is barely dealing with the emotional ones.
Kaylie Newell created a hero in whom we see the young adult man but also the boy, who survived a terrible trauma not without wounds. His way with horses and animals in general is such a fundamental aspect of his personality and is really compelling to read.
I loved the understated way the scars are written and the matter-of-fact manner both Lucky and Rachel view them - it’s such a refreshing fictional approach to the classic wounded hero, so often living in seclusion or ashamed of his disfigurement.
It’s also great to have a creative heroine and watch her succeed and accomplish her dreams. Rachel is a quiet, introvert heroine, but she has such confidence in Lucky’s potential and dreams, too.
There’s also a touching plotline involving the family farm and taking care of two still active elderly.
The family, friends and the animals – the donkeys, Dreamer, Lucy, Stitch, so sweet and lovable and each with a personality of its own – the setting and the crisp, yet heartfelt, writing style are great, too.
I admit I would have liked the author to take more time to build the romantic relationship, but this is a wonderful, quick read, with two great leads.
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
A very romantic read with a complex, multi-layered hero and an introvert, yet very passionate heroine, “Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm”, by Kaylie Newell (Tule Publishing), is full of magic moments, dreams and hard decisions, all wrapped up in kindness and compassion.
Lucky/Jim is a truly complex hero, one we get to know as layer after layer is revealed – the flirting cowboy, the charmer who doesn’t hide his physical scars, but is barely dealing with the emotional ones.
Kaylie Newell created a hero in whom we see the young adult man but also the boy, who survived a terrible trauma not without wounds. His way with horses and animals in general is such a fundamental aspect of his personality and is really compelling to read.
I loved the understated way the scars are written and the matter-of-fact manner both Lucky and Rachel view them - it’s such a refreshing fictional approach to the classic wounded hero, so often living in seclusion or ashamed of his disfigurement.
It’s also great to have a creative heroine and watch her succeed and accomplish her dreams. Rachel is a quiet, introvert heroine, but she has such confidence in Lucky’s potential and dreams, too.
There’s also a touching plotline involving the family farm and taking care of two still active elderly.
The family, friends and the animals – the donkeys, Dreamer, Lucy, Stitch, so sweet and lovable and each with a personality of its own – the setting and the crisp, yet heartfelt, writing style are great, too.
I admit I would have liked the author to take more time to build the romantic relationship, but this is a wonderful, quick read, with two great leads.
October 29, 2019
Such a beautiful seasonal read, this book is a warm hug on a cold night. Great characters, relatable with cute chemistry and an addictive read. Just the right amount of drama and tension and it’s a lovely heartwarming story. Looking for some sparkle this year, pick this up.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
December 1, 2024
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is the first book in the Elliotts of Montana series by Kaylie Newell. Jim “Lucky” Elliott is the ultimate country boy next door. Charismatic, ruggedly handsome and charming, he catches the ladies’ attention wherever he goes. However, the beloved family farm is in trouble, he drops out of vet school to rescue his grandparents’ sleigh ride business and family farm. He needs a plan to drum up business when a flyer catches his eye. Rachel O’Rourke has dreams of making her podcast a full time job. She holds a contest for the best first kiss story to feature on her podcast as well as free advertisement for a local business. When she reads Lucky’s submission for his grandparents’ story, it is exactly the story she is looking for. As Lucky and Rachel begin to spend time together, Lucky revisits a dream he has had for a long time. However, to follow that dream would mean putting another dream aside.
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is a cute, sweet romance filled with the hope, love and luck of Christmas. It is a quick read, perfect for the holiday season. I loved Lucky as a man who will do anything for his family, even put aside his dreams to help them. But when his ultimate dream could mean a future for the farm, will he have the strength to take that risk? Enter Rachel. I loved Rachel as a woman who has had her share of broken hearts but still believes in love, even if it may not be in the cards for her. Lucky and Rachel together were cute and inspirational as they encouraged each other to take that leap to pursue their dreams. I loved the small town setting with a great cast of supporting characters. I enjoyed this story and will continue the series. If you love small town romance with a Christmas setting, I recommend Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm.
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is available in paperback and eBook
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is a cute, sweet romance filled with the hope, love and luck of Christmas. It is a quick read, perfect for the holiday season. I loved Lucky as a man who will do anything for his family, even put aside his dreams to help them. But when his ultimate dream could mean a future for the farm, will he have the strength to take that risk? Enter Rachel. I loved Rachel as a woman who has had her share of broken hearts but still believes in love, even if it may not be in the cards for her. Lucky and Rachel together were cute and inspirational as they encouraged each other to take that leap to pursue their dreams. I loved the small town setting with a great cast of supporting characters. I enjoyed this story and will continue the series. If you love small town romance with a Christmas setting, I recommend Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm.
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm is available in paperback and eBook
November 20, 2022
This book was very cute and very sweet. It reminded me of a Hallmark Christmas movie. I loved the whole premise of the story of Rachel being a Podcaster and doing a story on first kisses that later lead to everlasting love. Lucky saw this and decided to submit his grandparents story for the podcast, which was really sweet. Hence how Rachael and Lucky meet and begin a romance of their own. The connection was definitely there and they had some really deep conversations about their issues, which was great. The attraction was definitely there as they fell for each other deeper and deeper. They had some great date moments with little flares of Christmas but not overly sell. I did wish that they held off on full on intimacy because I just felt that was a little too soon and rushed. And even though I did like them together I did feel that them being so deeply was just a tad rushed. The touches of Christmas we’re good and added to the holiday spirit. I loved the stuff on the farm with animals and the whole setting. There were a lot of great family vibes. It was just enjoyable, quick read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2022
I was not a fan of this Christmas book, though I can't really put my finger on why. Maybe it was the fact that Rachel supposedly had men issues in her life, but still jumps right into a relationship, and we never go back and address those issues. Maybe it was getting beat over the head with Lucky's inner insecurities and failures. Maybe it was the token F word...when there is only one, I have to ask why? Maybe it was because the main characters couldn't stop talking about how hot the other was, so yes, there was a steamy scene. Two stars because I liked the setting - Montana, and the grandparents, and the premise of the First Kiss podcast. Lots of potential here, but totally fell flat.
December 22, 2022
A delightful story about believing in yourself and your dreams. It was interesting to follow these two young people, both with their own struggles with obligations, fears, and decisions. I liked both characters and enjoyed the story as they learned to trust each other with their thoughts and fears.
When I read about the parents and how they tried to influence their decisions it reminded me of what I used to tell my children.
"I've lived my life, written my story through my choices, now you have to write your own," I only gave advice when asked and usually gave choices available, not any thing specific. They are all great people who made good decisions, not like me at all, LOL.
When I read about the parents and how they tried to influence their decisions it reminded me of what I used to tell my children.
"I've lived my life, written my story through my choices, now you have to write your own," I only gave advice when asked and usually gave choices available, not any thing specific. They are all great people who made good decisions, not like me at all, LOL.
November 23, 2020
Montana Romance
Another awesome story that takes place in Montana. I really love the characters. Lucky Elliot is one terrific guy. He loves animals and manages to do right by them. When he enters a contest telling about a first kiss, he tells the story of his grandparents. Rachel is intrigued when she reads his entry, and it is the start of something. Lucky has a dream concerning helping animals, and Rachel believes in him. If only his parents would. Great story.
Another awesome story that takes place in Montana. I really love the characters. Lucky Elliot is one terrific guy. He loves animals and manages to do right by them. When he enters a contest telling about a first kiss, he tells the story of his grandparents. Rachel is intrigued when she reads his entry, and it is the start of something. Lucky has a dream concerning helping animals, and Rachel believes in him. If only his parents would. Great story.
November 21, 2022
This was a very cute story! I was looking for something to get me in the Christmas spirit, and I wish this had delivered a bit more. This story could have taken place at literally any time of year; the story was not super closely tied to Christmas. Despite that, I thought it was a really cute story with likable characters. Some of the tension in the scenes fell a bit flat for me, but the romance is real!
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
December 5, 2022
Christmas miracles do happen
Rachel wants to be a full-time podcaster and runs a contest for best first kiss story. Chase enters his Grandparents story, which brings these two together. As Rachel follows her dream, she brings out Chases dreams. This is a problem for Chase, because he is going to school to be a Vet like his dad. Can Chase and Rachel end up living their dreams?
Rachel wants to be a full-time podcaster and runs a contest for best first kiss story. Chase enters his Grandparents story, which brings these two together. As Rachel follows her dream, she brings out Chases dreams. This is a problem for Chase, because he is going to school to be a Vet like his dad. Can Chase and Rachel end up living their dreams?
February 3, 2023
Following Hearts and Dreams?
Christmas stories have a special place in my heart and this one ranks close to the top with location, characters, and conflict. Kaylie gives us people to relate with - hopes and dreams, hurts and guarded hearts. Throw in some sweet animals, a ranch, a loving large family, a lot of snow and count me snuggled up till the very last page!! You'll feel that way, too!!
Christmas stories have a special place in my heart and this one ranks close to the top with location, characters, and conflict. Kaylie gives us people to relate with - hopes and dreams, hurts and guarded hearts. Throw in some sweet animals, a ranch, a loving large family, a lot of snow and count me snuggled up till the very last page!! You'll feel that way, too!!
October 16, 2023
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm
I am a hopeless romantic! I love stories that show how vulnerable we can all be. Even someone as perfect looking as Jim (Lucky), he had hopes and dreams and things in his past he had to deal with and face so he could move past it. I loved the closeness of the Elliot family and it reminded me of my family I grew up in. I was truly happy that Jim and Rachel found their way to one another. A sweet story.
I am a hopeless romantic! I love stories that show how vulnerable we can all be. Even someone as perfect looking as Jim (Lucky), he had hopes and dreams and things in his past he had to deal with and face so he could move past it. I loved the closeness of the Elliot family and it reminded me of my family I grew up in. I was truly happy that Jim and Rachel found their way to one another. A sweet story.
November 26, 2022
This was a wonderful holiday read. Jim “Lucky” Elliott who has come to Marietta, Montana to help on his grandparents farm over the Christmas break from graduate school. He is studying to become a Veterinarian. He is torn between going back to school or stay to help keep the farm in his family. He meets Rachel O’Rourke who is a podcaster and enters a contest “First Kiss”. They find an attraction to one another and she has dreams of success and encourages him to pursue his dreams too. I enjoyed this read
November 25, 2022
this was a book i found from Bookbub and it was free at the time i got it from Amazon. it is free now if you would like to read it yourself. holiday fiction (kindle store and books) holiday romance. out October 29, 2019. i am wondering if i have read Kaylie before?? i gotta check. i am not recognizing her profile picture??! i love Montana. great state. love the read. check her out.
November 29, 2022
Love in the Air for Christmas
Beautiful love story. I didn’t want to put this book down. Very well written. I will recommend this to my friends and family. Looking forward to more from this author in the future. Excellent storyline. I want to read more about the Elliott family in the near future. Maybe another Christmas story.
Beautiful love story. I didn’t want to put this book down. Very well written. I will recommend this to my friends and family. Looking forward to more from this author in the future. Excellent storyline. I want to read more about the Elliott family in the near future. Maybe another Christmas story.
December 13, 2022
Christmas at Sleigh Bell Farm (The Elliotts of Montana Book 1)
The love story of Jim "Lucky" and Rachel. Lucky and Rachel both have dreams that their parents do not like. Lucky is studying to be a veterinarian but he dream of running a sanctuary. Rachel is running a podcast that search for love. Can they find happiness? Great story.
The love story of Jim "Lucky" and Rachel. Lucky and Rachel both have dreams that their parents do not like. Lucky is studying to be a veterinarian but he dream of running a sanctuary. Rachel is running a podcast that search for love. Can they find happiness? Great story.
December 29, 2022
Love allows for courage and faith
What a lovely story about trying to do the best for everyone. Lucky was always putting other people before himself. It was only when he met Rachel that he started to dream about what he wanted out of life. Finally due to Rachel's love and belief in him they were able to find their happily ever.
What a lovely story about trying to do the best for everyone. Lucky was always putting other people before himself. It was only when he met Rachel that he started to dream about what he wanted out of life. Finally due to Rachel's love and belief in him they were able to find their happily ever.
May 28, 2023
Touching Story
This was not your typical handsome leading man and beautiful leading lady romance. Jim (Lucky) and Rachel had some serious personal obstacles to overcome. I loved the fact that, even though this leading man had some physical flaws and insecurities, he persevered and got the girl in the end. 📖📚🙂
This was not your typical handsome leading man and beautiful leading lady romance. Jim (Lucky) and Rachel had some serious personal obstacles to overcome. I loved the fact that, even though this leading man had some physical flaws and insecurities, he persevered and got the girl in the end. 📖📚🙂
November 16, 2022
Not Just Another Christmas Story
Strong characters, a strong sense of place, and an interesting plot built on the harsh realities of rural life today are woven together with beautiful writing and a theme that meshes deeply with the original Christmas story.
Strong characters, a strong sense of place, and an interesting plot built on the harsh realities of rural life today are woven together with beautiful writing and a theme that meshes deeply with the original Christmas story.
Read
November 16, 2022Great read for those who love Montana ranchers and love stories.
This is a wonderful addition to the series. I love when a series opens up strong. The characters are wonderful and I can't wait to see what happens next. Enjoy!
This is a wonderful addition to the series. I love when a series opens up strong. The characters are wonderful and I can't wait to see what happens next. Enjoy!
December 16, 2022
Nice Christmas story with a storyline that followed two young adults who were still finding their way in the world. Descriptive sexual content made me lower the rating. I will probably not read anything further by this author due to that.
May 19, 2023
Slow and sweet
This story builds slowly, taking time to describe the feelings of our couple and remember key points in their childhood. It's sweet and full of dreams and love.
Standalone. 3rd person dual pov. No violence. Not steamy.
This story builds slowly, taking time to describe the feelings of our couple and remember key points in their childhood. It's sweet and full of dreams and love.
Standalone. 3rd person dual pov. No violence. Not steamy.
December 4, 2023
A beautiful Christmas story where love finds Lucky and Rachel even if they are not looking for it. Their story is sweet and emotional and pulls on your heartstrings, with rescue animals and family expectations and a HEA ending.
December 26, 2023
Such a great story!
Every book I have read from this author Kayliegh Newell is fabulous! I can never put them down. She brings you into the story where you feel like you are there part of all of it! Highly recommend her books. I’m seconds away from starting another one. lol
Every book I have read from this author Kayliegh Newell is fabulous! I can never put them down. She brings you into the story where you feel like you are there part of all of it! Highly recommend her books. I’m seconds away from starting another one. lol
December 11, 2024
Cute Christmas Story
Charming story about two people trying to follow their hearts while one of them tries to find a way to meet his family’s expectations. A nice start to another group of Marietta stories.
Charming story about two people trying to follow their hearts while one of them tries to find a way to meet his family’s expectations. A nice start to another group of Marietta stories.
August 12, 2025
Maybe a 3.5 for the animals, or maybe I need a break from romance.
A waitress who has dreams of making it as a podcaster meets a vet student who has come back to help his grandparents with their farm.
A waitress who has dreams of making it as a podcaster meets a vet student who has come back to help his grandparents with their farm.
December 28, 2020
Lovely book
I really enjoyed this book, it had a nice plot and sweet characters. Having it placed around Christmas made it nicer.
I really enjoyed this book, it had a nice plot and sweet characters. Having it placed around Christmas made it nicer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews