He's goin' to the chapel and he's gonna get... ghosted? What's worse than getting jilted? How about being a plasmaphobe who gets "ghosted." At the altar! Guys don't always "get into" the whole wedding thing, but Mitchell Bogaert has been anticipating that first glimpse of Brenna coming to meet him at the altar. So when the back doors open to reveal a missing bride, he's shocked, disappointed, hurt, angry-pick your negative emotion. It probably fits.
Brenna Kinsey didn't know she'd bolt at the last minute, but now she's working through it-hopefully before Mitchell decides she's not worth the emotional trauma-or the town drama!
Lauren Kinsey is more than just the kid-sister bridesmaid. She's a self-proclaimed sleuth and determined to ferret out the problem, arrive at a solution, and get things back on track before broken hearts shatter into more pieces than Humpty Dumpty. Time's running out, only the bride and groom don't realize it.
How will Lauren fix this mess before the "clock strikes midnight" and there isn't a ghost of a chance to save the marriage that never got a chance to be?
Find out in this third New Cheltenham Shopkeepers novella today!
**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached. What does that even mean? It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
Oh, Brenna! Poor Mitchell and poor Lauren. I just love Lauren. Her spunk and determination to find out the problem and get her sister married to the guy she already considers her brother, added such a fun spark to this story. I did like how Mitchell was so patient with Brenna and still loved her and wanted to marry her after everything. There were some kisses, but nothing really descriptive.
I am laughing at myself right now because I had no idea what ghosted and marriage had in common. Silly me not knowing that someone was about to be left awkwardly in front of everyone at the altar. The author delivers a funny story complete with a very opinionated teenager. Wait I take that back. She seemed more mature than the bride and groom in this story. While I liked Brenna and Mitchell, my heart went to Lauren.
I loved her attitude and determination to get these two silly people married off. Something caused Brenna to bolt but what was it? The story is lighter than most of the authors books, but it was just what I needed to lighten my gloomy mood. Things that seem so hard to talk about to others is exactly what needed to happen in this story. Oh there is much miscommunication and unsaid words that crescendo to a big mess.
Mitchell is left wondering why Brenna suddenly changed her mind sheer seconds before taking her graceful walk down the aisle. The decorations are all in order, the food is ready to serve and I Do’s are about to be declared. In a split second we have a runaway bride. Now it might seem like this is a short funny story, but just beneath the surface is the meaning for all to glean from . Forgiveness is the key in this story. Brenna does something she instantly regrets. How will she be able to explain to Mitchell why she ran? My big question was who is Charlie and how does he play into the story?
I did walk away from this story with a lesson on forgiveness. We also see the ugliness of pride and how it can turn someone bitter. I have to say what I liked the most was how a young woman of fifteen became the voice of reason and wanted the best for everyone. Do we overlook teenagers at times because we think they are too young to understand adult issues? Well shame on us for not looking past a stigmatism in the world and not look at the heart . I just got schooled on being judgmental about youth and I want to change that.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I love all things by author Chautona Havig. And the New Cheltenham setting has quickly become a favorite. The characters but also the setting as I love the idea of a quaint English village among the hustle and bustle of the United States.
Brenna is a kindred spirit with her vintage soul and love of old things. And of course the fact that she’s homeschooling. Whether it’s her sister or my children in my case it makes us alike nad makes me relate to her all the more.
Here we find precocious Lauren trying to save her sister and Mitchell’s wedding afraid Brenna left Mitch at the altar. But can she figure out the why behind it since Brenna says she still loves him and does want to marry him?
This is a fast read and I really loved it. It reads quickly and you become so wrapped up in the characters that you forget you’re reading and instead are there. You’re transported to New Cheltenham and Brenna is that sweet friend you really want to get to know better but who has always held part of herself back. And you’re about to learn what that is!
I highly recommend you read this book and all the others in this setting. Plus, of course, just really anything by this author and you can’t go wrong. You definitely won’t regret it although you may wish the book would go on forever.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I was thrilled to read Ghosted at the Altar, and my pleasure grew as the book went on. It is part of a series, and that is what made it so delightful, but it is a wonderful stand-alone book as well. It is a quick read, which is nice during the busy holiday season.
I read The Bells of New Cheltenham earlier this year, and I was smitten with that book. Ghosted was amazing in that it took place concurrently with The Bells. It is an excellent companion book. Some events crossed over, and for me as a reader, that is a lot of fun. Also, in The Bells, I met Mitchell, but didn't think too much about him. Then while reading Ghosted, I realized how much he had going on in his life, with severe deadlines and so much on the line. He had a right to be distracted, or less personable, and I understand that now. However, as I read Ghosted, I realized that Mitchell is an amazingly patient, giving, and loving man and he deserves all the kudos for that.
The highlight of this book for me was the relationship between Brenna and Mitchell. They knew each other so well, and loved each other so well, that the reader easily falls in love with them. Throw in the kid sister who is devoted to their marital happiness, and you have a family that you can't help but love.
I recommend this book to fans of Havig's work, and also to someone who enjoys a great Christmas romance.
I received an e-ARC of this book from the author, through Celebrate Lit, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
My Review: I love reading Chautona Havig’s books because she creates such interesting characters, and she allows us to get to know them. She’s also given us a beautiful community of friends and family in New Cheltenham. I’ve read many of her books, but I think, as of right now, this one is my favorite.
Although the main characters in this book are really Brenna and Mitchell, it was the character of Lauren that I thought gave this story it’s sparkle. Lauren’s an almost-fifteen year old whose wisdom and insight into people make her seem to be older than her years, but she retains enough teenage immaturity to make her delightful. Lauren’s greatest wish is to see Brenna and Mitchell marry, so she enlists the help of her good friend, Walker, to help her unravel the mystery of why Brenna panicked before walking up the aisle. As Brenna seeks to understand her own heart, Lauren is there to help Brenna and Mitchell find their way back to each other.
I know that in this series, some of these stories are taking place near the same time. I also realize that Lauren’s still young, but I’m hoping that at some point, the author will allow Lauren to grow up and have her own romance—and maybe it will be with Walker.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
So.... If I could take a dream vacation - I would want to visit the New Cheltenham setting. I am so happy to be returning to this real feeling town. The author has done such an amazing job creating it. In this lovely story we meet Brenna Kinsey. Brenna is slated to marry Mitchell Bogaert. Mitchell is looking so forward to seeing Brenna come down the aisle. Even though I knew it was going to happen (thanks to the description) when the doors open there was no bride my heart dropped a little. Mitchell reacted in a way that I did not expect him too - instead of being upset, he showed forgiveness. He really wanted to help her get to the bottom of why she decided to bolt. While I loved both of these characters - Lauren Kinsey Brenna's sister is the star of the show. (NOTE TO AUTHOR - PLEASE WRITE A STORY ON LAUREN DOWN THE ROAD!!) Lauren is a book lover, super sleuth and wants to solve this puzzle. Lauren is 14 years old - and so mature for her age - she will make you fall in love with her character immediately. Will Mitchell and Brenna get married? What can we learn from the overall theme of forgiveness? You must give this quick Christmas story a read.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging program - all thoughts are my own.
What would make a bride run away on her wedding day? That is what both Mitchell and his future sister-in-law Lauren are attempting to find out. Especially since the love of Mitchell's life, Brenna, did just that. Where do they go from there?
Brenna is certainly dealing with some issues I am not even sure she thought would be an issue. She can't even believe she ran away from Mitchell on her wedding day.
What I liked about this story was the kindness and mercy that Mitchell showed to Brenna. He did not take the path of lashing out, he only sought to understand and help Brenna. In those choices, even though deep down he was mighty frustrated (understandably so), made him quite a romantic hero.
Throw in the help of Lauren a 14 year old lover of books and wanna be sleuth, and you have a team that is going to get to the bottom of Brenna's doubts and woo her back to the altar. A fun novella for this Christmas season.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
I honestly wasn’t sure what to think of Ghosted at the Altar by Chautona Havig for much of the story. Brenna flees her wedding to Mitchell but still loves him and wants to marry him? There’s a very unusual premise. What made me like this novel was its ending. All of the sudden, I ”got it.” What had previously made little sense to me before, now made perfect sense. A literary coup d’etat as Brenna, Mitchell, and Brenna’s sister, Lauren, travel from the botched wedding to the finale. Havig took me from incredulity to applause. I do wish some of the characters had more openly shared their feelings. Unfortunately, many times people choose not to be transparent, and life truly is as messy as the novel. Lauren was an amazing character. She often seemed to be the one in the ”mothering” position of the two orphaned girls, although she was only fourteen. I also loved finding out just exactly why Aunt (gimme) Mercy was called that. Hilarious! I received a copy of the book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I am voluntarily leaving my thoughts, and all opinions are my own.
Ghosted at the Altar is a Christmas romance story written by Chautona Havig. This is a well written story that brings back characters from the earlier stories in the series. So it is best to read them in the order the author suggests below to get the full story.
The story opens with Mitchell waiting at the altar for Brenna to walk through the doors, but no one is opening the doors and she flees. Both admit they love each other and want to eventually get married. With her sister’s help, he is able to understand what caused her to flee.
This is a fun story to read. I enjoyed the humor written in with the character of the girls’ aunt. Brenna’s sister is my favorite character in this story. She has so much energy and wants to help others so much. Her love for others shines through the story. This is a nice story of having faith in and supporting others as they work through things in their past.
I received an ebook copy of this story from the author through Celebrate Lit, this is my honest review.
A fun Christmas read full of quirky, loveable characters.
I didn't realise that Ghosted at the Altar was actually the sequel of The Ghosts of New Cheltenham when I started reading it, so I was slightly confused every now and then as to who everybody was. I'd definitely recommend reading the first book before this one. That said, I still enjoyed Ghosted at the Altar, and was able to figure out what was going on pretty easily.
My absolute favourite character was Lauren (the heroine's younger sister). She really brought the story together and I was giggling at her antics the whole way through! And while I enjoyed the main characters and their story, the main reason I'm planning on going back and reading book one is to see more of Lauren. I'd absolutely love it if she got her own story in future!
I'd recommend it to fans of Christmas, wedding stories, and anyone who has read book one.
(I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit Tours. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.)
Ghosted at the Altar is a contemporary romance novella by Chautona Havig. It is the third story in the New Cheltenham Shopkeepers series, and although it could be considered a stand-alone, I'd recommend reading the first one as I think it would add more depth and background to the story. The author does a great job of keeping the reader wondering why in the world would a bride run away just as she is to walk down the aisle. And then wondering is it the end of that relationship, or will Brenna be able to face her fears and return to Mitchell? I love the character of Lauren, the teenaged sister. She just takes the situation in hand and is determined to see her sister get married. Set around the Christmas season, Ghosted at the Altar is a fun and quick read. Readers who enjoy quirky characters, holiday stories, and a sweet romance will not want to miss this one. I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit, and I was not required to write a favorable review. The opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.
Ghosted at the Altar by Chautona Havig is a cute, quick Christmas romance novella. I love the setting and the dynamics between the characters. I can’t say enough about the name Aunt (gimme) Mercy. I love books that make me chuckle, and this one did just that. At first, I struggled with the point of view changes. They were all done well, but it stopped me from really getting to know any of the characters until pretty far into the book. In all, there were 3 points of view: the bride, the groom, and the bride’s younger sister. I was a little surprised by the 16-year-old sister’s point of view being such a big part of a book about her sister’s not quite marriage falling apart, but she ended up being my favorite character. I look forward to more stories from New Cheltenham. I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.
This novel’s intriguing, quirky characters explore the intricacies of relationships and love. Who would expect a couple’s sweetly planned wedding to hit a hitch and implode? Mitchell Bogaert can hardly wait to see Brenna Kinsey coming down the aisle to join her life to his. So why would she turn tail and flee? The story shares the journey of winning her back from the jitters that caused her to run, along with the help of Brenna’s younger sister, Lauren, whom she’s raising. Chautona Havig always writes fun tales that tickle the imagination and cause the mind to consider new possibilities, even though they’re fictional. Who knows what lessons we might find to incorporate into our own lives? So come along for the ride in this sweet romance with sort of a reverse Cinderella vibe. I have enjoyed the books set in this fun tourist town reminiscent of England. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
Ghosted at the Altar is the third installment from Chautona Havig’s New Cheltenham Shopkeepers series. Even though it is part of a series, I believe this one can be read as a stand alone. This one is probably my favorite of the series to date. It had some fun light hearted humor that made me giggle at times. I loved the characters of Brenna, Mitchell, and Lauren. I had no problem reading this quick story read in one sitting. So very good. Ghosted at the Altar is getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love sweet romance and those sweet during the magical time of Christmas. I have no doubt they will fall in love with this story like I did. I received Ghosted at the Altar from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I had to jump at the chance to read this book. The New Cheltenham area is a lot of fun. No one wants to be ghosted, much less at the alter! Even so, Michelle has a runaway bride situation. Why? There's the mystery, what would make her not marry on her wedding day? Told with three POV's and I wish it had a bit more of that, we get to know Michelle, Brenna, and 14 year old, super amazing, Lauren. She just about stole the show. With a lot of mercy, in more ways than one, when you read the characters, this book is all about forgiveness, hope, kindness, patience, and second chances. It's a lovely addition to this series and possibly the strongest book so far in the series.
Thank you to Celebrate Lit for my copy of this book. This review is my own, left of my own free will. A positive review isn't required, it's how I feel about the book!
I always enjoy the books by this author. This one was good too. Ghosted is a term I've heard, but had never thought about it with a wedding. I felt so bad for Mitchell when there was no one at the end of the isle. Lauren was my favorite character though.
Lauren wasn't the center of it all, but she kind of was. She wanted to help so much with Mitchell and Brenna. Brenna still loves Mitchell but can't marry him? There is more to it than that and Lauren is determined to get to the bottom of it. It was really a good story and I can't wait for more from Chautona.
It was a 4/5.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Chautona Havig writes books that remain some of my favorite books. The setting of New Cheltenham brings this series of books to life. I dreamed of a happily, ever after for Mitchell and Brenna. Plus, the fact Brenna homeschools her younger sister Lauren draws me into the story even more.
I found myself caught up in this story as much as earlier stories including these characters. This book provides the perfect quick read for the holidays with the twist of a groom left at the altar, a bride who still wants to marry him, and the bride’s little sister who meddles.
While this book is part of a series, I feel it could be a stand-alone book as well. So check it out for yourself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
What a fun book! The characters that author Chautona Havig has developed are so honestly human. Fears, doubts, pain, love, and laughter, there’s something for everyone! Brenna suffers doubts due to the past. Mitchell is an all around nice guy with a heart full of forgiveness. Lauren. Cute, teenage Lauren who wants her sister happy seems more mature than that sister. I loved her and hope we see more of her. Throw in a crazy aunt for good measure and you’ll be laughing.
If you enjoy a sweet contemporary romance with all the feels, then I recommend Ghosted at the Altar.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Well done! SO well done! What a beginning – what a story! Charming, complicated and clever characters interact ingeniously in a very special town. This truly well-written tale has it all - witty repartee, light-hearted humor, complicated romance, and oh so many endearing moments. So much to enjoy! Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
"Ghosted at the Altar" by Chautona Havig is a fun read about a runaway bride. It has a teenager who seems to be wiser than Mitchell and Brenna. This is a story about forgiveness. I have to say that Chautona Havig is a favorite author of mine. I love her humor. This is a quick Christmas romance novella.
I was given a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
Mitchell was just so sweet and patient with Brenna and I love that about him.
Lauren is hilarious and made this story so much fun.
Brenna. Ugh! That girl! I didn't fully get why she would get as panicked as she did, but I tried to understand. I actually really appreciated the discussion questions at the end because it was some of my own thoughts. I also didn't get why she waited so long to explain it all to Mitchell.
Overall, it was a fun short story that I really enjoyed.
Ghosted at the Altar by Chautona Havig is a delightful, fun read. This story includes romance and an inspirational message. There’s even a bit of mystery. Set at Christmas time the characters are believable and loveable. Chautona has the ability to transport you into the story with her carefully crafted descriptions! New Cheltenham is a place I long to visit again and again – through well written books! I appreciate the Christian perspective featured in this story. The Lord can and does help us through the most difficult and trying times if we seek Him. The vulnerability and hurt in this book is palpable. I would recommend this book for anyone that enjoys well written Christian fiction and those that enjoy a good Christmas novella. Even though this book is a novella, there is a lot packed into the story. Worth the read. This book was provided through Celebrate Lit and the author for my review. The opinions expressed are my own thoughts.
Some book choices are no-brainers, and this is one. If Chautona Havig writes a book, I will read it, and I will enjoy it—it's as simple as that! This one is a bit fluffier than many of hers, but there are some very good themes discussed in it anyway. The need to forgive oneself for past mistakes comes through clearly, as well as the need to accept others' forgiveness for those mistakes. I loved watching Mitchell and Lauren try to figure out what would have made Brenna run from the altar and get it fixed—Lauren is great! I hope she figures in her own story someday! I received a free copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.