The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay

Blitzen Bay #1

by Donna Schwartze

A sweet and spirited romantic comedy.

Noelle’s getting married three days before Christmas. It’s a dream come true—for her mom. For Noelle, it’s starting to feel like the walls are closing in. She’s known for months that something’s changing—namely, her fiancé. He’s becoming someone she doesn’t know anymore. She’s tried to ignore it, but her gut’s telling her that she’s marrying the wrong person.

Nash retired from the army three months ago. He’s not in the Christmas mood this year. He just wants to be left alone. His high school buddy’s getting married in a few days. He has no desire to go, but every time he tries to throw the invitation out, an alarm goes off in his head. For some reason, he feels like he’s supposed to be there.

It’s thirty minutes before the wedding starts. Noelle’s in her wedding dress. Nash is in his seat. The universe is trying to bring these two strangers together. Can the magic of Christmas deliver a miracle before it’s too late?

Genres: Romance, Christmas, Rom Com, Contemporary, Holiday, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook

262 pages, ebook

Published August 6, 2021

About the author

Attention: I'm in the process of changing all of my books over to my pen name, Millie Banks. For a few months, you will see both names, Donna Schwartze and Millie Banks, on my books. Thanks for your patience as I make this transition.

Reviews

[Heather Adores Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐
Genre ~ Holiday fiction
Series ~ Blitzen Bay #1
Setting ~ California
Publication date ~ August 6, 2021
Page Count ~ 266 (39 chapters + 3 e’s)
Audio length ~ 5 hours 58 minutes
Narrators ~ Stella Hunter, Robert Hatchet
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ college student, ex military, small town, no steamage

Noelle (23) & Nash (27)
Noelle is having second thoughts about marrying Steve, so with only 25 minutes before the ceremony she hightailed it outta there, vial flying and right in the back of Nash’s truck. With barely a second guess he drives her away and to the quaint town of Blitzen Bay.

I am not even a super big fan of Christmas, but I totally want to visit Blitzen Bay. What an adorable sounding small town. It does take place during Christmas week, but it’s not overly Christmasy. My only gripe is that I don’t love when Christmas sounding names are in my Christmas books, ie: Noelle & Holly.

Overall, this was super adorable. A bit of slow burn, but not really. You’ll just have to read it to see what I mean.

*Thanks to Donna Schwartze, Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*

Narration notes:
Perfect!

Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

[Lulye · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot : On her wedding day, Noelle knows in her gut that marrying her fiancé is a mistake but feels cornered by her family and the pressure they put on her. What’s a bride to do ? Run away with the help of a handsome stranger of course. After his retirement from the military, Nash is frozen in time, his life passing him by. A wedding he only attends as a favor to his mother (in clothes that are a couple sizes too small, no less) is bound to change things for the better.

*Wow, I should really start writing blurbs for novels. This one was pretty good if I do say so myself (lol please don’t take that seriously).

This was a sweet romantic comedy with a light tone and likable leads and supporting characters. Christmas spirit and fun snow activities that inspired envy were embellishing the background which made it a fun read all around. It had a very slow start, the hero and the heroine only met at the 26% mark. However, I’m more than happy to let that go because it was the best meet cute ever, what with Nash helping Noelle with her escape and not acting self-righteous about it the least bit.

I will not hide the fact that the thing that appealed to me the most in this book was Nash. He was mainly easygoing, incredibly chivalrous and respectful but also a little brooding. I can’t get over the fact that when he saw a bride climbing into the back of his truck, his first instinct was to help her pull up her train, rather than expose her or ask her what she was doing ! The lack of judgment shines so bright in this guy, it’s almost blinding me. He’s truly a gem.

I do wish that the HEA was explored a little bit more, I’m a sucker for those cheesy ones but even if it wasn’t one of those, I prefer longer time jumps, just to reassure my insecure ass that the main characters are still together. And yes, you can make fun of that.

Stray observations :

- No spice // Short chapters (I know it can be important to some people)
- I liked the author’s direct approach when it came to the resolution of all the drama caused by Noelle when she left Steve at the altar.
- I liked it a lot when the main character is giving us an inside monologue packed with background information, she’s suddenly pulled away from her thoughts by her friend. The inner monologues the narrators have while in the midst of active conversation with other characters sometimes do take me out of the book ! Watch this clip from Community and you’ll see what I mean.

I was provided an ARC of this book and I thank the author and the publishing team for it !

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas is a magical time of year and let’s be honest the town of Blitzen Bay is enough to put you in the holiday spirit but it’s the residents and their journey that really light up the holiday season.
Donna Schwartze is a fairly new author to me but after reading this magical read I need to take at look at her previous works as well as keeping an eye out for future releases.
Noelle is due to get married in three days but she knows something is not right, she knows her future is not with the man she is meant to be marrying. Nash is attending the wedding as a guest and he has honestly no idea why the groom invited him because they were only casual friends in college. So when Noelle decides to run Nash is right there to help her and what follows is a romance about two people who come into each other’s life’s just when they needed each other. We all know fate often works in mysterious ways and it seems fate is determined to push this couple together, it a journey about finding yourself as well as finding love, it’s a heartwarming, magical read that I highly recommend. If you love the holiday season and small town romances look no further than The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay, you won’t be disappointed. Beautifully written, magical read.

[☽｡⋆ Shells (jlreads_) · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @40%

The start was really intriguing and interesting however, after those parts everything went downhill.

I just couldn't connect with the characters anymore as well as the plot and found it a little bit too quick at all.


*Thank you Netgalley for the e-arc.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 star review of The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay by Donna Schwartze
If you love the holiday season like I do, then this book is for you. What's not to love? It's the most magical time of the year.

Donna Schwartze is a new author to me and I am surprised I have not come across her books before. This may have been my first book but it won’t be my last. I enjoyed her style of writing and could easily picture myself in Blitzen Bay (I just love that name).

The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay was a story of a journey. Noelle is getting married in three days, but all is not right. Her fiancee Steve appears to have changed and she has an uneasy feeling that she is marrying the wrong man. Nash, despite not wanting to, is attending his friend’s wedding as something is telling him he must.

When Noelle runs from the wedding, Nash is there to help her. Do you believe, in destiny or fate? I do. Noelle is in desperate need of time to think and map out her plans for her life and with Nash’s help, she gets it. I loved Nash, what a caring and protective man he is. Noelle’s journey of self discovery was heart warming, I admired her strength and it was great to see the patient Nash waiting for her at the end of it.

[Henil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the eARC in exchange of my honest review.

The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay is story of Nash, retired ex-military and Noelle, aspiring law student. As the title says Noelle can no longer her gut feeling that something is wrong, and she doesn't want to get married. Five days before Christmas is late to accept the truth, still it's never too late. So, Noelle, leaves her current fiancé at the alter and runs away with help of her cousin. On running away, she bumps into Nash, who is former team mate of her ex-fiancé. Their eyes meet and they know something is there but it's too early. Noelle aka Elle just left her fiancé and Nash isn't looking for love. Yet.

So, Nash helps Elle escape the wedding. They end up in Blitzen Bay where Nash is living. Noelle falls for beautiful Blitzen Bay and Nash, however she doesn't want Nash to be her rebound guy so, she leaves and what happens then… you gotta read the story but spoiler alert, it's a HEA…

The Runaway bride of Blitzen bay is quirky, cute and sweet romantic comedy with flowing writing, great cast of characters. It's an insta-love, opposite attract romcom; curling up with your favorite blanket and drink is recommended!!

[mai !! · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was so fun to read!

Rating: 3.5/5

Synopsis:

Noelle’s getting married in three days. It’s a dream come true—for her mom. For Noelle, it’s starting to feel like the walls are closing in. She’s known for months that something’s changing—namely, her fiancé. He’s becoming someone she doesn’t know anymore. She’s tried to ignore it, but her gut’s telling her that she’s marrying the wrong person.
Nash retired from the military three months ago. He’s not in the mood to celebrate anything. He just wants to be left alone. His high school buddy’s getting married in a few days. He has no desire to go, but every time he tries to throw the invitation out, an alarm goes off in his head. For some reason, he feels like he’s supposed to be there.
It’s thirty minutes before the wedding starts. Noelle’s in her wedding dress. Nash is in his seat. The universe is trying to bring these two strangers together. Is it ever too late to meet the man of your dreams?

Thank you NetGalley for giving me an eARC!!

[Fayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks NetGalley and Victory Editing for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review

This one was a solid good book for me. I picked it up and read it all in less than two days, the writing was really flowing and I couldn’t put it down.
I really enjoyed the premise of the story and even though the majority of the story happens in the spam of four days, I could really believe the feelings going on between the main characters.
Two things I would like to point out are:
1. This book is advertised as adult but sometimes it felt like everyone in the story was a teenager (even when handling adult matters).
2. It is soooo dialogue heavy, and don’t get me wrong I don’t like when the book is all monologue either, and I guess it is what made the book flow so fast, but perhaps it could be more mixed of the two methods.
Other than that it was a really cute and feel good book and I’m looking forward to reading the next one in the series.

[Krystal - nerdy_book_lover_1987 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved and enjoyed this little holiday romance. I really liked Nash and how sweet and caring this man is! Noelle... she's a character. I'm pretty sure her hiding from her soon to be husband in the bed of Nashs truck on there wedding day was my favorite part. I mean... hey if it's not right then don't do it ya know! And the little town of Blitzen Bay and the people in it were the best! I need to find me a small town like that (and maybe even a Nash)! Cute, fun and quick little holiday romance. Perfect for Christmas time!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this sweet rom-com. Elle escape from her nuptials was funny. She receives assistance from Nash as she jumps in the back of his truck. She discovers the quaint and quirky characters of small town Blitzen Bay. Elle appreciates the solace to figure out her future. Grumpy and sullen retired soldier Nash Young is surprised by feisty Elle. Narrators Stella Hunter and Robert Hatchet did a great job with the audio.

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 3 out of 5]

Noelle ditches her wedding at the very last minute and is rescued by mountain man Nash.
I loved Nash. He is a huge sweetheart who falls hard for Elle. I’m not quite as fond of Elle. I thought she was a bit ditzy and immature. She waited on other people to bail her out.
She was unsure of so many things and I do fear Nash is rebound man,
I love the community of Blitzen Bay.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy.

[Pam Jackson-gorsline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blitzen bay

This is a good story with many twists and turns that keeps you reading. The characters were likeable and interesting.

[Welzen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Estamos cerca de las Navidades así que toca empezar a imbuirse del espíritu navideño que leyendo ñoñas novelas románticas. También sirven las películas pero la verdad es que prefiero los libros porque a las primeras las encuentro demasiado edulcoradas para mi irónica visión de la vida.

Este es mi primer libro Navidad 2021 y como cualquier cuento de Navidad empieza con un problema y termina muy bien. Lo que me atrajo de esta novela es que todo comienza con una novia que huye de su boda y termina en un pequeño pueblo en donde encuentra el amor.

Nuestra heroína es Noelle, quien con veintitrés años, y se va a casar con el hombre con el que ha estado viviendo los últimos dos años. Se siente abrumada por su madre, una mujer muy controladora, y porque no se siente cómoda casándose unos días antes de Navidad. En su boda descubre que tiene dudas, muchas de ellas sacadas a la luz por su prima mayor, así que antes de decir el « sí, quiero » huye, escondiéndose en el coche de Nash, un antiguo compañero de deporte de su prometido en sus días de estudiante de instituto.

Nash no quería ir a la boda, no se llevaba bien con el novio pero su madre insiste y él siente que debe ir, aunque no quiera. Su plan, es presentarse, dejarse ver y largarse en cuanto pueda. Pero sus planes se tuercen un poco cuando termina con una novela huida en su coche.

Una de las cuestiones a considerar en esta novela es el tiempo. Desde que Noelle se encuentra con Nash hasta que quedan claros sus sentimientos, pasan unos días. Días. No semanas, o meses. Días. Estos romances de «te veo y eres la mujer o el hombre de mi vida » me resultan muy peculiares. No digo yo que no sea posible, pero la logística de ello hace que no todo sea tan fácil. Puede que para muchas lectores este corto periodo de tiempo no importe, es una novela de amor velocidad autopista rápida, pero es que Noelle se iba a casar con una persona con la que ha convivido más de dos años. Se suponía que lo amaba. Que iba a ser la madre de sus hijos.

Noelle es una mujer de veintitrés años con la madurez de una niña de cinco y siendo generosa. Hija única, es una chica rubia del medio oeste con un buen porte, que fue a estudiar a California. Terminados sus estudios de Relaciones internacionales quiere embarcase en la carrera de abogacía. Fue allí donde conoció a su prometido, el hijo de una millonaria familia, con el que establece una relación que termina en una gran y exclusiva boda, para deleite de su estirada madre. Hoy precisamente leí una frase que decía que el tener una carrera universitaria te da conocimientos pero no indica que seas inteligente. Y este es el caso. Noelle es descrita como una joven indecisa, frágil que necesita ser cuidada, pero sin pasarse porque ahora no se permite en la literatura romántica que el hombre cuide a la mujer así que hay cierto aire de libertad. Aún así, a lo largo de la novela Noelle deja que todo el mundo la cuide y la mime. Por ejemplo, desde el principio Noelle abraza y se acurruca en los brazos de Nash como si se conocieran de toda la vida. A mi eso te conozco desde hace una hora pero me lanzo a tus brazos y entierro mi nariz en tu pecho porque así me siento segura, me parece raro. Supongo que si el hombre hiciera lo mismo con la protagonista acabaría acusado de acoso sexual o algo peor.

En cualquier caso, las únicas acciones propias que toma Noelle son huir. Sinceramente no le ha gustado mucho esta protagonista, le falta carácter y fortaleza en su manera de afrontar su realidad y sus acciones. Ella es débil de carácter no porque las circunstancias lo han establecido, y es además egoísta al buscar su propia felicidad sin considerar lo que sus acciones causarán en la personas que la rodean.

Con respecto a Nash, él tiene sus traumas. O sea, es el típico protagonista cercano a los treinta que ha dejado el ejército y ahora busca una nueva vida después de perder a un amigo en una contienda. No se le conoce oficio ni beneficio salvo que vive de momento de su paga como ex militar y de sus ahorros desde que hace un año dejó el ejército. Es un vivo contraste con Noelle que tiene claro qué quiere hacer en la vida.

La relación entre ellos es rápida. Nash la ve con el vestido de novia y se le cae la baba. Y ella le gusta también desde el principio. Le añadimos un ex prometido enfadado -y con razón porque Noelle no le da ninguna explicación porque según ella, ella es dueña de su vida y tiene que buscar su propia felicidad y a los demás que les den-, una madre furiosa, un padre agotado, unos vecinos muy amables y simpáticos, un par de lesbianas (abrazo a las diversidad), alguna que otra referencia a los derechos de la mujer, un tipo que parece San Nicolas... y ya tengo el Belén montado.

Con todo esto no quiero decir que no sea una agradable lectura, que lo es, pero es una muestra de lo que se cuece en la sociedad y de como la novela romántica sigue siendo una área en donde los estereotipos siguen sobreviviendo aunque sea a cambio de cambiar el rol entre los protagonistas.

¿Recomendable? Es una lectura rápida, con gente muy amable y otros no tanto. Romance rápido que implica besuqueo y nada más.

[Isabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I only accept clients who crawl into the back of my truck. Luckily that limits my responsibility only to crazy runaway brides.”

[Gabriella Lucarelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
The perfect book to pull me out of a reading slump. So so so cute

[♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Noelle & Nash

The storyline for this book was good and had great potential, but I feel like everything was kinda rushed and not realistic.

[Karrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so didn’t want this to end. Noelle was due to get married to someone Nash knew back in Texas. I wouldn’t exactly call him and Steve friends… Nash is pretty much fresh out of the military when Noelle is supposed to get married, well she ends up being a runaway bride with Nash’s help. She was Nash’s chaos to his calm. Noelle stays in Blitzen Bay during the week of Christmas and leaves right after. Even though she just broke off from Steve who had changed within the two years together she feels more for Nash then she ever did with Steve. But she needed to find herself first. Nash and Noelle end up together in the end, but as for their future only they know what’s going to happen.

[KristieReadsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Updated 10/24/22 - audiobook review added
It was wonderful to come back and listen to this story as an audiobook. I love audiobooks because they bring a whole new dynamic to the story. Stella Hunter and Robert Hatchet were the PERFECT voices for these characters. They brought perfection emotion and depth to each one. Stella’s voice for Elle is so sweet, yet strong and determined. While Robert’s deep, raspy voice was fantastic for Nash.

Congratulations to Donna on her first audiobook!!!

I received a complimentary audio copy and I’m leaving my honest review.


This was a fun read…made me smile, laugh and I fell in love with these two characters.

Elle makes a snap decision (well..there was a lot leading up to the decision) that takes her on a journey of self discovery. Blitzen Bay is the perfect place for her to think.

Nash - we all need a Nash in our life! He is at the right place at the right time and provides Elle assistance on her new journey.

The additional characters living in Blitzen Bay are fabulous, warm and provide great support to Nash and Elle.

This is a lovely, heartwarming story that will make you want to go sledding and drink some peppermint hot chocolate!

[delaney · Rating 3 out of 5]

TW: mentions of military service/injury/death
Tropes: Christmas season, insta-love/insta-attraction

This book was such a quick and easy read! Just what I was looking for to kick off my reading for the month. Elle & Nash are adorable.

Noelle (Elle) was all set to marry her college sweetheart, Steve, just a few days before Christmas. Nash, an estranged high school friend of Steve’s, decided to attend the wedding after much pressure from his mom. Long story short, Elle realizes Steve sucks and leaves him at the altar! Nash is her getaway driver and takes her to the small town where he lives called Blitzen Bay. It’s all history from there!

Nash is patient and kind and Elle is so soft hearted. The side characters in this book were lovely - but very intrusive. I see why they needed to be so, in order to advance the plot, but having random people in a bar asking a woman fresh off of running out of her wedding one hundred personal questions is a little too much. 😂 I also would have liked to hear more about Elle’s reasons for going to law school; when asked about it she really didn’t have an answer for why?

This book is sweet, but buyer beware - if you’re looking for spice this is not the book for you! Kisses only.

Definitely a good Christmas season read!

[Aleeda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Am I the only one wondering if Nash has a brother? Hopefully my age and single ~ but seriously.

What a beautiful book ❤ Fast paced with heart lifting diaglogue.
The natural witty banter is straight couple goals!

Makes you really address what is important in life. Too often are family or partner expectations pushed on someone. Figure out what makes you happy and be happy!

Cannot wait for the second book ~

[A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was great. I was worried that the runaway bride theme would be a problem for me, but it was handled very well. The dialogue was amusing, and the side characters added a lot. Loved this sweet, clean romance. Would have liked more of look ahead into the HEA. Will read more by this author for sure.

[Saundra Broadus · Rating 3 out of 5]

The ending … really?

Not a typical runaway bride story … which was great. I wanted more at the end. It would have been nice to give have Elle visit Blitzen Bay once more.

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Story & Narration🎧 An Enjoyable Delight!
The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay
The Blitzen Bay Series
By: Donna Schwartze
Narrated by: Stella Hunter, Robert Hatchett

This fabulously delightful romantic comedy has small town charm and the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and slow burn romance. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it straight to the end. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are easy to care about too. Noelle’s Christmas themed wedding is a dream wedding, her mother’s dream wedding who is fanatical about everything Christmas and the why she named her daughter Noelle. Topping it off, her mother is a real momzilla for her wedding preparations. The night before her wedding, Noelle learns her fiancé has been making plans for their future without consulting her, adding to her second thoughts about the marriage. One her wedding day she is all ready to walk down the aisle but makes a run for it instead, hiding in the back of a pickup truck. Nash recently retired from the military, with the holidays approaching he just wants to be left alone, and Blitzen Bay is the perfect place for him, the people are friendly and give him the space he needs. He had received a wedding invitation for a former teammate he played with in school, he was not sure why since they were not that close. He really did not want to go, but went anyway. The wedding did not turn out like any he has ever been to, a woman is singing Christmas carols and not well, so he left only to find a surprise hiding out in his truck bed. Nash first appears a grump but softens up to Noelle and agrees to help her get away and takes her up to Blitzen Bay. I loved how everything played out in this book, it is a wonderfully plotted story that is endearing and heartwarming. There are some amazing secondary characters too. Donna Schwartze, thank you for this fabulous story, the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful narration, Stella Hunter and Robert Hatchett do an amazing job bringing these characters to life, and do so with a complete understanding of each of their character’s personas. I loved how they took each role and made it their own, sounding natural and believable in every role they played. Besides nailing it in the lead roles, both were just as fabulous performing the roles of the secondary characters too. They set the perfect tone for the story, handle the witty dialogue with ease and land the humor effortlessly. You could hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture all the character’s emotions and project them into their performance, making you feel every single one. These entertaining storytellers are versatile voice artists and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this great listen.

[patrick Lorelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a very funny book that also has moments of seriousness also. Noel who was not born around Christmas but was named that because her mother is obsessed with the holiday is getting married in three days. Her mother is extremely excited, over the top to the point of when she arrives at the venue, she realizes that there are not enough decorations, watch out. Noel becomes more stressed out and wishes for her grandmother but she has passed. She does get some saving grace from her cousin. Her cousin does help her, especially the night before the wedding when she finds out her fiancé has decided without telling her that they are moving to Texas regardless of her acceptance into law school in January. He was going to tell her on their honeymoon.
Enter Nash who has been medically retired from the Service for three months. On a phone call with his mother who lives in Texas she wants him to go to the wedding of a family friend who is in Los Angeles. He lives in the mountains of Big Bear. Just to appease he agrees. Not really wanting to go this just throws off his plan of doing what? That is it. Arriving in his pickup not new he is surprised to see that Christmas has exploded not in a good way inside. While waiting he has to leave because Noel’s cousin has gotten ahold of the mic and started to sing jingle bells and not in a good way. This is done as a diversion to allow Noel to make her escape which does and ends up in the back of Nash’s truck. He helps her escape and takes her to his town. There she is loved by everyone and slowly he begins to fall for her as well. There is so much I am leaving out that you really must read this book just for the characters in the town. The relationship between them ends when her cousin comes and gets her and Noel leaves without saying goodbye to Nash. Heartbreak yes but needed to be done. Still reading this book to see who it ends with it has a very good ending that surprised me but the author did well. This book has so many wonderful characters I don’t know when I read a book and either laughed or smiled so much, which is rough for me I don’t normally smile. I would give it more than five stars if I could. I received this book from Netgalley.com

[Just Love books · Rating 4 out of 5]

For any girl her wedding day is supposed to be the happiest day of her life but for Noelle it is starting to feel like her worst nightmare, with her mother taking over the entire thing Noelle can’t help but feel like all the walls are closing in on her… which is why she runs, she just did not expect her get away to be with a grouchy retired military man Nash. When Nash agreed to attending the wedding of an old school friend he never expected to be leaving the wedding early or with the bride hiding in the back of his truck! Maybe this little lady in a hole lot of white tulle is just the thing that Nash needs to be pushed out of his comfort zone and really start living again…

…

Firstly let me just start of by saying how cute is this cover! The cover was the first thing that drew me to this book and let me just tell you that it did not disappoint one bit! I love the entire grump meets sunshine trope and this was Noelle and Nash down to a tee. For the most part this was a light cute read with a touch of Christmasy goodness laced through the novel.

..

I will say that it took a while for this book to get going but once it did it was fun non stop, as far as meet cutes go this is definitely up there with the best of them with Nash saving Noelle on her wedding day, the entire ball of tulle in his truck thing was both hilarious and cute. I really liked getting to see these total opposites coming together and Noelle pushing Nash way out of his comfort zone. I think that it is safe to say the best part of this book was Nash himself, not only did he have some gravel to his past but I loved that he was a gentleman to his core and in all his encounters with Noelle he was super chivalrous and respectful. I loved that he never once judged her or demanded that she explain herself. Also I just loved that Nash just gave Noelle a nickname of his own without really even knowing her at all, this was just too cute.

..

The Runaway Bride Of Blitzen Bay is a definite must read, this book is sugar sweet with a silly cute romance set in a small snow town with load of meddlesome towns folks.

[Louise Pike (books.magic.escape) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was ecstatic when I got The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay (Blitzen Bay series) by Donna Schwartze from the ARC book from netgalley. Now I’ve read every single book of Donna’s, as I absolutely adore her writing,characters and world building. So much love goes into it, and over time I really feel like I've connected with the fabulous gang for more laughter and action.

"𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚'𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙛𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩," 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙨." 𝙄𝙩'𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜."

We are introduced to new characters in this book, the first one being Noelle Ivy Clark. Noelle is amazing, let's just say she knows how to make an exit from the wedding walkway, laughing out loud. This is were introduced to the amazing and sweet Nash Young, who is  retired from the Military. If you're thinking does he know them characters from the Military, the answer would be yes. This book was so wonderfully done, I loved that the book is Noelle and Nash POVs. I love reading different characters' point of views, as you get the story from both sides and make it that more exciting. There are very sweet characters introduced and of course some not so good. So many amazing scenes  in this read. Also happy and sad tearful moments. I wish blitzen Bay was a real place that sounds absolutely magical and a calming place. 

"𝙄 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙢𝙖'𝙖𝙢".
"𝙍𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙠. 𝙃𝙢𝙢, 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪'𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣 𝙪𝙥 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩."

Donna’s done it yet again, I didn't want to read this too fast, as I didnt want it to be over. But of course I failed, once I started that was in it I was in their world. That's what is so incredible about this series, it's like my happy place to escape for a few hours. It's fast paced and has the most heart melting romance that will leave you giddy. If you haven't read any of Donna's books I can't recommend them enough, they are absolutely phenomenal read.

[Mansi Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book's tropes are:-
❣Opposite attracts
❣Love at first sight
❣Don't you dare to touch her
❣Grumpy x sunshine
💌This story starts five days before Christmas and Noelle getting married in two days her guts bugging her for months that it wasn't right, this was not what she wanted but she was too afraid to cancel this wedding with her boyfriend.

💌 Nash was military retired and living with its terrors when he was exploring and reached a calm and peaceful place named Blitzen Bay he knew this was the place to live so he moved in there, he had been living there for three months when his mom bugging him to go to his high school friend's marriage(not so friend BTW).
He didn't want to go there but whenever he saw the invitation he couldn't tear it and something in him nagged him to go there he wasn't sure for what.

💌 At the wedding Noelle planned to escape from her wedding and her beloved cousin helped her and she escaped and ended up in Nash's truck's trunk when they met at his truck Nash fell for her, at first sight, 🤭😍, and Noelle instantly attracted to him he was so hot and gorgeous like some greek god🤭🔥😍😉.

💌 Nash helped her escape and they reached Blitzen Bay😍💞. Noelle fell in love with Blitzen Bay and spend her Christmas there and in meantime, Nash fell for her really hard😍❣, but Noelle wanted time she didn't want Nash to become a rebound guy.🥺
💌 Next day she leave Blitzen Bay because she had to start a new life and join Law college.🥺🥺
Noelle talked a lot really a lot and she was full of energy to meet and be friends with new people she called Blitzen Bay the North Pole because it looks like North Pole 😍 beautiful town. Nash was a calm and quiet person he just wanted to be alone and so so handsome and very protective and supportive😍🔥

[Kelsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!! CONSIDER MY READING SLUMP OVER!!!

I absolutely adored everything about Donna Schwartze’s, The Runaway Bride of Blitzen Bay!! It was literally like a Hallmark movie turned into a book, and I couldn’t get enough!! I know it’s only October, so why am I reading a Christmas book? Because I love Christmas, and all things Hallmark and now I am literally seconds away from starting the second book!

In Runaway Bride, we meet Noelle who is literally days away from getting married. But everything about the wedding from the decor, the date, even the groom just feel wrong, and her gut has never been wrong. So on an impulse Noelle texts her cousin has her cause a scene and makes her escape. When things seem to be looking up her groom comes looking for her, leaving her with only one options… hideaway in the bed of a wedding guests truck and pray that her groom doesn’t find her. That’s when we meet Nash!! Strong, broody, and caring Nash who while feeling a bit out of sorts still wants to take care of this beautiful woman he’s found in his truck bed. Even if she is an obvious runaway bride. And that’s where our quirky adventure starts!! I absolutely adored all of the characters in this book they felt so well fleshed out that I honestly felt like I knew them by then end of the book, and was sad to say goodbye to them! Thankfully Nash and Elle will be back in book three! I also loved the small town setting with the quirky but loving townsfolk. And lastly but not to be forgotten, I LOVED the romance in their book, it was so sweet and caring, and while yes it was fast paced it still felt believable!! I honestly can’t gush about this book enough!! If you need a fast paced, funny, holiday romance than this book is absolutely the one for you!!



HAPPY READING 📖

[Stephanie Panach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noelle and Nash are definitely a grumpy/sunshine pairing. I loved Noelle and her sunny disposition - even in the face of all the things happening in her life. When we meet her she is days away from a wedding to a man she loves - even if she is feeling a little rocky on their relationship. She chalks it up to nerves and stress of dealing with her extremely controlling mother. When things go seriously off the rails, Noelle feels like she has no other choice than to make a run for it.

Nash is at Noelle's wedding because he went to school with the groom and their parents are friends. Nash is a veteran and is dealing with PTSD and a lot of guilt. He isn't at the wedding voluntarily and when it gets to be too much - he heads out before the ceremony. He finds Noelle hiding in his truck - and helps her make her escape. He ends up taking her home to his hallmark perfect town near Big Bear.

He and Noelle are so sweet together - as he introduces her to his found family in town and helps keep her grounded and supported as she deals with the implosion of her life as she knows it. I appreciated that even though this is a romance, the author didn't jump the gun right into love and sex between Noelle and Nash. They definitely make a love connection - but given the turmoil and upheaval Noelle is experiencing - she lets that relationship start - but doesn't jump immediately to Noelle moving in or something like that.

This is a sweet and lovely holiday read. It definitely has all the cozy vibes you need with a Christmas romance!

I received this as an ARC via NetGalley, but my 3.5 Star review is all my own opinions!

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute and super quick read about a runaway bride, her getaway driver, and a magical town set around Christmas time. Noelle has been having second thoughts about getting married for months but has been dragging her feet until something snaps. 30 minutes before she’s set to get married she stows away in Nash’s truck bed and tells him to drive. To Nash’s surprise, he drives off with Noelle and takes her home to Blitzen Bay and introduces her around while feeling strangely at peace with the rest turn of events. Nash recently retired from the army and was set on living a quiet solidarity life until meeting Noelle. They are both drawn to each other but it’s too soon for either of them to be making major life decisions especially when they both have things to work out.

This was an enjoyable easy read full of spunk, great secondary characters and an idyllic town. Nash is a sweetheart and so caring towards Noelle only wanting the best for her even if it’s not him. Noelle trusts her gut and she sees the goodness in Nash and knows he is someone she can count on. Can’t wait to read Noelle’s cousin Kit’s story and get glimpses of Noelle and Nash together in the second book of the Blitzen Bay series.


Thank you @donnaschwartzeauthor , @netgalley and publishers for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.