An Azalea Lake Christmas

by Susan Schild

USA Today Bestselling Author Susan Schild presents another heartwarming and cozy romance featuring heroines over 40! The sequel to fan favorite, Pecan Pie for Breakfast, is finally here…

After a rocky divorce, 46-year-old Cricket is grateful to finally be settled. With a flourishing business and a budding romance with her handsome neighbor, Hank, life finally seems both calm and promising. But then, Hank’s glamorous ex-wife cruises into town looking to rekindle her romance with him and maybe even marry him. To add to her worries, Cricket is forced to leave her cozy apartment and scramble to find another place to live.

What Cricket really wants is to be married to a good, kind man like Hank and live in a cottage on the banks of Azalea Lake. Instead of letting the uncertainties in her life scare her into settling, Cricket takes charge. She gathers courage and sets out to build the life she has only let herself dream about.

With crazy fun girlfriends, RV camping trips, and home fix-up and house hunting in a wild real estate market, Cricket sets out to build her dream life. Will she finally say yes to love and find her happily ever after?

230 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 15, 2022

About the author

Susan Schild writes heartwarming small- town love stories.

Susan is a wife, and a stepmother who enjoys weekend getaways with friends, reading fiction, and rummaging through thrift stores and antique stores for treasures like four dollar cashmere sweaters and amateur watercolor paintings. A dog lover, Susan is especially fond of Lab mix rescue dogs.


Susan and her family live in North Carolina where she is busy writing her next novel.

Reviews

[CC · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is the first thing you want to do after you read a great book📚? You want to tell someone about it ...you want to share your joy with someone ..in fact everyone!
Susan Schild.’s new release “An Azalea Lake Christmas” touched my heart and filled it with such a nostalgic joy that I just couldn't put it down …I read it through in one sitting .. not just once but twice ...again after rereading the first in the series "Pecan Pie for Breakfast".
Comfort Is the theme in the form of vintage wooden boats, Sears and Roebuck catalog Craftsmen houses, old pickups, classic country music, family and loyal lifelong friends.
Susan Schild, a master at characterization, brings women of all ages together and these women are able to read not only each other’s minds but each other's hearts. Cricket Darling, the main character, and her bff, Honey, who is also going through major life changes, always support each other in good times and sad times through good coffee, heartfelt conversation and blunt advice.
The men are real, have their own quirks but are the men you'd want in your life.
As always Susan has a moral in each of her books. Cricket's special care for the elderly not only in her business but in her own personal life. As well, she emphasizes to "listen to our gut" and that our lives are short and we may not have the forever we think to love each other.
Read An Azalea Lake Christmas it will bring a special "Magic" and if you get a sudden unexplained craving for warm cinnamon rolls it's an added bonus 🥮

[Susan Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Azalea Lake Christmas is a cozy, heartwarming novel, perfect for the holidays or anytime! We are treated to a small town romance featuring Cricket and Hank, who are smitten with each other but dogged by bad memories of past relationships that make them wary. It was fun to watch them work around exes, family complications and misunderstandings to finally allow them to move forward. Get a glass of tea, put your feet up, and enjoy!

[Annie Mondesir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Schild always creates a town I’d love to visit with characters I’d love to meet. In her newest release “An Azalea Lake Christmas: An Azalea Lake Sweet Romance Book 2” Cricket is that woman “of a certain age” that is recently divorced and about to start the next chapter of her life from the cozy home of her father. There are plenty of peripheral characters that I fell in love with, too! The question is: do they find love??
I never miss a Susan Schild book!! I highly recommend this novel! I’d grab book 1, too. But you could enjoy this on its own.

[LAUREN · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was an early reader for An Azalea Lake Christmas. It was another wonderful book by Susan Schild. The characters are realistic. They aren’t perfect. They all have their faults and relationship issues. The author’s way of them dealing with life issues is so insightful. The main character is Cricket, owner of a caregiving company for seniors. Along with her best friend Honey, they are going through many life changes and relationship issues with men and family. Being very different people they manage to help each other work through the problems. Hank is Cricket’s love interest. Just as they get to know each other she has to move somewhere quickly. Hank’s ex-wife is in the middle of everything and trying to win Hank back. There is a big dog you fall in love with. There are many references to past history, including Sears catalog order homes. The descriptions of scenery and houses make you feel like you’re there. The food will make you hungry. Christmas Day will make you laugh. An Azalea Lake Christmas will make you feel good.

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man...I didn't want Susan Sdhils's new book An Azalea Lake Christmas to come to an end. It was so good. I absolutlely and whole heartedly fell in love with this book. Now, you all know that I don't re-read books. I might just have to read this series from beginning to end when it is finished. That will be a first for me but, it is that good!

I thought I was in love with the first book! Pecan Pie for Breakfast was great but, An Azalea Lake Chirstmas just out did it. There are so many good things to say about this book so, I'll get to it. Number one on the top of my list are the characters. Everyone of them are awesome. Well, except for one and she is the ex-wife of the love interest across the street named Hank. Oh! By the way, Hank is a hunk. Cricket is the main character and feels a little less than the beautiful ex. There are her friends, neighbors, Her dad and his new wife and just a slew of people I would like to call my own.  

Cricket is not a young chick either. She is 45 years old and Hank is about her age. Susan's characters are of an older generation. Younger than me but, it is still enjoyable to read about people who are closer to my way of thinking. They are not party people and more family oriented. Of course, her parents are closer to my age! Mr. P across the street is older than me. So, there is a lot to like about these folks.

The setting is in a small town. Not huge and not dinky. Actually, it is on a lake and Lake Azalea has a town associated with it. There is a lot going on in their little world. It will keep you interested and reading your day away. I love the days when I have the house to myself and don't feel a bit of guilt spending the day with my nose in a book. An Azalea Lake Christmas was so enjoyable! 

If you like good clean fiction, older characters and a setting that you could see yourself living in, then these books are for you. They are written in such a way that they stand alone. There is no confusion. I can't say it enough, these books give me all the feels. I am so satisfied when I get done that I have a bit of a hangover. So, what are you waiting for? It's Christmas soon and you can just go ahead and buy yourself a little Christmas present. Don't ask. Just do it. You won't regret it for a moment. Happy Reading!

Don't forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Here is the BUY link: https://amzn.to/3LXMRnG

[Margaret Yelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Azalea Lake Christmas, is a heartwarming read and I love the older characters in the storyline. Cricket and Hank each like the other, but both are leery of a relationship because of relationships in their past. I loved the idea of renewing a older home, instead of building a new one. I most definitely would recommend this book to others. I received an ARC from the author, and this is my fair and honest review.

[Saundra Callender · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first book in this series and really liked it. This one is even better! The storyline flowed. I loved all the characters (except Hank's ex). They were well fleshed-out. I got a little frustrated at how easily Cricket and Hank got sidelined from each other by other things but everyone got their HEAs, even minor characters. By the end of the book, it was like having Christmas with family.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Schild does it again! An Azalea Lake Christmas is just what you need for the holidays. It was great to reconnect with Cricket, Honey, Hank and the rest of the “family”. I love how these friends come together to support and encourage each other. They make the best of a situation and genuinely care. This one should be on your holiday reading list!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Two in this series takes us back into the life of Cricket, a 40ish year old woman with her own company, good friends and a fear of falling in love because she has trouble trusting men after her first husband walked out on her. She is an endearing character - basically happy with her life but she questions herself and her decisions and worries about life - just like most of us do.

Hank is rebuilding the house across the street from Cricket's and they have a budding romance. She's very unsure of herself and when Hank's ex arrives in town, she questions his feelings for her and wonders if Hank will go back to his ex.. On top of that dilemma, she's been living in an apartment at her father's house and he is bringing his new wife and her parents back to live in his house so Cricket needs to find a place to move right away. She'd love to have a nice home on Azalea Lake but the prices on lakeside houses are well out of her range. When something unexpected happens in her life, she decides to move forward and find her own happiness.

I really enjoy Susan Schild's books. Most of her stories are about older women, living in small towns and working hard to create a happy life and find a happily ever after relationship. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to go back to Azalea Lake and find out what's going on with Cricket in the next book.

[Susan Gromis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was a wonderful addition to the Azalea Lake series.
Cricket is rebounding from being dumped by her ex, and is currently house sitting for her father and dog sitting Angus, and examining her future. Hunky Handyman Hank certainly has Cricket’s attention, but it appears that Hank’s ex-wife is not ready to remove her claws from him, much to Cricket’s consternation. Meantime, her widower father has embarked on a trip and finds his next love, which will have a direct impact on Cricket’s living situation. Meanwhile, Cricket’s friends Honey and her Aunt Joy are having their own adventures with their respective others. But who among the friends and family will be lucky enough to find their true loves just in time for Christmas at Azalea Lake?
Light romance, highly recommended!

[Carol Deegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like every other book I’ve read by Susan Schild I loved this book. Her characters are in their late 30s or 40s and extremely likable. As a reader I start to think of them as friends. The plot is realistic and the scenery in the book is described so well I feel like I’m there. Cricket and Pearl continue to run Cricket’s successful in-home health care business, and Cricket’s friend Honey continues to give out advice. When Cricket is unexpectedly without a place to live she figures out an unorthodox solution and with Honey’s help she makes it work. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series to find out what the future holds for Cricket and Hank. If you are wanting to read a fun romance with no mention of sex this is a book for you. I would suggest reading the other book in the series first, but this book could be read as a stand-alone.

[Martha Tilyard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cricket and Hank are recognizable and relatable yet different and interesting enough to keep you reading straight through their adventures.

And anyone who has had to house hunt will empathize and pull for Cricket as she gets her hopes up by real estate jargon only to have them dashed by harsh reality.

In An Azalea Lake Christmas, it's not just mid-lifers who find love but their elders are having just as much fun. It's refreshing to read romances that mirror real life and still give it a kick.

Susan Schild has done it again!

[Lisa Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an advanced read. Cricket's story is one of regaining her life after divorce. Hank is the man she wants to build a relationship with. There are so many little adventures from the surprise her Father has for her and the home she finally finds after a difficult search. I hope everyone enjoys this book as much as I have. I always look forward to Susan's books. The first book of hers I read was Christmas at Lakeside Resort. Now I look forward each book she writes. If you enjoy a good southern read and strong women this book is for you.

[Jan Tomalis · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this delightful book I need to find Azalea Lake and settle there! Cricket and Hank are like your best friends and all the other characters add so much to the story. I loved the descriptions and felt like I could be at home in Azalea. A must read!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.

[Marti Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad I got to read an advanced copy of this wonderful book. A book of family, friends, neighbors and dogs. Cricket has been living in an apartment at her dad’s house. Trying to run her business from her kitchen table, and watching her handsome neighbor, Hank, out the window. Things are moving along until her dad remarries and all sorts of wonderful things begin to happen. Even her friend Honey and her Aunt Joy get involved. I can’t tell you what happens, you just have to read it for yourself. An Azalea Lake Christmas. Five happy stars.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely delightful book. Realistic characters with real life problems. Divorce, love, sadness and happiness. I can’t wait for more books by this talented author.

[Susan Haught · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy sweet southern romance, Christmas, and unusual stories, you're going to love the newest book by Susan Schild. I was honored to read an advanced copy, and Ms. Schild once again, did not disappoint.

Ms. Schild knows how to create stories with enough tension and unusual situations to keep you guessing at what's about to happen. But what I love most is her southern style and the way she infuses her stories with subtle humor that will keep you smiling.

There are some scenes toward the end that are a ton of fun! I won't spoil it, but I don't think I've ever read anything quite like it anywhere. I'll just say it puts a unique spin on "moving day".

Did I mention food? Ms. Schild is a master at giving her characters a love of good southern dishes, and Cricket and Hank are no different. I enjoy Cricket's quirks, how cooking plays a big part of her life, and how she handles stress and misunderstandings. It's nice to see characters handling life the way the rest of us normal people do.

The characters are easy to love and you soon find yourself feeling very comfortable around them and wanting the best each one.

Ms. Schild has written another fun-filled story of love and adventure after 40. You won't want to miss this one.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, charming small town read full of fun characters that I loved spending time with. These was lots of action in this book that brought more depth to the characters from the first book in this series. I hope there are more books with Cricket, Hank, and the rest of the gang!

[Mary Mellgren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it! Cricket is moving on after accepting that her marriage ending was not her fault. She has a successful business and a handsome neighbor moving in across the street. As she falls for Hank she must except that his ex is still after him and trust that he cares for just her. Needing to find a new home as her father has remarried, she scrambles to find the perfect place. A small town where her family and friends are what Cricket needs to be happy!

[Miller Sigmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Schild has given us a new book in her series of Azalea Lake Sweet Romance entitled An Azalea Lake Christmas Book 2. Once again, she has given us a beautiful written story of love and adventure after 40. This new book, like several of her prior books, uses the theme of a couple over forty falling in love.

The story line is well done and keeps the reader's attention. Schild's character development paints a beautiful picture of Hank and Crickett falling in love with its ups and downs. Hank is a contractor and Crickett has started a new business of caregivers for senior adults. The story is based in a small town in North Carolina. Hank, Crickett and her dog Angus give the reader a clear sense of the parties' relationship in a vivid way and holds the attention of the reader. There are supporting characters including Hank's ex-wife and Crickett's confidant, Honey who keeps the action going. All the characters have an important role to play. I recommend this book as a worthwhile read.

[Nancy Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was great to reconnect with the characters, Cricket, Pearl, and Hank. The story continued the relationship with Cricket and Hank- would this really work out. As in true life there were ups and downs with communication problems. There were overheard conversations from a tree to glimpse of characters hugging that were misunderstood.

The issues character faced – need to change- were well done. Facts like housing market challenges and costs were so real. The characters and their relationships were developed well.
Knowing the right people at the right time and having friends to help are so special in life. Crickets Fathers remarriage influence many changes and the reappearances of Hanks’ ex added more interest. Check it out will there be a Merry Christmas?

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young love, new love, a second chance at love ~ Susan Schild has again written a delightful, heartwarming story in An Azalea Lake Christmas that touches your heart, warms your soul, and keeps you turning page after page wishing the story didn’t end. As Cricket, Hank, Honey and many of the familiar characters we know and enjoy, continue to inspire, make us laugh and sometimes make us say “Really?!”, Susan Schild’s, An Azalea Lake Christmas, is a down-to-earth story that is pleasant, believable and a fast read. This charming book will bring you joy, smiles, maybe a few tears and ready to see what happens in the next chapter for Cricket!

[Serena Soape · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Schild has once again given us a fun, touching, heartwarming novel.
The characters are just so sweet that you want to hug them.
I found myself not wanting to put this down and to just keep reading.

I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this sweet story of finding love. Wonderful characters, sweet family, and some quirky friends.
It’s a wonderful Christmas story, and I know you will enjoy!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a follow-up to Pecan Pie for Breakfast about a forty-something single woman making her way on her own after a divorce that completely surprised her. We pick up where we left off in the previous book, and the characters and story are easily remembered from the first book after just a few pages. This one can be read as a standalone, but it really enhances the story to read Pecan Pie first so you can better understand the various characters and what their specific histories and circumstances are. The story itself is sweet, sometimes funny, sometimes poignant, and always interesting as Cricket fights through the uncertainties about her future and where she stands in life. I found it delightful and uplifting and a true pleasure to read. I recommend it specifically for any day when a pick-me-up is a must. This is sure to put you in a better mood and have you longing to travel to Azalea Lake to see that gorgeous view for yourself and to meet some really nice, very eclectic people. Thank you to Susan Schild for my advance copy. I definitely will be watching for the next one.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Pecan Pie for Breakfast and An Azalea Lake Christmas is a great second visit to Azalea Lake. It has everything I love to read: Sweet romance, kind people, new beginnings and a sense of home and family. It is fine as a stand alone but I really am enjoying this series and I know you will too!