Lucy Hannigan has inherited her mother's bulldog, Bella, and her childhood home, the only pink house on Gingerbread Lane. With the holidays coming up, the pressure is on to decorate the house for the annual lights competition and maintain her parent's winning streak. But Lucy already has her hands full as a midwife and a new landlord-to her ex-fiance.
When Miles Bruno is suddenly asked to move out of his rental home, he's grateful to Lucy for taking him on as a tenant. But their broken-off engagement doesn't make it easy to live next door. Sparks still fly between them, and he'd give anything to get back in Lucy's good graces. But to do that will take much more than just tree trimming and house decorating and contest winning. Will one wildly grand romantic gesture on Christmas Eve finally soften her heart?
Annie Rains creates a heartwarming second chance story set during the season of love, hope and forgiveness. The unresolved feelings and the undeniable chemistry between midwife Lucy Hannigan and police officer Miles Bruno immediately drew me into The Christmas Village.
Lucy and Miles’ story is emotional and very complicated. Lucy never understood why Miles broke up with her ten years ago and Miles has never stopped loving Lucy. Neither of them were able to move forward. I enjoyed that the author added drama to this holiday romance--it kept me engaged in the story.
Miles realizes that Lucy is still grieving for her Mom and is struggling both emotionally and financially. He has two goals: to make sure Lucy isn’t alone during the holidays and to win the neighborhood’s Merriest Lawn contest which offers a cash prize. Loved that Miles’ competitive spirit and his enthusiasm enabled Lucy to face the holidays with a smile.
Loved how Lucy and Miles story developed during the novel. Both Lucy and Miles are complex, strong characters. Lucy is building her midwife practice, re connecting with friends and has set a goal to be out of debt by the New Year. Miles childhood experiences play a huge part in his desire to help his community and be financially stable. Miles is a charming romantic –he’s a swoon worthy hero! I loved that he owned his mistakes— this made me love him all the more! Loved that the couple shared a romantic past and Annie Rains is able to convey all the feels-heartbreak, love, forgiveness-as the couple's story unfolds.
Annie Rains has created the perfect small town and filled it with wonderful characters. I loved the small town feel and the sense of community in the Somerset Lake series. I imagined that I was watching the holiday flotilla with Lucy, Miles and their friends. I could see the bright lights and festive displays on Lucy’s street. Loved the honest conversations and the strong bonds between Lucy, Moira, Della, Trisha and Tess. Miles love for his family and his community shows each time he speaks with his mom, sister and the children who spent time at the Youth Center. The two secondary stories added a bit of mystery to this story and introduced new characters to the Somerset Lake community.
If you are looking for a heartfelt holiday romance – pick up a copy of the Christmas Village. Grab a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy!
Reviewed by Susan Gorman
ARC provided by the Publisher
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