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How the Grump Saved Christmas

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you crave holiday romance with Hallmark movie vibes, a cast of quirky small town characters, and a whole lot of festive spirit, this one is for you! Claire Kingsley works her magic by creating a grumpy, complex hero in Elias Stoneheart, perfectly paired with the sparkling, determined Isabelle. Readers who love second-chance romances, heartfelt moments, and stories about finding community (plus a little Christmas tree farm drama) will be in their cozy element here. It's got enough humor, heartwarming scenes, and side stories - including adorable kids and touching friendships - to keep you fully invested.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you prefer steamy romance, this one might feel a bit too sweet for your taste - it's very low on spice. The pacing can be slow at times, and some wish the serious issues touched on went deeper. If tropes like grumpy hero/second chance aren't your thing, or if you dislike holiday themes, you may want to skip this. Some readers also hoped for a bit more tension and retribution against the 'bad guys' in the plot.

A heartwarming, Hallmark-esque holiday read with lovable characters and that perfect small town Christmas magic. Grab a blanket and cocoa - it's a cozy treat!

About:

"How the Grump Saved Christmas" by Claire Kingsley is a heartwarming Christmas romance set in a small town. The story follows Elias Stoneheart, a grumpy city boy who returns to his hometown to buy the struggling Christmas tree farm owned by his ex-girlfriend, Isabelle Cook. As Elias navigates his past and his feelings for Isabelle, he is slowly transformed by the holiday spirit and the warmth of the community. The book intricately weaves together themes of second chances, family, love, and redemption, creating a festive tale filled with charm and emotion. Readers will be drawn into the magical setting of Tilikum, where Christmas miracles and newfound hope abound.

The writing style of Claire Kingsley in "How the Grump Saved Christmas" is described as reminiscent of a Hallmark Christmas movie, with a cast of quirky characters, heartfelt moments, and a touch of A Christmas Carol inspiration. The novel is a standalone story that also ties into the Bailey Brothers series, offering a blend of romance, humor, and festive cheer that captivates readers from start to finish.

Characters:

The characters are well-crafted, with Elias embodying the grump turned hero, while Isabelle's vibrant personality contrasts with him, and supporting characters enrich the plot.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is charming and descriptive, effectively evoking the holiday spirit and making characters relatable.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a Christmas tree farm's struggle and the rekindling romance between Elias and Isabelle, exploring themes of love and personal growth.

Setting:

The setting is a Christmas tree farm in a small town, creating a festive atmosphere that enhances the story.

Pacing:

The pacing starts off slow but accelerates, allowing for character development and a progression of the romantic storyline.

Notes:

The story is set in a small town Christmas tree farm.
Elias Stoneheart is described as a mix of The Grinch and Scrooge.
Isabelle Cook, Elias's ex, is passionate about saving the family farm.
The book evokes strong holiday feelings and gets readers in the Christmas spirit.
There are characters with their own stories, making the town lively and relatable.
Elias returns to his hometown after 11 years, with a mission to buy the farm.
The book has themes of redemption and reconnecting with the past.
It incorporates elements similar to A Christmas Carol.
The side story features a character named Maddie, who has cerebral palsy, showing care in representation.
The romance is described as slow burning, with Elias gradually changing for the better.

Has Romance?

Romance is a central theme, with significant development between the two main characters.

From The Publisher:

Hardworking Isabelle Cook has a serious problem. Her family farm, site of Tilikum's Christmas Village, is in trouble. Big trouble. And worst of all? The man trying to buy it is none other than the grumpiest, grinchiest man of them all-Elias Stoneheart.

That's a big nope. She's not letting him get involved. Not with his heart made of coal.

Elias Stoneheart is in the business of making money, not friends. Especially when his boss is promising a long-awaited promotion. All he has to do is convince one struggling family to sell their farm.

The problem? It's Cook Family Farm. And Isabelle Cook is his ex.

He might have history with Isabelle, but this is just business. A Christmas-loving farm girl is not going to come between him and his ambition.

And Christmas? He hates it. Christmas Village needs to go.

But as Elias spends time in the small town, holiday spirit-and Isabelle-get under his skin. And she might be the only one who can melt the ice around his heart.

Author's Note : a sassy farm girl takes on a grumpy businessman in this stand-alone, snowy, small-town Christmas romance. Saucy banter, a guard donkey, plenty of holiday cheer, and a heartwarming happily ever after that will make you believe in the magic of Christmas.

November 2022
376 pages

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Reader Stats (7):

Read It (3)
Currently Reading (1)
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