Once Upon a Christmas Carol: A Christmas Novella By Melody Carlson-Christmas Book Review

 Book Synopsis

Can a tropical escape from holiday blues turn her Christmas into a snowy wonderland filled with joy and cheer?

Carol Langstrom hates Christmas. Growing up in a dysfunctional home, with a birthday on December 25 and too many dashed childhood expectations, the holiday season is something she would rather avoid. And working in the design industry where she manages seasonal decor for wealthy, entitled clients certainly hasn't helped!   

So, this year her goal is to flee to the Bahamas--by herself--bah humbug! But bad weather and God's radically different plan redirect her flight to blustery Michigan, where she gets stuck on her aunt's farm and discovers a different kind of Christmas--one wrapped in love, family, and holiday spirit.

Melody Carlson's Christmas novella delivers all the charm of a holiday Hallmark movie, is rooted in Christian faith, woven with sweet romance, and features A Christmas Carol themes.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Revell
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 2, 2025
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 176 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 080074473X

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required, and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

Once Upon a Christmas Carol pulls you right in with its charm. Who could hate Christmas? The lead character, Carol Langstrom, at first seems like a Grinch. She has solid reasons for her sour mood. Born on Christmas Day, she grew up in a broken home. Her holidays and birthdays were always disappointing. She heads to the Bahamas to skip the cheer. A big winter storm ruins her plans, and she lands in Michigan, decked out in her summer wear. The hotels have no space, so she calls her aunt, a stranger her mom can't stand, whom she has never met. That's how the Christmas magic begins. She steps into a snowy, farm wonderland, accompanied by a warm house, an affectionate aunt, and a handsome neighbor.

Every bit of this story won me over. Carol's mood shifts because of Aunt Maria's pure kindness and love. Turns out, the aunt had been wrongly portrayed by Carol's mom. In truth, she shines as a kind soul. I liked how Carol moved from distrust and gloom to opening up her heart and embracing love and romance. Victor, the attractive neighbor, helps a lot, too. He, along with Aunt Maria, shows Carol the joy in family, friends, and Christmas.

You end the book with cozy warmth and holiday cheer. This story of small-town life, found family, and tender romance deserves a spot on your yearly Christmas read list.

****Meet Author Melody Carlson****

Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books (with sales around 6.5 million) for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." Her novels range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including Romantic Time's Career Achievement Award, the Rita and the Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog. To find out more about Melody Carlson, visit her website at http://www.melodycarlson.com/

~*~*~*~*Purchase Once Upon a Christmas Carol ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

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The Maid of Sherwood Forest: A McQuivey's Costume Shop Romance By Sian Ann Bessey-Timeslip Romance Review

 Book Synopsis

Mariah thought Robin Hood was just a legend—until time pulled her into his world and the outlaw stole her heart.

Nothing about Mariah Clinton’s passion for archery or her work as a sous-chef in contemporary London prepares her for the moment she’s pulled into another time—and another life. One minute, she’s stepping into McQuivey’s Costume Shop to rent a medieval gown. The next, she’s standing in a castle kitchen in twelfth-century Nottingham—with no idea how she got there or how to return to modern time. Forced to pose as a kitchen servant, she must draw on ingenuity and courage to survive in a world in which she shouldn’t exist. But when her skill with a bow draws the attention of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, she’s swept into a conflict that is more dangerous—and more thrilling—than she could ever have imagined.

Robin Hood has spent years outwitting the sheriff, protecting the innocent, and keeping his men one step ahead of Prince John’s reach. But when he crosses paths with a mysterious archer who shoots like no woman he’s ever met, he knows she’s hiding something. Her words, her ways, even the fire in her eyes—none of it belongs in his time. Yet the more she stands at his side, the harder it becomes to imagine Sherwood Forest without her.

Mariah is torn between a past she understands in modern-day London and an uncertain future with an outlaw who has stolen her heart. But as the sheriff’s grip tightens and betrayal looms, one truth becomes clear—some choices are impossible to undo, and love, once found, is not so easily left behind.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain
• Genre : Timeslip Romance 
• Series :  A McQuivey's Costume Shop Romance/Proper Romance
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 4, 2025
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 296 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639934677

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

• 
  

My Review

The Maid of Sherwood Forest is a fantastic read. This Proper Romance is book two in the A McQuivey's Costume Shop Romance series. It packs all my favorites: time travel, lively main characters, fun supporting cast, tender romance, and vivid writing that draws you right in.

The story spins a new twist on Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Mariah, a skilled modern chef, feels lonely despite her looks and talent. One moment, she's in the costume shop, and next, she's in 1193 Nottinghamshire, England. Mariah's talent for archery pays off, and the men of Sherwood Forest soon learn she is a better shot than they are, all except for the great Robin Hood. I adored his kind, humble heart. No wonder Mariah falls for him fast.

The best parts of the book for me included the tense archery matches and sharp banter among the Merry Men, and also between Marian and Little John, which had me chuckling. I also loved the touching friendship between Mariah and Ellen. 

Readers will love this version of Robin Hood. With all of the action, the angst, and the sweet kisses, you are guaranteed a story that will leave you with an exciting and satisfying reading experience. 

****Meet Author Sian Ann Bessey****

Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, but grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the U.S. and earned a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in English.

She began her writing career as a student, publishing several magazine articles while still in college. Since then, she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children's books. She is a USA Today best-selling author, a Foreword Reviews Book of the Year finalist, and a Whitney Award finalist.

Although Sian doesn't have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, she can still wrap her tongue around, "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch." She loves to travel and experience other cultures, but when she's home, her favorite activities are spending time with her family, cooking, and reading.

You can visit Sian on the web at www.sianannbessey.com

~*~*~*~*Purchase The Maid of Sherwood Forest ~*~*~*~*

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Yes-YOU Matter, YOU Are Enough by Karin J. Lund-Self Help Book Review

Yes-YOU Matter, YOU Are Enough

by Karin J. Lund

Synopsis:

The Power of You Series

 

Yes-YOU Matter, YOU Are Enough is about celebrating your life, understanding and creating your value, while building confidence and resiliency.

The cover was designed with interlocking and layering lines to illustrate the many interrelated paths in our lives that give us the opportunity to change our direction at any time. This design reflects a journey toward self-reliance and resilience, encouraging us to embrace our true selves and build a strong inner foundation.

This is the book that will always remind you that:

YES-I MATTER, I AM ENOUGH.

Book Details:

Genre: YA Self-Help
Published by: G-Power Global Publishing
Publication Date: September 23, 2025
Number of Pages: 241
ISBN: 9781949955125 (ISBN10: 1949955125)
Series:The Power of You Series
Book Links: Amazon | KindleUnlimited | BookBub | Goodreads

****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.**** 

My Review

I was excited to read Yes-You Matter, You Are Enough by Karin J. Lund. Although written for teens, it's also very pertinent for adults. The messages in this book are so powerful. The format is quite unique, featuring a low word count on each page that shares a short, meaningful message that hits a punch. This type of format will appeal to teens who already have a lot of reading due to homework. I also liked how you can pick up the book, read a few pages, and get back to it later. 

Some of my favorite quotes are as follows...

-Everything that happens to you contains a message and a lesson if you learn to listen.

-Remember to tell yourself, "I am learning to love the sound of my feet walking away from things not meant for me." This means saying "NO" too.

-Surround yourself with people who are positive, who make you feel good about yourself, and who support you and care about you.

-Treasure the people who choose to stand beside you through all the ups and downs in life.

-The Universe is prepared to teach you and help you recognize something or someone that you need to meet and know.

It was hard to narrow my favorite quotes to only five, as I loved what was written in the book. It's positive, uplifting, and filled with messages to help you learn to love yourself and seek positive things and people around you. I highly recommend this book to all teens, as it offers excellent conversation starters between parents and children.

 Author Bio

Karin J. Lund, Founder of G-Power Global Enterprises, works with corporations, universities, and non-profit groups, that want to embrace a compassionate, culture empowered, workplace environment. A culture that employees, and management, actively support, because the culture acknowledges personal and professional values, understands the importance of an inclusive work environment, and includes a corporate dedication to improving the local, and/or global community.
Karin was only the 3rd woman to be hired in Central Operation Sales for J & L Steel, in Pittsburgh, Pa. She later accepted a position with a Canadian steel company who was expanding operations into the United States. As a regional sales manager with an international territory, Karin managed a $140M sales territory, and saw firsthand how various steel mills, and manufacturer’s work culture and environments, impacted morale, productivity, and profits.
As an author, speaker, and facilitator, Karin was a civilian responder directly after 9/11, and Hurricane Katrina. Working with the children and families from Bay St. Louis, MS after Katrina showed her the expansiveness of loss, life events, and the resilience of this special community. Karin is an adult facilitator for Caring Place, where families can receive help after the loss of a spouse, parent, child, or extended family member.
Through these experiences she has witnessed how life events impact employees, and what employees need from management to help them adjust and move through these life events. Productivity and morale need not suffer if embraced appropriately.
Her online program, “Your Journey through the Islands of Grief and Loss,” encourages individuals and employees to confront issues related to their personal journeys around different aspects of life events and loss. Corporate comfort gifts, journals, and other products support this effort.

Catch Up With Our Author:

g-powerglobal.com
Amazon Author Profile
LinkedIn
Goodreads
Instagram - @lundkarinj
YouTube - @g-powerglobal
X - @GPowerGlobal
Facebook - @GPowerGlobal

 

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A Season of Wishes: Timeless Regency Collection By Julie Daines, Samantha Hastings, and Rachel Kelley Stones-Christmas Regency Review

 Book Synopsis

This Christmas, the best wishes aren't found on a list.

The Trouble with Wishes by Julie Daines
Catherine Haywood is desperate to claim the affection of her long-time friend Frederick Milton, but Frederick only seems interested in courting the new young lady in town. Catherine makes a series of wishes, thinking that is the safer route rather than openly putting her heart on the line. But as each wish is fulfilled, she realizes getting what she wished for is not the same as getting what she wants.

We Wish You a Miserable Christmas by Samantha Hastings
Two secret pen fellows meet only to learn that they already know one another in this Christmas comedy of errors! Miserable Margaret resents Mr. Frank Warner and truthfully he is a little afraid of her. They are thrown together in a Christmas house party in London and spend the season skating, decorating, going to the theaters, and even dancing. Margaret discovers that she isn't miserable after all. And Frank, with her help, finds the courage to believe in himself and work for his own happily-ever-after.

Pranks and Wishes by Rachel Kelley Stones
Elizabeth Quincy will do anything it takes to stop her childhood friend, Thomas Westin, from proposing marriage to her younger sister this Christmas. Thomas Westin has a plan. He’s determined to convince Lizzy to be his bride. Only, she keeps avoiding any conversation related to love. In this friends-to-lovers novella, Lizzy and Thomas must learn to trust themselves and each other to see if their feelings will be reciprocated.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Mirror Press
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 8, 2025
• Genre : Regency Romance
• Series : Timeless Regency Collection
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 350 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1952611547

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required, and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

A Season of Wishes made a great pick to kick off this packed December. It melted away my stress. Three novellas make up the book. with each one charming right from the start to the end. The characters plans or schemes go off track in every tale. Still, they wrap up happy making wishes come true, but taking the long way to get there.

The Trouble with Wishes by Julie Daines
Catherine and Frederick grew up as best friends. He comes home from Cambridge to help run the family estate. Catherine notices that Frederick seems to be interested in another young lady which is not in her plans. She keeps wishing in secret and hides her love from him. He loves her too but stays quiet which causes many twists keeping it fun. This is a sweet friends-to-lovers read.

We Wish You a Miserable Christmas by Samantha Hastings
Frank and Margaret shine as characters. They start by  swapping letters under pen names. Their sharp banter cracked me up. I couldn't stop laughing at the awkward moments  as they are forced together as guests at her sister's home. They  eventually figure out they already know each other. This acquaintances-to-lovers tale warms the heart. Pure hilarious fun. 

-Pranks and Wishes by Rachel Kelley Stones
Elizabeth and Thomas share a great story in dual views. They are longtime best friends and  loved pranking each other through the years. One Elizabeth's pranks  goes wrong and seriously injures Thomas and this changes their friendship and makes them rethink about their  true wants and wishes. The friends-to-lovers trope shines here. It's one of my favorites. The warm and inspiring tale was a bit more somber at times, but sparks some joy in the end.

Each story is entertaining, and is a fast read. It was nice that each novella was very unique, but each stands alone and is linked by a shared theme. These are perfect stories to get your mind and heart ready for the Christmas season. There’s something for everyone and the tropes you love. What a wonderdul way to bring the spirit and magic of Christmas into your life.

****Meet The Authors****

Julie Daines

 

Julie Daines is an award-winning and best-selling author. She was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was raised in Utah. She spent eighteen months living in London, where she studied and fell in love with English literature, sticky toffee pudding, and the mysterious guy who ran the kebab store around the corner.

She loves reading, writing, and watching movies—anything that transports her to another world. She picks Captain Wentworth over Mr. Darcy, firmly believes in second breakfast, and never leaves home without her vervain.

Samantha Hastings

Samantha Hastings met her husband in a turkey sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, eating popcorn, having tea parties, and chasing her four kids. She has degrees from Brigham Young University, University of North Texas, and University of Reading (UK). She writes cozy murder mysteries under Samantha Larsen. 

Learn more at www.SamanthaHastings.com or connect with her on social media: Twitter @HastingSamantha, Instagram @SamanthaHastingsAuthor, and Facebook @AuthorSamanthaHastings

Rachel Kelley Stones

 

Rachel Kelley Stones grew up on a farm in Kentucky, and an infamous summer of no television solidified her love for the written word. Traveling to eras past became a favorite pastime and inspired her to pursue a degree in English from Brigham Young University. Fast-forward a decade (or more), and she finally put pen to paper to write her own romantic, historical tales. She now lives with her family in Idaho. 

~*~*~*~*Purchase A Season of Wishes ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

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Out of Time: Undaunted Courage #3 By Irene Hannon-Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance

 Book Synopsis

For historical anthropologist Cara Tucker, the chance to spend a sabbatical semester on a remote country estate--with full access to its vast library and centuries-old journals--is a dream come true . . . until a series of strange incidents begin to turn her dream into a nightmare. Someone, it seems, does not want anyone diving into the past and unearthing old ghosts.
  
Sheriff Brad Adams has seen his share of suspicious activities during his law enforcement career, but what's happening at the isolated estate is out-of-pattern in his quiet, rural Missouri county. Beset by danger, Cara and Brad work together to try to untangle the clues. But when the peril turns lethal, the situation takes on a new urgency, and their mission is Find out who is behind the string of menacing incidents before the perpetrator strikes another deadly blow.  
  
Hannon presents another page-turning thriller in Out of Time where danger lurks in every shadow.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Revell
• Series: Undaunted Courage
• Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance 
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 7, 2025
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 368 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0800741900

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required, and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

This is the first book I've read from the Undaunted Courage series. I would never have guessed it was the third book because it read so well as a standalone. Now I want to read the first two books in the series.

The story hooks you with suspense right from chapter one. There were several pieces to the mystery, and Red Herrings popped up in every chapter. Many people could be guilty of the murder and chaos. 

The main setting is a secluded and mysterious woodland estate owned by an elderly woman, Natalie, whose family story is recorded in journals in a dying dialect.  Historical anthropologist Cara Tucker is there to translate the journals while on sabbatical leave as a professor. Someone doesn't want the journals translated and will do anything to stop the work. Single Cara meets two men who stir her interest: Sheriff Brad, and Natalie's cousin Steve. I really liked Brad from the start and how he eventually opened up to Cara about his life. 

A cool part in this novel is seeing the bad guy's side. We also get views from different people, which confuses readers about who's causing trouble at Natalie's place. No big spoilers here, but expect twists, several puzzles to solve, and tension that grows to the end. Love mysteries with suspense and a touch of faith? Out of Time is perfect for you.

****Meet Author Irene Hannon****

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 65 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.

~*~*~*~*Purchase Out of Time ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/7078XPz

Kindle-https://a.co/d/gwILT7h

~~~More Books by Irene Hannon~~~

Over the Edge: (Psychological Suspense Thriller Romance with a Police Detecti...	Into the Fire: (Arson Investigative Suspense Thriller and Forced Proximity Ro...	Body of Evidence: (A Clean Contemporary Romantic Suspense Thriller with a For...	Labyrinth of Lies: (A Clean Contemporary Romantic Suspense Thriller)	Point of Danger: (A Clean Contemporary Romantic Suspense Thriller)	Dark Ambitions: (A Contemporary Romance Action Thriller with a Edge of Your S...
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