Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair by Heidi Swain
| Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair by Heidi Swain | |
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| Category: Women's Fiction | |
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Reviewer: Karen Grace
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| Summary: I couldn't wait to read this book and it certainly didn't disappoint. It's so well written that I defy anyone not to fall in love with the charming fictional village of Wynbridge and its delightful residents or at least be able to vividly picture each and every one. It's a compelling, witty and feel good story with some innocent romance and unusual friendships thrown in too. The short chapters also make it really easy to pick up and put down (not that I wanted to). | |
| Buy? Yes | Borrow? Yes |
| Pages: 480 | Date: October 2017 |
| Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK | |
| External links: Author's website | |
| ISBN: 978-1471164859 | |
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Having just discovered author Heidi Swain and her series of novels featuring the residents of Wynbridge, I couldn't wait to read this book and it certainly didn't disappoint being every bit as good as the previous book. Yet again Heidi Swain has managed to combine an original mix of characters with a feel-good storyline to create a totally compelling read. But, don't worry if you haven't read any of the other instalments as each one focuses on a different lead character and story so it really won't matter.
This one is set at Christmas so it's a non-stop extravaganza of Christmas markets, sleigh rides, solstice celebrations, light switch-ons, Christmas tree auctions and mince pies – totally heart-warming unless you are the main character, Christmas-hating Anna. Knowing that the Connelly family are not planning any big festivities Anna takes a Christmas job at majestic Wynthorpe Hall, only the much awaited but reluctant homecoming of youngest son Jamie somewhat changes the family's plans and Anna finds herself struggling with childhood memories.
This is so well written with the village, the hall and the various characters all so beautifully described that I could clearly picture each and every one. Unusually all the characters are equally strong and likeable from independent Anna to playful Angus, elegant Catherine to spirited Hayley or stalwart Mick to baking Queen Dorothy. I particularly love the host of feisty entrepreneurial female characters, not to mention the village's abundance of gorgeous eligible bachelors whether it's handsome Jamie or 'sex-on-legs' Will. It's safe to say that I'm totally in love with the fictional country village and all its characters – so much so that if Wynbridge was a real place I'd be moving there straight away.
This does, however, lead me to my only slight criticism of this book. Because the other Heidi Swain book that I read, (Coming Home to Cuckoo Cottage) seemed to feature many of the characters from previous books I was expecting (and looking forward) to catching up with some of Wynbridge's many lovable residents. But, whilst there were a few fleeting name drops this book disappointingly focused almost entirely on the inhabitants of Wynthorpe Hall. Don't get me wrong the hall provided plenty of personalities amongst the employees and extended family members but as a now die-hard Wynbridge fan and considering it is part of a series it just would have been nice to have more connection.
I also love the innocence of this romance, it's about butterfly feelings and tender kisses rather than explicit sex scenes. I also love that it's not just a romance but there's so many other storylines of family, friendships, entrepreneurial spirit and overcoming adversity.
In case you hadn't gathered I adored this book, it would be a magical read at Christmas time but in my opinion is still totally enchanting at any time of the year. Other books you might enjoy are It's A Kind of Magic by Carole Matthews for more festive cheer or anything else by Heidi Swain obviously.
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You can read more book reviews or buy Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair by Heidi Swain at Amazon.co.uk Amazon currently charges £2.99 for standard delivery for orders under £20, over which delivery is free.
You can read more book reviews or buy Sleigh Rides and Silver Bells at the Christmas Fair by Heidi Swain at Amazon.com.
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