All Lydia's ever wanted is a perfect Christmas...So when her oldest friends invite her to spend the holidays with them, it seems like a dream come true. She's been promised log fires, roasted chestnuts, her own weight in mince pies - all in a setting that looks like something out of a Christmas card. But her winter wonderland is ruined when she finds herself snowed in with her current boyfriend, her old flame and a hunky stranger. Well, three (wise) men is traditional at this time of year..
I am really enjoying reviewing new releases at the moment, full of Christmas cheer and loveliness! This book is no exception. The Night Before Christmas is the debut novel by Scarlett Bailey and I am already looking forward to seeing what Scarlett comes up with for book two.
The book's main character is Lydia who, along with her boyfriend, Stephen, is travelling to the Lake District to spend the festive period with her best friends and partners; Alex, Katy and Janna, at Katy's new business venture, a hotel who's first paying guests are due to arrive for new year. However, while packing for the holiday, Lydia finds a Tiffany jewellery box in her partner, Stephen's, drawer and when she opens it, she finds an engagement ring. But the question is, does she really want to marry Stephen? Her confusion is made worse when one of her friends arrive for the Christmas festivities with a man that she had an intense six week fling with, before he disappeared quickly with no word. To add more confusion a hunky handyman makes an appearance from the local village when the electrics blow at Katy's hotel. Who will Lydia end up with and will friendships remain in tact? I will not spoil the story any more for readers but I do hope i have given you enough to need to read the book.
As i have already said, the book is a great read. I loved Scarlett's writing style, it is so easy to read and I could loose myself in it. I quickly devoured the book and wanted to read more! The characters were all down to earth and ones which many people would be able to recognise in many villages, towns and cities around the country. I found that Joanna was exactly how I imagine some of the ladies on shopping channels - believing that they are always on show, never being able to relax and slob around in tracky bottoms or old, baggy t shirts. I also loved Alex, a first time pregnant mum, with the husband who jumps at any twinge, but who is quite enjoying being able to get people running around for her. Katy, was desperate to make the hotel work and would really like a bit more support from her husband who has left a high powered job and looking forward to a quieter life but forgets that the hotel needs running as well as the family life too.
The cover of the book is stunning, a black cover with gorgeous pink foiling and white wording - this book really stands out on the stands and I hope it jumps into many peoples hand!
I am recommending this book to everyone! I have already told people standing looking at the book charts to buy it! It is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold winters evening and to loose yourself in. Buy it and enjoy it!
This is Scarlett Bailey's debut novel and I can't wait to find out what she will be writing next - I am sure she will have a very good future in the book market.
Thank you to the publishers, Ebury Press, for sending me the book to review.
As i have already said, the book is a great read. I loved Scarlett's writing style, it is so easy to read and I could loose myself in it. I quickly devoured the book and wanted to read more! The characters were all down to earth and ones which many people would be able to recognise in many villages, towns and cities around the country. I found that Joanna was exactly how I imagine some of the ladies on shopping channels - believing that they are always on show, never being able to relax and slob around in tracky bottoms or old, baggy t shirts. I also loved Alex, a first time pregnant mum, with the husband who jumps at any twinge, but who is quite enjoying being able to get people running around for her. Katy, was desperate to make the hotel work and would really like a bit more support from her husband who has left a high powered job and looking forward to a quieter life but forgets that the hotel needs running as well as the family life too.
The cover of the book is stunning, a black cover with gorgeous pink foiling and white wording - this book really stands out on the stands and I hope it jumps into many peoples hand!
I am recommending this book to everyone! I have already told people standing looking at the book charts to buy it! It is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold winters evening and to loose yourself in. Buy it and enjoy it!
This is Scarlett Bailey's debut novel and I can't wait to find out what she will be writing next - I am sure she will have a very good future in the book market.
Thank you to the publishers, Ebury Press, for sending me the book to review.
I've been drawn to the cover myself, I might add it to my xmas reading pile, thanks!
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