Many thanks to The Bookbag for giving me the opportunity to read this book direct from the publishers.
First published in the UK: October 2017
When Anna takes on the role of companion to the owner of Wynthorpe Hall, on the outskirts of Wynbridge, she has no idea that her life is set to change beyond all recognition. A confirmed ‘bah humbug’ when it comes to Christmas, Anna is amazed to find herself quickly immersed in the eccentric household, and when youngest son Jamie unexpectedly arrives home it soon becomes obvious that her personal feelings are going all out to compromise her professional persona.
Jamie, struggling to come to terms with life back in the Fens, makes a pact with Anna – she has to teach him to fall back in love with Wynthorpe Hall, while he helps her fall back in love with Christmas. But will it all prove too much for Anna, or can the family of Wynthorpe Hall warm her heart once and for all...?
My Review
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 among 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 story lines 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.
Follow author Heidi Swain on Twitter @Heidi_Swain or find out more at www.heidiswain.co.uk.
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