Sandra Lancaster
Shy, quiet Harriet embarks on a quest to build her confidence and become a stronger, courageous person, challenging herself everyday by doing things that would normally scare her. Ethan, an ER trauma doctor, has shut off his emotions so that the job doesn't take a toll on him. He believes that because of this he isn't capable of being in a loving, long-term relationship. Harriet and Ethan have a rocky start. I loved how she stood up to him, even though she was uncomfortable and scared. I enjoyed the progression of their relationship, they actually got to know each other so that when they finally took the plunge it was sweet and sexy. I especially loved them visiting Vermont!! I just wish there had been more of their time there and the wonderful family they visit. "Yeah, well even Superman struggled to save the world and have a relationship. Relationships are complicated." - "Anything that involves people is complicated. That doesn't mean we should walk away...." All in all, it's a light read that is touching, heartwarming, fun and leaves you with all the feels. Christmas stories are one of my favorite reads and this one does not disappoint. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader copy of this book.
Yvonne Cruz
Whenever I read a book by Ms Morgan, I know that I will be treated to a story that will not only be engaging, but also touching and thought provoking. This one delivered that and much more. If you have read the other stories in this series (recommended , but not necessary), you will remember sweet Harriet. She and her twin sister own a dog walking business in New York City. Harriet, whose childhood has not been a fairytale , has always depended on her sister and her brother to protect her from the rest of the world. Harriet is shy , and suffered from stuttering as a child, a handicap that comes back when she is stressed . Now that her siblings have significant others, Harriet has decided to spend Christmas on her own and has started a “Challenge Harriet” program. A challenge that not always turns out to be in her favor, but she’s determined to keep on going and as she does, she grows as a person. She meets Ethan , an ER physician when she ends up with a twisted ankle after a window escapade. Life is full of surprises , and when a client has an emergency and needs to leave her dog , Madi, with her clueless brother, Ethan, Harriet is asked to walk Madi while she is staying with Ethan. Now Harriet, has to deal with him and their first meeting is less than stellar. The story is engaging, and the characters very well develop. But what I liked best, is that this talented author , doesn’t give us a view of life that is all fluffy and and fairytales. A reminder that whatever we experience in our childhood , will affect us as adults. That parents can do a great deal of damage with verbal abuse. That you can’t make someone love you, no matter how much you try. But above all , that you should embrace life and have the courage not to be complacent. A truly heartbreaking but also heartwarming story that you will love. Once again, thank you , Ms Morgan, for a wonderful story about life, but also about hope, love and new beginnings. I was gifted this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.