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kymreads's review
5.0
How often do you read a story where one minute you're laughing and the next you're grabbing a tissue? This one is an emotional rollercoaster!
Upon returning home for her parents 40th wedding anniversary party, Ivy literally bumps into Austin Bishop, her sister's boyfriend's best friend. While they are getting to know one another, Ivy and Austin together have some very funny times and some very sad times. Both have struggled with issues dating back to their teenage or early college years - for Ivy, being treated cruelly by classmates and for Austin family issues (plus a former girlfriend) which affects who they are today. Ivy is hiding some pretty big secrets and, although his are not on the same scale as hers, Austin has some too.
This story really makes you think about how much you can let your past experiences dictate your future. Are you giving your past so much power that it clouds your present and future? When you let painful memories drive you to such extremes, they're controlling you. Is that what Ivy wants?
But this is also a story of forgiveness - and what better time than Christmas for that! You will be laughing and cheering for Ivy and Austin, even though there are bumps along the way - just like life!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Upon returning home for her parents 40th wedding anniversary party, Ivy literally bumps into Austin Bishop, her sister's boyfriend's best friend. While they are getting to know one another, Ivy and Austin together have some very funny times and some very sad times. Both have struggled with issues dating back to their teenage or early college years - for Ivy, being treated cruelly by classmates and for Austin family issues (plus a former girlfriend) which affects who they are today. Ivy is hiding some pretty big secrets and, although his are not on the same scale as hers, Austin has some too.
This story really makes you think about how much you can let your past experiences dictate your future. Are you giving your past so much power that it clouds your present and future? When you let painful memories drive you to such extremes, they're controlling you. Is that what Ivy wants?
But this is also a story of forgiveness - and what better time than Christmas for that! You will be laughing and cheering for Ivy and Austin, even though there are bumps along the way - just like life!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
jje121579's review
5.0
Get out the Kleenex, this one had me in tears. Ivy and Austin both have baggage, but their friendship that turns into romance is sweet and easy. Until Ivy lets the last shoe drop. This tale is so heartbreaking at times, but not depressing. There is hope right along with it. These everyday Joe characters are fully formed and make you feel like their friend. At the end maybe a happy tear, at least a smile and a sigh.😌
mlcreads's review
4.0
Ivy’s life is not what it seems. She seems to be living the perfect life but when she comes home to celebrate her parents anniversery, and her sister has a fall and ends up in hospital, she has to admit that all in her life is not perfect. Falling in love was never in her plans but telling Austin her truth is something she needs to do. This is a beautiful holiday romance.
sherriewatkins91's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
booktastic21's review
4.0
nice story
I read this story today. It was a different storyline and that was a fun surprise. I always love to read holiday stories.
I read this story today. It was a different storyline and that was a fun surprise. I always love to read holiday stories.
ollieolive's review
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.0
aspygirlsmom_1995's review
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
clarissagosling's review
5.0
Fun and something different to read. Enjoyable and with a serious message inside too.
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