The Best is Yet to Come

The Best is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber

Expected publication:  July 12, 2022 – Ballantine

Review galley courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley

Description:

A new beginning in charming Oceanside, Washington, is exactly what Hope Godwin needs after the death of her twin brother. There are plenty of distractions, like her cozy cottage with the slightly nosy landlords next door, and a brewing drama among her students at the local high school.

Despite having settled quickly into the community, something is still missing for Hope. That is, until her landlord convinces her to volunteer at his animal shelter. There she meets Shadow, a rescue dog that everyone has given up on. But true to her name, Hope believes he’s worth saving.

Like Shadow, shelter volunteer Cade Lincoln Jr., is suffering with injuries most can’t see. A wounded ex-marine, Cade identifies with Shadow, assuming they are both beyond help. Hope senses that what they each need is someone to believe in them, and she has a lot of love to give. As she gains Shadow’s trust, Hope notices Cade begins to open up as well. Finding the courage to be vulnerable again, Cade and Hope take steps toward a relationship, and Hope finally begins to feel at peace in her new home.

But Hope’s new happiness is put to the test when Cade’s past conflicts resurface, and Hope becomes embroiled in the escalating situation at the high school. Love and compassion are supposed to heal all wounds. But are they enough to help Hope and Cade overcome the pain of their past and the obstacles in the way of a better future? (publisher)

My take:

It’s been a while since I’ve read a Debbie Macomber book. The Best Is Yet To Come is a heartwarming novel about people in need of fresh starts.

Cade is a vet who is trying to make sense of his life since returning to the States. Hope is a high school teacher beginning a new job in a new town. They meet as volunteers at the local animal shelter and slowly become friends. Also, part of the story involves events at the high school which adds a bit of drama and a “young love” aspect to the novel.

I enjoyed it all and can recommend to fans of Women’s Fiction, light romance, and the author.

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Cottage By The Sea by Debbie Macomber

Cottage By the Sea by Debbie Macomber

Pub. date:  July 17, 2018 – Ballantine

Review galley courtesy of Ballantine and NetGalley

Description:  Annie Marlow has been through the worst. Rocked by tragedy, she heads to the one place that makes her happy: Oceanside in the Pacific Northwest, the destination of many family vacations when Annie was a teenager.
   
Once there, Annie begins to restore her broken spirit, thanks, in part, to the folks she meets: a local painter, Keaton, whose large frame is equal to his big heart—and who helps Annie fix up her rental cottage by the sea; Mellie, the reclusive, prickly landlord Annie is determined to befriend; and Britt, a teenager with a terrible secret. But it is Keaton to whom Annie feels most drawn. His quiet, peaceful nature offers her both comfort and reprieve from her grief, and the two begin to grow closer.

Then events threaten to undo the idyll Annie has longed for. And when the opportunity of a lifetime lands in her lap, she is torn between the excitement of a new journey toward success and the safe and secure arms of the haven—and the man—she’s come to call home.

In this heartwarming tale, Annie finds that the surest way to fix what is damaged within is to help others rise above their pain and find a way to heal.  (publisher)

My take:  Cottage By The Sea is Debbie Macomber’s new stand alone novel. Following a tragedy Annie Marlow is faced with starting her life over. She returns to the little beach town where her family vacationed when she was young. It is a way to connect to everything she has missed from her past and soon becomes a way to create her future. With the help of new friends, all with issues of their own, that’s exactly what she does. The novel deals with some serious themes such as loss of loved ones, domestic abuse, and hoarding. Macomber conveys the emotions without getting too heavy which is what I’ve come to expect from her.

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Twelve Days of Christmas by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Twelve Days of Christmas
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Contemporary Romance; Christmas
• Pages:  304
• Published:  October 2016 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher; NetGalley

My take:  When Julia Padden meets her across-the-hall neighbor Cain Maddox she’s shocked by his rudeness. It’s the Christmas season after all. The naturally bubbly and upbeat Julia is just not used to such treatment. He’s her polar opposite. Never one to back down from a challenge, and on the advice of her best friend, she decides to “kill him” with kindness.

Julia also has a project that is tied into a social media job interview that is down to between her and one other applicant. She must create a blog for a couple of weeks. The person who has the most hits and followers will get the job. So she decides to blog about her kindness project. This has far-reaching repercussions and some unexpected results.

Twelve Days of Christmas is quintessential Debbie Macomber. There’s a bit of conflict, romance, drama, humor and sweetness. I enjoyed it and think her fans will as well.

Sweet Tomorrows by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Sweet Tomorrows
• Series:  Rose Harbor #5
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Women’s Fiction
• Pages:  352
• Published:  August 2016 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher; NetGalley

My take:  When Jo Marie Rose purchased what became known as the Rose Harbor Inn a few years ago she was heartbroken from the loss of her husband Paul. Somehow she felt he’d led her to Cedar Cove and the charming inn and eventually she started to live again. The inn became a place of healing and she met many interesting people: Cedar Cove residents, guests at the inn, and one often infuriating handyman named Mark Taylor.

Over the years not only did Mark get under Jo Marie’s skin from time to time but he became a friend and then much more. Jo Marie also learned that Mark was much more than a handyman. In the previous novel Mark told Jo Marie to move on with her life – without him, and abruptly left Cedar Cove. He’s been gone for a year and Jo Marie has about given up hope that she’d see him again when things change.

Emily Gaffney is a teacher who accepted a new job in Cedar Cove. She needs a fresh start in a new town after a second broken engagement. She’ll stay at the inn while searching for a house. This turns out to be a blessing for Jo Marie. The two become friends and Emily helps out at the inn when Jo Marie is needed elsewhere. Emily has had to give up on some dreams and doubts the inn will work its magic on her but Jo Marie knows otherwise – especially when it comes to Emily and the difficult owner of the house she’d like to buy.

Sweet Tomorrows is the final installment in the Rose Harbor series. It’s about people at a low point who’ve almost given up on themselves, life and those close to them. Ultimately, in true Debbie Macomber fashion, it’s an uplifting story that brings the series to a close. I’m going to miss Jo Marie and the rest of the Cedar Cove family.

Silver Linings by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Silver Linings
• Series:  Rose Harbor #4
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Women’s Fiction
• Pages:  331
• Published:  August 2015 – Ballantine
• Source:  Publisher/Goodreads First Reads

Description:  Set in Cedar Cove’s charming Rose Harbor Inn, Debbie Macomber’s captivating new novel follows innkeeper Jo Marie and two new guests as they seek healing and comfort, revealing that every cloud has a silver lining, even when it seems difficult to find. 

Since opening the Rose Harbor Inn, Jo Marie Rose has grown close to her handyman, Mark Taylor. Jo Marie and Mark are good friends—and are becoming something more—yet he still won’t reveal anything about his past. When Mark tells her that he’s moving out of town, Jo Marie is baffled. Just when she is starting to open herself up again to love, she feels once more that she is losing the man she cares about. And as she discovers the secret behind Mark’s decision to leave, she welcomes two visitors also seeking their own answers.

Best friends Kellie Crenshaw and Katie Gilroy have returned to Cedar Cove for their ten-year high school reunion, looking to face down old hurts and find a sense of closure. Kellie, known as Coco, wants to finally confront the boy who callously broke her heart. Katie, however, wishes to reconnect with her old boyfriend, James—the man she still loves and the one who got away. As Katie hopes for a second chance, Coco discovers that people can change—and both look to the exciting possibilities ahead. 

Heartwarming and uplifting, Silver Linings is a beautiful novel of letting go of the past and embracing the unexpected.  (publisher)

My take: Silver Linings is the fourth book in the Rose Harbor Inn series. That said, it can stand alone because author Debbie Macomber gives just enough back story to bring a new reader up to speed.

At first I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy the Katie and Coco storylines but that feeling didn’t last long as I was caught up in their dramas. The possibility of understanding and forgiveness ran through as each hoped for her own silver lining. I appreciated that the road to that silver lining was not a smooth, easy one.

Jo Marie and Mark’s story was more complicated but just as satisfying. Once again, as in the previous novel, we are left with a cliff-hanger. Normally, that’s not very satisfying but Macomber left me hopeful. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Rose Harbor Inn series. Recommended to fans of the author and women’s fiction.

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Mr. Miracle by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Mr. Miracle: A Christmas Novel
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Christmas; Contemporary Romance
• Published:  October 2014 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher

My take:  With a nod to Dickens, Debbie Macomber’s new Christmas novel is about the possibilities of new beginnings. Harry Mills (an angel) gets his chance to help some humans going in the right direction. To nudge them along, if you will. He’s a teacher at the community college and chooses A Christmas Carol as the class novel.

First up is Addie who has moved home after being gone for six years. She’ll live at her mom’s house while taking the last class needed to get her GED. Then she’ll go to college. What Addie doesn’t expect is the boy next door still being next door. Circumstances have made it so Erich must be there over the holidays. He’s not happy about that and even less thrilled that Addie is going to be involved in his life. Both Addie and Erich have regrets but can they help each other learn from those regrets and move forward?

Others who will find themselves getting attention from Harry are Danny who is on parole and must take a class and Andrew, a veteran, and his service dog. Harry has his work cut out for him with his students and his fellow faculty and staff.

I thought this was a sweet Christmas story but it’s not my favorite by the author. At the end of the book there’s an excerpt from last year’s Christmas book. After you read Mr. Miracle I recommend you read Starry Night. I really liked that one! However, if all you want is a new and fast read (that can be important at this busy time of year) you should look for Mr. Miracle. I don’t think you can go wrong with Debbie Macomber.

Love Letters: A Rose Harbor Novel by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Love Letters
• Series:  Rose Harbor #3
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Contemporary Fiction/Romance; series
• Published:  August 2014 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher

Synopsis:  In this enchanting novel set at Cedar Cove’s cozy Rose Harbor Inn, #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber celebrates the power of love—and a well-timed love letter—to inspire hope and mend a broken heart.
Summer is a busy season at the inn, so proprietor Jo Marie Rose and handyman Mark Taylor have spent a lot of time together keeping the property running. Despite some folks’ good-natured claims to the contrary, Jo Marie insists that Mark is only a friend. However, she seems to be thinking about this particular friend a great deal lately. Jo Marie knows surprisingly little about Mark’s life, due in no small part to his refusal to discuss it. She’s determined to learn more about his past, but first she must face her own—and welcome three visitors who, like her, are setting out on new paths.
Twenty-three-year-old Ellie Reynolds is taking a leap of faith. She’s come to Cedar Cove to meet Tom, a man she’s been corresponding with for months, and with whom she might even be falling in love. Ellie’s overprotective mother disapproves of her trip, but Ellie is determined to spread her wings.
Maggie and Roy Porter are next to arrive at the inn. They are taking their first vacation alone since their children were born. In the wake of past mistakes, they hope to rekindle the spark in their marriage—and to win back each other’s trust. But Maggie must make one last confession that could forever tear them apart.
For each of these characters, it will ultimately be a moment when someone wore their heart on their sleeve—and took pen to paper—that makes all the difference. Debbie Macomber’s moving novel reveals the courage it takes to be vulnerable, accepting, and open to love.  (publisher)

My take:  Debbie Macomber’s third installment of the Rose Harbor series involves Jo Marie, the thirty-something widowed innkeeper, who continues to grieve the loss of her husband. She’s also trying to figure out what’s up with Mark, her handyman. This storyline has been in each book of the series and we find out a bit more in this book – but not everything.

Guests at the inn are a couple who are trying to get their marriage back on track and a young woman who is going to meet for the first time a young man she met online. Each chapter involves one of the three storylines and made for a fast, enjoyable and entertaining read.

You don’t have to have read the previous books in the series but I recommend it. You’ll get a better feel for Jo Marie’s background story. I think this book is the perfect vacation read – it was easy to set down but I always looked forward to picking it back up. I’m eager to read the next book in the series (and not just because there was a bit of a cliff-hanger). Recommended to fans of Debbie Macomber and contemporary, small town fiction.

Blossom Street Brides by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Blossom Street Brides
• Series:  Blossom Street, #10
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Romance
• Published:  March 25, 2014 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher

My take:  I love my visits to Blossom Street.  I haven’t read all of the previous books but I plan to.  This time we catch up with Lydia, the owner of the yarn shop on Blossom Street – A Good Yarn. Life is good for Lydia, her husband and two children. Her mother has health issues that concern her but daughter Casey dotes upon her grandmother which eases Lydia’s worries a bit. These days Lydia is trying to solve the mystery of who is placing baskets of knitting projects around the city with directions to take the finished project to A Good Yarn. Business sure has picked up!

Lydia’s display window features a baby blanket that catches the eye of almost everyone. She has trouble keeping the yarn for the project in stock. Two women in particular are waiting for the next order to arrive. Lauren, a young woman who works down the street wants to knit the blanket for the baby her younger sister expects. Lauren would give anything to be married and pregnant. Bethanne just found out her son and his wife are expecting. She can’t wait to start knitting for her first grandchild.

After realizing her long-time boyfriend has no intention of proposing Lauren puts together a “husband list” – a list of qualities she wants in a husband. She’ll soon find that what she always thought was important is not what she really wants.

Bethanne is a newlywed and living in Seattle while her husband lives in California.  They see each other on weekends and know they can’t keep living this way. Bethanne’s daughter refuses to give her blessing to her stepfather. After all, her father wanted to reunite with her mother when his second marriage (the one he left his family for) fell apart. Bethanne feels torn between her new life and her daughter.

Blossom Street Brides is typical Debbie Macomber. She writes good stories that are quite addicting – at least they are to me! She has such an easy style that grabs me from the first page and leaves me smiling as I turn the last. I can’t wait for my next visit to Blossom Street.

Starry Night: A Christmas Novel by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Starry Night: A Christmas Novel
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Contemporary Romance; Christmas
• Published:  October 2013 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher

Synopsis:  ’Tis the season for romance, second chances, and Christmas cheer with this new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.
 
Carrie Slayton, a big-city society-page columnist, longs to write more serious news stories. So her editor hands her a challenge: She can cover any topic she wants, but only if she first scores the paper an interview with Finn Dalton, the notoriously reclusive author. 
 
Living in the remote Alaskan wilderness, Finn has written a megabestselling memoir about surviving in the wild. But he stubbornly declines to speak to anyone in the press, and no one even knows exactly where he lives.
 
Digging deep into Finn’s past, Carrie develops a theory on his whereabouts. It is the holidays, but her career is at stake, so she forsakes her family celebrations and flies out to snowy Alaska. When she finally finds Finn, she discovers a man both more charismatic and more stubborn than she even expected. And soon she is torn between pursuing the story of a lifetime and following her heart.
 
Filled with all the comforts and joys of Christmastime, Starry Night is a delightful novel of finding happiness in the most surprising places. (publisher)

My take:  Starry Night is pure Romance. I love the cover and the story inside charmed me. I’m a fan of Christmas romances and this one didn’t disappoint.

Debbie Macomber had me cheering for Carrie and Finn as they worked their stubborn ways through this short novel and, of course, to a happy ending.

Set against the backdrops of Chicago, Seattle, and the wilds of Alaska. and with a slight nod to O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi, Starry Night is typical Debbie Macomber.  It’s a G-rated Romance and I recommend it to fans of the author and genre.

Rose Harbor in Bloom by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Rose Harbor in Bloom  (Rose Harbor, #2)
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Contemporary Fiction
• Published:  August 2013 – Ballantine Books
• Source:  Publisher

My take:  Jo Marie Rose purchased the Rose Harbor Inn after the death of her husband.  She dreamed that he told her it would be a place of healing – for her as well as guests.

In the second book of the Rose Harbor Inn series Jo Marie continues to deal with her grief. She also knows that she must go on so she tries her best to put one foot in front of the other. Her days are filled with greeting her guests:  a young event planner trying to forget her two-timing ex-fiancé by planning a party for her grandparents; the grandparents who bicker more than one would expect for a couple celebrating their 50th anniversary; and a quiet woman who is appears to be dealing with illness.

In addition to having a full house for the weekend, Jo Marie is readying the Inn for an open house the following week. As if she wasn’t feeling flustered enough with all the preparations, her abrasive handyman Mark injures himself in a fall and won’t have the rose garden ready for the event. Jo Marie has figured out how to deal with Mark’s rough demeanor: give it right back to him. It was fun to watch the two fall into a rhythm of verbal give and take. I wonder what the author has in store for these two!

I’m finding Jo Marie’s journey through grief to be emotional and relatable. I could identify with her feelings and think anyone who has suffered the loss of a loved one will do the same. I love the way Debbie Macomber tells a story and this is another winner. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

Starting Now by Debbie Macomber

• Title:  Starting Now – A Blossom Street Novel
• Author:  Debbie Macomber
• Genre:  Contemporary Fiction
• Published:  April 2013 – Ballantine
• Source:  Publisher via NetGalley

Synopsis (publisher):  For years, Libby Morgan dreamed only of making partner in her high-pressure law firm. She sacrificed everything for her career – friends, marriage, her chance of a family. So nothing can prepare her for the shocking news that she’s been let go and must rebuild her entire life . . . starting now. With no job in sight, she spends her afternoons at A Good Yarn, the local knitting store. There, she forms a close bond with Lydia, the sweet-natured shop owner, Lydia’s spirited daughter, Casey, and Ava, a shy yet troubled teenager. As A Good Yarn becomes a second home – and the women a new kind of family – Libby relishes the different person she’s become. She even finds time for romance with a handsome doctor … But just as everything is coming together, Libby must make a choice that could forever change the life she holds so dear.

My take:  I’ve read a lot of Debbie Macomber’s books but only one from the Blossom Street series (#7, Hannah’s List). Starting Now is #9 but I didn’t feel lost or frustrated by that fact. Macomber tells a good story and she does a good job of catching readers up on characters from previous books. 

Speaking of characters, I enjoyed the ones in this book – particularly Libby and Phillip. This is not a case of “opposites attract”. These two are more alike than different which ended up helping them understand each other for the most part. Meeting Phillip was just one of the positive things that happened to Libby after she was let go from her law firm. Libby started to see the possibilities that lay before her. She got back to knitting – something she’d stopped as a teen when her mother died. She saw a lot of herself in a girl she met at the yarn shop and became a mentor to her. That connection would lead to big changes for Libby.

The pace of Starting Now was perfect as a few surprises in the plot were revealed. I enjoyed this story of people learning to appreciate  what’s really important in life. It’s a quick read that didn’t disappoint. Macomber’s books might be considered predictable but I suspect her fans (me included) like it that way. There’s always a relatable situation and interesting characters, a little romance and an uplifting ending. This would be a good one to toss in the beach bag or do what I did – read it over a weekend and in your favorite chair.

The Inn at Rose Harbor by Debbie Macomber

Title:  The Inn at Rose Harbor

Author:  Debbie Macomber

Genre:  Women’s Fiction; Series

Published:  July 2012 – Ballantine Books

Hardcover: 352 pages

My take:  Jo Marie Rose suffered an excruciating loss and, because of that loss, she’s started on a new path in life. She has become the new owner of an inn in Cedar Cove, Washington.

Debbie Macomber really sets the tone for her new series. I wasn’t sure she could pull me in when I’d already read the complete Cedar Cove series. She does let characters make brief appearances in TIARH but she doesn’t let them take over. The stars of this first book are Jo Marie and her first two guests to stay at the inn:  Josh Weaver and Abby Kincaid.

Josh Weaver is back in Cedar Cove to see his estranged stepfather, Richard, who is literally on his deathbed. Richard kicked Josh out of the house weeks before his high school graduation. Now, over ten years later, Josh comes home to make sure he can find some of his deceased mother’s things before the house can be sold. What he didn’t expect was to meet an old classmate who could be instrumental in helping Josh come to terms with a few things life has thrown at him.

Abby Kincaid hasn’t been back to her hometown in many years. Her parents no longer live there and Abby hoped never to return after a tragic accident took her best friend. She carries a lot of guilt over that event and doesn’t think she’ll ever forgive herself much less be forgiven by many people in Cedar Cove. When her brother announces his wedding to a girl from Cedar Cove, Abby knows she can’t avoid going back home.

What the main characters in this novel have in common is a need to attain some peace in their lives. Debbie Macomber’s new series is a winner for me. I love tales of redemption and she is one of the best at writing them. If you’re a fan of hers I think you’ll enjoy The Inn at Rose Harbor.

Note: I bought the short story When First They Met before reading this book. It fleshes out the story of Jo Marie before she bought the inn. You don’t have to read it (you’ll get bits and pieces in The Inn at Rose Harbor) but I’m glad I did because it was an emotional introduction to Jo Marie. Her empathy for others will definitely be felt in this series.

Source:  Publisher via NetGalley

Disclosure:  See sidebar. I was not compensated for my review.

Debbie Macomber news!

Debbie Macomber’s latest newsletter was in my inbox yesterday. She shared this bit of info:

In August you’ll be able to see a movie on Hallmark Channel based on my Cedar Cove series. After the movie premieres, the network will make a decision about green-lighting the series. (You can’t imagine how hard it’s been to keep this secret until the contract was signed!) More news when I have it!

I’m so excited because I’ve always thought this series would be a great one for Hallmark or Lifetime.

1225 Christmas Tree Lane by Debbie Macomber

Title:  1225 Christmas Tree Lane

A Cedar Cove Novel

Author:  Debbie Macomber

Genre:  Christmas; Series Romance

Published:  September 2011 – Mira

About:  (Goodreads synopsis) The people of Cedar Cove know how to celebrate Christmas. Like Grace and Olivia and everyone else, Beth Morehouse expects this Christmas to be one of her best. Her small Christmas-tree farm is prospering, her daughters and her dogs are happy and well, and her new relationship with local vet Ted Reynolds is showing plenty of romantic promise.

But …someone recently left a basket filled with puppies on her doorstep, puppies she’s determined to place in good homes. That’s complication number one. And number two is that her daughters Bailey and Sophie have invited their dad, Beth’s ex-husband, Kent, to Cedar Cove for Christmas. The girls have visions of a mom-and-dad reunion dancing in their heads.

As always in life— and in Cedar Cove —there are surprises, too. More than one family’s going to have a puppy under the tree. More than one scheme will go awry. And more than one romance will have a happy ending!

My brief take:  I’ve enjoyed Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove series. 1225 Christmas Tree Lane is book 12 and the final novel in the series. We get to know Beth Morehouse, her daughters, and her ex-husband. The synopsis above explains their story. The puppies serve as a way to bring back characters from previous books. They adopt the puppies and the reader gets caught up on what’s new in their lives.

You’ll have to read the book to see if Beth’s daughters get their Christmas wish. As you might expect Debbie Macomber gives all of the Cedar Cove residents a fond farewell in this satisfying series finale. I smiled as I turned the last page.

Recommended to fans of small town fiction, the author, and the Cedar Cove series.

Source:  Library book.

Disclaimer:  See sidebar. I was not compensated for my review.

Audiobook: Trading Christmas by Debbie Macomber

Title:  Trading Christmas (audiobook)

Author:  Debbie Macomber

Narrator:  Renee Raudman

Genre:  Christmas Romance

Published:  October 2011 – Brilliance Audio (previously titled When Christmas Comes – 2004)

About:  (Goodreads synopsis) Emily Springer widowed mother of one, decides to leave her hometown of Leavenworth, Washington, to spend Christmas with her daughter in Boston. Charles Brewster, history professor, seasoned curmudgeon and resident of Boston, wants to avoid Christmas altogether.

Through an Internet site, they arrange to swap houses for the holiday. So Emily goes to Boston–and discovers that her daughter has gone to Florida. And Charles arrives in Leavenworth to discover a town that looks like Santa’s village, full of Christmas trees, Christmas music and elves.

Meanwhile, Emily’s friend Faith Kerrigan travels to Leavenworth to visit her–and finds Charles the grouch. . .whose brother, Ray, shows up at Charles’s place, to find Emily living there.

Through all the mix-ups and misunderstandings, amid the chaos and confusion, romance begins to emerge in unexpected ways. Because when Christmas comes, so does love. . .

My brief take:  Debbie Macomber’s Christmas novels are cute and heartwarming. Trading Christmas is no different. It’s a comedy of errors that involves three story lines. The romance is light and the humor borders on corny at times but I didn’t mind that. Narrator Renee Raudman gave a fine performance. I listened to the audiobook while I knitted a Christmas gift. It was perfect entertainment. The Hallmark Channel is airing the movie version of this novel. It’s new this year and I hope to watch it soon. If you enjoy cute Christmas themed novels you may like Trading Christmas.

Source:  I bought it.

Disclaimer:  See sidebar. I was not compensated for my review.

1105 Yakima Street by Debbie Macomber

Title:  1105 Yakima Street – A Cedar Cove novel

Author:  Debbie Macomber

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Published:  August 2011 – Mira

About:  As with each Cedar Cove novel, the reader is updated with a note from one of the main characters. This note is from Bruce:

Dear Reader,

You’ve probably heard that my wife has left me. Rachel’s pregnant, and she says she can’t handle the stress in our household anymore. My thirteen–year–old daughter, Jolene, is jealous of her. Maybe it’s my fault. As a widower I spoiled her—

Jolene was reading over my shoulder just now and says that’s not true. She claims Rachel ruined everything. But that’s not true. The real question is: How can I get my wife back? I don’t even know where she is. She’s not with Teri Polgar or any of her other friends from the salon. The other question is…when will Jolene grow up and stop acting like such a brat?

Of course, I’m not the only one in town with problems. Linc Wyse’s father–in–law is trying to destroy his business. And you know Charlotte Rhodes? Seems she’s becoming forgetful, and the family’s worried about her and Ben. Lots of other stuff going on—but Rachel is better at keeping up with it than I am.

If you have any idea where my wife is, give me a call. Please.

My brief take:  I’ve enjoyed the Cedar Cove series and  1105 Yakima Street is no exception. As Debbie Macomber’s small town series winds down (there’s still one more book) she ties up a few story lines started in previous books.

A few thoughts: I wondered how the Rachel, Bruce and Jolene problems would be resolved but, happily, they are.  Linc Wyse lives up to his surname and solves some issues in his wife’s family. It was hard to see a beloved character like Charlotte Rhodes begin to decline. It’s something many readers will relate to. One of my favorite story lines in this book was that of Gloria and Chad. Life has changed for them both and the future is theirs to decide.

If you’re like me and have kept up with the series you’ll want to read 1105 Yakima Street. If Cedar Cove is new to you – well, you’re in for a treat. Begin with the first: 16 Lighthouse Road. It’s the start of a heartwarming series. I’m glad there’s another book to read before the series ends and I’m happy to report that Debbie Macomber has a new series in the works.

Source:  I bought it.

Disclaimer:  See sidebar.

Call Me Mrs. Miracle by Debbie Macomber

Author: Debbie Macomber

Genre: Fiction/Christmas

About: Mrs. Merkle (aka Mrs. Miracle) brings people together and helps them discover the blessings of Christmas.

Descriptive Words: Heartwarming Christmas novel.

Thoughts: Debbie Macomber introduced readers to Mrs. Miracle in her 2009 novel of the same name.  Mrs. Miracle is a kind woman who has a knack for appearing when someone really needs her.  In Call Me Mrs. Miracle she’s a clerk in the toy department of Finley’s Department Store in New York City.  The owner of the store, J.R. Finley and his son Jake, the toy dept. manager, haven’t celebrated Christmas since a tragic event occurred twenty-one years earlier.   Eight-year-old Gabe Larson lives with his Aunt Holly while his Dad serves with the National Guard in Afghanistan. Gabe’s mother died when he was a baby so Holly gladly took in her brother’s son. Holly works for a fashion designer  (a real Scrooge) who may not give out a bonus this year.  They all could use some Christmas spirit. Mrs. Miracle really has her work cut out for her but she’s up to the challenge.

Debbie Macomber does what she does best – writes stories about regular people dealing with real-life situations.  However, Mrs. Miracle is a magical character.  Some might call her an angel but she never explains herself.  I find that to be part of her charm.  I enjoyed watching her work her special brand of magic on the characters in this novel.  It’s a sweet story with a warm message.

Mrs. Miracle  was a movie on The Hallmark Channel last year.  Call Me Mrs. Miracle (the movie) will air this Christmas season (original air date is Nov. 27).  Doris Roberts plays the title role.

Source: Mira Books via NetGalley

Why I Chose: I enjoy Debbie Macomber’s novels.

Recommend? Yes, to fans of Debbie Macomber, Christmas novels.

Rating: 4 / 5 stars

Pub. date: Sept. 28, 2010

1022 Evergreen Place by Debbie Macomber

From the book:

Dear Reader:

Guess what? I’m falling in love! With Mack McAfee.

My baby daughter, Noelle, and I have been living next door to Mack since the spring. I’m still a little wary about our relationship, since I haven’t always made good decisions when it comes to men. My baby’s father, David Rhodes, is testament to that. I’m so worried he might sue for custody.

In the meantime, the World War II letters I found are a wonderful distraction. Both Mack and I are trying to learn what happened to the soldier who wrote them and the woman he loved.

Come by sometime for a glass of iced tea and I’ll show you the letters. Plus I’ll tell you the latest about Grace and Olivia, my brother Linc and his wife, Lori (who tied the knot about 5 minutes after they met!), and all our other mutual friends. Oh, and maybe Mack can join us…

– Mary Jo Wyse

~

My review: Debbie Macomber’s latest Cedar Cove novel ties up some loose ends from 92 Pacific Blvd. and continues a few story lines.  I really enjoyed the mystery of the WWII letters that Mack and Mary Jo are trying to solve.  Their story is sweet and really the main focus of the novel.

We also get to see what’s new with:

Gloria Ashton and Chad Timmons:   They’ve had a start and stop relationship and now Gloria is faced with a decision that could change a few lives.  Her father gets wind of what’s going on and decides to step in before history repeats.

Bruce, Rachel, and Jolene Peyton: Bruce and Rachel are newlyweds. Bruce’s daughter Jolene once worshiped Rachel who took her shopping and did girl things together. But now that she is her step-mother Rachel is seen as competition for Bruce’s affections.  Jolene hates Rachel and wants to go back to life the way it was before.

Linc and Lori Wyse: they met and married within a few weeks.  Lori’s wealthy and controlling father is livid about the situation and wants to make Linc go away.

There are more updates of favorite Cedar Cove residents and a few joyful events. Reading the latest book in the series is like catching up with old friends.  Debbie Macomber has built a small town and filled it with characters who are easy to relate to.  They have heartaches and happiness like  anyone and Macomber reveals all in her easygoing style.  If you’re looking for a relaxing, enjoyable book start with 16 Lighthouse Road.  Read the series in order so you can get to know the characters from the beginning.

Note:  I appreciate the list of characters (and short description) at the start of each book.  There are so many characters that the “refresher” helps a lot.

1022 Evergreen Place will be released on August 31, 2010

Review copy from Harlequin/MIRA via NetGalley

Sunday Summary – May 2

Debbie Macomber (near the window on the right) book signing at Borders

I wish I had a close-up. This photo is from my phone

I went to a book signing by Debbie Macomber on Wednesday evening. She spoke “off the cuff” for about 20 minutes, answered some audience questions and then began to sign her books. I didn’t stay as there were at least 200 people in line. I really just wanted to hear what she had to say. She’s very funny. She shared things about her family and a few things about her books. Did you know that she didn’t go to college? She also told the crowd that she is dyslexic.

There will be a new Mrs. Miracle movie in time for Christmas 2010. Apparently the first Mrs. M movie was the most watched cable movie of 2009. That’s pretty amazing, I think. I recommend going to a signing if she comes to your area. My daughter went along with me and had a few comments about the audience demographic, etc. She made me laugh because I hadn’t noticed. The audience was made up of mostly women over 40. Also at the signing was a local yarn shop display of Debbie Macomber’s knitting items – yarns, patterns, etc.

Books read/reviewed last week:

Waiting On Wednesday pick:

Friday Finds pick:

92 Pacific Boulevard by Debbie Macomber

Synopsis

92 Pacific Boulevard

Cedar Cove, Washington

Dear Reader,

I’m not much of a letter writer. As the sheriff here, I’m used to writing incident reports, not chatty letters. But my daughter, Megan—who’ll be making me a grandfather soon—told me I had to do this. So here goes.

I’ll tell you straight out that I’d hoped to marry Faith Beckwith (my onetime high school girlfriend) but she ended the relationship last month, even though we’re both widowed and available. There were a few misunderstandings between us, some of them inadvertently caused by Megan.

However, I’ve got plenty to keep me occupied, like the unidentified remains found in a cave outside town. And the fact that my friend Judge Olivia Griffin is fighting cancer. And the break-ins at 204 Rosewood Lane—the house Faith happens to be renting from Grace Harding…

If you want to hear more, come on over to my place or to the sheriff’s office—if you can stand the stale coffee!

Troy Davis

* * * * * * *

92 Pacific Boulevard is the latest book in the Cedar Cove series by Debbie Macomber. This is such a relaxed and nice series. There are recurring main characters and then usually a few new ones in each book. Some of the story lines continue in successive books – which is fine with me because I don’t always like things tied up in a bow at the end of a book. There are a couple of mysteries in this installment. Will they be solved? You’ll have to read to find out. I guess this book could stand alone but I would recommend starting at the beginning. You’ll get to know the characters at a nice pace. I look forward to my next visit to Cedar Cove.