An Ivy Hill Christmas
- Julie Klassen
- Albany, WA
- September 22, 2022
Goodreads Book Blurb:
Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill’s most prominent family, hasn’t been home for Christmas in years. He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him, and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life–unless he comes home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.
But Christmas in the country presents unforeseen surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled . . . and determined to have nothing to do with him.
Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, joyous songs, and divine hope, work its magic in his heart . . . and hers as well?
But Christmas in the country presents unforeseen surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled . . . and determined to have nothing to do with him.
Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, joyous songs, and divine hope, work its magic in his heart . . . and hers as well?
Series / Genres:
My Review:
enjoyable/easy to read:
☆☆☆☆☆ 3.5/5
It’s been over two years since I read the Tales from Ivy Hill series, but An Ivy Hill Christmas effortlessly transported me right back to Ivy Hill.
Right away, Richard is not a character I felt much kinship with. As he himself admits, he is innately selfish and much more concerned about his appearance and lifestyle than others around him. It quickly becomes apparent, however, that many of his actions result from years of denying the mistakes he (and his father) made in his past. But a return home for Christmas should fix everything, right?
Unlike Richard, Arabella was a quick favourite. Her selflessness is immediately evident and true to her character, not an act for others. The plans she has for her life are seemingly impossible for a woman in this time, and she is aware of how lucky she is to be afforded the opportunity, even if her mother would much prefer to marry her off. I admired her strength to stand up for herself and demand her worth and her unwillingness to settle even if she might be tempted.
Despite being a novella, there is development in the characters and the plot, and it does not feel too short or shallow. If you’ve read the Tales from Ivy Hill series, An Ivy Hill Christmas is an excellent addition. And if you haven’t, I would direct your attention to The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill and suggest you add it to your TBR.
Right away, Richard is not a character I felt much kinship with. As he himself admits, he is innately selfish and much more concerned about his appearance and lifestyle than others around him. It quickly becomes apparent, however, that many of his actions result from years of denying the mistakes he (and his father) made in his past. But a return home for Christmas should fix everything, right?
Unlike Richard, Arabella was a quick favourite. Her selflessness is immediately evident and true to her character, not an act for others. The plans she has for her life are seemingly impossible for a woman in this time, and she is aware of how lucky she is to be afforded the opportunity, even if her mother would much prefer to marry her off. I admired her strength to stand up for herself and demand her worth and her unwillingness to settle even if she might be tempted.
Despite being a novella, there is development in the characters and the plot, and it does not feel too short or shallow. If you’ve read the Tales from Ivy Hill series, An Ivy Hill Christmas is an excellent addition. And if you haven’t, I would direct your attention to The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill and suggest you add it to your TBR.
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