An Ivy Hill Christmas

Author: Julie Klassen
Genre: Historical Romance

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?

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Reviewer: Laura J. Davis

An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen is a delightful, warm-hearted novella that is sure to get you into the Christmas spirit.

If you have read any of the author's Ivy Hill books, you will be delighted to return to that idyllic village and its cast of characters, once again. I confess, it is has been a while since I last read an Ivy Hill book, so I felt somewhat out of the loop, trying to recall the characters. Fortunately, the book stands on its own, and while you might have a little niggle that you are missing something, the story eventually unfolds enough that you are not at all lost.

While this story has many interesting characters, the main focus is on Richard Brockwell and Arabella Awdry. Both have lessons to learn on judging others, making assumptions, trust and making new beginnings. I loved to see how these characters stretched and grew in their relationship with each other and with God. 

With a satisfying ending that you wish could go on a little longer, An Ivy Hill Christmas is a book you want to curl up in bed with, along with a hot drink of your choice! And as a bonus, there is a cookie recipe in the back of the book!

I received this book from Bethany House through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

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