Five and Dime Christmas

Authors: Susanne, Dietz, Patty Smith Hall, Christina Lorenzen, Cynthia Hickey
Genre: Historical Romance Anthology
Release Date: September 1, 2022

Christmas Is a Time for Romance at a 1880s Department Store
 
Visit Scranton, Pennsylvania, in 1881 where the Woodworth’s Five and Dime has become the center of Christmas commerce—and a great place to fall in love.
 
A Merry Little Christmas by Susanne Dietze
Woolworth’s store clerk Hattie Scott’s heart is touched by a handsome customer, but when she takes on additional secretarial work to earn money for Christmas, she learns her new boss is Englishman Timothy Branson—her favorite customer. . .and a threat to her brother’s job! Can two proud hearts overcome their differences to help her brother. . .and find love?
 
A Home for Christmas by Patty Smith Hall
Essie Banfield doesn’t need money but welcomes the challenges of working a job where she meets a minister and six little boys who inspire Christmas wishes. But will Pastor Max Warner trust that she is more than just a socialite with charitable intentions?
 
The Light of Christmas by Christina Lorenzen
A job is the only thing independent orphan Lizzie Miller needs, and Henry Kimball is singularly focused on proving his success outside the family business. But could the lure of an old-fashioned family Christmas bring them together?
 
Lunch with Maggie by Cynthia Hickey
Maggie Larson works the lunch counter where she befriends a girl who’s lonely father delivers milk each Friday. Friday’s noon hour becomes the highlight of Maggie’s week, but after being left at the altar, she closed her heart to love and to God. Will Seth Jamison be able to unlock her heart?

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Reviewer: Laura J. Davis

You know you are wrapped up in a Christmas book when you put it down and are stunned when you look outside to see summer. I was so wrapped up in the cozy feels of this book I could have sworn it was winter.

Each story in this lovely novella will transport you back to Woolworth's Five & Dime. I remember the lunch counter fondly from my youth and could picture my Woolworths in all its glory. While it probably wasn't a five and dime during my time, the lunch counter was always a constant. It definitely brought back a lot of warm memories. I loved how each story included characters from the other stories. It was a delight to read.

The faith element was perfect, as were the romances. I was sorry to put this book down. If you are looking for an excellent book to read now or you want to wait until Christmas, you will not be disappointed in this charming collection. I highly recommend it!

I received a review copy from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

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