Monday 29 October 2018

Book Review - Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland by Heidi Swain

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Title: Snowflakes and Cinnamon Swirls at the Winter Wonderland
Author: Heidi Swain
Format reviewed: Ebook
Source: Netgalley
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication Date: 1st November 2018
Rating: 5 Stars


After calling off her engagement, Hayley, the Wynthorpe Hall housekeeper, wants nothing more than to return to her no-strings fun-loving self, avoiding any chance of future heartbreak. Little does she know, Wynbridge’s latest arrival is about to throw her plan entirely off course . . .

Moving into Wynthorpe Hall to escape the town’s gossip, Hayley finds herself immersed in the eccentric Connelly family’s festive activities as they plan to host their first ever Winter Wonderland. But Hayley isn’t the only new resident at the hall. Gabe, a friend of the Connelly’s son Jamie, has also taken up residence, moving into Gatekeeper’s Cottage, and he quickly makes an impression on Wynbridge’s reformed good-girl.

As preparations commence for the biggest event of the season, the pair find themselves drawn ever closer to one another, but unbeknownst to Hayley, Gabe, too, has a reason for turning his back on love, one that seems intent on keeping them apart.

Under the starry winter skies, will Gabe convince Hayley to open her heart again once more? And in doing so, will he convince himself?

It was a sheer joy to be back at Wynthorpe Hall amongst friends, from last years Christmas book.  And if I thought last years was amazing then this one may just be better. 

I was all for Angus' idea for a winter wonderland to be held at The Hall, and was enchanted with how the team pulled together to put on such a magnificent event.  

Gabe is the new woodsman, and its clear he has some baggage but I hadn't guessed just what he is hiding.  At some points I absolutely loved him but he was blowing so hot and cold that it was hard to full embrace him. 

Whereas Hayley I really enjoyed getting to know. She has so many layers to her personality and history, that you are continually learning new things about her, and how she would deal with situations.  I loved seeing her true personality shine through as the story continued, and she definitely has some personal growth too. 

Although this does feature a whole host of familiar characters, for fans of Heidi Swain, I do believe the book can be read as a standalone too.  There are enough references to past occurrences to give you a good idea of what happened, plus the main focus of this book are different people. 

There are a large number of characters to keep track of, but once you have worked out who is who, it feels as though you really are another part of the family at Wynthorpe Hall where everyone feels welcome.  

There is just something special about Heidi Swain's writing that keeps me reading, and going back to the book continually and at no points did I want to tear myself away from this really lovely book.  Whether you are a long time fan of the author, or new to her, this is definitely a festive feast of a book to read this season. 

Thank you to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster for  this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily. 


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