On the verge of starting her own company—and a fling with the hot star of a TV saga—Atlanta film makeup artist Ashlyn Jennings is willed a mysterious box containing a key from her grandmother’s estate. Mamie Lou, the former Hollywood B-lister who inspired Ashlyn’s path in life, always demonstrated a flair for the dramatic. But did Mamie Lou really expect her to put everything on hold to clean out a mountain cabin no one even knew about? And right at Christmas?
When Ashlyn arrives at White Falls Lodge armed with cosmetic bags and designer shoes, little is she prepared to be stranded by a snow storm, irritated by the handsome resort owner who seems determined to peel away her facade, and redirected by a God Ashlyn wants to forget, through Mamie Lou’s real gift … the secret story of her grandmother’s past.
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MY THOUGHTS.....
When the first page of a book is able to invoke a special memory, it's evident that it's going to be enjoyable....and A Holiday Heart truly is! Ashlyn Jennings is fulfilling a mysterious wish of her recently deceased grandmother and an American Tourister cosmetic train case is part of her inheritance. I had one of these! It was dark green instead of mustard yellow but it was as special to me as this train case becomes to Ashlyn. She has her sights set on a successful career and romance with a very eligible TV star and she doesn't understand why her late grandmother Mamie wants her in Rabon Gap, Georgia. What she does know is that quickly completing her mission will allow her to return to the exciting, fast-paced life that she desires. What Ashlyn doesn't foresee is that "grandmother knows best" and she's about to learn the true meaning of a happy, successful life. With the help of a handsome but humble lodge owner and his own grandmother, the adorable Evelyn, the bitterness that has encased Ashlyn's heart is slowly chipped away and removed!
A Holiday Heart is the perfect read for this time of year. It's a short novella that doesn't take long to read and it has all of the feels that we associate with "the most wonderful time of the year!" Oh, believe me, it isn't all light and sweetness. In fact, there are some touching moments that may require tissues but their realism makes this story even more enjoyable. Ashlyn feels as though God let her down. "You can do everything God wants and it doesn't mean that life will work out. The only way to make sure that something works out is to do it yourself because He doesn't deliver what He promises!" Ashlyn is shown that God does care and seeing her spiritual growth is truly beautiful to see!
The wonderful descriptive powers of author Denise Weimer allowed me to see the lodge and Mamie's cabin set among beautiful Georgia scenery and I loved the memories of Mamie and the interaction between Ashlyn, Jake, and Evelyn. This is a lovely, heartwarming novella and I recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review wasn't required and there was no monetary compensation given. These are my own thoughts.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Denise Weimer writes historical and contemporary romance and romantic suspense, mostly set in her home state of Georgia. She’s authored almost a dozen traditionally published novels and a number of novellas. As managing editor of the historical imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, she also helps others reach their publishing dreams. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.
Thank you, Connie, for this awesome and insightful review!
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