The Lodge on Holly Road

October 15, 2014

Brooke Claussen is concerned that her dad, who used to love Christmas, is losing his interest in life since her mom died. So Brooke kidnaps him and takes him to idyllic Icicle Falls for a family celebration with no sad memories. Naturally, James Claussen rebels, but as the holidays progress, the landscape shifts and soon passion is igniting everywhere. Colorful characters, both old and new, bring the season to life in this light-hearted, engaging romance. A recipe for gumdrop cookies is a bonus. VERDICT A daughter takes matters into her own hands to bring joy and love back into her father's life in this richly peopled heart-warmer that features several memorable couples and is perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber, Sherryl Woods, and Robyn Carr. Roberts (The Tea Shop on Lavender Lane) lives in Bremerton, WA.

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2014
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Icicle Creek Lodge. Even after all these years, innkeeper Olivia Wallace still misses her husband, but she keeps busy taking care of her guests and her family. When widower James Claussen checks in with his daughter and son, Olivia is surprised when she finds herself thinking about James as more than just a guest. John Truman plans on proposing to his girlfriend, Holland, while they enjoy Christmas at Icicle Creek Lodge. However, after meeting single mother Missy Monroe, who has brought her two young children to the bed-and-breakfast as a special Christmas treat, John starts to wonder if he is really marrying the right woman. Roberts (Better Than Chocolate, 2012) does a terrific job of juggling her lively cast of characters in the eighth installment in her popular Icicle Falls series, and readers who enjoy a-second-chance-at-love stories will especially appreciate this sweet romance that perfectly captures the charm and cheer of the holiday season.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)