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A Year of Weddings 1 #1
A December Bride
A year’s worth of novellas from twelve inspirational romance authors. Happily ever after guaranteed.
What started as a whim turned into an accidental—and very public—engagement. Can Layla and Seth keep up the façade in Chapel Springs this holiday season—for the sake of her career...and his heart?
Under normal circumstances, Seth Murphy—the best friend of Layla O’Reilly’s ex-fiancé—would be the last person she’d marry. But the news of their upcoming (and phony) nuptials convinces a big client that Layla may be high-society enough to work for his agency—a coup that would put her fledgling home-staging business on the map.
Seth has secretly loved Layla for years, even when she was dating his best friend. Maybe she’ll never forgive him for the way he hurt her back then, but he has to try. And Layla is willing to keep up their engagement farce until she’s landed her client.
For Layla, it’s the chance to save her career. But for Seth, it’s his last chance to win her heart.
What started as a whim turned into an accidental—and very public—engagement. Can Layla and Seth keep up the façade in Chapel Springs this holiday season—for the sake of her career...and his heart?
Under normal circumstances, Seth Murphy—the best friend of Layla O’Reilly’s ex-fiancé—would be the last person she’d marry. But the news of their upcoming (and phony) nuptials convinces a big client that Layla may be high-society enough to work for his agency—a coup that would put her fledgling home-staging business on the map.
Seth has secretly loved Layla for years, even when she was dating his best friend. Maybe she’ll never forgive him for the way he hurt her back then, but he has to try. And Layla is willing to keep up their engagement farce until she’s landed her client.
For Layla, it’s the chance to save her career. But for Seth, it’s his last chance to win her heart.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2015
About the author
Denise Hunter
78 books4,058 followersDenise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
January 10, 2021
New Year's Eve:
Oh-my-goodness! 😍 This story was so enjoyable. The last time I was in Chapel Springs was in 2018, ending with "Married 'til Monday."
What a wonderful way to close this year with Seth and Layla's story! It was so special being in the town of Chapel Springs again. I love Denise Hunter's romantic writing. I got a nice dose of it in this novella, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
* I have to come back and add to this review, because the above doesn't sum up my thoughts.
"A December Bride" by Denise Hunter, is a Christmas novella that made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. At the mention of Cappy's Pizzeria, and the smell of garlic, I thought "Oh yes, I am definitely in Chapel Springs again!" I enjoyed the characters. The concept of the story was intriguing. Layla's determination to excel in staging houses was admirable. She knew the importance of not letting her past define her future, and I was rooting for her all the way.
Seeing Beckett and Madison engaged was really sweet. I kept imagining what the story would have been like, if Jade was with Mayor Daniel Dawson, because they are a couple. Jade's absence did not take away from the enjoyment of the story though. In the previous Chapel Springs books, I remembered reading about Beckett, and his little sister Layla. It was interesting to pick up with them after the elapse of years, with Layla being more mature, and Beckett still being a loving, protective brother. They still had a close bond, and I liked that.
Jessica was the character who caused conflict in the story. I found her to be very annoying and obnoxious; however, all of her antics made me even happier and excited to celebrate Layla's triumphs. Seth's personality was so attractive, and I loved the way he treated Layla. I enjoyed how Denise wrote the build of romantic tension. While reading, I smiled at how tiptoeing around a fake engagement and a gossiping town, led to something very beautiful and special in the end. I thought it was fun reading the last bit of the story on New Year's Eve, because towards the end of the story there was an announcement that a special event would take place on New Year's Eve.
Now I have to see the movie! That should be fun!
I look forward to reading more books by Denise Hunter!
I recommend "A December Bride" to anyone who wants to enjoy a sweet, romantic Christmas story set in a small town.
Oh-my-goodness! 😍 This story was so enjoyable. The last time I was in Chapel Springs was in 2018, ending with "Married 'til Monday."
What a wonderful way to close this year with Seth and Layla's story! It was so special being in the town of Chapel Springs again. I love Denise Hunter's romantic writing. I got a nice dose of it in this novella, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
* I have to come back and add to this review, because the above doesn't sum up my thoughts.
"A December Bride" by Denise Hunter, is a Christmas novella that made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. At the mention of Cappy's Pizzeria, and the smell of garlic, I thought "Oh yes, I am definitely in Chapel Springs again!" I enjoyed the characters. The concept of the story was intriguing. Layla's determination to excel in staging houses was admirable. She knew the importance of not letting her past define her future, and I was rooting for her all the way.
Seeing Beckett and Madison engaged was really sweet. I kept imagining what the story would have been like, if Jade was with Mayor Daniel Dawson, because they are a couple. Jade's absence did not take away from the enjoyment of the story though. In the previous Chapel Springs books, I remembered reading about Beckett, and his little sister Layla. It was interesting to pick up with them after the elapse of years, with Layla being more mature, and Beckett still being a loving, protective brother. They still had a close bond, and I liked that.
Jessica was the character who caused conflict in the story. I found her to be very annoying and obnoxious; however, all of her antics made me even happier and excited to celebrate Layla's triumphs. Seth's personality was so attractive, and I loved the way he treated Layla. I enjoyed how Denise wrote the build of romantic tension. While reading, I smiled at how tiptoeing around a fake engagement and a gossiping town, led to something very beautiful and special in the end. I thought it was fun reading the last bit of the story on New Year's Eve, because towards the end of the story there was an announcement that a special event would take place on New Year's Eve.
Now I have to see the movie! That should be fun!
I look forward to reading more books by Denise Hunter!
I recommend "A December Bride" to anyone who wants to enjoy a sweet, romantic Christmas story set in a small town.
July 15, 2015
5 Words: Sweet, festive, love, romance, Christmas.
You know what? I could read endless Christian Romances if they were like this!
The religion in this was so subtle. And this was a perfect Christmas read which brings the festive magic to life. It was so sweet, and I'll likely read it again (perhaps in December?) as it'd cheer me up any day.
This story is an exploration of "what-if" between two people who missed their chance, and I loved it.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
You know what? I could read endless Christian Romances if they were like this!
The religion in this was so subtle. And this was a perfect Christmas read which brings the festive magic to life. It was so sweet, and I'll likely read it again (perhaps in December?) as it'd cheer me up any day.
This story is an exploration of "what-if" between two people who missed their chance, and I loved it.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
November 10, 2020
May or may not be an instance of “the [Hallmark] movie was better.” 😉
December 23, 2013
This was one of the cutest holiday romances that I've read for a long time! I could completely feel for Layla and could understand her hurt. It was also easy for me to see how determined she was to make a name for herself in the business world, especially from the background she came from.
As for Seth, or Murphy, he was a really good guy. He took a situation and turned things to not only benefit himself, but he also laid his reputation on the line in order to help someone else.
I loved watching the home staging come together and could visualize the decorations vividly. I also loved seeing the friendship and relationship between Layla and Seth blossom and grow. I definitely need to check out this series!
Content: kissing. Clean!
As for Seth, or Murphy, he was a really good guy. He took a situation and turned things to not only benefit himself, but he also laid his reputation on the line in order to help someone else.
I loved watching the home staging come together and could visualize the decorations vividly. I also loved seeing the friendship and relationship between Layla and Seth blossom and grow. I definitely need to check out this series!
Content: kissing. Clean!
May 19, 2020
I'm a sucker for marriage of convenience stories, although this is more of an engagement of convenience. I thought Layla and Derek had good chemistry. I like how Derek puts his foot in his mouth in an attempt to stand up for Layla. Makes for a fun story. Although its a novella, it still was long enough to keep me happy. I liked the Christmas setting, perfect for this time of year.
Content: Clean.
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Content: Clean.
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November 26, 2016
When she looked at him like that, he’d do anything for her. Lunch. Yard work. Armed robbery …-Seth
funny Seth.
Love the flow even it's short, the story is still perfect. Looking forward to read her other works.
funny Seth.
Love the flow even it's short, the story is still perfect. Looking forward to read her other works.
January 5, 2014
So cute! It's a short read but it worked really well. It's clean and romantic, will definitely read next Christmas too!
December 8, 2020
I was so excited read this book. It was good, and I did enjoy it,but I was hoping to like it more. Layla was okay. I loved that she staged houses. I love decorating, and that was so fun to read about her decorating the house for Christmas. Seth was alright. I feel like they fell in love way too fast, but I understand they had known each other previously. Also, I just wanted to punch Jack and Jessica right in their faces! That’s another thing I didn’t like about Layla. She had no backbone. Although, they did have some pretty cute moments. I did like the other books in this series better. I am really excited to watch the movie Hallmark did on this book because it looks amazing. Also, that ending makes me happy.
April 22, 2014
I didn't know when I chose to read this book that it was part of a series, which is called 'A Year of Weddings'. The series includes 12 books, one for each month of the year and all are written by different authors. From what I understand you do not have to read the series in order, because they are not connected to each other. A December Bride is the first one that I have read, but I do plan on purchasing and reading the others in the series.
A December Bride was a pleasure to read. Since it is a novella with on 99 pages, it was a fast read also. The story takes place in Chapel Springs, and the 2 main characters are Layla and Seth. Layla stages homes for a living, and she is wanting to start her on business someday. She has just recently had her fiance Jack taken from her by her cousin, and she blames it all on Seth for introducing the two to each other.
Seth Murphy owns a hardware store and his family is well known in the community. He also happens to be Layla's ex-fiances best friend.
One night while Layla is working, Seth comes in and orders a pizza. It is the night of Jack's wedding to her cousin and her date baled on her and she is really stressed because she doesn't want to go alone. One thing leads to another and Layla ends up going to the wedding with Seth.
While at the wedding reception the bride is being snobby to Layla and Seth blurts out that he and Layla are engaged. He realizes what he has done, and can't take it back. He promises Layla that he will fix it, and tell everyone the truth.
Later that night Layla gets a call from 'big to do' client that he would like to meet with her. The client wouldn't give her the time of day before, so she decides to use her and Seth's 'fake' engagement to her advantage.
I will stop there so I don't give anymore of the story away, but what follows was very satisfying and pleasure to read. This novella is listed as a christian romance, but religion is not pushed on you. There are a few mentions of God, but nothing more. There is also a few kisses and light innuendos in the book.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a romance that is fun, clean and a fast read. I look forward to reading the other novellas in this series.
*I was given a free ebook copy of this book on behalf of the publisher by BookLook Bloggers, in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and views in this review are my own.
A December Bride was a pleasure to read. Since it is a novella with on 99 pages, it was a fast read also. The story takes place in Chapel Springs, and the 2 main characters are Layla and Seth. Layla stages homes for a living, and she is wanting to start her on business someday. She has just recently had her fiance Jack taken from her by her cousin, and she blames it all on Seth for introducing the two to each other.
Seth Murphy owns a hardware store and his family is well known in the community. He also happens to be Layla's ex-fiances best friend.
One night while Layla is working, Seth comes in and orders a pizza. It is the night of Jack's wedding to her cousin and her date baled on her and she is really stressed because she doesn't want to go alone. One thing leads to another and Layla ends up going to the wedding with Seth.
While at the wedding reception the bride is being snobby to Layla and Seth blurts out that he and Layla are engaged. He realizes what he has done, and can't take it back. He promises Layla that he will fix it, and tell everyone the truth.
Later that night Layla gets a call from 'big to do' client that he would like to meet with her. The client wouldn't give her the time of day before, so she decides to use her and Seth's 'fake' engagement to her advantage.
I will stop there so I don't give anymore of the story away, but what follows was very satisfying and pleasure to read. This novella is listed as a christian romance, but religion is not pushed on you. There are a few mentions of God, but nothing more. There is also a few kisses and light innuendos in the book.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a romance that is fun, clean and a fast read. I look forward to reading the other novellas in this series.
*I was given a free ebook copy of this book on behalf of the publisher by BookLook Bloggers, in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and views in this review are my own.
August 21, 2014
a very very simple n sweet story but nevertheless, captivating... love it... :)
My review:
They were friends before....
They felt something towards each other before...
And then came Jack.... Seth stepped back...
AND THEN came Jessica... Layla stepped back...
THANK YOU JESSICA!
A sweet story between Layla and Seth. Love them both equally.
.
My review:
They were friends before....
They felt something towards each other before...
And then came Jack.... Seth stepped back...
AND THEN came Jessica... Layla stepped back...
THANK YOU JESSICA!
A sweet story between Layla and Seth. Love them both equally.
.
June 28, 2018
I stumbled across this book randomly while browsing Amazon and the name caught my eye because I've seen, more than once, a Hallmark Christmas movie by that same name. Of course, I looked into it and realized that this was the book that movie was based on and being that it was just a novella... I just had to read it. Layla used to date Seth's best friend. She never thought she would end up with him but things accidentally threw them into a fake and public engagement. One that she needs to keep up with because it'll help her land a client her career desperately needs. And on his end, Seth has always had feelings for Layla so he seizes the opportunity to make her see him in a different light than she's had all along.
In trying to separate book and movie in my head, I think maybe the fact that this is a novella makes this a little harder to connect with and I don't think we go as deep into the characters as we could. It's short and definitely a sweet romance, but it hit the spot for what I was looking during the holidays. It captures the magic of the season, the cozy feelings of a small town, and finally a chance at love between characters that have known each other for a while.
Here's a disclaimer for you. I have a strong feeling I would've felt different about this book if I had read it before watching the movie. But my experience was enjoyable because the things about this story that were similar to the movie (it's not all the same) made me smile. I was able to immediately picture characters and scenes in my head. And it just brought the same cozy feelings I get every time I see this movie play. So for me, that was a win!
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
May 10, 2018
A December Bride definitely makes me think of hallmark or lifetime kind of movie. It's about Seth and Layla. Well, Seth has basically been in love with Layla for all of his life. So when the opportunity to take her to his best friends wedding? How could he ever say not that? He wouldn't. No one would in that position. What could go wrong? Everything.
Layla and Seth are going to her cousin's wedding.. the groom? Her ex-fiance. Of course her and Seth somehow come up with the whole "they are engaged" story.. you instantly knew that a romance was going to blossom between these two. Plus, you knew that something was going to go wrong. Like completely wrong.
Of course, the chemistry between these two was adorable, sweet, and on fire. I instantly forgot that she was previously engaged to the other douchebag. I loved Layla and Seth so much that I will definitely continue on with this series.
Overall, it was super cute. A really short and easy read too.
Layla and Seth are going to her cousin's wedding.. the groom? Her ex-fiance. Of course her and Seth somehow come up with the whole "they are engaged" story.. you instantly knew that a romance was going to blossom between these two. Plus, you knew that something was going to go wrong. Like completely wrong.
Of course, the chemistry between these two was adorable, sweet, and on fire. I instantly forgot that she was previously engaged to the other douchebag. I loved Layla and Seth so much that I will definitely continue on with this series.
Overall, it was super cute. A really short and easy read too.
December 16, 2020
I loved this little Christmas romance. Layla and Seth were both great characters and I really enjoyed their relationship. The story line wasn’t completely believable but I am willing to overlook that in holiday novellas. I hope to read more from Denise Hunter in the future.
December 8, 2016
Layla O’Reilly is making lemonade out of lemons. Not so long ago, her life was perfect. Or at least she thought it was. She had a career path she loved as an interior decorator (or more specifically a stager of homes), along with an engagement to the man she thought she loved. Present day finds her without the ring and working hard to put her business in touch with the right contacts.
Enter Seth Murphy, the one man she never wanted to see again. You see, Layla holds Seth partially responsible for her broken engagement. And since he had a hand in introducing her fiancé to his new fiancée, Layla might have good reason. But when an invite to her ex’s wedding comes in the mail (an invite that has Layla’s cousin as the bride), Layla scrambles to find a date, and one white lie later, suddenly, Seth becomes her fiancé.
No matter how many of Hunter’s novels I read, I’m endlessly enchanted by each and every one. A December Bride is no different. The charm oozes off the page. For those of you who read Barefoot Summer, you’ll recognize Layla as the sister of its hero, Beckett O’Reilly. Though only a story in novella format, Layla still gets the deserved treatment. Nothing ever feels short-changed, and instead has an uncanny ability to read as if it were a full length novel.
The relationship between the leads starts off as a kind of love-hate (think Mr. Darcy and Lizzie Bennet) persona. This isn’t so much reminiscent because of the mistaken first impressions, but more because Layla distrusts (and sometimes despises) Seth. But fortunately for her, Seth loves her in spite of this, and I loved that we got to experience this from Seth’s POV.
If A December Bride sounds familiar it might be because it was recently adapted as a Hallmark Channel film. The movie stars Daniel Lissing (When Calls the Heart), and goodness, was I impressed with his interpretation of Seth. Loved Movie Seth as much as Book Seth, and that’s no easy feat.
Anyone looking for a sweet, and simple Christmas novella should look no further than this. It’s bursting with charm and comic situations which is precisely what lighthearted reading should be.♥
Enter Seth Murphy, the one man she never wanted to see again. You see, Layla holds Seth partially responsible for her broken engagement. And since he had a hand in introducing her fiancé to his new fiancée, Layla might have good reason. But when an invite to her ex’s wedding comes in the mail (an invite that has Layla’s cousin as the bride), Layla scrambles to find a date, and one white lie later, suddenly, Seth becomes her fiancé.
No matter how many of Hunter’s novels I read, I’m endlessly enchanted by each and every one. A December Bride is no different. The charm oozes off the page. For those of you who read Barefoot Summer, you’ll recognize Layla as the sister of its hero, Beckett O’Reilly. Though only a story in novella format, Layla still gets the deserved treatment. Nothing ever feels short-changed, and instead has an uncanny ability to read as if it were a full length novel.
The relationship between the leads starts off as a kind of love-hate (think Mr. Darcy and Lizzie Bennet) persona. This isn’t so much reminiscent because of the mistaken first impressions, but more because Layla distrusts (and sometimes despises) Seth. But fortunately for her, Seth loves her in spite of this, and I loved that we got to experience this from Seth’s POV.
If A December Bride sounds familiar it might be because it was recently adapted as a Hallmark Channel film. The movie stars Daniel Lissing (When Calls the Heart), and goodness, was I impressed with his interpretation of Seth. Loved Movie Seth as much as Book Seth, and that’s no easy feat.
Anyone looking for a sweet, and simple Christmas novella should look no further than this. It’s bursting with charm and comic situations which is precisely what lighthearted reading should be.♥
January 7, 2014
If Denise Hunter writes something, I'm going to read it. It's that simple. Even if it's short. Even if it's a novella. As far as I know, A December Bride, which is part of a novella series put together by Zondervan, is the only (non-Smitten) novella she's written. She was the perfect choice to begin the series, because as far as I'm concerned, everything she writes is absolutely wonderful.
This novella follows the lives of two characters from her fictional town called Chapel Springs (which is based off of the quaint Ohio River town of Madison, IN), and one of which is the sister of the hero in her latest full length novel, Barefoot Summer. The characters were well developed for a novella. They had super awesome chemistry together... which is pretty much a given being that they're characters from the imagination of this particular author. The plot was simple, but that's a given when the word count is so restricted. Novellas, as much as I've been trying to get into them more this year (mostly because they're everywhere all of a sudden), aren't my favorite. But this one was really good. I flew through it in one evening and enjoyed every minute.
An eBook Advance Reader copy of A December Bride was given to me by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for this honest review.
This novella follows the lives of two characters from her fictional town called Chapel Springs (which is based off of the quaint Ohio River town of Madison, IN), and one of which is the sister of the hero in her latest full length novel, Barefoot Summer. The characters were well developed for a novella. They had super awesome chemistry together... which is pretty much a given being that they're characters from the imagination of this particular author. The plot was simple, but that's a given when the word count is so restricted. Novellas, as much as I've been trying to get into them more this year (mostly because they're everywhere all of a sudden), aren't my favorite. But this one was really good. I flew through it in one evening and enjoyed every minute.
An eBook Advance Reader copy of A December Bride was given to me by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for this honest review.
September 16, 2016
***I just saw that this is going to be a Hallmark movie, premiering on Nov. 20, 2016 -- Woohoo!
Layla O'Reilly is working part time at Cappy's Pizzeria while she is getting her home staging business off the ground. Cooper, her date to her ex-fiance's wedding, backs out 5 hours before the wedding. And just when things can't get worse... they do! Seth Murphy, her ex-fiance's best friend, comes into the pizzeria. Layla blames Seth for introducing Jack, her ex-fiance, to her cousin, Jessica (who Jack is going to marry in 5 hours).
Before the night is over things are going to get even worse. Seth offers her a ride to the wedding and by the end of the night in an effort to help her save face with her mean cousin, Seth has announced their engagement.
The next morning things start looking up... If she can stay engaged to Seth for a couple more weeks, Layla has a chance of securing a contract that will finally get her home staging business off the ground. What's in it for Seth? A chance to prove to Layla that they are meant to be together!
I both loved and hated how short this book was! Seth and Layla were both great characters - I loved them both! But it would have been fun to have other characters developed more (I guess I will have to read Denise Hunter's book "Barefoot Summer" to learn Beckett & Madison's story).
Layla O'Reilly is working part time at Cappy's Pizzeria while she is getting her home staging business off the ground. Cooper, her date to her ex-fiance's wedding, backs out 5 hours before the wedding. And just when things can't get worse... they do! Seth Murphy, her ex-fiance's best friend, comes into the pizzeria. Layla blames Seth for introducing Jack, her ex-fiance, to her cousin, Jessica (who Jack is going to marry in 5 hours).
Before the night is over things are going to get even worse. Seth offers her a ride to the wedding and by the end of the night in an effort to help her save face with her mean cousin, Seth has announced their engagement.
The next morning things start looking up... If she can stay engaged to Seth for a couple more weeks, Layla has a chance of securing a contract that will finally get her home staging business off the ground. What's in it for Seth? A chance to prove to Layla that they are meant to be together!
I both loved and hated how short this book was! Seth and Layla were both great characters - I loved them both! But it would have been fun to have other characters developed more (I guess I will have to read Denise Hunter's book "Barefoot Summer" to learn Beckett & Madison's story).
January 4, 2019
3.5 stars
After watching and falling in love with the Hallmark Channel movie adaptation (seriously, if you haven’t watched it, go watch it NOW) of A December Bride, I decided to read the book that inspired it. Both movie and book definitely delivered on the cuteness and the feels, big time. There was no sexy times, but really I barely noticed because the chemistry Denise Hunter created between Layla and Seth was palpable and believable, even in the short span of time it took for them to fall in love. Or realize they’d loved each other all along *SIGH* Don’t you just love romances like that? I know I do. And now more than ever I’m left wishing that Seth Murphy was actually real. HE BAKED HER GINGERBREAD COOKIES!!! You can’t get more swoony than that.
After watching and falling in love with the Hallmark Channel movie adaptation (seriously, if you haven’t watched it, go watch it NOW) of A December Bride, I decided to read the book that inspired it. Both movie and book definitely delivered on the cuteness and the feels, big time. There was no sexy times, but really I barely noticed because the chemistry Denise Hunter created between Layla and Seth was palpable and believable, even in the short span of time it took for them to fall in love. Or realize they’d loved each other all along *SIGH* Don’t you just love romances like that? I know I do. And now more than ever I’m left wishing that Seth Murphy was actually real. HE BAKED HER GINGERBREAD COOKIES!!! You can’t get more swoony than that.
November 19, 2015
A sweet Christmas novella about second chances, romance and achieving your dreams. Layla wrongly felt that Seth was responsible for the breakup with her fiance. When circumstances throw them together to attend the wedding of her prior fiance, Seth, to save face for Layla, announces they are engaged. For reasons doing with Layla's career, they keep up the ruse. But with the magic of the Christmas season, what blossoms is true love, and a happy ever after ending.
December 5, 2018
Around November of every year, I become obsessed with watching Hallmark Christmas movies, which I find odd, since they aren't something that I would normally gravitate toward. I'm not sure if it's because it's something my sisters and I have always done together or if that this time of year it just happens to be something that I want to do, but I always have fun with them. The other day I watched A December Bride and thought it was an interesting concept, so when I found out it was based on a book and that I could get it from overdrive, I decided to give it a listen.
Overall I enjoyed the two main characters. Layla was hurt because of what had happened to her and this sometimes came across in a not so great light, but she was a good character. And Seth was sweet and caring. There wasn't a lot of time for in depth character exploration, but they were well presented for a novella. And the romance was cute, even if a little strange at times.
The main things that I didn't like about the story were involving the family. Layla's cousin was horrible and there was never any indication that she had been different or was likely to change. It made no sense to me why Layla would still be on speaking terms with her. I get that family ties run deep, but toxic relationships should be ended no matter who the person is. If they aren't willing to change, then they aren't what you need in your life.
Julie Lyles Carr was a decent narrator for this story. I don't have any other listening experience with her, but she seems suited to this kind of story.
Overall I enjoyed the two main characters. Layla was hurt because of what had happened to her and this sometimes came across in a not so great light, but she was a good character. And Seth was sweet and caring. There wasn't a lot of time for in depth character exploration, but they were well presented for a novella. And the romance was cute, even if a little strange at times.
The main things that I didn't like about the story were involving the family. Layla's cousin was horrible and there was never any indication that she had been different or was likely to change. It made no sense to me why Layla would still be on speaking terms with her. I get that family ties run deep, but toxic relationships should be ended no matter who the person is. If they aren't willing to change, then they aren't what you need in your life.
Julie Lyles Carr was a decent narrator for this story. I don't have any other listening experience with her, but she seems suited to this kind of story.
November 10, 2018
I decided to read this book because I saw the movie and liked it a lot .. and after reading the book I still think Hallmark did a great job with the movie
the story is very short you practically will finish it in one sitting but it gives a good vibe .. but I still think the movie was better :)
the story is very short you practically will finish it in one sitting but it gives a good vibe .. but I still think the movie was better :)
December 15, 2022
Layla should be happy that she is the protagonist in a Hallmark-esque Romance book - blessedly, without a 3rd-act-break up! - and not anything less fluffy because she spends most of the book ready to spill the fake-dating secret whenever she get’s put under the slightest bit of pressure.
January 11, 2014
This is another in the "A Year of Weddings" series published by Zondervan - Fiction. Each of these novellas focus on a wedding and the trials and tribulations leading up to the event. These are nicely clean, but have some UST for our reading enjoyment. Kisses can be FUN! They are also inspirational, but they don't beat you over the head about it. Again, nicely done.
Again, I know Christmas is over for another 11 months...but this was cute! And short, and I needed something to read that wouldn't take all day. This fit the bill nicely.
I really enjoyed the staging of Seth's house. I could see all the goodies Layla was setting up. The sleigh? Yes, that was a fantastic touch!
And Seth, ah he was a sweetheart. Jumping at the chance to get the girl of his dreams. He was a bit awkward, but that made him all the more endearing.
The thing that I didn't like about this one was Layla never laid the blame for her broken engagement where it belonged. That would be on her cousin and her ex-fiance. She forgives Seth, but he really didn't do anything wrong. That bothered me.
He was a very forgiving guy, himself, and while he shouldn't have felt guilty, he was a great guy who did. Yes, he's a keeper.
Even though their fake engagement and then their real one doesn't take all that much time, it worked here. They had known each other for a long time. Finally, the time was right...and it was sweet. There's no steamy scenes in this book. There is some lovely UST in the form of kisses. It was a lovely, clean read.
So, if you are still wishing for a bit of Christmas Cheer, check this one out.
*Thank you, NetGalley and Zondervan Fiction, for the opportunity to read A December Bride.
Again, I know Christmas is over for another 11 months...but this was cute! And short, and I needed something to read that wouldn't take all day. This fit the bill nicely.
I really enjoyed the staging of Seth's house. I could see all the goodies Layla was setting up. The sleigh? Yes, that was a fantastic touch!
And Seth, ah he was a sweetheart. Jumping at the chance to get the girl of his dreams. He was a bit awkward, but that made him all the more endearing.
The thing that I didn't like about this one was Layla never laid the blame for her broken engagement where it belonged. That would be on her cousin and her ex-fiance. She forgives Seth, but he really didn't do anything wrong. That bothered me.
He was a very forgiving guy, himself, and while he shouldn't have felt guilty, he was a great guy who did. Yes, he's a keeper.
Even though their fake engagement and then their real one doesn't take all that much time, it worked here. They had known each other for a long time. Finally, the time was right...and it was sweet. There's no steamy scenes in this book. There is some lovely UST in the form of kisses. It was a lovely, clean read.
So, if you are still wishing for a bit of Christmas Cheer, check this one out.
*Thank you, NetGalley and Zondervan Fiction, for the opportunity to read A December Bride.
December 13, 2019
When a spur-of-the-moment date becomes an accidental – and entirely too public – engagement, Layla O’Reilly and Seth Murphy realize their face-saving lie is determined to follow them throughout the holiday season. Under normal circumstances, Seth – the best friend of Layla’s ex-fiancé – is the last person she would marry. But the announcement of their impending, albeit exaggerated, Christmas nuptials convinces a big client that Layla has the high-society qualities necessary to work for his agency, so she has no choice but to play the part of excited fiancée. On the other hand, Seth, who secretly loved Layla for years, embraces the role of fiancé, cherishing the brief opportunity to win her heart while the engagement charade lasts. With the days flying by, will there be enough time for Layla to save her career and for Seth to win her heart?
As the first installment of A Year of Weddings, Denise Hunter’s “A December Bride” starts the series off right. A story beginning with an engagement of convenience and ending with a happily ever after always delights me and I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end. A quick and easy holiday read, this novella still offers intricate characters and situations that compelled me to continue reading. Like with other novellas in this collection, “A December Bride” can be read on its own or out of collection order, and again, I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in inspirational romance, looking for a quick afternoon read. As usual, I thank BookLook Bloggers (formerly BookSneeze) for providing me with a free copy of this book and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
http://pagebypagebookbybook.blogspot....
As the first installment of A Year of Weddings, Denise Hunter’s “A December Bride” starts the series off right. A story beginning with an engagement of convenience and ending with a happily ever after always delights me and I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the end. A quick and easy holiday read, this novella still offers intricate characters and situations that compelled me to continue reading. Like with other novellas in this collection, “A December Bride” can be read on its own or out of collection order, and again, I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in inspirational romance, looking for a quick afternoon read. As usual, I thank BookLook Bloggers (formerly BookSneeze) for providing me with a free copy of this book and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
http://pagebypagebookbybook.blogspot....
December 5, 2016
Great romantic holiday clean read! Saw the movie on the Hallmark Channel and wanted to read the book!
Seth and Layla were friends in their younger years then something caused Layla to loath Seth but of course in the end they are perfect together!
I enjoyed both characters equally! They fit together so well! I enjoyed reading and feeling each of their POVs.
The Christian emphasis was very mild, no preaching. A fun and quick holiday read!
Seth and Layla were friends in their younger years then something caused Layla to loath Seth but of course in the end they are perfect together!
I enjoyed both characters equally! They fit together so well! I enjoyed reading and feeling each of their POVs.
The Christian emphasis was very mild, no preaching. A fun and quick holiday read!
January 20, 2014
This was a cute short story. It has a Christian aspect to it but that is it. Anyone could read and enjoy this cute short story. It was more a mistake engagement story. And I am a sucker for those, which is why I picked this up. The characters were cute and the chemistry good. It was a clean read.
June 25, 2016
3.5 Stars. A quick, cute story with likable characters.
December 26, 2013
4.5 Stars - Cute & Clean
December 9, 2017
A December Bride by Denise Hunter is first in the series of A Year of Weddings.
A December Bride is about Layla O'Reilly, who has had her heart broken after her cousin steals her fiancé Jack. While at Jack and Jessica's wedding, Seth Murphy, Jack's friend and the one who introduced Jack and Jessica, makes an announcement that him and Layla are engaged. Now they must keep up the story in order to get Layla the job she's always wanted.
This was a quick read and I thought it was cute. Of course I saw the hallmark movie first, last year, and really enjoyed it. After finding out it was based off the novella, I just had to read it.
Most of the storyline is the same, with a few tweaks here and there, so it's easy to picture the movie in your head.
Although it was an easy read, I found it hard not to laugh when the author worded her sentences at times. I can't quite explain, you'll have to read to find out.
Anyway, if you're looking for a quick, cute, Christmasy read, this is the one to read.
A December Bride is about Layla O'Reilly, who has had her heart broken after her cousin steals her fiancé Jack. While at Jack and Jessica's wedding, Seth Murphy, Jack's friend and the one who introduced Jack and Jessica, makes an announcement that him and Layla are engaged. Now they must keep up the story in order to get Layla the job she's always wanted.
This was a quick read and I thought it was cute. Of course I saw the hallmark movie first, last year, and really enjoyed it. After finding out it was based off the novella, I just had to read it.
Most of the storyline is the same, with a few tweaks here and there, so it's easy to picture the movie in your head.
Although it was an easy read, I found it hard not to laugh when the author worded her sentences at times. I can't quite explain, you'll have to read to find out.
Anyway, if you're looking for a quick, cute, Christmasy read, this is the one to read.
January 19, 2022
A December Bride by Denise Hunter 120 ebook pages
Chapel Springs series, A Year of Weddings 1 #1 according to series and publication date OR Incorrectly #12 according to Goodreads
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday > Christmas; Christian Fiction, Novella, Women's Fiction > Chick Lit
Featuring: Chapel Springs, Indiana; Louisville, Kentucky; Weddings, Pizzeria, Decorating, Discussion Questions
Rating as a movie: PG for adult themes
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My thoughts: 18% - Oh this is great!
I read the Summer Harbor series by Denise Hunter this time last year and I thought I would have read another series by now but I was busy with other authors. This was naturally sweet and I enjoyed it. I am getting annoyed at all of these SO stealing family members but this was enjoyable and made me want to read the Chapel Springs series. I'm excited to read the other 23 books in A Year of Weddings series and discover some new authors. I was expecting Layla to be kissed breathless, I don't know if I was relieved or disappointed it never happened.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This was a sweet quick read.
Chapel Springs series, A Year of Weddings 1 #1 according to series and publication date OR Incorrectly #12 according to Goodreads
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday > Christmas; Christian Fiction, Novella, Women's Fiction > Chick Lit
Featuring: Chapel Springs, Indiana; Louisville, Kentucky; Weddings, Pizzeria, Decorating, Discussion Questions
Rating as a movie: PG for adult themes
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
My thoughts: 18% - Oh this is great!
I read the Summer Harbor series by Denise Hunter this time last year and I thought I would have read another series by now but I was busy with other authors. This was naturally sweet and I enjoyed it. I am getting annoyed at all of these SO stealing family members but this was enjoyable and made me want to read the Chapel Springs series. I'm excited to read the other 23 books in A Year of Weddings series and discover some new authors. I was expecting Layla to be kissed breathless, I don't know if I was relieved or disappointed it never happened.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This was a sweet quick read.
June 19, 2017
The premise is cute. I saw the Hallmark channel film first and the film is so much better. The physical manifestation of Jack's jealousy in the book, actually grabbing her arm and pulling her away, is a big warning sign of a potential abuser. He also becomes possessive of her immediately, calling her "baby" and touching her; and there is very little sign of strength or independence as she lets him push her around because she gets all weak kneed. She makes a pitiful protest when he climbs onto the ladder with her, which is unsafe for more reasons than just weight bearing; she yields when he tells her to stop working, even though she really has a lot of work to do, and letting him kiss her for a bet? So not romantic. Not even a little. And the only other woman depicted in any detail is underhanded and spiteful. The Hallmark movie is so much more respectful of women, of Layla, both as a person and as a capable business woman, and is still adorably romantic. Watch that instead.
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