Barbara Matteson

It took me a while to get into this book. The writing isn't the best, and it could have used some editing. I had to turn off critic mode and switch into "fun Hallmark holiday romance mode." But once I did, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Sure, it has some convenient plot happenings, and sure, there are a few too many coincidences. But if you look past that and just focus on the story of a woman who turns her holiday around by embracing the magic of Christmas and being Mrs. Claus, you're in for a heartwarming, smile-inducing seasonal read. I will probably read it again in spite of its flaws because, well, this is exactly the kind of cozy book you want at this time of year, and it's fun to have characters older than average to read about finding love once in a while too.… (más)

What a truly adorable story! Another one that Hallmark could make into a Christmas movie. Matthew & Savannah are a cute couple that meet through a bungled attempt to tell her that she would be perfect to play Mrs. Claus. Matthew fell in love with Savannah’s hair color. They are both older with grown kids, widows and deserve happiness. I love how this story is realistic, shares their struggles, and shows their happiness. Supporting characters like Fern are a blessing as she is a fascinating lady that should have her own story. The story is so well done. You have romance, friendship, cuteness, and Santa. The memories brought up through the setting of the store display can also bring back happy memories for readers. This is a wonderful holiday story. I will be buying some copies for gifts. I hope to see more from this author.… (más)

This will be Savannah's first Christmas alone--her husband recently passed away and her son took a job in Europe. Passing her lunch hour in Howardson's Emporium, she is unexpectedly asked to portray Mrs. Claus in their Christmas wonderland. Since she's treating herself to a special getaway for the holidays, the extra money would help.

Matthew is happy to have found a woman who looks like the perfect Mrs. Claus for the Christmas events. He finds her easy to talk to and the attraction seems mutual. As they spend time together, they find they have a lot in common.

Savannah befriends a little girl whose mother has been injured and out of work, and Savannah treats them to a homemade Thanksgiving dinner, and then she gives her Christmas trip to them to fulfill the little girl's Christmas wish for her mom.

Matthew has a secret and whisks Savannah away for the Christmas holidays, and it just so happens that his mom's B&B is the same place where Savannah had planned to go.

A sweet seasoned romance, this book evokes the best of the Christmas spirit and holiday season.… (más)

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Savannah is a widow and Matthew is divorced. Both are feeling lonely as their respective children are far away, and their mates have been gone for several years. Savannah is able to bring joy to a single mom and her daughter, and to Matthew. Matthew brings joy to Savannah and eventually to himself. This is a perfect feel good Christmas story released just in time for the season. I was given this book through LibraryThing’s Early Reviewer Program. The review is my own.… (más)