Not one of my favorites from this author but quick to read and a sweet escape. ( )

Fieldnotes:
Palmetto Pointe, SC & Claddagh, Galway, Ireland, Contemporary (p.2010)

1 Country Music Singer
1 Doormat Fiancee
1 Love Song that is Appropriated as the Perfect Love Song
1 Hallmark movie in Novel Format
Unanticipated Fame Corrupting The True Meaning of Christmas Love!

1 Pre-established Couple's (from Previous Book) Destination Wedding
Many references to an Important Character from the Previous Book
The Claddagh Ring Legend

Poor Decisions
1 Race to the Airport
A Heavy-handedly Metaphorical Nativity with Actual People in the Explicit Roles of Angel, Guiding Star, Shepherd, etc. (oof)

Claddagh Ring!
Happily Ever After

The Short Version:
A short Hallmark holiday movie of a novel. The third person narrator inserting herself didn't really work for me as (to me) it felt like the reader was kept at a remove from the feelings of our protagonists which made it difficult to really become invested. Also, the tone didn't seem quite natural to me.

Altogether there just wasn't enough specificity to the characters or their love stories. Some of the language was lovely, the holiday message was sweet, but all told this just wasn't terribly memorable. ( )

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I try to express only my most honest opinion in a spoiler free way. If you feel anything in my review is a spoiler and is not already hidden in spoiler brackets please let me know. Thank you.
Jimmy's brother Jack is getting married and he is going on tour to sing his new song that he wrote with his sweetheart Charlotte, but when the song really takes off he has to choose between being what might be his big break or his family, love, and home.
So this book was cute. It's really the best way I can think to describe it. In all honesty, it turns out this book isn't really my thing. Its so lovey-dovey mushyness. I know I made up most of those words but really thats an accurate description. The first half of the book I had to force my way through as it is a slow start. The second half was better with more going on and finally a little conflict to get things interesting. I was torn between 2 or 3 stars so I went with 3 as I always go with the high rating when I'm torn like that. It was very festive though. I would give myself the chance to read another of this authors books as I like to always give it at least 2 books for that, but I'm glad it was short and I doubt I would have read a sequel.
How I choose my rating:
1* Did not finish, or hated it but forced myself to finish.
2** Didn't really like it. Didn't hate it but not sure why I finished it other then for some closure.
3*** I liked it. I had some issues with it, but as a whole it was good. I probably won't reread again ever, but there is a chance I might finish the series. (If part of one) But if not it's not a huge loss.
4**** I really liked this book. Maybe not a work of genius, but highly entertaining. I might reread this again, and I will finish the series. (If part of one) I would recommend to those I know hold interest in this books content.
5***** I loved this book. I found little to no issues with it at all. I will definitely be rereading this and probably more than once. I will finish the series and reread it multiple times. (If part of one) I will recommend this book to EVERYONE!!!! ( )

Super light hearted Christmas read! Very good. ( )

Title: The Perfect Love Song
Author: Patti Callahan Henry
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"The Perfect Love Song" by Patti Callahan Henry

My Rationalization:

Good Christmas story which extended into a wedding that was held in Ireland and bringing in the story about the 'Claddagh Ring.' I loved how this author was able to bring in lots of the traditions of Ireland in this lyrical tribute to love. It was interesting seeing these two brothers [Jimmy & Jack] who had a band The Unknown Souls who were dating two best friends Charlotte and Kara. What will happen as Jimmy & Charlotte during Thanksgiving together writes a love song called 'Unexpected.' However, when it was sung by his band at a 'Holiday Jingle Jam concert' a Milton Bartholomew [concert promoter] who was listening thought it was more of a Christmas song... and the story will take off. Now to truly understand what all is going on you will have to pick up "The Perfect Love Song" to see how well this author brings it all out to the reader as this heartwarming story will take on 'twists and turns, forgiveness, grace, and unexpected giving?' It will be quite a read as the story will be of love that finally finds its way back to each other in a beautifully told story as one will see this Christmas miracle that will lead a brother to Ireland and even to one that truly loves him.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." ( )