🎄Festive Read ~ Last Christmas at Ballyclare by Emily Bell

Penguin

19 October 2023

My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book

Natasha is flying home for Christmas to Ballyclare - a beautiful old house in the Wicklow hills. When her friend Ben - who she was so sure could be more than that - abandons his plan to join her, she's devastated. Another year of just her mother and sister Doon for company.

To add to her woes, no sooner has she arrived home - her sanctuary through many a storm - than she is told it might have to be sold. And to the man whose younger brother broke Doon's heart all those years ago.

Will this be their last Christmas at Ballyclare? Or could a little bit of Christmas magic, and unexpected romance, help all three McDonnell women find their path?

🎄My Review..

Natasha returns home to Ballyclare for Christmas only to find that there is a crisis concerning her family home which may have to be sold as repairs to the old place are astronomically high. For Natasha, her mother, Aileen and sister, Doon, there are some tense times ahead but with Christmas approaching they are determined to enjoy one last Christmas at Ballyclare. 

Filled with the warmth of family, and the support of friends, Last Christmas at Ballyclare is a lovely festive story which looks at the trials and tribulations of keeping an old family home safe whilst at the same time allowing each of the three women to share their hopes and fears for the future. It’s not all hearts and flowers as the story covers some serious topics but it’s all done with a lovely light touch and a fine eye for detail. I’ve really enjoyed spending time in this little Irish village, there is an abundance of festive charm, a smattering of romance and enough festive spirit to give you a lovely warm glow. 

Best read with...cheese and crackers by front of a roaring fire.

About the Author

Emily Bell is an Irish Times bestselling author who grew up in Dublin and moved to London after university. She has had various jobs including tour guide, bookseller and pub singer, and now writes full time. She lives in north London with her husband and daughter. She is the author of Baby It's Cold Outside and This Year's for Me and You, winner of the RNA Christmas Festive/Holiday Romantic Novel award

Twitter #EmilyBell  #LastChristmasarBallyclare

@PenguinBooksUK

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