Almost Christmas by Brooke St. James {Review}

Almost Christmas by Brooke St. James
Published November 8th 2016 by Blue House Press

  

Timing is everything, and Mae Abbott had been planning this moment for nearly a year. It was her one chance to escape a lifetime of misery, and she was determined to take advantage of it. The fact that it was almost Christmas and she had no particular place to go was of little consequence. The only thing on her mind was starting over.

She headed east, confident that her strong will and meager savings would be enough to get by. But her plans quickly began to crumble when she found herself in desperate need of help. Thankfully, that was precisely when she met Jesse Ward.

Mae was stubborn, and she tried her best to refuse assistance from this handsome stranger. After all, her plans didn't include an extended detour in the middle of Virginia. Yet the two of them would soon discover that this chance encounter was exactly what they both needed to make a fresh start.

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My Review: 4 Stars

I've found a new author who writes sweet and clean romance! Mae has been with a controlling and abusive man for seven years and it's time to leave. The fear and numbness that she feels as she does so is almost tangible. I'm a believer that people are often placed in our paths for a reason and when Jesse, a stranger, offers help at a gas station, Mae is wary. I'm also a big believer that a person cannot map out his/her life because we have no idea what's really in store for us and plans always tend to change, as Mae soon discovers.

For as destitute as she is, in almost every aspect of her life, Mae sure comes across as pretty strong and resilient. She's a little hesitant and shy, but has no problem flirting, picking up a stray dog, and acclimating herself into a stranger's life. Is he going to be a rebound relationship? Jesse seems almost too good to be true. Yes, he has an issue from his past that's been hindering him, but he's still a great and selfless guy.

I know it's a bit unrealistic at times (falling in love so quickly and getting over that type of relationship so fast), but it's a sweet and fun diversion and really I enjoyed it. I must say, I was expecting more conflict and drama before the ending, but was very happy with the epilogue. I love the hope, realized dreams, and love that permeates the pages.

Content: "cuss" used in place of swearing; mild romance; mild/vague violence (abuse mentioned in past tense).

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About the Author:

Brooke St. James is an author of contemporary romance novels with Christian and inspirational themes and happy endings. She was born and raised in south Louisiana but has had the opportunity to travel and live throughout the U.S. An avid reader, writer, audio book addict, and fan of all things artistic, Brooke constantly has her hands in some creative activity. She's currently back home in Louisiana enjoying life with her husband, children, and extremely lazy Basset Hound.

To find out more about Brooke visit her Facebook page at:
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