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.

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. ( )

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. ( )

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. ( )

I loved this enchanting Christmas story! For those that celebrate the holiday, I imagine you have a treasured memory of the magical location where you went year after year to visit Santa before Christmas or where you take your children or grandchildren. In all the years I saw Santa and his elves, there was never an opportunity to meet Mrs. Claus. I didn’t think Mrs. Claus ever left the North Pole. However, I’ve always had an image in my mind of what it would be like from the books and movies in which she appeared. As Savannah Brady is browsing on her lunch break in Howardson’s Emporium, she is seen by Matthew Buck, Creative Director of Special Events, and invited to be Mrs. Claus during the holiday season. Matthew did make an excellent choice!

I loved the realistic portrayals of characters of all ages. As the holiday season approaches, some hearts are hurting from the loss of a loved one or family members who cannot come home for the holidays or struggle due to injuries from a recent accident. The descriptive writing created and illuminated a picturesque setting of every scene in the novel. A heartwarming reading experience that had me glowing with Christmas imagery, with all of my senses twinkling, sparkling, and reflecting on the joy of giving and sharing time and talents to brighten the holidays for others.

I wish I could magically add it to everyone’s tbr list this holiday season. I’m also adding it to my shopping list as this year’s holiday reading delight for Christmas book exchanges. It is a Christmas story to enjoy during any season of the year. But to read it with a mug of hot chocolate after a day enjoying your own Christmas traditions or to read it in your home surrounded by the magical Christmas setting you have created with and/or for loved ones will make it all the more special. Mrs. Claus (Savannah) would remind you to remember your mug of hot chocolate and your favorite Christmas cookies too!

Wishing you the merriest holiday season!

I was lucky to receive an Advance Reader’s Edition of this title as an Early Reviewer from LibraryThing. The opinions expressed in the review are my own. ( )