Cover Image: The Christmas Window

The Christmas Window

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Member Reviews

Callie loves her adopted hometown and owning her doggy daycare. Winning the Christmas window display would be the feather in her cap to belonging in a town and would show her family she is accomplished.

Brandt is visiting his aunt in his old hometown for the holidays. Computer geek and app creator, he lives a nomadic life following jobs instead of putting down roots. He hasn't celebrated Christmas with heart for years.

Brandt's matchmaking aunt throws the unlikely couple together. At first, they play along with a town tour, but as they spend time together, they develop feelings for one another.

A misunderstanding leads to a break-up. An unexpected disaster at the daycare happens, and while Callie first thinks all is lost, the townspeople come together to help her repair her business and her window display. Brandt arrives, and they work to bring Christmas back to her store.

With a little Christmas magic, forgiveness, family, and romance, they might just find a love for a lifetime.

**received an ARC from netgalley**

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So here I thought I had the great opening line for this review about not being able to wait for Hallmark’s Christmas movies and needing a dose in book form, but did you know that the Christmas movies start in a week?! A WEEK!!!

Regardless, The Christmas Window by Melissa McClone very much feels like a Hallmark Christmas romance with an immediate antagonism between the hero and heroine, a gently developing relationship, and all of the warm-hearted feels of a small town joining together. And, by now you may have my reading/reviewing number, put a dog on the cover, and she will read. I loved the stellar dog cast.

The characterization if skillfully handled with both Callie and Brandt coming to terms with their stubbornness, which leads to interesting subplots regarding family and best friends.

If you’re looking for a sweet (big highlight on sweet) romance for the holidays, I recommend The Christmas Window.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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If you’re a fan of heartfelt Christmas romances then this story is for you. Set in tiny Silver Springs, this story brings together two people who are determined not to get involved with anybody, Brandt because he’s been hurt in the past by a bad business relationship and Callie because she wants to prove to her family that she can build and run a successful business by herself.
These two are both strong, independent people. Both are generous and caring and more than eager to step up to the plate when a friend or relative needs help, though when Brandt offers a helpful suggestion to Callie she is less than enthusiastic about accepting it.
I love the sense of community that pervades this story, from the matchmaking efforts of Brandt’s aunt to the keen interest everybody in Silver Springs takes in everybody else’s business. I also enjoyed watching Brandt and Callie slowly fall in love with each other despite their original intentions.
This story is well written, well paced and really it’s been a delight to read.

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The Christmas Window is a sweet, romantic holiday romance. I enjoyed this book, the character interaction was engaging and the storyline beautifully written. I look forward to reading more by this author

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One of the hardest parts of being an adult is living up to the expectations of our families — or maybe, what we believe those expectations are. Callie is quite happy and content living the life she wants, owning a doggy day care business and sees no reason to change that for anyone else. Yet, with her family coming in to town for the holidays she’s determined to show them just what a success she’s become… all without a law degree, or big business takeovers under her belt, too. The one way that Callie believes she can accomplish that is by winning the annual Christmas window display competition this year… surely that would show her family that they don’t have to worry about her, she’s thriving just fine on her own. Maybe… maybe not… maybe it really doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks but what Callie knows in her heart. Some lessons learned this Christmas season may be under Callie’s tree.

Brandt would have never returned to Silver Falls if his favorite aunt didn’t insist on living there…. well, to be fair it is a nice small community, and maybe he wouldn’t hate coming here so much if it wasn’t the location of the biggest betrayal of his life. The best part of his career was that he could work just about anywhere. Freelancing meant that he could stay as long as he liked or pick up and leave at a moment’s notice… which he intended to do just as quickly as possible, not spending a moment longer in Silver Falls than absolutely necessary. Brandt’s plans might have worked out well enough if his aunt hadn’t decided to be a meddling matchmaker for her favorite nephew. Now the question becomes can he make a future in the one place that defines such a huge part of his past…

The Christmas Window easily drew me in to Callie and Brandt’s romance. From an unfortunate first impression, through some bumps in the road to happiness it wasn’t difficult to see that this couple belonged together — once past their stubbornness and misunderstandings. Yet some adorable pups and one well-meaning matchmaker do steal some scenes from our couple, and I was perfectly okay with that. I enjoyed my time in this charming Christmas tale full of interesting characters, a small town to fall in love with and a couple that you cannot help but wish for their happy ending. Looking for a Christmas Romance that’s full of feel good moments? Then I believe you’ve found one right here. Enjoy.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

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Brandt Winslow is back in Silver Falls for the holidays. However, being home isn't easy for him, especially with what happened years ago that sent him running. Yet, meeting Callie Andrews makes things better for him and the more time they spend together, the more Brandt wants to stay. Will Brandt be able to let go of what happened in the past or will he break Callie's heart?

What an absolutely riveting, fast-paced, delightful read Ms. McClone has delivered in this book where the main characters have interesting back stories that made me want to get to know more about them; the dialogue was a wonderful combination of intense moments and playful banter that had me loving this couple's growing relationship; and the plot drew me in right from the beginning, as the heroine is stubborn and independent and doesn't need advice from another male with an opinion that makes her sound like she doesn't know what she's doing. However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine came face-to-face for the first time where this story really takes off and had me reading quickly, determined to discover whether Callie would give Brandt a chance.

With the characters, I was totally charmed by the hero and heroine as well as the secondary characters too, especially the hero's aunt. She's determined to matchmake because she wants Brandt to stay. Will she get her wish? Will Callie and Brandt end up together despite their rocky start? Furthermore, the heroine is resilient, courageous, hard-working, determined to prove she can be just as successful as any of her family and I liked that she gave the hero a chance, especially when she believes Brandt is just like her family and can't accept her for who she is. While the hero, he's been through tough times and it's understandable why he finds it hard to be in Silver Falls, especially after what his best friend did to him. With a best friend like Brandt had, who needs enemies? However, I liked that the hero would do anything for his aunt and how determined he was to win the heroine over, which is proven by how he tries to help her when things go awry for her. Will Callie accept the hero's help? Will she be able to let go of her independent streak to see that the hero is right?

Overall, Ms. McClone has delivered a really good read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance was delightful and had me loving that the heroine gave the hero a chance, even though neither of them want anything to do with relationships because she's too independent while he has trust issues; and the ending had me loving how these two made things right between them because they're so deserving of the happiness they've found together. I would recommend The Christmas Window by Ms. McClone, if you enjoy the enemy to lovers trope, the matchmaking trope, Christmas themed stories or books by authors Sinclair Jayne, Erika Marks, Trish Milburn and Dani Collins.

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The Christmas Window by Melissa McClone is a contemporary romance set at the Christmas season. This small town holiday romance changes the point of view between the main characters to tell the story in this sweet read.

Callie Andrews owns a doggy daycare in the small town of Silver Falls and has put everything into her business since moving there. For the first time this season Callie plans to invite her family to her new home and wants to win the holiday decorating contest as one more way to show them she has made something of herself.

Brandt Winslow grew up in Silver Falls but left six years ago when his business partner went behind his back and sold their company. Brandt’s aunt happens to be a client of Callie’s and always in the mood for a bit of matchmaking so it doesn’t take her long to coax Callie into spending time with her nephew.

The Christmas Window is a nice little small town holiday romance with likable characters and a lovely setting. On top of all of that this one will also be sure to be a hit with animal lovers with plenty of four legged furry companions making appearances during the story too. The angst in the story was a bit predictable but thankfully over quickly since I’m not a huge fan of a lot of drama in a romance. If looking for a quickie holiday read though I’d recommend giving this one a try.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

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First I have to say I just love the cover of this book. It drew me right in with cute dog and holiday theme. The cover fits this book so well. I loved the small town charm in this one especially during the holidays. It gets you right into the holiday spirit. I loved Callie and Brandt.They were great engaging characters. Callie owns the doggy daycare she has one awesome job. Brandt is a hunky nerdy guy. The love he has for his aunt won me over. It's a great make you feel good story with the added bonus of the magic of the holiday season.

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This was a quick read. Loved learning along with Callie on how to be an independent person while being able to count on others. The book was a great read that showed the true spirit of Christmas. Having the dogs and their antics as part of the story was a bonus!

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I liked everything about this book from the cover with the adorable dog to the charming, quaint town of Silver Falls. The names of the businesses are unique to the town. The Christmas spirit at the heart of this small town is very realistic. I could not put the book down. Callie Andrews is stubborn and does not want people telling her what to do. Who can blame her when she has three older, successful brothers. Then there is sexy Brandt Winslow who has not wanted to commit to anything since his best friend betrayed him. Throw in his Aunt Margot who is known for her matchmaking and who knows what will happen! Maybe Callie and Brandt will both get what they did not know they really wanted for Christmas. What a fun story that will remind you of the Christmas spirit and put you in the mood for the holidays. This is a great book to curl up by the fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

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The Christmas Window is the perfect book if you love romance, furbabies and Christmas. The cover is precious. It captures the spirit of this book perfectly. I love the meddling aunt and characters in the book. I have read several books by Melissa McClone and enjoyed all of them.

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The Christmas Window by Melissa McClone
A matchmaking aunt wants her nephew to find love under the mistletoe…
All doggy daycare owner Callie Andrews wants for Christmas is to win first prize this year. The annual window display competition is a huge event in Silver Falls, and she’s determined to showcase her success when her family visits her small town. It’s time for her parents and three older brothers to realize the “baby” of the family is thriving on her own.
The last thing Brandt Winslow wants to do is rehash the past, but returning home to Silver Falls means confronting the reason he left. His vacation, however, takes an unexpected turn when his well-meaning aunt meddles in his love life, and he finds himself caught up in her misguided efforts at matchmaking.
Despite their reluctance at being paired up, Callie and Brandt discover the holidays are full of surprises…and romance. But is the magic of Christmas strong enough to keep the couple together through the new year?
This is Callie Andrews and Brandt Winslow's story.
December might be six days away, but Silver Falls was ready for Christmas with fresh garland strung across First Avenue, streetlights decorated like candy canes, and twinkling lights, well, everywhere. The scents of pine and cedar hung on the air. The dusting of snow resembled pixie dust, another reminder of the magic of the season.
As Callie Andrews walked toward Wags and Tails, her doggy daycare, warmth flowed through her despite the freezing temperature on this overcast Monday morning. She loved how her small town celebrated the holidays. Loved the Christmas traditions of the First Avenue Business Association. Loved the nonstop cheer that overflowed from Thanksgiving to December twenty-fifth.
She loved everything about this place.Silver Falls was home.
“Good morning.” His light brown hair was carelessly styled, almost as if he’d crawled out of bed and used his fingers as a comb.
Callie double-checked to make sure she wasn’t drooling. His stubble was sexy. Glasses gave him a nerdy vibe, but did nothing to dull his vibrant eyes. Drowning in those pools of blue would be so easy to do, but what a way to go.
He glanced at the door and then back at her. “Is the coffee shop open?”“Uh, yes. Sorry.” Raine appeared dazed, but Callie didn’t blame her. This guy could be the next Bachelor of the Year, if the town awarded that title. “We’re open. Someone’s behind the counter. I’ll be right in.”
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
I highly recommend reading.
The Christmas Window by Melissa McClone is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Melissa McClone.
Melissa's Books with Tule:
Home for Christmas
Bar V5 Ranch
Copper Mountain Christmas
Mistletoe Magic
Bar V5 Ranch
Copper Mountain Christmas
The Honeymoon Prize
Ever After
Kiss Me, Cowboy
Bar V5 Ranch
The 76th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Mistletoe Wedding
Bar V5 Ranch
The Cinderella Princess
Ever After
Royal Holiday
A Christmas Homecoming
Bar V5 Ranch
Christmas at the Castle
Ever After
A Thankful Heart
Love at the Chocolate Shop

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Loved, loved this sweet heartwarming Christmas Romance that takes place in small town Silver Falls. Callie, the owner of the doggie day care, has two things that she wants this holiday season, to win the window decoration contest and to prove to her family the her business is successful. Brandt has returned to Silver Falls for a much needed for vacation with his aunt . Unbeknownst to Callie and Brandt, his aunt is busy playing matchmaker.

Loved the feeling of this small town with so many Christmas traditions from all of Christmas decorating to cookie making. Watching Callie and Brandt relationship develop, when neither were looking for a relationship. I think this sentence from the book wraps it up perfect, "Christmas is a time for hope and wishes coming true."

I highly recommend this book this Christmas season!! Would love to see more from this book, Callie's three brothers need their stories.

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The Christmas Window is a sweet and romantic tale of two people who get involved with each other, despite their desire not to. Brandt’s aunt plays matchmaker between him and doggy day-care owner Callie, but her only interest at the moment is the annual Christmas window display contest.
First impression are less than, well, impressive, on both sides. But attitudes change with the more time spent together, and their friendship could evolve into a relationship if Brandt is willing to stay and Callie can open her heart.
Great dialogue, fun and quirky secondary characters, a gorgeous setting...these are the hallmarks of every Melissa McClone book I’ve ever read and enjoyed. The Christmas Window has all this and more! Grab your copy now!

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Dogs and Christmas themed story? I'm sold. This was holiday small town story had two people Callie and Brandt. One in one out Silver Falls. The romance was s slow start, a bit awkward but sweet and cute moments.Callie is a bit stubborn and touchy in some aspects but nice to all and emphatic to dogs, good people. Brandt is nerd at heart he left cause of a betrayal. They somehow found an unlikely comfort the other in time for the holidays.

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The Christmas Window is a charming Christmas romance by Melissa McClone. The story is one of second chances, meddling relatives and fun-loving dogs. It is an upbeat fun read that will leave you will a smile at the very end.

The town of Silver Falls is easy to imagine as the characters go about entering the annual window display as well as the other Christmas activities. It feels like a magical yet a homey place to live. Callie and Brandt go through quite the varying spectrum of emotions as they work together. I enjoyed seeing how they work through them all. Really, aunts might know best.

An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Fun way to start to get into the Christmas spirit!

Callie is the owner of Wags and Tails (a Doggy Daycare). Although she’s doing well, she wants to prove to her family that she is running a viable business, and what better way to do that, than to win the annual Silver Falls Christmas window display competition.

Brandt left Silver Falls when his business partner Nick sold their company without involving Brandt. Brandt is no where near ready to forgive Nick! But he is back to visit Aunt Margot for Christmas. Brandt was not prepared for his aunt to try to set him up with someone! He has no plans to stay in town after his Christmas visit, but Aunt Margot is determined the two fall in love.

This is a wonderful Christmas story, with cute dogs, clean and sweet romance and Christmas! A great start to put the reader in the Christmas spirit!

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and Tule Publishing. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.

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This is a first for me by this author... and I have to admit it was the cover that got me intrigued... who doesn't love a doggie in a Santa hat???

Of course the description helped seal the deal for giving this a read.

A matchmaking aunt wants her nephew to find love under the mistletoe…

All doggy daycare owner Callie Andrews wants for Christmas is to win first prize this year. The annual window display competition is a huge event in Silver Falls, and she’s determined to showcase her success when her family visits her small town. It’s time for her parents and three older brothers to realize the “baby” of the family is thriving on her own.

The last thing Brandt Winslow wants to do is rehash the past, but returning home to Silver Falls means confronting the reason he left. His vacation, however, takes an unexpected turn when his well-meaning aunt meddles in his love life, and he finds himself caught up in her misguided efforts at matchmaking.

Despite their reluctance at being paired up, Callie and Brandt discover the holidays are full of surprises…and romance. But is the magic of Christmas strong enough to keep the couple together through the new year?

I found myself gripped from the first page and didn't want to put it down.
A simply heart-warming, enchanting holiday read... who doesn't love a touch of romance at this time of year?

I'll be looking out for more from this author.

Thank-You Netgalley for my ARC.

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Holiday Magic!! Callie and Brandt’s story is so sweet, engaging and fun. I fell in love with them both!! The whole time I was reading this I kept thinking how perfect this story would be for a Hallmark Holiday movie. It would be awesome!!

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The Christmas Window by Melissa McClone. The Christmas Window was a very cute Christmas story. I love Christmas love stories with animals. Wags and Tails was a great business for Silver Falls. A store that caters to animals needs. Small towns come together to help the needs of others not in Silver Falls. If you love Christmas stories you will love the Christmas Window. Read the story and you will figure out why the story is called the Christmas Window.

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