If you've ever visited Julie Klassen's delightful English village, you'll understand why readers are excited to go back to Ivy Hill in her new Christmas novella. We arrive at Brockwell Court with black sheep Richard, who hasn't been to his family estate in years. The memories of his sainted father's hidden secrets has weighed heavily, not to mention his own past indiscretions. But his family is excited to have him home, and encourages him to look for a wife among the guests at their holiday house party.

Arabella Awdry remembers the heated conversation she overheard between Richard and his father years ago. Appropriately wary, the last thing she expects to feel is attraction for the renowned rake. But as she watches him, she wonders if he really is what he appears to be.

Being back in Ivy Hill stirs long-neglected parts of Richard's heart. He begins seeing the needs of those around him in new and different ways. Plights speak to him. His own shortcomings become more apparent, but now he longs to see and overcome them with the help of family, friends, and a loving Savior.

This novella touches on a lot of deep issues. It has its share of Christmas magic and a world full of hope, but lots of struggle and regret, too. I thought Klassen did a great job tackling these things, and hope that if you loved Ivy Hill you'll journey with Richard and find some abiding joy—the kind that goes beyond our circumstances!—in between these pages.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Richard is a bachelor, he has no intention to marry because of what he experienced in his familly, he likes is London life and is trying to publish is first novel. At his mother’s request he leaves for Ivy Hill the familly home with his friend and editor Murray. On their way to Ivy Hill they meet Jamie a young apprentice…

Richard doesn’t really have a good reputation with women and is a little selfish.
But this Christmas at Ivy Hill is going to change his heart, confronted to his past he is going to forgive himself and people who hurt him. Jamie’s life as an apprentice for a printer who treat him badly allow Richard to open his eyes about inequalities and the fact that a change is needed. While is heart is changing and healing he is more open to believe in marriage and love…

“Love and forgiveness are not something you earn. They are gifts.”

This was a beautiful christmas story I really like Richard’s character and how he evolve during the whole book.

It is the first book of Julie Klassen that I read but not the last, If you like Regency and author like Jane Austen or the Brönte Sisters this is a book for you!

I receive a copy of this book and this is an honest review.

When Richard Brockwell arrives in Ivy Hill for a Christmas visit, he is unprepared to meet childhood friend Arabella Awdry . She is familiar with his reputation as a rake and a libertine and she avoids him like the plague, while he keeps staying away from all eligible ladies.
An Ivy Hill Christmas is the Christmas historical romance novella by Julie Klassen, published by Bethany House Publishers. The story is set in fictional village Ivy Hill 1822 and we follow younger son Richard Brockwell as he comes to spend Christmas with his family. His mother wants to cut him off financially if he doesn’t make an effort to find a suitable lady to marry. Richard tries to scare off every eligible lady and continue his care-free life in London. His childhood friend Arabella Awdry also has no plans to marry and wants to spend her time doing charity work in London. They come to have a nice and relaxing time together, but Arabella is convinced Richard cannot be trusted.

Main character is budding, yet unpublished author, Richard Brockwell who seems a seriously shallow and uncharitable man with a bad reputation in London. I loved to follow his journey as he stayed with family and friends in Ivy Hill.

Supporting character is bluestocking philanthropist, Arabella Awdry. She is a strong and independent lady who is seriously unimpressed by Richard’s behavior around women; but has a secret wish for love and happiness. I liked her multilayered character a lot and she is my favorite of this story.

This sweet story was such a pleasure to read. It gave me all the Christmassy feels with the decorating, carol singing and church going. Even the rare occasion of snow. I loved how the beautiful book cover also set the tone of what to expect.

As always I loved Julie Klassen’s signature writing and the light and amusing dialogue. I particularly enjoyed the mystery element to do with a secret from Richard’ past.
My favorite part of the story was descriptions of church on Christmas Day. The part I found less enjoyable was descriptions of how a printer’s apprentice was treated. But I felt it made an excellent dramatic element.

When Richard scared Arabella off and she made her lack of interest in him blathantly clear, they both relaxed more which made room for feelings to grow. Richard seemed to go through a substantial change from his self serving life and become more aware of people around him.

This story is recommended for anyone who enjoys historical romance fiction and for fans of Julie Klassen. Similar authors to explore might be Kristi Ann Hunter or Erica Vetsch.

Thank you to publisher House Publishers and NetGalley for this eARC, which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Conclusion: This is the entertaining Christmas novella about confirmed bachelor Richard Brockwell who pretends to be a rake and Arabella Awdry who pretends to be a spinster. A satisfying Christmas add-on to the Tales from Ivy Hill series and the perfect read on a quiet afternoon in front of the fire or while on a break from Christmas preparations.

Another charming take in Ivy Hill with a return of all of our favorite characters for the holiday season. Julie Klassen writes yet another lovely story - this time a Christmas novella. You’ll see a brief glimpse of old Ivy Hill characters but just briefly - not enough to overshadow the main characters of this book by any means. The storyline is charming and the characters have quite a bit of growth and development for a novella. The Christmas spirit has been captured better in other holiday books I’ve read in the time period, but other than that a first rate book.

Another enjoyable book from Julie Klassen. This one started out a bit slow for me because I couldn't stand Richard! He was a jerk! It was fun to watch his heart soften and change over time. I have always liked Arabella and it was fun to get to know her better. It was also fun to get a little glimpse of some of the other characters in Ivy Hill and meet some new ones. Good, light, Christmas read.

An Ivy Hill Christmas is an enjoyable continuation of her other Ivy Hill books, but can be read as a stand alone novel. Richard has lead a rather selfish life, until he begins to notice just how selfish he has been over the years. He begins to change his ways, and attempts to become a better man over time, but he begins to feel more for Arabella, whom he has known for a long time. Can he convince her that he has had a change of heart? Excellent story I enjoyed!

Can a confirmed bachelor change his selfish ways? Can he give up the high life he is accustomed to in order to satisfy the wishes of a mother who openly plans to marry him off? Going home for Christmas isn't always easy because it can be a reminder that one is not living up to the potential his family has planned. Richard Brockwell is a dreadful man who gives not a thought to his fellow man and because this is a book about Christmas, and Christmas in old England, one knows that he is about to undergo a change. I think it all starts when he allows a stray dog into his heart. From that moment, little clues seem to emerge in his thoughts that he knows are a little out of character for him.

I admit I didn't like the character at all in the beginning and was skeptical of the outcome. This is a story of second chances and forgiveness with a bit of romance mixed in to keep our interest piqued. However, the love is not confined to Richard and Arabella but also includes a young apprentice who captures the heart of everyone in the story. Kindness never goes unrewarded, because it makes a lasting impression on the lives we touch, even inadvertently. This is a lovely story for our upcoming Christmas holiday season and Julie Klassen's An Ivy Hill Christmas: A Tales From Ivy Hills Novella would be a wonderful addition to your Christmas reading list.

This is my first visit to Ivy Hill. I liked being there. It had a Charles Dickens kind of feel to it. I delighted in getting to know these characters from the 1800’s and how they enjoyed each other in their Christmas celebrations. The story gets to the heart of Christmas and gets readers in the spirit of Christmas (early I know but it will be here before we know it.) I also liked the fact that this author includes a tasty looking recipe for readers to prepare now. The recipe is for Honeycroft Honey-Spice Biscuit (cookies).

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

An Ivy Hill Christmas is an inviting and delightful book written by Julie Klassen.

The story centers around Richard Brockwell and Arianna Awdry. Richard, a committed bachelor, is requested to come home for Christmas. He enjoys his free lifestyle in London, but with finances dwindling, he resigns himself to make his appearance.

Arianna finds Richard to be rude and full of himself. The beauty of this story is the awakening of Richard's heart and of Arianna finding what fulfills her.

This Christmas story is heartwarming and well written. Julie Klassen is a master of the Regency period. I love how she wraps the true Christmas story around these characters. Very enjoyable.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

London - December 1822

Richard Brockwell is the younger brother of Sir Timothy Brockwell who now heads up their family. The family seat of Brockwell House is in Ivy Hill. Richard writes articles and sells them. He is writing some books as well, but so far, has only received rejections. He lives in the family townhouse in London where he enjoys life. He recently hosted his young sister, Justine, for her London season which was nice for both of them.

Richard’s mother has told him that he must come home for Christmas this year or she will cut off his funds. With no other choice, he heads home with his editor, David Murray, and his newly adopted dog, Wally.

While there, Richard enjoys catching up with old friends realizing that he should have come back home sooner.

Richard has always admired Arabella Awdry but she is cool to him. Although others are pairing up, she rejects his courtship. Instead, she wants to go to London and live with her aunt helping with charities.

As the days pass, they all enjoy the festivities of Christmas and the camaraderie of friends. The more time Richard is at home, he more he realizes that his heart truly belongs there. However, he wishes that Arabella had not turned him down.

I have read many of Julie Klassen’s books, most of which I have enjoyed. This is the second Ivy Hill book I have read and both of them didn’t have the energy of the others. The story seems to drag a bit followed by an abrupt ending. Sorry, but this was not a favorite.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This is the fourth book in the Tales from Ivy Hill series, but the first I've read. An Ivy Hill Christmas is a stand alone novel, but it was apparent there were previous stories I had missed out on...which only made me want to catch up on the early books! The village of Ivy Hill is charming and the characters are interesting. I'm hoping there will be more Tales from Ivy Hill to come.

I love Klassen’s Tales from Ivy Hills series, so I was excited when I discovered this Christmas novella was coming. The story follows Thomas Brockwell’s younger brother, Richard.

It was fun seeing familiar characters from the series, especially Justina and Nicholas Ashford. Watching Richard’s transformation was the biggest treat, though. Klassen does a great job of contrasting his character with Murray’s, especially when it comes to orphan Jamie. And as Richard changes, so does his relationship with those around him, providing a delightful character arc as well as a romantic storyline.

The story also explores redemption and the transforming love of Christ, an important theme, especially in the Christmas season. At the beginning, Richard is skeptical of God. Instead of characters preaching at him, they show the love of Christ through their actions. And as Richard tries to overcome his past mistakes, Klassen invites you on your own journey to accept Christ’s unconditional love and forgiveness.

Overall, An Ivy Hill Christmas is a wonderful read perfect for the holiday season.

(Note: I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)

This is another sweet historical romance written by the talented Julie Klassen, and is a must for Ivy Hill fans. I confess I have not read any of the earlier books in this series, but enjoyed it just the same. There are a few nods to Pride and Prejudice in this story, which I absolutely loved. But, of course, there is plenty of mistletoe and holly, snow and sleigh rides, presents and sweets thrown in. In fact, I literally made myself a cup of hot chocolate, curled up on the couch and got lost in this lovely story. I suggest you do the same.

If you’ve yet to visit the residents of the charming town of Ivy Hill, you’ll want to be sure to join them for Christmas. With an undercurrent of Pride and Prejudice rippling throughout, this is a beautifully written story of overcoming the past and daring to choose your own path. But such paths are never straight, and its twists and turns will have you wondering if the magic of Christmas will be enough to help Arabella and Richard find their own Elizabeth and Darcy-style happily ever after.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Richard Brockwell is a careless playboy content to live off of his family's money in London. But it is Christmas season, 1822, and his mother has summoned him. He is to come home for Christmas or his funds will be cut off. Left with no choice, Richard heads for Ivy Hill. Before, during, and after his journey, a dog, a boy, and a beautiful woman threaten to open up his cold heart. Will God do the rest?

i loved this beautiful story of redemption, charity, and second chances. . This wonderful novella will speak to anyone who has struggled with forgiveness and anyone who has longed for a chance to right old wrongs. The characters are well written and memorable, especially Richard, Arabella, and the boy Jamie. And let's not forget Wally!

It was fun to read about and join in Christmas celebrations from 1800's England, and there was even a recipe at the end of the book.

This is actually my first visit to Ivy Hill, but it won't be the last. I plan to go back and catch up on Julie Klassen's "Tales From Ivy Hill" series.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House via Netgalley. My review is voluntary.

A nice continuation of the Ivy Hill series. Loved all the machinations of the mothers of the marriageable children They didn't get exactly what they wanted, but their children were happy. I was glad to see Richard change for te better -I wonder if anyone can change so completely, but so glad he did. This was a book in which all ends well. Even though there wasn't a tremendous amount of action,. there was a great deal of good will shared.

Title: An Ivy Hill Christmas
Author: Julie Klassen
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"An Ivy Hill Christmas" by Julie Klassen

My Speculation:

I enjoyed this Ivy Hill Christian Christmas story that brought it's 'warmth, cheer, and heartful moments' that gave the readers a good holiday read. We find the main character Richard Brockwell was somewhat upset because he has been made to come home for Christmas by his mother's request. What was up with Richard not wanting to go home, and what will he find when he gets there? I enjoyed how this author gave us a story of 'Christmas spirit with compassion' that will shake up the information. It was quite interesting seeing Richard transform.

I love how this young boy [orphan] and dapper dog, Wally was brought so well into the story along with the 'Regency Christmas tidings, joy.' Be ready for a sweet 'level of not only second chances, but forgiveness, service to the community, comforting, transformation, romance, the spiritual element with its uplighting message of Christmas magic that impacted this story in so many exciting ways.

The author's story will keep your attention as you are turning the pages to see what was coming next in some laugh-out-loud banter of this family, along with giving us a good ending.

At the end of this read, the book will include a recipe for "Honeycroft Honey-Spice Biscuit [Cookies]' that looked interesting to make and eat.

I received a complimentary book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

A sweet holiday read, although not quite as good as Julie Klassen's other books. I found Richard's transformation somewhat unbelievable, given how short a time period it took place in (about 2 weeks), but overall this was an enjoyable read, especially if you read the other Ivy Hill books.

An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes

This latest story from Ivy Hill was delightful. There was an appearance from characters of past stories and a sense of closure given to the series. I loved that it was set at Christmastime and that there was a good plot that had some depth, not just a flowery styled novella story. Richard Brockwell was a nicely crafted character who, although fairly young, provided a "scrooge" to the book. His upbringing had not been a particularly happy one and given the anger and bitterness he carried towards his father, it was not surprising that he was upset to be forced back to his childhood home to face the memories again. But coming home was what he needed in order to move beyond his past and find a future. Arabella was a good match for Richard's character. She challenged him to look beyond his preconceptions to the person beneath in order to find the friends and kindness he is desperately seeking. My only issue with this story was the ending chapters that seemed a bit rushed and somewhat odd. The information they conveyed needed more page time to really tell everything and help it be realistic. Otherwise it was a really great story and one I will happily recommend to others, especially as a Christmas read.

I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

An Ivy Hill Christmas
A Tales from Ivy Hill Novella
by Julie Klassen
Back of the Book: “Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill's most prominent family, hasn't been home for Christmas in years. He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him, and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life--unless he comes home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.
But Christmas in the country presents unforeseen surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled . . . and determined to have nothing to do with him.
Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, joyous songs, and divine hope, work its magic in his heart . . . and hers as well?”
Impressions: This was a sweet romance and charming addition to the Ivy Hill series.
Liked: I enjoyed this Christmas romance. Love was surely in the air.
Disliked: This was cutesier or softer than other novels by Julie Klassen. Is that a bad thing, no. It was just a bit disappointing. I have come to associate Julie Klassen with more grit and sobering life circumstances in her romances. This was a more uplifting and inspiring romance.
Learned: First impressions don’t have to be lasting impressions. People grow and change; likewise, we should give allowances to first impressions. If that is not enough, we should look to our Heavenly Father and reflect his mercy in our relationships.
Quotes: “Love and forgiveness are not something you earn. They are gifts.”
“Try? What is try” Her eyes snapped again. “Every day God gives us, we must do our best to trust and obey. We fail, but we do the same thing the next day, clinging to His promises and strength to help us. If that is your definition of try, then I am satisfied. But if it is lip service to something that’s difficult so you will give up after a few attempts, well then I am not.”