What a wonderfully cosy Christmas read! I adored the setting both geographically and historically. Brilliant characters and I would love to see this book as a Christmas tv drama.

The beginning of the story is set in 1822 London. Richard Brockwell has chosen to live there rather than at Ivy Hill was his family. He's a writer trying desperately to become published and rather a self-centered bachelor. When he goes home to Ivy Hill for the holiday he meets Arabella. She is put off by his reputation.

The story is one of growth in beliefs, second chances, and redemption. The romance portion of the story is sweet and well written. Richard comes to gripe with mistakes from his past and tries to start a new direction for his life.

The transformation of one character took me by surprise. There are a few twists to the story and the ending wrapped things up well. A very enjoyable read.

I received an ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily choose to review it.

A delightful story about a man who has finally come home for Christmas and found out how much things have changed; including his childhood friends. Will Richard Brockwell change with the times, or remain the same person, true to his own heart? For he had made a promise that nothing or anyone could satisfy him because of what happened in the past. Handsome as though he may be, yet not caring what anyone else cared or felt about him. Anger, a lot of sadness and yes, a small amount of pity seeped into this story too. My heart ached for this, could he be a scrooge incarnate? Will Richard let the past consume him? When I first looked at the cover page of this book I thought, will this be a satisfying read? It sounded intriguing enough. Awe, Christmas in the country! So I delved into the pages and soon was lost in the author's writing as I was transported back to the past.
In this, AN IVY HILL CHRISTMAS, It was December, in London, and the year 1822, and Richard Brockwell was walking past shop windows, glancing inside. He had crossed the street when an elderly woman yelled at him to make a donation for a worthy cause. After introducing herself and what the worthy cause was for, she reached out her basket for Richard to place some coins inside. But he, being a selfish creature, told her what charities he gave to, turned and walked on, leaving her to stare and chatter after him. Will this woman, being delightful and very caring for others, cause trouble for Richard? Or cause something from his past to crop up?

A Regency Christmas to Delight Your Heart
Combining excellent characterization, sincere, effective faith elements without becoming preachy, and a story you want to savor, Julie Klassen ensured that my first book of hers will not be my last.

While Regency novels can be tiresomely predictable, not all are. In some ways, this one is no different. However, despite my saying that, there is nothing tiresome about An Ivy Hill Christmas. Instead, we’re treated to a realistic look at Regency nobility–all their faults and virtues.

One of the best things about this book is that despite being a novella, the story has rich layers that provide depth to a story that a weaker writer couldn’t have delivered. Brava! Indeed, characters are multi-faceted and while flawed, not irredeemable. The cast of characters is large without being cumbersome, and the author does credit to each one.

No, really. She does.
Although there were a few small things that I questioned historically, I doubt anyone would notice, and I suspect I am likely wrong. I didn’t look them up. Frankly, the story was so good and they were so minor that I didn’t care.

Thrilled to have been provided a review copy, I toss a delighted five stars like confetti without compulsion of any kind. In fact, I bought my own Kindle copy because it was on sale for just $1.59. Recommended for lovers of Austen, lovers of good historical fiction, and for lovers of fiction that “shows” the truth of Scripture in action instead of yammering on about it.

Thank you, Bethany House, Julie Klassen, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!

It is wonderful to go to Ivyhill! An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen readers are reunited with the community of Ivyhill, Jane, Mercy, and Rachel to name a few. This installment introduces Richard Brockwell who distances himself from his family. He stays in London, working on his novel, but finances send him home for the Christmas season. He doesn’t have fond memories of his family home and this time his mother and her friend are determined to set him up with Arabella Awdry. Arabella has zero intentions of getting married, especially to a man like Richard. There are rumors that surround him and why does he always talking to the nursemaid? However, Christmas has a way of miracles and sparking love in the most unusual places.

If you haven’t read any of the other books in the Ivyhill series, I would highly suggest reading those before picking up this charming Christmas novel. There are many characters, who are connected, and I can see how it would cause confusion for those who are not familiar with the series. Although Richard is not a frequent character in the previous books, it is mentioned why he has difficulty going home. It is pretty obvious from the beginning that his rude and arrogant personality is just a way to push everyone away. It is a little predictable how the plot is set up but that doesn’t make it any less touching.

My favorite aspect is Richard returning to his “adoptive” family. He regrets that he left and forgot about them. Seeing their home falling apart, he does everything he can to help them. As with any Christmas story, forgiveness plays a huge part in the plot. This one is inspiring and filled with hope. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars!

This is a wonderfully sweet and fun Christmas romance. I loved getting to hear about some of the characters from previous stories based in Ivy Hill. This is a quick read and it teaches Richard some very good lessons about life. I enjoyed Murray also. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Not only is this the first book I’ve read in the Tales from Ivy Hill series, it also appears to be the first novel I’ve read by Julie Klassen, although I have definite plans to read more of her work in the near future. It should be noted that this book can be read as a standalone, with no difficulty in understanding the plot or identifying the characters, since Klassen tactfully introduces them. In many cases, Regency stories are usually a turn-off for me, particularly if they are romances, and I am numbered among the seemingly rare few who is not a great fan of Jane Austen’s books. They are just not, personally, my cup of tea. However, I did love this novella!

With the perfect blend of social concern and spiritual well-being, “An Ivy Hill Christmas” makes a wonderful book for a snowy afternoon. On the frontispiece, there is a black-and-white map of Ivy Hill to give readers a mental image of where some of the story’s main locations are in relationship to one another. But as the village remains close-knit, the residents of Brockwell Court do not. Most notably, Richard Brockwell is nearly 30 years old and lives as a rakish bachelor in London, enjoying himself and fitting into an archetype of a young Ebenezer Scrooge who thinks of no one but himself. “Richard was, he knew, a selfish creature. A person could not change his nature, his very heart, could he? He thought not.” Coerced into returning to Brockwell Court for the Christmas holidays, he vows to remain firm against his mother’s desire for him to marry and settle down into a respectable life. Until the Christmas guests arrive, and Arabella Awdry steps through the door.

This is a character-driven novel, and it is the secondary characters whom I find to be the most entertaining and insightful. Wally, the little terrier, stole my heart immediately, particularly with how Richard dresses him up each day. Pickering, Richard’s steward, has a dry sort of humor that I find surprising and at times hilarious. Richard’s brother and sister-in-law manage Brockwell Court compassionately and efficiently, a task Richard has no desire to become responsible for as the second son. However, the more he sees acts of kindness performed toward the less fortunate in conjunction with the fate of a childhood friend, the more he begins to look beyond himself to see the world of need that exists. He is struck by the thought “That the heavenly Father would willingly send His Son into a harsh, fallen, and dangerous world? Astounding.” From that launching point, he finds the motivation and inspiration to confront and seek to rectify injustice, surprising himself along the way and prodding us, too, into action. No gift of kindness is too small when it comes from a heart reflecting the Savior’s love.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

3.5 Stars

Let me start by saying I have not read the previous Ivy Hill books, so I had no idea of the backstories for some of the supporting characters in Julie Klassen’s An Ivy Hill Christmas. And that’s the reason I believe kept me from fully connecting with Richard and Arabella in this novella.

The English country setting and the Christmas traditions are what interested me the most in this story. Richard and Arabella have some preconceived notions about each other but spending the holidays under the same roof reveals some truths.

A sweet and quick Christmas story that will sweep you away to another time and place, this novella is sure to be a favorite of those who have kept up with this series.



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

After reading this one I am huge Julie Klassen fan. Love this one. It gave me all the Christmassy feel.
Writing stile is beautiful.
Really enjoyed this one.
Thanks to Netgalley foe this ARC.
4 stars for me.

This is a first for me by Julie. I see there are more books based in ivy hill, I will definitely be reading those! This book was wonderful. Made me feel really Christmassy. A real old fashioned, traditional feel. I loved every single character, some growing on me even more with every turn of a page. A great read this winter.

An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen Brings us to Christmas in 1822 where the lead protagonist, Richard, a confirmed bachelor and playboy living in London, is summoned home to the family country estate called Brockwell Court. His mother, who has not seen him for years, requires his return home to greet family and guests for the Christmas holidays. Richard returns begrudgingly because he’s run out of money and needs to make a good impression on his mother. He is broke and needs funds to support his wayward lifestyle. However, his mother has also invited the beautiful Arabella, her older sister, and her mother to spend the holidays with them. Richard does everything he can to make it known that he is not interested in marriage or settling down with Arabella but he slowly realizes how lucky he is to have a wonderful family, the love of a beautiful woman, and a God who forgives his past mistakes. This is Christian historical fiction and it was great. So much fun and the story captured the essence of the fairytale setting of Christmas in the snowy English countryside and a man looking for redemption. Just the right touch to share this lovely message in a sweet story. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ My thanks to NetGalley and Baker Publishing for a free ARC of this book although the thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias. This book will be released this week and I highly recommend it.

I loved this book! It is the perfect Christmas read. I have not read the previous books in the series but that did not hinder the story at all. Anything that needed a little background was given seamlessly and worked in. There is that romantic pull, bit of mystery and wonderful Christmas traditions. There is even a recipe at the end! I plan to make the cookies! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review. I loved it!

I really enjoyed this book. I loved Christmastime in England and all of the traditions the reader gets to observe. I also enjoyed watching Richard change into more of a gentleman. However, I will say I found humor in his snarky remarks and even made me lol a couple of times.

This is also a quick read but with a lot of depth. I didn’t feel like the author was rushing through the story to make it shorter. It was very well done.

If you have read the other books in this series you will enjoy seeing some of the previous characters and what is going on in there lives as well. But if you haven’t read the other books you will not feel the least bit lost, I think I was easy to follow.

A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

I've not read any of the Ivy Hill series but I enjoyed visiting these characters, learning about them and what life was like for them. It's hard to move on from who you were when the past seems to want to keep in in the same place for as long as it could and people seem to never forget.
The growth process of our hero throughout the story,the changes that occur in the book and the romance between him and our heroine, it was delightful to read about.
The idea that God cares, he forgives and gives us a clean slate even when man doesn't was beautiful.
It was truly a beautiful story. I loved every bit of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit for a blog tour. All opinions expressed are solely mine

I have to admit that I am not generally a fan of this type of fiction since it doesn’t have a good merger or a mystery of some sort. But if I’m going to read something at Christmas, I do tend to choose books set in England. Ms. Klassen’s book it’s a very nice entry into that category. With the main character coming from London to Ivy he’ll,Under circumstances that he is fighting against all the way, there’s a little bit of suspense. But you know that he’s going to fall in love, that’s just the way it’s going to be. So you just prepare yourself for the way things are going to happen in the book of this nature, and enjoys the reading.

I would like to think net galley, the author and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book. The comments above are my own.

An Ivy Hill Christmas, Tales from Ivy Hill by author Julie Klassen is a wonderful holiday tale. This Christian historical Regency story should get readers in a Christmas spirit. I thought it was lovely beginning with the cover.

Set in 1822 London this is the tale of the youngest Brockwell son, Richard. He is an independent man and seems to need his family’s money more than he needs them. At the insistence of his mother he returns to their country home for Christmas with the family this year. The results are eye opening and heart warming.

Richard is a cad and has quite the reputation in London. When he comes home to Ivy Hill for a Christmas visit, he is surprised to meet childhood friend Arabella Awdry. She is familiar with his bad reputation and avoids him like the plague even though they are childhood friends.

Author Klassen has a captivating style of writing. I was immediately invested in her story. The way she writes always whisks me away from my comfortable loveseat in my study where I read to her setting. The characters were very relatable and realistic.

This story is filled with life and spiritual lessons. It is a tale of new beginnings and forgiveness. It is quirky and delightful. Expect some twists and turns in this sweet story. I was very surprised by the transformation of one character. At the end everything comes together and is neatly tied with a bow on top. This is definitely a very enjoyable read.

I highly recommend this especially for Regency lovers. This is the perfect novella for this time of year. I have rated it 4 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest words.

As I read this Christmas story, I could see it as a movie. I would love to visit Ivy Hill and have tea with the Brockwell Family.



Richard Brockwell doesn't sound like someone I would want to spend Christmas with. But people can change especially at Christmas.

I loved reading this story. It was a feel good book with great characters, a lovely location and set at the most perfect time of year.

Julie Klassen has put me in the holiday spirit!!!!



I received this for free from Celebrate Lit to review

A wonderful, cozy tale for the holidays. A classic that will appeal to fans of Austen and Dickens, this novella is full of laughs, romance, mystery, friends, and family. A must-have for those winter nights by the fire.

Thank you NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for the opportunity to read an advance reading copy.

An Ivy Hill Christmas was a charming Christmas novella by Julie Klassen. It was fun to learn the many customs associated with Christmas, New Year, and Twelfth Night. The food, games, and snowy outdoor activities made me start wishing for a white Christmas! How fun it would be to celebrate the season with family and friends for several weeks.
Richard was as big of a Scrooge as one could be. And there might have been a time or two I wanted to slap him alongside Arabella for the cutting remarks that came from his mouth. But his journey of learning to look past self to love and forgive others was perfect for the Christmas season. After all, it is the beginning of the path to the redemptive work of the Cross.
Arabella’s generous and kind nature is the attitude we should all have toward each other whether it is around the holidays or not. She was an exceptional woman, and I loved how she stood up for herself and others. I think we could be good friends!
Overall, I enjoyed this Christmas novella, as I do all of Julie Klassen’s stories. But Christmas stories are special, and I think An Ivy Hill Christmas conveyed the true meaning of the season perfectly. I would recommend this novella to any Regency romance fan.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I kicked off my Christmas reading list with An Ivy Hill Christmas and honestly it didn't disappoint. All that was missing was mulled wine and a mince pie! Imagine Scrooge meets a Jilly Cooper novel. While there isn't any s*x there are lots feisty warm and engaging characters mingled together with a gorgeous English wintry countryside backdrop. Our protagonist Richard Brockwell hasn't been home for years, instead leading a somewhat roué bachelor life in London. But his father has passed, his brother and lovely wife are now Lord and Lady of the manor and while his doting mother would love Richard to get hitched. Richard has other ideas. Even if it means insulting the line up of women his mother has laid on with him to meet over Christmas. But can a bachelor ever change his ways? Will his ex ever forgive him for a past disappointment? Has he met his match in the shape of Arabella Awdry? An Ivy Hill Christmas does indeed see Mr Brockwell change his ways. I loved this novel so much! From Wally, Richard's dog who is attired the same as his master through to the most wonderful ending. Enjoy!