A charming, cosy catch up with all your favourite characters from the series. In this Christmas edition, we find ourselves once again with the residents of Mermaids Point, this time as they prepare for Christmas. My favourite characters were Dr Tom and Nerissa and this third outing really rounded off their love story nicely. I also liked seeing how Jake and Laurie were getting on with their lives. Two very sweet couples. This story really embodied the spirit of Christmas as a time for love, family and togetherness. It also left me keen to read the coming books to find out what will be in store for Alex and Nick. Overall, a short and sweet Christmassy treat. With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.

Really good book. Sarah makes you feel like you are falling into the story and keeps you turning page after page. I love novellas and I love anything with Christmas. I love this series.

When I paid my first visit to Mermaids Point, I had a little tear in my eye when Jake was invited to join a family meal with the Morgans – all that warmth and love was just wonderful, and I rather wished I’d had a seat at the table too. And I had just that same feeling about their Boxing Day buffet in this book (and not just because of the sausage rolls and thick home-cut chips) – the relationships between all the characters are just superbly drawn, and there aren’t many places I’d rather have been at Christmas than Mermaids Point.

If you’ve read the first two books in the series, all the characters you loved are here – the two relatively new couples are still as loved-up as they ever were, and their stories move on a little. But we get to know some of the minor characters rather better too, most notably Tom’s brother Alex and the lovely Ivy (she’s the one who repaired that precious blanket… and who’s going through particularly difficult times at home). But this is really clever writing – if you haven’t read the first two books you might well find it equally enjoyable. I’m still not sure how she does it – and particularly without making it irritating for anyone who already knows both the people and the story – but there’s plenty of gentle catch-up within the story to make this short read entirely readable as a standalone. But, if you’re already looking forward to the next full-length book, there are also plenty of pointers towards the future direction of the storyline and the characters who will be taking centre stage.

It really is the perfect bridge between the two earlier books and the two yet to come – and there’s all that, plus the wonderful location and its community, more mince pies than you could ever possibly want, and the loveliest Christmas too!

Christmas Surprises at Mermaids Point is a novella that follows on from the previous book in the series, Autumn Dreams at Mermaids Point.

In this novella we rejoin all of the characters we have met before who live at Mermaids Point. It was so lovely to see characters that I love, as they prepare for Christmas. We see the main couples from the first two books in the series, Jake and Laurie, and Nerissa and Tom.

We also see the couples who may complete the series, with Tom’s brother Alex and local Ivy, and Laurie’s brother Nick and popstar Aurora who made a brief appearance in Summer Kisses at Mermaids Point. I would say that you do need to have read the previous two books in the series if you want to get the most out of this novella.

It was a lovely Christmas interlude in the middle of the series with hints on the future that fans of the series can look forward to.

This novella was a Christmas cracker of a gift from the pen of Sarah Bennett, which leaves me excitedly waiting for the next book in the series.

I have been a fan of Sarah’s work for a little while now. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written but I am getting there. I have a particular fondness for the ‘Mermaids Point’ series. When I read that Sarah was due to release a novella in the series especially for Christmas, I knew that I would be in for a treat. So without further ado, I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my copy of the book and settled down for what proved to be a fun afternoon of reading. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Christmas Surprises At Mermaids Point’ but more about that in a bit.
As with all of Sarah’s books, I was drawn into this story from the very start. I can honestly say that once I picked the book up, I didn’t put it down again until the moment I read the last word on the last page. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. As the story was a novella and not a full length book, I seemed to fly through the story at a rate of knots. I soon got to the end of the book and I had to say a temporary farewell to the residents of Mermaids Point. I found ‘Christmas Surprises At Mermaids Point’ to be a gripping and heart warming read, which left me feeling all fuzzy and warm inside.
‘Christmas Surprises At Mermaids Point’ is superbly written but that is also true of all of Sarah’s books. I love the way in which she grabs your attention and draws you into one hell of a story. For me, the novella hit the ground running and maintained a fairly gentle pace throughout, which suited the story. I love the way in which Sarah describes Mermaids Point so realistically and vividly that it really came to life. I love the way in which Sarah makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Christmas Surprises At Mermaids Point’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Sarah’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

I have only read the first book in this charming series, you can read my review here https://melaniesreads.wordpress.com/2021/04/05/blog-tour-summer-kisses-at-mermaid-point-by-sarah-bennett/

So I was looking forward to catching up with the community and seeing if any of the budding romances had developed. Although this can be read as a stand alone novella I did feel that I should have read the Autumn book first to fully appreciate the character arcs.

With lots of characters and romances it packed a lot of story for only 122 pages. While not only giving us a catch up but also introducing some more characters for further books.

With beautifully descriptive writing and a delightful warmth to her characters this is a nice quick read that can be savoured over a mug of hot chocolate or two.

I am really enjoying the Mermaid’s Point series, and absolutely loved this gorgeous novella, which provides a quick catch-up with the characters that we have met so far. I think that Sarah has struck gold with this idea, as she sets the scenes for the following instalments and offers a glimpse into Christmas at Mermaid’s Point.
The story moved at a wonderful pace, with each chapter focusing on a particular character. I loved Laurie and Jake’s story, in book one, so it was a treat to see how they were getting along. But it was also lovely to see Jake’s Mum finding the strength to make some difficult decisions.
In the second book, we learned more about Nerissa and Tom, and their extended families. There are Christmas surprises for everyone as Nerissa and Tom explore their relationship with support from friends and relatives. Even Alex, Tom’s brother gets a mention as he weighs up his options in the seaside town. Whilst Nerissa’s brother and sister-in-law take stock of their emptying nest.
This is a relatively quick read, as novellas usually are. It doesn’t dig too deeply, but certainly lays the foundations for future stories, whilst tying up a few looser ends. I do believe that although this would be an enjoyable read, as a standalone, it would leave you wanting to read more about the characters. This series is so lovely, I really do recommend reading this as a stopgap and refresher, before the next books are published.
Sarah Bennett has created a quite magical setting which I am eager to return to and catch up with some of the loveliest characters around.

What better way to ease into the coming season, than a festive visit to my old friends in Mermaid Point; I am very much looking forward to revisiting the old characters and perhaps being introduced to some new ones. I did notice the quote on the cover about wanting to move to Mermaids Point, and immediately felt the need to add myself as the next person on the list to make that move - in my dreams! I also noted that the book was dedicated to Jessica Redland, who, alongside Sarah Bennett, is a favourite author of mine. I’m not quite sure why, but this both piqued my curiosity and made me happy - the thought that two of my favourite authors might be friends?

I really felt for Nerissa - the way that she wanted the first Christmas with her ready made family, to be absolutely perfect, but I worried for her - worried that she was putting too much pressure up herself, rather than just letting things be.

I must confess to feeling a little emotional upon reading about Max and Emily’s surprise for Tom and Nerissa - such thought from two youngsters - guaranteed to melt the steeliest of hearts,

I had the upmost empathy for Alex; it seemed as though he would welcome some love in his life, yet is terrified if getting hurt again. Is this what is fuelling his writer’s block. Regardless, I would love to see him to get together with the delightful Ivy, who just oozes ‘special’ from every pore. I cannot forget the way that she helped Tom reunite his children, and Narissa, not only with the repair of their precious childhood keepsake in this book’s predecessor, but with the advent of the memory bear, by which to remember their late Mother. Ivy undoubtedly has the kindest soul. I can’t imagine that there would be too many eligible singletons in a small place like Mermaids Point, so surely she must give Alex a second glance when he visits!? I can live in hope?

I enjoyed this book tremendously, and loved way that it seemed to emit joy through its wondrous, empathetic characters, together with the amazing descriptive language. It may be small in terms of the number of pages, but it was bursting with humour, wonder and delight, bound together with the superglue that is family and embellished with Christmas cheer. Indeed a fly on the wall at the Morgan family Christmas convivialities would surely be getting a front row seat to the most perfect family’s superlative festive celebrations? A point to observe though; the Morgans put paid to any notions of blood being thicker than water, with the all encompassing way that they welcome all comers into their family unit, and treat them as their kin. I must correct myself; not only do I want to live in Mermaids Point, but I would also like to be welcomed into the nurturing arms of the phenomenal Morgan family.

I don’t want to spoil the ending for you, but:

Will Jake have an answer for his Mum?
Will Alex find love?
Has Alex banished Jo from his thoughts for good?
Will Narissa overcome her demons, to have the perfect festive season?

In all, this was beautiful book about a group of beautiful people that did not disappoint. It set the scene perfectly for the two further books to come in the series, promised in the Author’s note at the end of the book. Therein lies my only disappointment; but still, 2 more books in the series is far better than none!

It was a real pleasure to be back in Mermaids Point, but it was way too quick a visit! This novella takes us back to Mermaids Point where we are re-united with characters from the first two books in the series. I have not read the first one yet, but I loved the second one Autumn Dreams in Mermaids Point for which I also joined the Blog Tour with a review.

If you would like to read the whole series, I suggest you read them in order. If you are not too bothered about the whole series and just want a short Christmas book, this book can be read as a stand-alone as books one and two are recapped in it, but it will leave you wanting more as other characters (re)appear and we are still waiting for closure for some of them.

What a lovely bite size treat this novella was! I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with these much loved characters and seeing what they were getting up to. I also thought this story made for a great introduction to the characters. Although as with any series it might be best starting at the very beginning. Especially as it is such a wonderful series and well worth a read.

In Christmas Surprises at Mermaids Point I thought Sarah Bennett did a great job of including all of the characters situations. Even though this is a novella there was so much included. There were moments of joy, smiles and a few bittersweet moments that all combined perfectly. I loved seeing this close knit family and their friends come together for the festive season.

One of my favourite things about not only this novella but the whole series is the family connection. I love their dynamic, it really is charming and provides a truly uplifting feel for the reader. Which in turn makes everything all the more inviting to read. I couldn’t help but read with a smile on my face and I’m now even more eager for the next book!

Christmas Surprises at Mermaids Point was a comforting and heartwarming, festive treat. I loved it!

I love this description: UNWRAP AND ENJOY THIS BITE-SIZED CHRISTMAS TREAT FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR SARAH BENNETT. THE PERFECT STOCKING-FILLER! There are two books before this one, and I recommend your read them all in order. It's Christmas time in Mermaid's Point and everyone is getting ready for the holidays. Two couples from the previous books, Nerissa & Tom and Laurie & Jake are getting ready for their first Christmas as a couple and blended family. Decisions need to be made and families need compromise their holiday traditions. Other characters are dealing with their own issues, but hope and love are in the air.

This is a sweet book with familiar characters and new ones. Other reviewers suggest it is an epilogue for the first two books and an introduction to the next, which does make sense. Sarah Bennett mentions this in her notes. I do enjoy her series and characters and this one is no exception. This is a very sweet and endearing Christmas novella, a peek into the lives of several lovely couples embarking on their love stories. I am ready to read the rest of the series, so you better get writing, Sarah.

A short and sweet visit to Mermaid's Point to catch up on the lives of your favourite characters from other entries in the series. Christmas is for families and friends, and this novella invites you to join the residents of Mermaid's Point to celebrate the festive season.

Loved this short and sweet 3rd visit to Mermaids Point, and the fact we get a closer look at other characters who we will hopefully see more of in the 4th Visit to Mermaids Point in the Spring.
It definitely complements the previous summer and autumn visits.

A heartwarming story to enjoy, the characters feel like friends, a community to step into and embrace!
A wonderful Christmas book to immerse yourself in over the holidays.

Congratulations to Sarah Bennett and Boldwood Books for sharing this wonderful Book, onto the next please!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A lovely festive novella, taking you for a check in with the residents of mermaids point.
This really was perfect for a quick Christmas read. The characters are warm and different all slotting together to take part in the festive activities. It is really believable and genuine and you feel like you really are a fly on the wall in their homes.
Hints and suggestions of what's to come for the lovely characters are plenty to keep you on your toes for the next book. I thoroughly enjoyed and can't wait for a revisit to Mermaids Point!

I loved this book! Perfect length for an afternoon fire side read. Family, friends, love and the holidays make this a great holiday starter .

In this Christmas novella we catch up with all of our friends in Mermaids Point. It was lovely to return and see what everyone is up to over the festive season.

I would suggest that you read the other books in the series so you can hear the back stories of some of the characters.

I am loving the Mermaid Point series and it was lovely to pop back and spend some time with Nerissa, Laurie and their families as they head towards Christmas. In this novella we get a glimpse at how Nerissa is getting on in her new relationship with the lovely Doctor and also get to know Alex who has featured in previous visits to Mermaid Point.

This is a fab taster as to what might be to come next and has made me keen to keep reading as I love the coastal location and the wonderful array of characters. I love a novella as it gives you a great taster but I also find that I am disappointed when I reach the end as now I want to keep reading.

Fingers crossed we won't have to wait too long until we can take another trip to see how Nick is getting on with his business idea and whether or not Aurora is going to make a surprise appearance.

This is book #3 in the Mermaids Point series. It’s also a novella sized read, so absolutely perfect to read in a few hours! Whilst it’s part of a series, you can easily read this book without having read the previous books, although for better understanding of the storyline, I would recommend reading them in order.

We are back in Mermaids Point and it’s Christmas! All of the characters feature in this story and it’s great to have them all there for a big family Christmas. Jake and Laurie are busy running the cafe, Nerissa’s first Christmas with Dr Tom and his children is not proving as easy as she thought and Nick is wondering if he was right to let the Point’s mystery mermaid slip through his fingers. Amongst these stories, we also hear from Laurie and Nick’s dad Andrew, Tom’s brother Alex, Laurie’s friend Ivy and Jake’s mum Linda.

There are lots of little stories for such a short-read book but the story flows well and it was great being back amongst, what feels like, old friends! I love Nerissa’s character and enjoyed her storyline. I also liked hearing more from Laurie and Nick’s mum and dad and will hope that they feature in future books so we can see how they cope now their family are fleeing the nest!

Being novella sized, the book wasn’t long enough to get into any major plot lines, although I feel it’s lined up stories for future books for some of the characters and I shall wait with anticipation for these to be revealed. It was however, filled with festive fun, family relationships and the beautifully described little seaside village of Mermaids Point. I would love to spend Christmas there but seeing as that won’t be happening, this book is definitely the second-best thing!! Grab a mulled wine, a slice of Christmas cake and escape to the Point for a delightful quick read! Would recommend.

This is a short but sweet novella, I hadn’t read the previous books to this and I feel that really you need to have read them to get the backstory.

Thank for to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my review.