The Perfect Christmas Village by Bella Osborne

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

When Christmas-hating Sam moves to Holly Cross, he thinks he's found the perfect home, until he discovers that, each year, Holly Cross transforms into the most Christmassy village in the whole country...

Blythe is just one sale away from being Real Estate Agent of the Month, so she twists the truth to sell a home to city boy Sam, who is looking for the perfect house in the perfect location. Little does he know he's just bought a cottage in the middle of the most Christmassy village in the country. And if there's one thing Sam loathes, it's Christmas.

Sam's arrival puts Holly Cross's chance to win the title of Britain's Most Perfect Christmas Village now in jeopardy, and the villagers are soon up in arms. Meanwhile, Sam is in his own personal hell surrounded by fairy lights and everyone is looking to Blythe to fix things.

But as the festive season looms, maybe there's more than just Christmas in Holly Cross for Sam to fall in love with...

My Opinion

Now I am sure that those of you that have followed my reviews for a while will know that I really enjoy Bella Osborne's book, they are a definite read for me. This one was no exception. Holly Cross sounds like a great place to live with all of the festivities and community spirit.

This could easily be the plot to a Christmas movie, with the way that the town comes together. This is a sweet, heart-warming read that will leave you ready to put up your decorations. Another great festive read from Bella and I am already looking forward to seeing what she is working on for her next release.

Rating 4/5

I'm getting in my Christmas reading groove now! I loved this one. I know I say that about a lot of Christmas-themed books but what can I say I love Christmas!
And this is one of my favourite tropes to read enemies to lovers, though I don't think I'd go so far as to call them enemies. I think Sam and Blythe just got off on the wrong foot, which combined with a heck of a lot of misunderstandings is how they make their way through the book gradually getting to know each other better.
I really liked Blythe, and I felt for her every time she got insecure, and felt like she had to prove herself I really cheered for her when she finally stood up for herself with her dad, I had this huge grin on my face because I was so pleased for her! I actually really loved Sam, his grinchyness reminded me a little of my husband who is not as keen on Christmas as I am, but he's not Sam's level of Grinch lol But it did just endear him to me that little bit more.
Vicky and Owen's story just popping in every so often was really nice to read, and I liked how the question of Eden's parentage was resolved, it made me like Owen more because I did find him quite annoying at times.
In short, this is definitely one of those books that would make it into my Christmas reading stack every year, it's just a warm hug in a book!

Blythe has extended the truth a little with a sale, but it’s all for a good cause. However, when she sells a property to someone who dislikes Christmas in a village that celebrates it big every year.
With the two now clashing the viliage winning Britain's Most Christmassy Village in jeopardy Blythe will be the one to fix things, but it won’t be that easy.
This was a really fun read with great characters who I couldn’t get enough of. This narrative was constant with things happening and had small narratives running through it that simply added to the main storyline. This is a great book to read to get you in the mood for the Christmas season.

I love a good Christmas book and this one has a great cover too, so I was really looking forward to reading it.
Blythe Littlewood is an estate agent in Warwickshire, who is back living with her mum and stepdad after a relationship break-up. Needing a last-minute sale at work in the final days of May, she sells a house in Holly Cross to London lad Sam Ashton. There are a couple of issues – one being that the house isn’t technically on the market yet; the second being that Sam hates Christmas and Holly Cross is well-known for its enthusiasm for all things festive. Oops.
Blythe’s friend Vicky is a single mum to her daughter (Eden, 5). We also follow her story and see what happens to the villagers over a period of time. I enjoyed getting to know everyone in Holly Cross, especially the stray cat Turpin that Blythe feeds in Murray’s garden.
There’s a really good community feel to this book. It’s a great village to live in with its good range of amenities (Highway Inn pub, village green, bakers, etc.) and all the activities they arrange, with Christmas being the focal point of the year.
If you love a novel centred on community, or one with a lot of Christmas joy in it, or a grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract kind of romance, you can find it all in this book, all written in a lovely, witty, lightly comedic style that flows beautifully from Bella Osborne’s pen.

This is a very charming easy festive read which has everything needed to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Holly Cross is a village community which works together every year to raise funds for charity by decorating the village and hosting festive events.
Blythe has lived here her whole life, but when in her line of work as an estate agent she sells a footage to Sam, a Christmas Grinch, problems occur.
This book has some really funny moments and some delightful characters. With lots happening in the run up to Christmas you will not be bored in Holly Cross.

The Perfect Christmas Village is exactly what it says on the cover - PERFECT!!!

With the Summer we haven’t had and the wet dreary weather I was ready for a cheery read. The setting was PERFECT, Holly Cross and its inhabitants are Christmas mad. Think of the most magical Christmassy setting you can and dial it up ten notches.

Imagine someone moving into the village who doesn’t ‘DO’ Christmas in any way shape or form - meet Sam, who bought a cottage from Blythe who works at Happy Homes Estate Agents.

Blythe was on track to have secured the most sales month on month in the company’s 34 year history, a title she was desperate to win that was until the final month when her colleague Amir went ahead of her by one sale! Everything was on the line, Blythe was determined to win, for reasons we don’t find out about until later in the story.

This was an absolute delight of a book. From the get go we had sweet, gorgeous Blythe in one corner facing off with Amir in the other. I knew which opponent I was backing. If only that wasn’t her only sparring partner - in her quest for the ‘sales’ title she finds herself at odds with friends, family, newcomer Sam and the inevitable Leonora of chair of the Holly Cross Christmas Committee.

There are several mysteries and half told stories wrapped around both Blythe and newcomer Sam and as a reader it was funny, sad, endearing and frustrating watching their encounters unfold in equal measures. They say opposite attract and in this case they definitely did. Blythe loved Christmas and everything about it, Sam hated it and everything about it. The more Blythe pried and questioned, the more closed up and moody Sam got. Yet still they were drawn to each other, in madcap situations that inevitably ended up with one of them combusting and them going their separate ways again until one of them needed rescuing.

All in all this is a joyful, funny, festive read, that has several tender heartfelt storylines running below the surface that gave the characters depth and a more than an edge of realism. I loved it and Holy Cross brought back memories of visiting a village fairly local to me where all the houses decorate and light up their houses at Christmas too. Add to that a blossoming romance that was funny and endearing - what’s not to love about this book, it was an utter joy to read that had me drooling after mince pies, mulled wine and hot chocolate.

I genuinely look forward to each of Bella’s books as I know it will be quality, entertaining and a blooming great story. The Perfect Village Christmas is wonderful – I was enthralled with each page I sat and devoured. It is a Perfect Christmas book and will leave you feeling festive fuzzies.
The village of Holly Cross is my kind of place and yet again I wish I lived in such a brilliant community. I think each character was brilliant, even Leonora who was perhaps a bit full on (but for the right reasons really!) Reading about their efforts to become the ‘Perfect Christmas village’ had me laughing and feeling all sentimental.
Blythe is desperate to prove herself and sells a house in her local village to Sam, unaware that he is harbouring some secrets. Sam moves to Holly Cross and is not a fan of Christmas, in fact he hates it – which proves challenging in this village. Soon regretting his choices, he is determined to ignore everyone’s, especially Blythe’s, efforts this festive season.
Blythe is determined to make him see the good in Christmas no matter what. On many occasions she pushes her festive agenda and in my opinion really pushes her luck with him. I’m amazed he tolerated as much as he did! There is something about their connection though and it is clear to see the spark between them.

A story full of shenanigans, pumpkin picking, fireworks and festive fun at the sexy Santa dinner; a whole community pulling together and being there for each other. All have very different reasons for being so involved in the village activities but it’s clear everyone cares for one another too. Fun characters, heart warming moments, comedy and charm – what more do you need this time of year.

I cannot recommend this one enough. It’s a must read this Christmas, I suggest you ask Santa very nicely and get a copy!

A book written by Bella will always give you a good read. This is a lovely Seasonal story and a great one to curl up with on a cold winters night, but is just as good when read in the early autumn. Well worth 5 stars.

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for this ARC

I found this a little difficult to get into. However I read it to the end. I have enjoyed Bella’s books but sadly this one is not a favourite.

What a sweet Christmas tale.

It was an easy read which transported me into Christmas. I didn't really enjoy the characters that much but I did enjoy the story on the whole.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.

What happens when the Grinch moves into the Christmas village
But the Estate Agent keeps secret the festivities knowledge?
Will he be tempted to join in or want to move out fast?
Or to ensure the agent he gets to lambast?

Sam was looking for a cottage in the perfect location to buy
But joining in the village festivities he doesn't want to try.
He abhors everything to do with Christmas time
And for him to join in would feel like a crime!

Blythe is the one who sold him his new home but didn't say
That the whole community celebrate Christmas in every way
With decorations on every home, parties and lights
Shining brightly every night!

Can she get Sam to join in with them all?
Or is he really the Grinch come to call?
There's laughter galore as this story unfolds
And secrets begin at last to be told.

A heartwarming read with more than one romance
As festivities bring people together to give them a chance.
Getting to know the community and how they work together
Could help change this Grinch's ways forever!

For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you -
As I share with you my honest review.

Bella Osborne- The Perfect Christmas Village.

Welcome to Holly Cross. The village that loves Christmas.
Meet Sam. Holly Cross’ newest resident. Sam hates Christmas.

When Sam’s dislike of the festive season meets with disapproval from his neighbours in Holly Cross, it falls to Blythe, the estate agent who sold Sam the house (maybe a little dishonestly) to sort out the situation.

Blythe and Sam both developed into such likeable characters. They’ve both had their fair share of troubles in life, but they may just be exactly what the other needs to heal the wounds of the past.

The other characters in this book are an absolute joy.
From angelic children to sassy cats, Bella Osborne has squeezed them all in. It’s fair to say they fit perfectly and give the story the most wonderful feel of community.

Holly Cross is an idyllic setting. A little village with a big heart.

I am a huge fan of Bella Osborne’s writing. She goes from strength to strength with each new book.
Her quick wit, depth of sensitivity and big heart, radiate from every page.

#ThePerfectChristmasVillage is a festive delight. You will be eased into the Christmas season with this warm hearted romantic comedy.

Well done Bella, you’ve done it again… another cracker!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

With thanks to Netgalley, Rachel’s Random Resources and Aria & Aries fir a digital arc of this title.

The Perfect Christmas Village is a bit of a Christmas extravaganza. The whole village sets out to make their village the most amazing Christmas village ever. And while that might be in terms of how it looks, it's not only that, its really about the community spirit that goes into it.

Entering this village, unbeknown to him, is Sam who is a little bit of a Christmas grinch, although I must say with good reason, and I felt on his side all the way through.

How the village and Sam come to terms with each other takes almost the whole of the book, and when it does I have to say its extremely heart warming.

As well there is a little mystery that turns out surprisingly nicely and there is an only semi tame cat that steals in and makes himself at home. Sam starts out being a little dishonest, but I guess she soon realises it wasn't the way to go.

If you really love all the bling of Christmas and people coming together for others and each other then this book could be for you.

Thank you to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

I wanted to love this book - I mean it has a cat in it come on, but the POV switching was clunky plus it never pulled me in. The setting sounded beautiful but the overall story fell so flat for me, and I never bought the romance nor did I get attached to any of the characters.

I have read a number of Bella Osborne books now and when I saw her latest, The Perfect Christmas Village, I couldn’t resist.

Blythe lives in the village of Holly Cross, succeeding in work she needs to sell just one more house to top the monthly sales chart. To do so she doesn’t tell Sam the whole truth about the cottage in Holly Cross or the villages passion for Christmas, and later finds out that he hates Christmas. This doesn’t go down well in the village, and they all expect Blythe to turn this around in time for the festive season.

This book was filled with community spirit and made me wish I was in Holly Cross to celebrate from Halloween through to Christmas. Although, Bella’s writing has the ability to transport you into the pages of the book so that you do feel like you are there.

I really enjoyed the main characters of Blythe and Sam, there was more than meets the eye to both of them. All the other characters in the village were great too, they were lovable and all adding something different to the community dynamic. And let’s not forget Turpin the mischief maker.

This was a lovely, feel-good book filled with community spirit and festive cheer. Perfect to enjoy wrapped up in a blanket with a hot chocolate.

Lovely festive Bella Osborne read. The perfect book to curl uk with in the chilly months - especially with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie!

What to do when you dislike Christmas but move into a prime spot in a village that seems obsessed with the festival! A cosy Christmas read that will have you begging the villagers to leave Sam alone, but alos wanting him to get involved and go with the flow. Curl up with a hot drink and lose yourself in the village for a few hours.

Couldn't put it down! Between hospital visits and work this story got me through.

Want to sell up and move to Holly Cross with all its wonderful characters. Hope Bella writes a follow up to find out what happens to their lives and loves.

First thought: A charming Christmas story that drops you right into the middle of Holly Cross festivities. You will fall in love with this community and want to instantly ship these two couples(Blythe/Sam & Owen/Vicky) Grab some hot coco and snuggle in with this sweet closed door holiday romance.

Blythe is a real estate agent and competing for the top spot and she needs one more sale to grab the title. So she kind of sells Sam a house in her neighborhood under false pretenses. Sam hates everything Christmas and he just bought a house across the street from the epicenter of the most Christina’s village in England. Now Blythe has to work hard to make things right with Sam, while trying to persuade him not to be the Grinch.

Vicky is a single mom she is struggling to make ends meet and will do anything for her daughter to have a normal Christmas. She is also best friends with Blythe and she is constantly roping her in to support her schemes to make money. Owen is Vicky’s old flame and he’s back in town and trying to win her heart but things are complicated this time as she has to think about her daughter.

Holly Cross is full of an array of quirky characters that make you feel the spirit of Christmas and understand it’s more about the people this time of year vs the present.

Tropes you’ll find:

* Client to Lover
* Scrooge to Santa
* Tight Knit Community
* Holiday Romance
* Small Town
* Closed Door

3⭐
Genre ~ Holiday fiction
Setting ~ Holly Cross (fictional) inspired by Eathorpe, Warwickshire
Publication date ~ October 20, 2023
Page Count ~ 344 (40 chapters p+e)
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ dated chapters, small town, slow burn, no steamage

Blythe is a real estate agent in competition with a coworker to make the most sales for the month of May. She has only 2 days to win and she'll do anything she can to make the sale, even if it means lying through her teeth. In steps Sam, who is anti-Christmas, but gets bamboozled into buying a house in the most popular Christmas village in the country.

First of all ~ the cover is cute and I liked the small town community vibe. It is in full force with year round events the residents are expected to participate in. They all seem to get along and have great rapport for the most part, even if they're Christmas crazy. Norman is the local baker and his treats sounded quite delightful, especially a passion fruit curd eclair and I wish I could try one. Phyllis was a hoot and seemed like she'd be fun to be around. 5 year old Eden seemed very mature and well behaved for her age, which I liked. Blythe's mother and step father were pretty great too.

Second of all ~ there is a lot of disrespect in this book.
Blythe, quite frankly, is a lying judgey mcjudgerpants who jumps to conclusions. Sam was pretty much disrespected from the get go by everyone. I felt like he was being bullied and I didn't like it. Someone should not be forced to do something they don't want to do. And even to go so far as to say he has a Christmas phobia and call him a Grinch when they have no clue of his reasoning (which was sad) is rude. He doesn't want to participate, plain and simple. I was really hoping he would put that house on the market and high tail it outta there back to London.

Our second POV comes from Blythe's bff, Vicky, who is a single parent to Eden. I can't say I was a big fan of hers. While I did appreciate her tenacity in providing for her daughter I, also, felt she was somewhat rude. From one business venture to the next, she expects, and doesn't really even ask nicely, her friends to help her, which left a bad taste in my mouth. And why did we get her POV when this is a holiday romance, shouldn't it be from Sam?

Speaking of holiday romance ~ it's very slow burn and I was not feeling their chemistry at all. They're frustrated with each other from May to December, but then all of the sudden they like each other. I wasn't buying it.

We have a side little mystery about the former owner of Sam's cottage, Murray, who passed away. That was an interesting and surprising turn of events, which I didn't hate, but I wish we could have gotten to know him a little more.

Overall, this was a mixed read for me and I don't feel this should be in the romance category, more like holiday fiction. It's perfectly titled too because they did indeed need everything perfect.