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Christmas Escape
Cotswolds Holiday
Some people face their problems head-on, other people run . . .
When my ex-boyfriend sends me his wedding invitation eight months after breaking up with me, and the bride expects me to be in the wedding party, it's time for my tried-and-tested party trick: disappearing.
And nowhere is better to escape to than the cozy English Cotswolds in the middle of December.
Everything goes according to plan until I arrive in the Cotswolds. Snow is more slippery than I expected, my room is nothing like the listing described, and my pub owner landlord—well, he steps directly from my lumberjack fantasies and into my heart.
The only problem? I can't fall for an Englishman who lives on the other side of the world from me. Not even one who has Dr Pepper on tap and kisses like it's an Olympic sport. It's much harder to run across the pond, and all good things must come to an end . . . but what if I can't say goodbye?
When my ex-boyfriend sends me his wedding invitation eight months after breaking up with me, and the bride expects me to be in the wedding party, it's time for my tried-and-tested party trick: disappearing.
And nowhere is better to escape to than the cozy English Cotswolds in the middle of December.
Everything goes according to plan until I arrive in the Cotswolds. Snow is more slippery than I expected, my room is nothing like the listing described, and my pub owner landlord—well, he steps directly from my lumberjack fantasies and into my heart.
The only problem? I can't fall for an Englishman who lives on the other side of the world from me. Not even one who has Dr Pepper on tap and kisses like it's an Olympic sport. It's much harder to run across the pond, and all good things must come to an end . . . but what if I can't say goodbye?
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2022
196 people are currently reading
2997 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 493 reviews
December 13, 2022
I liked this book until the author decided that Luna needed to not only forgive Aubrey, but go back to being friends with her.
Firstly, when your best friend "falls in love" with your significant other, that is cheating, regardless of what people like to think. Emotional cheating is still cheating, and as far as I'm concerned, someone who betrays their best friend like this doesn't deserve to still be in their lives. Falling for someone is ALWAYS a choice. Screw the people who tell you that they "couldn't help it". I'm sorry, but answering that text message, picking up that phone, agreeing to hang out and deepen your relationship with someone who is in a serious romantic relationship with your best friend/sister/brother/insert other close loved one here is actively participating in something that can EASILY be avoided.
Hell, millions of people manage to not fall in love and hurt their significant others and emotionally cheat precisely because they make a conscious decision not to. How hard can it be to not do it? Anyone who claims otherwise is a liar (to you, and to themselves).
Edited to add: If you ever find yourself in such a position, PLEASE know that you do NOT *have* to forgive the cheaters unless you want to. Do not feel like you're less than or "being a big baby" for not forgiving these people. Cheating, whether physical or emotional, is one of the worst things that can happen to someone in a relationship, and worse still, when it's committed by your partner and SOMEONE ELSE YOU LOVE. Wtf. I just can't even. I'm sorry but the author is doing everyone a disservice by painting the main character as somehow flawed or "not being the bigger person" for not being *over* her ex best friend marrying her boyfriend of many years under one year later. And using a pregnancy to guilt trip her into it, no less!! I'm just still exasperated and so mad that I read this book.
Firstly, when your best friend "falls in love" with your significant other, that is cheating, regardless of what people like to think. Emotional cheating is still cheating, and as far as I'm concerned, someone who betrays their best friend like this doesn't deserve to still be in their lives. Falling for someone is ALWAYS a choice. Screw the people who tell you that they "couldn't help it". I'm sorry, but answering that text message, picking up that phone, agreeing to hang out and deepen your relationship with someone who is in a serious romantic relationship with your best friend/sister/brother/insert other close loved one here is actively participating in something that can EASILY be avoided.
Hell, millions of people manage to not fall in love and hurt their significant others and emotionally cheat precisely because they make a conscious decision not to. How hard can it be to not do it? Anyone who claims otherwise is a liar (to you, and to themselves).
Edited to add: If you ever find yourself in such a position, PLEASE know that you do NOT *have* to forgive the cheaters unless you want to. Do not feel like you're less than or "being a big baby" for not forgiving these people. Cheating, whether physical or emotional, is one of the worst things that can happen to someone in a relationship, and worse still, when it's committed by your partner and SOMEONE ELSE YOU LOVE. Wtf. I just can't even. I'm sorry but the author is doing everyone a disservice by painting the main character as somehow flawed or "not being the bigger person" for not being *over* her ex best friend marrying her boyfriend of many years under one year later. And using a pregnancy to guilt trip her into it, no less!! I'm just still exasperated and so mad that I read this book.
July 17, 2024
THIS BOOK! I’M IN LOVE! 😍
I loved the premise of “the other girl”—we all see the guy get the girl, but what about the girl he leaves behind? The one who wasn’t right for him? Yeah, ouch.
My heart was sympathizing with Luna from the very first chapter. Hello, fellow not-good-with-emotions & an expert in running away. #characterdevelopment
I don’t usually expect romcoms to pack such a gut-punch, but this one… yeah. I sobbed the first time through and have teared up with each reread. Don’t get me wrong, it’s perfectly sweet, swoony, and beautifully British. But Luna’s story hits close to home for me. Different circumstances but similar kind of hurt. Despite shattering me, there’s a lightness & a healing to be found, too.
As for Snowshill, I’d be happy to move there! Anyone comin’ with? 😂 You can’t help but love the small village British vibes and the tight-knit community feels! And the BOOK CLUB! Dear Frank, Hamish, Ruby, Maggie, even the pub dog Ned. *sighs*
Rhys was dreamy—protective, thoughtful, gracious, fantastic humour… he was great. Flawed for sure, but great. I did miss not having his POV, but Luna was honestly a hoot.
Also, THE CHRISTMAS CAKE scene! I died. 😂
By 85% I was shaking my head. Everything was a mess—and yet, that’s life. Naturally, this is fiction so there’s a happy ending. 😉
I totally read this in an evening and regret nothing. Love, love, love it!!
(December 2022 Review)
Content: mild language; semi-detailed kissing & physical attraction; mentions of cheating
_____
January 2023 Review
Yes, I just read this last month, but I loved it so much I was eager to reread it! 🥰 Everything I said the first time holds true. Plus, this story was the perfect companion for a long night of insomnia.
_____
2024
Here I am again, and this story never gets old! Does my heart good every time & for the record, the audiobook is next level perfection!
I loved the premise of “the other girl”—we all see the guy get the girl, but what about the girl he leaves behind? The one who wasn’t right for him? Yeah, ouch.
My heart was sympathizing with Luna from the very first chapter. Hello, fellow not-good-with-emotions & an expert in running away. #characterdevelopment
I don’t usually expect romcoms to pack such a gut-punch, but this one… yeah. I sobbed the first time through and have teared up with each reread. Don’t get me wrong, it’s perfectly sweet, swoony, and beautifully British. But Luna’s story hits close to home for me. Different circumstances but similar kind of hurt. Despite shattering me, there’s a lightness & a healing to be found, too.
As for Snowshill, I’d be happy to move there! Anyone comin’ with? 😂 You can’t help but love the small village British vibes and the tight-knit community feels! And the BOOK CLUB! Dear Frank, Hamish, Ruby, Maggie, even the pub dog Ned. *sighs*
Rhys was dreamy—protective, thoughtful, gracious, fantastic humour… he was great. Flawed for sure, but great. I did miss not having his POV, but Luna was honestly a hoot.
Also, THE CHRISTMAS CAKE scene! I died. 😂
By 85% I was shaking my head. Everything was a mess—and yet, that’s life. Naturally, this is fiction so there’s a happy ending. 😉
I totally read this in an evening and regret nothing. Love, love, love it!!
(December 2022 Review)
Content: mild language; semi-detailed kissing & physical attraction; mentions of cheating
_____
January 2023 Review
Yes, I just read this last month, but I loved it so much I was eager to reread it! 🥰 Everything I said the first time holds true. Plus, this story was the perfect companion for a long night of insomnia.
_____
2024
Here I am again, and this story never gets old! Does my heart good every time & for the record, the audiobook is next level perfection!
December 8, 2022
4.5 Stars
Cotswolds Holiday was the coziest read and I may invest in flannel for my SO. I definitely smirked at some of the MC's thoughts because, hi, it's completely me.
Luna has always wanted to travel and what better excuse is there to avoid the wedding of the exes? She flees to the Cotswolds, just a town over from where her ancestors were from. The accommodations aren't expected but Rhys, the lumberjack pub owner, is easy on the eyes. Running from her problems has served her well but in order to fix one, she might have to flee another.
@authorkaseystockton's setting and cast of characters were just what I wanted out of this sweet holiday read. This multi-author series has yet to disappoint my grinchy heart.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy! All thoughts in this review are my own.
Cotswolds Holiday was the coziest read and I may invest in flannel for my SO. I definitely smirked at some of the MC's thoughts because, hi, it's completely me.
Luna has always wanted to travel and what better excuse is there to avoid the wedding of the exes? She flees to the Cotswolds, just a town over from where her ancestors were from. The accommodations aren't expected but Rhys, the lumberjack pub owner, is easy on the eyes. Running from her problems has served her well but in order to fix one, she might have to flee another.
@authorkaseystockton's setting and cast of characters were just what I wanted out of this sweet holiday read. This multi-author series has yet to disappoint my grinchy heart.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy! All thoughts in this review are my own.
December 22, 2022
2.5 stars, only because I rage-finished it.
.
I wanted to like this, but I just didn't. It was way too long. The main characters felt so dull. The spending all day in a pub instead of exploring a new country was weird. And the idea that the main character should attend her best friend's wedding after said friend stole main character's boyfriend of 5 years was ridiculous. Forgiveness doesn't require you to continue a relationship that is harmful! The fact that every person in Luna's family was pressuring her to "forgive and forget" was infuriating.
.
Not even the "quirky" townsfolk could save this story for me.
.
I wanted to like this, but I just didn't. It was way too long. The main characters felt so dull. The spending all day in a pub instead of exploring a new country was weird. And the idea that the main character should attend her best friend's wedding after said friend stole main character's boyfriend of 5 years was ridiculous. Forgiveness doesn't require you to continue a relationship that is harmful! The fact that every person in Luna's family was pressuring her to "forgive and forget" was infuriating.
.
Not even the "quirky" townsfolk could save this story for me.
December 7, 2022
This book is the definition of cozy! Escaping the upcoming wedding of her best friend and ex-boyfriend, Luna runs to Snowshill, a small Cotswolds village, for a solo holiday trip.
I immediately fell in love with The Wild Hare pub ambience, village rivalries, and Showshill locals. But especially the lumberjack, flannel-wearing pub owner, Rhys Norland. He was such a genuine, levelheaded guy. I loved his expertise in the kitchen and sly retorts that hinted at his growing attraction towards Luna.
Luna was great, too! A lover of yoga, Dr. Pepper, and Cadbury chocolate, her inner dialogue made me chuckle often. With a very complicated dilemma waiting for her back home, I loved seeing her unexpectedly discover a place of happiness and fulfillment in the meantime. She makes a decision I likely wouldn't do, but I have to applaud her ability to forgive. And Rhys was so wonderfully understanding along the way, having his own emotional baggage to unpack. This was a delightful finale to the Christmas Escape series!
(heat level: kissing only)
I immediately fell in love with The Wild Hare pub ambience, village rivalries, and Showshill locals. But especially the lumberjack, flannel-wearing pub owner, Rhys Norland. He was such a genuine, levelheaded guy. I loved his expertise in the kitchen and sly retorts that hinted at his growing attraction towards Luna.
Luna was great, too! A lover of yoga, Dr. Pepper, and Cadbury chocolate, her inner dialogue made me chuckle often. With a very complicated dilemma waiting for her back home, I loved seeing her unexpectedly discover a place of happiness and fulfillment in the meantime. She makes a decision I likely wouldn't do, but I have to applaud her ability to forgive. And Rhys was so wonderfully understanding along the way, having his own emotional baggage to unpack. This was a delightful finale to the Christmas Escape series!
(heat level: kissing only)
December 1, 2022
I love a good cozy Christmas story that's full of heart. But I also love it to have a swoony and sweet love story. And it definitely needs to have humor! Like laugh out loud humor or make me snort and giggle humor. Author Kasey Stockton delivered all of that and more in her newest contemporary novel. It was delightful and full of all the feels.
The beginning opens showing Luna trying to navigate the emotions of her ex-boyfriend (almost fiance) being engaged and about to marry her best friend. Yikes!!! Talk about lots of emotions and heartache. And what do they want from her? Her to go to the wedding. What does any sensible person do? I'm not quite sure cause I've never been in that situation, but Luna does something I'd probably do...she runs away! Totally tells them she's going to England and she goes! You go girl!
She arrives and finds herself at a charming pub with a room she's renting on the first floor (hee hee-you'll have to read to understand my giggle), a fun group of villagers, a charming village and snow! Oh, I can't forget there's also a really "Hot British Guy" who looks and dresses like a lumberjack, who just happens to be her landlord.
Y'all, I just giggled over so many of their interactions. So stinking hilarious!!! And talk about some sweet talking and honest conversations and interactions. I just loved Luna and Rhys together so much. They both have some struggles and hurts from the past. But they are just full of goodness. All of the looks across the way, the chemistry, the silly moments, the oops text *snort*, the food and yoga and sneaking moments, and so much more, just made me love this book!!!
Grab yourself a copy, a yoga mat, set yourself up next to a cozy fire with some hot cocoa and a comfy blanket and enjoy this charming swoony story!!!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
The beginning opens showing Luna trying to navigate the emotions of her ex-boyfriend (almost fiance) being engaged and about to marry her best friend. Yikes!!! Talk about lots of emotions and heartache. And what do they want from her? Her to go to the wedding. What does any sensible person do? I'm not quite sure cause I've never been in that situation, but Luna does something I'd probably do...she runs away! Totally tells them she's going to England and she goes! You go girl!
She arrives and finds herself at a charming pub with a room she's renting on the first floor (hee hee-you'll have to read to understand my giggle), a fun group of villagers, a charming village and snow! Oh, I can't forget there's also a really "Hot British Guy" who looks and dresses like a lumberjack, who just happens to be her landlord.
Y'all, I just giggled over so many of their interactions. So stinking hilarious!!! And talk about some sweet talking and honest conversations and interactions. I just loved Luna and Rhys together so much. They both have some struggles and hurts from the past. But they are just full of goodness. All of the looks across the way, the chemistry, the silly moments, the oops text *snort*, the food and yoga and sneaking moments, and so much more, just made me love this book!!!
Grab yourself a copy, a yoga mat, set yourself up next to a cozy fire with some hot cocoa and a comfy blanket and enjoy this charming swoony story!!!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
November 27, 2022
Oh my, what an absolutely adorable Christmas romance!! This one made me want to cozy up by the fire with a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate...and then book a plane ticket to the Cotswolds. It seriously gave me all the heartwarming Christmas romance feels!!
Luna takes a last-minute Christmas holiday to England to avoid the wedding of her ex-boyfriend...to her ex-best friend.
Enter "Hot British Guy" Rhys, a flirty, should-be-a-lumberjack swoony pub owner with a heart of gold and his own baggage from the past. Both know Luna will only be there a short time but I mean, does an accent make kissing different? This is an important question that must be answered.
Lots of growth and healing from Luna and her journey was a perfect complement to the relationship between her and Rhys. I loved the sense of community and friendship in town especially when it came to the rivalry with the town next door...
And the humor and wit? I completely lost count of how many times I busted up laughing.
Kasey absolutely nailed this one and I could not.get.enough. What a perfect ending to a fantastic series! This book gets a very merry 5 stars from me!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Luna takes a last-minute Christmas holiday to England to avoid the wedding of her ex-boyfriend...to her ex-best friend.
Enter "Hot British Guy" Rhys, a flirty, should-be-a-lumberjack swoony pub owner with a heart of gold and his own baggage from the past. Both know Luna will only be there a short time but I mean, does an accent make kissing different? This is an important question that must be answered.
Lots of growth and healing from Luna and her journey was a perfect complement to the relationship between her and Rhys. I loved the sense of community and friendship in town especially when it came to the rivalry with the town next door...
And the humor and wit? I completely lost count of how many times I busted up laughing.
Kasey absolutely nailed this one and I could not.get.enough. What a perfect ending to a fantastic series! This book gets a very merry 5 stars from me!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
December 20, 2022
SO I LOVED THIS?
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
And I’m so glad I did! I did go back and forth A LOT on a few aspects so lets get into those.
There is soooo much drama involving ex’s. And at times it felt like too much, yet in the same breath, I was reveling in the drama of Luna and Rhys finding there path to be together. I know it’ll be a polarizing type of read for that. I’m just reallll dang happy it worked for me. Though I did struggle with the friend arc. I don't know, she forgave waaaay too easy for me.
Rhys was SWOONY. Every near touch, stolen kiss, and whispered endearments had me glued to the page. I loved his character. I enjoyed Luna as well. She’s a runner (meh), but I do think it was handled well enough for me to roll with. There was pretty solid communication between them and I loooove a get your girl moment and I was squealing when it happened.
The setting is perfect. A quaint pub in the countryside. I loved the side characters and the shenanigans that went down. Plenty of holiday cheer and perfect for the season.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Holiday Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: divorce, cheating (off page)
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
And I’m so glad I did! I did go back and forth A LOT on a few aspects so lets get into those.
There is soooo much drama involving ex’s. And at times it felt like too much, yet in the same breath, I was reveling in the drama of Luna and Rhys finding there path to be together. I know it’ll be a polarizing type of read for that. I’m just reallll dang happy it worked for me. Though I did struggle with the friend arc. I don't know, she forgave waaaay too easy for me.
Rhys was SWOONY. Every near touch, stolen kiss, and whispered endearments had me glued to the page. I loved his character. I enjoyed Luna as well. She’s a runner (meh), but I do think it was handled well enough for me to roll with. There was pretty solid communication between them and I loooove a get your girl moment and I was squealing when it happened.
The setting is perfect. A quaint pub in the countryside. I loved the side characters and the shenanigans that went down. Plenty of holiday cheer and perfect for the season.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Holiday Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: divorce, cheating (off page)
December 6, 2023
I’m genuinely shocked this book has such strong reviews…
We read for book club and I was extremely underwhelmed. So many of the characters were problematic (can we please stop referring to someone as “running away from their problems” when they ate simply setting boundaries with people that shouldn’t be in their lives??), and the romance was lackluster at best.
We read for book club and I was extremely underwhelmed. So many of the characters were problematic (can we please stop referring to someone as “running away from their problems” when they ate simply setting boundaries with people that shouldn’t be in their lives??), and the romance was lackluster at best.
December 19, 2022
This series has a way of making me pine for a British man myself. That would be my dream.
December 19, 2022
AI loved the setting, BUT what the heck? The chemistry wasn't great between Luna and Rhys it clearly started from pure lust - which actually didn't line up with either character's personality. The way everyone in Luna's life just expected her to forgive her ex and best friend for what they did AND attend their wedding was beyond ridiculous! The constant make out sessions (although clean) while Luna reminds herself it's only a fling over and over drove me crazy - but then all of a sudden they're in love and planning to marry? The way Rhys genuinely seemed to care for her and wanted to protect her was wonderful, but then he sent her into the meeting for Stella Fit without ANY CONSIDERATION FOR WHAT WOULD HAPPEN TO HER???!!!??? Seriously! Yes, there's a HEA at the end - but the story overall just didn't work for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2022
I adored this book. Loved the setting, the quirky pub and of course the swoony romance with the hot British lumberjack pub owner. 😍
December 19, 2022
This book was delicious! So stinkin’ cute and so perfectly cozy and Christmasy!!
Luna grew so much throughout the story! Actual conversations were had. Insecurities were felt and promptly faced. Feelings were confronted. And just…great growth!
I would’ve LOVED to have had dual POV, but I did enjoy being in Luna’s head.
Rhys was…fantasticly dreamy! I absolutely adored him! He was so gentle and understanding! (His looks didn’t hurt anything either 😉) He was a great leading man!
I LOVED the setting! And the “shared” relationship issues the characters had. AND THE CAST OF CHARACTERS! It was all so adorable! *the chemistry 🤩*
The story did feel a little long, even though the timeline was super quick. I felt like there was a lot of internal stuff/issues that got a little bogged down for me in spots.
Overall I really did enjoy the story!!
4/5 stars
*not cf but clean*
Luna grew so much throughout the story! Actual conversations were had. Insecurities were felt and promptly faced. Feelings were confronted. And just…great growth!
I would’ve LOVED to have had dual POV, but I did enjoy being in Luna’s head.
Rhys was…fantasticly dreamy! I absolutely adored him! He was so gentle and understanding! (His looks didn’t hurt anything either 😉) He was a great leading man!
I LOVED the setting! And the “shared” relationship issues the characters had. AND THE CAST OF CHARACTERS! It was all so adorable! *the chemistry 🤩*
The story did feel a little long, even though the timeline was super quick. I felt like there was a lot of internal stuff/issues that got a little bogged down for me in spots.
Overall I really did enjoy the story!!
4/5 stars
*not cf but clean*
December 1, 2024
This was a cute, hallmark style Christmas romance. There’s no spice but the romance is adorable. I low key hated the ending because if my BFF went after my man I sure as heck wouldn’t forgive her. Alas, Luna is a better woman than I.
December 1, 2023
Rhys is the only reason this wasn’t a 1 star. He and Ruby and the whole town/ pub crowd was lovely.
The storyline of the Luna’s ex- best friend marrying her ex- boyfriend made me viscerally angry. I would have DNF’d but I was holding out for Luna to tell them off. Which didn’t happen. The opposite actually.
There is no situation where Luna should have ever been flying home to clear the air so her ‘bestie’ could have a nice wedding day. The way the situation was written, so that it was for Luna’s own good to move on, just didn’t work for me. I can’t with that scenario. Sorry but in that situation, the friendship is dead and buried and who cares about how she’s feeling. She should feel bad. SHES MARRYING HER BEST FRIEND’S LONG TERM BOYFRIEND.
Ok I’m done now.
The storyline of the Luna’s ex- best friend marrying her ex- boyfriend made me viscerally angry. I would have DNF’d but I was holding out for Luna to tell them off. Which didn’t happen. The opposite actually.
There is no situation where Luna should have ever been flying home to clear the air so her ‘bestie’ could have a nice wedding day. The way the situation was written, so that it was for Luna’s own good to move on, just didn’t work for me. I can’t with that scenario. Sorry but in that situation, the friendship is dead and buried and who cares about how she’s feeling. She should feel bad. SHES MARRYING HER BEST FRIEND’S LONG TERM BOYFRIEND.
Ok I’m done now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2025
Oh where to start. This was a light and cozy Christmas book. The first half od the book was really good I liked Rhys a lot and it was the best part of the book. The second half what the fffff. Every decision every part was wrooong and I just can't. He kissing his ex wife and that was fine? And she goes to a meeting and finds out from her? She forgives her ex best friend for marrying her ex of five years and in the end Luna and Rhys are getting married seemingly for a green card. Uh.....I just can't
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2022
I’ve read far too many holiday romances this season where the lead has no chemistry whatsoever with the person they end up with and far too much time is spent focused on an evil ex and this time a fucking bitch of an ex best friend who should’ve stayed that way. I hated the ending of this novel so much. If I want a true escape, I want it to be light hearted and fun, not whatever this depressing crap was.
March 26, 2025
3,5 ⭐️
Dawno mnie tak żadne zakończenie nie wkurzyło 😩
Dawno mnie tak żadne zakończenie nie wkurzyło 😩
January 6, 2023
Escaping to England for the holidays? Yes! When Luna gets a wedding invitation for her ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend, the only answer is to escape.
"Get me a neck pillow and a supply of wasabi almonds, because this girl was gonna book herself a flight to London."
I love how Luna is in such a rush, she doesn't really research her trip and options that well. Of course, it landed her in a snowy small town, renting a room in a pub, but it also lead to hilarious situations and heartwarming friendships. Rhys, the pub owner, is also healing from a past relationship hurt, and his grumpy persona could be off-putting, but not to this American.
These characters are sweet, charming, and full of heart and soul. I adored every circumstance and every contact. But I especially enjoyed the setting and watching walls crumble.
Another perfectly wonderful story to escape into!
Content: mild romance (kissing, light innuendo)
"Get me a neck pillow and a supply of wasabi almonds, because this girl was gonna book herself a flight to London."
I love how Luna is in such a rush, she doesn't really research her trip and options that well. Of course, it landed her in a snowy small town, renting a room in a pub, but it also lead to hilarious situations and heartwarming friendships. Rhys, the pub owner, is also healing from a past relationship hurt, and his grumpy persona could be off-putting, but not to this American.
These characters are sweet, charming, and full of heart and soul. I adored every circumstance and every contact. But I especially enjoyed the setting and watching walls crumble.
Another perfectly wonderful story to escape into!
Content: mild romance (kissing, light innuendo)
December 1, 2022
This book was so good! I loved the way Luna's journey was a bit more like women's fiction, but the romance was still there in all the ways and the comedy with some of Luna's experiences was fantastic.
Luna is a runner (relatable for one who likes to avoid aka procrastinate situations often). She heads to England on a whim to get away from her ex's wedding to her former BFF. What she didn't plan on was Rhys and the adorable pub and charming town that immediately felt like home.
I loved the setting, the characters, the storyline, it was all super cute. Stockton has such a way of bringing her contemporary romances to life and I felt like I was right there visiting the Cotswolds with Luna.
A great end to a great standalone series which can be read in any order as they don’t overlap at all; I definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Luna is a runner (relatable for one who likes to avoid aka procrastinate situations often). She heads to England on a whim to get away from her ex's wedding to her former BFF. What she didn't plan on was Rhys and the adorable pub and charming town that immediately felt like home.
I loved the setting, the characters, the storyline, it was all super cute. Stockton has such a way of bringing her contemporary romances to life and I felt like I was right there visiting the Cotswolds with Luna.
A great end to a great standalone series which can be read in any order as they don’t overlap at all; I definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 9, 2022
1.5 I did not care for this. The chemistry was lacking, and they both had exes who were a large part of the story. This was not romantic , just sad and upsetting. The village rivalry antics felt out of place. Nice try, but it didn’t work for me.
December 20, 2023
This was a very enjoyable romance. Great chemistry!
What I liked:
- Single perspective. If this had been dual perspective, the chemistry would have been destroyed entirely, because he was head over heels for her from the beginning. As it was, there was good tension throughout.
- Great chemistry! I liked the angst! The dynamics in the story/romance allowed the MMC to be totally open about his feelings without coming off as desperate. Also, they had relatively good communication. (I could have done with more of a slow burn, but that’s ok.)
- Writing was good. I empathized with the characters’ feelings of betrayal from their pasts.
- I’m glad both main characters were financially secure. I’m kinda sick of the FMC who is rock bottom and pathetically poor.
- I loved that the FMC is a popular yoga YouTuber! That is unique and interesting, and it shows she has remarkable flexibility skills (that’s so attractive, imo). More than anything, I was just thrilled that the author didn’t make her a bookworm- I’m so tired of main characters who are obsessed with reading. Yay for branching out into other interests and hobbies!
What kept it from being a 5 star:
- The author constantly referenced Hallmarks. Here’s the deal- whether or not you enjoy them, Hallmarks are universally hailed as being extremely cheesy. So I don’t think it’s a good thing to keep bringing up Hallmarks, especially at the end of the book. It wasn’t doing the book any favors and it got repetitive.
- I felt that her guilt was somewhat misplaced. It’s good that she was able to forgive- that’s hugely important because she had a lot of understandable anger and resentment and that’s just poison. However, she could forgive and yet still not attend the wedding. Her decision near the end did kinda show growth while ironically showing a lack of growth, like Rhys pointed out.
- I felt that her family and others manipulated her to some degree. And I also I felt like it was a stretch to say her not attending would ruin the bride’s wedding day.
- I prefer steamy-clean, and I wish there had been a little more sexiness to the story. Not that I’m looking for a sex scene because I’m definitely not, but maybe just a little lust that showcases attraction??
- I wish that there had been more in the story utilizing her amazing flexibility. Because that’s just awesome!
- The grand gesture at the end was super risky. How did he know she wouldn’t feel smothered? How did he know she didn’t need some space to figure it out? A phone call would have been more appropriate. I like things to be realistic and it came off as… not.
Content- Clean, and no swearing
I read this on KU
What I liked:
- Single perspective. If this had been dual perspective, the chemistry would have been destroyed entirely, because he was head over heels for her from the beginning. As it was, there was good tension throughout.
- Great chemistry! I liked the angst! The dynamics in the story/romance allowed the MMC to be totally open about his feelings without coming off as desperate. Also, they had relatively good communication. (I could have done with more of a slow burn, but that’s ok.)
- Writing was good. I empathized with the characters’ feelings of betrayal from their pasts.
- I’m glad both main characters were financially secure. I’m kinda sick of the FMC who is rock bottom and pathetically poor.
- I loved that the FMC is a popular yoga YouTuber! That is unique and interesting, and it shows she has remarkable flexibility skills (that’s so attractive, imo). More than anything, I was just thrilled that the author didn’t make her a bookworm- I’m so tired of main characters who are obsessed with reading. Yay for branching out into other interests and hobbies!
What kept it from being a 5 star:
- The author constantly referenced Hallmarks. Here’s the deal- whether or not you enjoy them, Hallmarks are universally hailed as being extremely cheesy. So I don’t think it’s a good thing to keep bringing up Hallmarks, especially at the end of the book. It wasn’t doing the book any favors and it got repetitive.
- I felt that her guilt was somewhat misplaced. It’s good that she was able to forgive- that’s hugely important because she had a lot of understandable anger and resentment and that’s just poison. However, she could forgive and yet still not attend the wedding. Her decision near the end did kinda show growth while ironically showing a lack of growth, like Rhys pointed out.
- I felt that her family and others manipulated her to some degree. And I also I felt like it was a stretch to say her not attending would ruin the bride’s wedding day.
- I prefer steamy-clean, and I wish there had been a little more sexiness to the story. Not that I’m looking for a sex scene because I’m definitely not, but maybe just a little lust that showcases attraction??
- I wish that there had been more in the story utilizing her amazing flexibility. Because that’s just awesome!
- The grand gesture at the end was super risky. How did he know she wouldn’t feel smothered? How did he know she didn’t need some space to figure it out? A phone call would have been more appropriate. I like things to be realistic and it came off as… not.
Content- Clean, and no swearing
I read this on KU
January 3, 2023
Loved this book, England and Christmas time sounds amazing and to find love and your soul mate when you’re not even looking. 🥰
December 16, 2022
I’m sad to have finished reading all of the Christmas Escape romances. This book made me feel as though I was in England. There was one day when I was picking up in the pick up line and I got so lost in the story that I forgot where I was. That’s one mark of a great book for me!
I loved the characters in this one. After reading Luna’s backstory and how she ran into her exes in town, I sympathized with her and couldn’t blame her for inventing and then taking a trip to England during their wedding. One thing I really loved about Luna was her awkwardness. There were many times that she said something out loud when she didn’t mean to. Or got stuck in a snowy ditch. I had to laugh at her so many times. And I loved that. That’s just what I needed right now.
I loved Rhys. He’s the kind of guy who spends days making a cake. And the kind who would go out of his way to make breakfast for Luna, even when his pub wasn’t open. Rhys was so great and he was pretty witty too.
This was such a great book! You really need to read all of this series.
I loved the characters in this one. After reading Luna’s backstory and how she ran into her exes in town, I sympathized with her and couldn’t blame her for inventing and then taking a trip to England during their wedding. One thing I really loved about Luna was her awkwardness. There were many times that she said something out loud when she didn’t mean to. Or got stuck in a snowy ditch. I had to laugh at her so many times. And I loved that. That’s just what I needed right now.
I loved Rhys. He’s the kind of guy who spends days making a cake. And the kind who would go out of his way to make breakfast for Luna, even when his pub wasn’t open. Rhys was so great and he was pretty witty too.
This was such a great book! You really need to read all of this series.
December 26, 2022
Thank you @authorkaseystockton for the e-arc of Cotswolds Holiday!
Here’s what I loved:
• the setting was so wonderful
• I loved the cast
• Rhys was so charming
• swoony romance
• “Hot British Guy”
This was a sweet and swoony addition to the Christmas Escape Series! I am always here for books set in England and this one will whisk you away to the Cotswolds for a wintery romance.
Steam: kissing
TW: past divorce/cheating (not the mc)
Here’s what I loved:
• the setting was so wonderful
• I loved the cast
• Rhys was so charming
• swoony romance
• “Hot British Guy”
This was a sweet and swoony addition to the Christmas Escape Series! I am always here for books set in England and this one will whisk you away to the Cotswolds for a wintery romance.
Steam: kissing
TW: past divorce/cheating (not the mc)
December 3, 2022
Those "...words were a mood—weighted blankets or candlelit baths."
So many swoon worthy moments!
I fancied the delightful relationship between Rhys and Luna. They would be great friends to have in real life.
At times I blushed because of the content of a thought, or the passion in a kiss, but thankfully it wasn't too much.
So many swoon worthy moments!
I fancied the delightful relationship between Rhys and Luna. They would be great friends to have in real life.
At times I blushed because of the content of a thought, or the passion in a kiss, but thankfully it wasn't too much.
March 28, 2023
I didn’t get to know these characters.
My first issue was what a pushover Luna is. The whole Aubrey situation floored me! I’m all for forgiveness, but being a walking doormat isn’t a cute look. I wanted her to stand up for herself! Everyone in her life needed to STOP with the wedding nonsense. I could not believe how spineless this girl was. You can forgive while still removing yourself from toxic terrible people. And Jake’s phone call! Oh my gosh! I almost threw the book across the room!
Rhys and Luna had potential, but they didn’t spend enough time together. Their relationship got too serious, too quickly. They knew nothing about each other and didn’t trust each other. They didn’t know each other very long but the story really revolves mostly around other people in their lives so the time constraint was very obvious. They definitely could have used more time together… more actual conversations… and way less of their exes.
My first issue was what a pushover Luna is. The whole Aubrey situation floored me! I’m all for forgiveness, but being a walking doormat isn’t a cute look. I wanted her to stand up for herself! Everyone in her life needed to STOP with the wedding nonsense. I could not believe how spineless this girl was. You can forgive while still removing yourself from toxic terrible people. And Jake’s phone call! Oh my gosh! I almost threw the book across the room!
Rhys and Luna had potential, but they didn’t spend enough time together. Their relationship got too serious, too quickly. They knew nothing about each other and didn’t trust each other. They didn’t know each other very long but the story really revolves mostly around other people in their lives so the time constraint was very obvious. They definitely could have used more time together… more actual conversations… and way less of their exes.
January 27, 2024
Cotswolds Holiday by Kasey Stockton
Christmas Escape multi-author series
354-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Humor, Holiday > Christmas, Clean Romance
Featuring: Reading BINGO Card, Geyserville, California; Snowshill, England; Ex-BBF and Ex Wedding Trope, Graphics, The Holiday, Runaway Trope, Alone For Christmas Trope, Lost In Translation, Yoga, Pub, Dogs, YouTuber, Villagers, Dr. Pepper, Meddling Families, Advertisement for Christmas Baggage, Series List, Author's Note, Author's Bibliography,
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Songs for the soundtrack: "Favourite Ex" by Maisie Peters, "traitor" by Olivia Rodrigo, "Christmas for Cowboys" by John Denver, "White Christmas" by Martina McBride, "Frosty the Snowman" by Gene Autry, "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion, "Blackbird" by The Beatles, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" by Bing Crosby, "I'll Be Home For Christmas" by Bing Crosby, "It's Beginning To Look Like Christmas" by Bing Crosby, "Silent Night" by Bing Crosby, "Winter Wonderland" by Faith Hill, "Last Christmas" by Wham!, "American Woman" by Lenny Kravitz, "Here Comes Santa Claus" by The Ray Conniff Singers, "New Year" by Sugababes, "I Believe In You And Me" by Whitney Houston
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🇬🇧🎄
My thoughts: This was great. I hate when your bbf/sister/cousin runs off with your boyfriend/fiancé and expects you to be part of the wedding party, and your family wants you to forgive them; so it was nice to see someone put their foot down. One of my pet peeves that I've seen a lot lately is not blocking the people you don't want to talk to; other than that, this was a very enjoyable story. I already have Love on Deck, which is supposed to be my next book, but I'm going to be adding more of the Stockton catalog to my list. I'm finished with this series it was great.
Recommend to others: Yes. This has more substance than your average contemporary romance novel.
Christmas Escape
Christmas Baggage (2022) Deborah M. Hathaway
Faking Christmas (2022) Cindy Steel
Host for the Holidays (2022) Martha Keyes
Cotswolds Holiday (2022) Kasey Stockton
Later On We'll Conspire (2022) Kortney Keisel
A Newport Christmess (2022) Jess Heileman
A Not-So Holiday Paradise (2022) Gracie Ruth Mitchell
Christmas Escape multi-author series
354-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Humor, Holiday > Christmas, Clean Romance
Featuring: Reading BINGO Card, Geyserville, California; Snowshill, England; Ex-BBF and Ex Wedding Trope, Graphics, The Holiday, Runaway Trope, Alone For Christmas Trope, Lost In Translation, Yoga, Pub, Dogs, YouTuber, Villagers, Dr. Pepper, Meddling Families, Advertisement for Christmas Baggage, Series List, Author's Note, Author's Bibliography,
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Songs for the soundtrack: "Favourite Ex" by Maisie Peters, "traitor" by Olivia Rodrigo, "Christmas for Cowboys" by John Denver, "White Christmas" by Martina McBride, "Frosty the Snowman" by Gene Autry, "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion, "Blackbird" by The Beatles, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" by Bing Crosby, "I'll Be Home For Christmas" by Bing Crosby, "It's Beginning To Look Like Christmas" by Bing Crosby, "Silent Night" by Bing Crosby, "Winter Wonderland" by Faith Hill, "Last Christmas" by Wham!, "American Woman" by Lenny Kravitz, "Here Comes Santa Claus" by The Ray Conniff Singers, "New Year" by Sugababes, "I Believe In You And Me" by Whitney Houston
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🇬🇧🎄
My thoughts: This was great. I hate when your bbf/sister/cousin runs off with your boyfriend/fiancé and expects you to be part of the wedding party, and your family wants you to forgive them; so it was nice to see someone put their foot down. One of my pet peeves that I've seen a lot lately is not blocking the people you don't want to talk to; other than that, this was a very enjoyable story. I already have Love on Deck, which is supposed to be my next book, but I'm going to be adding more of the Stockton catalog to my list. I'm finished with this series it was great.
Recommend to others: Yes. This has more substance than your average contemporary romance novel.
Christmas Escape
Christmas Baggage (2022) Deborah M. Hathaway
Faking Christmas (2022) Cindy Steel
Host for the Holidays (2022) Martha Keyes
Cotswolds Holiday (2022) Kasey Stockton
Later On We'll Conspire (2022) Kortney Keisel
A Newport Christmess (2022) Jess Heileman
A Not-So Holiday Paradise (2022) Gracie Ruth Mitchell
December 1, 2022
Last but definitely not least...
... this was so much fun!
I've enjoyed many of Kasey Stockton's books, but this one is my new favorite!
Luna's ex didn't physically cheat with her bff, but they were doing so emotionally, & then got together quickly after the breakup. While one can argue they didn't do anything wrong, expecting Luna to even be at their wedding, let alone participate, was totally unreasonable not to mention insensitive.
Luna had a right to her grief & to get over it on her own timeline not anyone else's. Aubrey didn't seem to care about Luna's friendship as much as fulfilling the wedding of her dreams she'd been planning for years. Because of how Aubrey handled things, I had very little sympathy for her.
So needless to say, I was cheering Luna on as she headed to England for a Christmas break. Unfortunately, with no real plan for her time there, she was a bit lost.
It's so entertaining as she becomes accepted by the villagers - & especially Rhys with his playfully swoony double entendres.
I'll confess that I wasn't sure I was onboard with Luna's thinking at the denouement, but I loved the way it played out, regardless. This was a wonderful way to wrap up a delightful series! And though the competition's a little stiff, probably my favorite 💕❤️
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
... this was so much fun!
I've enjoyed many of Kasey Stockton's books, but this one is my new favorite!
Luna's ex didn't physically cheat with her bff, but they were doing so emotionally, & then got together quickly after the breakup. While one can argue they didn't do anything wrong, expecting Luna to even be at their wedding, let alone participate, was totally unreasonable not to mention insensitive.
Luna had a right to her grief & to get over it on her own timeline not anyone else's. Aubrey didn't seem to care about Luna's friendship as much as fulfilling the wedding of her dreams she'd been planning for years. Because of how Aubrey handled things, I had very little sympathy for her.
So needless to say, I was cheering Luna on as she headed to England for a Christmas break. Unfortunately, with no real plan for her time there, she was a bit lost.
It's so entertaining as she becomes accepted by the villagers - & especially Rhys with his playfully swoony double entendres.
I'll confess that I wasn't sure I was onboard with Luna's thinking at the denouement, but I loved the way it played out, regardless. This was a wonderful way to wrap up a delightful series! And though the competition's a little stiff, probably my favorite 💕❤️
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
December 12, 2022
I loved this book so much. It’s the last book in a Kindle Unlimited holiday romance collection, so I feel like it’s not going to get the hype it deserves and this book DESERVES ALL THE HYPE. I loved all of it. It was all very very me: set in the British countryside, protagonist who teaches yoga, Downton Abbey references, an endearingly English Christmas fair, and a very hot love interest. It was all perfect. There are also some cheeky references to The Holiday thrown in on purpose too.
I really really loved Luna and Rhys’ romance. It was so nice to read about a male lead who wasn’t toxic at all, who was working through his problems, and who cared about more than sex (like I’m here for a little spice, but it was kind of nice to read a novel without it- especially after my last read). I loved seeing the characters heal together- one of my favorite tropes ever. And in seriously the cutest setting ever. The small town, especially with a lot of eccentric old people, reminded me of when I lived in a small Irish town. It was so comforting and endearing.
Honestly, I loved everything about this book and the sweet world of Snowshill and The Wild Hare pub. I wanted to stay in this world long after the book was over :)
I really really loved Luna and Rhys’ romance. It was so nice to read about a male lead who wasn’t toxic at all, who was working through his problems, and who cared about more than sex (like I’m here for a little spice, but it was kind of nice to read a novel without it- especially after my last read). I loved seeing the characters heal together- one of my favorite tropes ever. And in seriously the cutest setting ever. The small town, especially with a lot of eccentric old people, reminded me of when I lived in a small Irish town. It was so comforting and endearing.
Honestly, I loved everything about this book and the sweet world of Snowshill and The Wild Hare pub. I wanted to stay in this world long after the book was over :)
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