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Christmas House Romances #2
The Sleigh Bells Chalet
Christmas, sleigh bells, and dashing through the snow—toward love.
Hotel owner Ellery Hart’s business is on the rocks. Rooms are empty, the lobby is ugly, and a huge loan payment is due. Unless she can pay, she will lose her grandpa’s legacy, the Bells Chalet. While her mom would have her marry the rich banker who is holding the hotel’s title ransom, that idea is beyond unacceptable.
Ellery needs brilliant business solution. But how to make one happen fast?
Bing Whitmore has been running the family business, Whitmore Thoroughbred Stables, on his own. But when his heart is broken by two females—horses, that is—he is thrown for an emotional loop, and all he wants to do is quit. Sell the stables. Never look at another horse again.
Instead, his cousin convinces him to take a vacation. They travel nine hours to the quietest hotel he can find—the Bells Chalet. Meeting a beautiful hotel owner makes this escape better than he could have hoped.
When Ellery needs help, Bing wants to do anything to make her smile, even if it means helping her fill the perfectly serene hotel with more guests. But when he learns that her hotel-saving plan involves the very thing he’s traveled so far to avoid, can Bing put aside his pain and help Ellery save her grandpa’s business and the jobs of the employees she loves?
Hotel owner Ellery Hart’s business is on the rocks. Rooms are empty, the lobby is ugly, and a huge loan payment is due. Unless she can pay, she will lose her grandpa’s legacy, the Bells Chalet. While her mom would have her marry the rich banker who is holding the hotel’s title ransom, that idea is beyond unacceptable.
Ellery needs brilliant business solution. But how to make one happen fast?
Bing Whitmore has been running the family business, Whitmore Thoroughbred Stables, on his own. But when his heart is broken by two females—horses, that is—he is thrown for an emotional loop, and all he wants to do is quit. Sell the stables. Never look at another horse again.
Instead, his cousin convinces him to take a vacation. They travel nine hours to the quietest hotel he can find—the Bells Chalet. Meeting a beautiful hotel owner makes this escape better than he could have hoped.
When Ellery needs help, Bing wants to do anything to make her smile, even if it means helping her fill the perfectly serene hotel with more guests. But when he learns that her hotel-saving plan involves the very thing he’s traveled so far to avoid, can Bing put aside his pain and help Ellery save her grandpa’s business and the jobs of the employees she loves?
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
1121 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Griffith
90 books350 followersDo you love free e-books? Check out my website to see how to get a free book. http://authorjennifergriffith.com
I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.
I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.
I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.
I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
December 30, 2022
This is a fun and quick read in the Christmas House Romance series. Bing needs a break from the loss of one of his racehorses and injury of another. His cousin, Freya, books the two of them into a chalet that is low key for a little vacation. Ellery owns the chalet and needs to get it back into a viable operation but that requires a facelift to the place and something to draw guests. Bing and Ellery hit it off and it was fun to watch the two become friends and help each other. Lovely and quick read for the holidays or anytime. This story/series includes likable characters and a great winter, snowy setting.
December 8, 2019
This little Christmas series is like a Hallmark movie wrapped up in Christmas paper and tied with a silver sleigh bell. Ellery needs to come up with something to save the family business and when she does, the ideas fly and everyone pitches in to turn the Bells Hotel into the Sleigh Bells Chalet. All the warmth, goodness, sweetness, hope, and love emerge when Bing, a long-term guest, helps out.
Bing and Ellery are great characters and I loved watching the magic of the season help them with their obstacles. Everyone has issues and everyone has a story, and it takes true love and caring to overcome things.
If you're in the mood for a Hallmark-esque movie, give this book a try and you're guaranteed a heartwarming tale.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Bing and Ellery are great characters and I loved watching the magic of the season help them with their obstacles. Everyone has issues and everyone has a story, and it takes true love and caring to overcome things.
If you're in the mood for a Hallmark-esque movie, give this book a try and you're guaranteed a heartwarming tale.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
November 21, 2019
I'm in heaven! I've been enjoying Christmas books this week and just loving the cozy feel of them. They just make me super happy. And something else that I've been enjoying this week is The Music Man musical. Hahahaha! You're probably wondering how I jumped from enjoying Christmas books to enjoying that particular musical. I have a method to my madness people. Just stick with me and you'll understand. ;-)
I've always been a lover of music and musicals and movies. And I've always loved to quote them. It was a game of my hubby and I when we were first dating and in the early years of our marriage to name the singer and song title when listening to music. It's evolved a little bit over the years. As our children have gotten older it's been a lot of fun to have them join in on throwing out random movie quotes or quotes from musicals. And I especially love it when they use them in great context with our conversations. They're quick on their thinking feet. Lol!
So what does my spiel there have to do with this book and Christmas and musicals? I'm glad you asked...my oldest two kiddos are in a local production of The Music Man. So of course we've had lots of talk about it and singing the songs around the house and in the car and everywhere we go. And last night the show opened. So I sat and watched it and laughed and soaked up all the great music and lines of the play. Then today I picked up this little Christmas gem and can you guess how it all connects together? The main characters are movie lovin' and musical quotin' fiends! I fell in love with them both! They had me giggling. They even had a competition between each other for trying to best the other in quotes. And the major clincher...if you guessed The Music Man...ding, ding, ding...Winner, Winner, Winner. They used a ton of quotes from The Music Man. How fun of a connection is that? I thought it was pretty awesome. Now I get to go the several more shows of the musical to support my kiddos and all their friends in their hard work and will most definitely be thinking about different scenes of this book as I hear certain quotes.
This book isn't all lightheartedness and fun. These two characters have some aches and are trying to heal their hearts. But they sure have some great chemistry. And there are several funny moments throughout. Especially when they first meet. Hahahahaha! I won't give anything away but let's just say that Ellery kept that one going for a little bit and had me giggling. Bing too!
It's a pretty quick little read. I enjoyed it in one sitting as I was enjoying a day of just being at home and reading and playing catch up on stuff. Grab yourself your cozy blanket, sit in front of a warm fire, sippin' some hot cocoa and get lost in the Sleigh Bells Chalet. And good news, you don't have to read the first book to read this one. Bing is a character from the first book, The Christmas Cookie House, but very minor. The same with the third book, there is a character that had a short little part of a scene (a very funny short part) who will be the main character in the next book. And I might be just a teeny tiny (huge) bit excited for that book!
Content: Clean. Nothing more than some sweet kisses. A few very mild innuendos from a character I didn't care for.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I've always been a lover of music and musicals and movies. And I've always loved to quote them. It was a game of my hubby and I when we were first dating and in the early years of our marriage to name the singer and song title when listening to music. It's evolved a little bit over the years. As our children have gotten older it's been a lot of fun to have them join in on throwing out random movie quotes or quotes from musicals. And I especially love it when they use them in great context with our conversations. They're quick on their thinking feet. Lol!
So what does my spiel there have to do with this book and Christmas and musicals? I'm glad you asked...my oldest two kiddos are in a local production of The Music Man. So of course we've had lots of talk about it and singing the songs around the house and in the car and everywhere we go. And last night the show opened. So I sat and watched it and laughed and soaked up all the great music and lines of the play. Then today I picked up this little Christmas gem and can you guess how it all connects together? The main characters are movie lovin' and musical quotin' fiends! I fell in love with them both! They had me giggling. They even had a competition between each other for trying to best the other in quotes. And the major clincher...if you guessed The Music Man...ding, ding, ding...Winner, Winner, Winner. They used a ton of quotes from The Music Man. How fun of a connection is that? I thought it was pretty awesome. Now I get to go the several more shows of the musical to support my kiddos and all their friends in their hard work and will most definitely be thinking about different scenes of this book as I hear certain quotes.
This book isn't all lightheartedness and fun. These two characters have some aches and are trying to heal their hearts. But they sure have some great chemistry. And there are several funny moments throughout. Especially when they first meet. Hahahahaha! I won't give anything away but let's just say that Ellery kept that one going for a little bit and had me giggling. Bing too!
It's a pretty quick little read. I enjoyed it in one sitting as I was enjoying a day of just being at home and reading and playing catch up on stuff. Grab yourself your cozy blanket, sit in front of a warm fire, sippin' some hot cocoa and get lost in the Sleigh Bells Chalet. And good news, you don't have to read the first book to read this one. Bing is a character from the first book, The Christmas Cookie House, but very minor. The same with the third book, there is a character that had a short little part of a scene (a very funny short part) who will be the main character in the next book. And I might be just a teeny tiny (huge) bit excited for that book!
Content: Clean. Nothing more than some sweet kisses. A few very mild innuendos from a character I didn't care for.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 8, 2019
Ellery Hart is just trying to keep her Grandfather's legacy alive, but the inn is failing despite her efforts. When she overhears some tourists wishing they could go on a sleigh ride, an idea is born. She will rebrand her inn, and offer sleigh rides. There's only one tiny problem: she doesn't have horses, any idea how to care for them, or even how to choose them.
Enter Bing Whitmore. He knows about horses, he raises thoroughbreds, but after a few of his horses get fatal injuries, he's not sure he can keep working in that field. It hurts too much.
Bing was such a good man. He's on vacation and keeps volunteering for Ellery's renovation projects. I loved how wrapped he was around her finger, when she didn't even realize it. This was a sweet Christmas read, filled with love, and healing.
Content: clean (a few kisses, no language, no violence)
Enter Bing Whitmore. He knows about horses, he raises thoroughbreds, but after a few of his horses get fatal injuries, he's not sure he can keep working in that field. It hurts too much.
Bing was such a good man. He's on vacation and keeps volunteering for Ellery's renovation projects. I loved how wrapped he was around her finger, when she didn't even realize it. This was a sweet Christmas read, filled with love, and healing.
Content: clean (a few kisses, no language, no violence)
February 1, 2021
A Cute Holiday Story
This was a cute holiday read. The willingness of Ellery to do all she could to save her grandfather's legacy, The Bell's Chalet, was so inspiring. The problem was no one was checking into her hotel, and the money was running out. It wasn't until Bing Whitmore came to stay at the hotel that she began to realize her true dreams of what the chalet to be.
When he arrived, he was a lost cowboy, but after spending time with Ellery, he realized his worth. Sure he loved taking care of Whitmore farms, which was his grandfather's legacy, but it was getting harder and harder because 2 horses that he cherished were hurt. He only went to Wilder River in need of a much needed vacation, but what he found was what was missing from his life, and he never realized it.
These two people saw their worth in each other, and after the heart break they both suffered by losing someone they loved, being an animal or a fiance, and Ellery couldn't have said it better in these words, "Ellery possessed value—something intrinsically good inside herself. Something worth cherishing. She couldn’t lavish what was precious and sacred—her very soul and her love and her self—on anyone who wouldn’t prize her." What she didn't realize that Bing needed the same thing.
This was a cute holiday read. The willingness of Ellery to do all she could to save her grandfather's legacy, The Bell's Chalet, was so inspiring. The problem was no one was checking into her hotel, and the money was running out. It wasn't until Bing Whitmore came to stay at the hotel that she began to realize her true dreams of what the chalet to be.
When he arrived, he was a lost cowboy, but after spending time with Ellery, he realized his worth. Sure he loved taking care of Whitmore farms, which was his grandfather's legacy, but it was getting harder and harder because 2 horses that he cherished were hurt. He only went to Wilder River in need of a much needed vacation, but what he found was what was missing from his life, and he never realized it.
These two people saw their worth in each other, and after the heart break they both suffered by losing someone they loved, being an animal or a fiance, and Ellery couldn't have said it better in these words, "Ellery possessed value—something intrinsically good inside herself. Something worth cherishing. She couldn’t lavish what was precious and sacred—her very soul and her love and her self—on anyone who wouldn’t prize her." What she didn't realize that Bing needed the same thing.
December 18, 2023
Freya Whitmore has made reservations for Bing and herself at the Bells Chalet as her brother has finally agreed to take a vacation. Upon arrival, Freya and Bing can’t help but notice the empty parking lot and some other signs that they made be the only guests at the Bells Chalet. The reservation was made online, so hotel owner Ellery Hart isn’t aware of the familial connection and assumes her guests are a married couple. Ellery’s primary concern is providing them with the best experience possible, although one couple won’t solve her financial problems.
The story is told in alternating chapters from Bing and Ellery’s POVs. It’s a delightful contemporary romance in a charming setting. The chalet hotel is transformed into a festive and cozy atmosphere with a combination of hard work and creative ideas while romantic sparks are glittering in the air. If you enjoy thoughts of an enchanting winter location and love horses, you won’t want to miss this story. Listen closely, and you might hear the sleigh bells now.
A recipe for Aunt Shauna’s Hot Chocolate Mix from the Griffith Family is available at the end of the novel.
Reviewer’s Note: I began reading this series with Book 1. However, you can start reading the magical holiday series at any time. The author’s note shares that the stand-alone romances can be enjoyed in a loop.
The story is told in alternating chapters from Bing and Ellery’s POVs. It’s a delightful contemporary romance in a charming setting. The chalet hotel is transformed into a festive and cozy atmosphere with a combination of hard work and creative ideas while romantic sparks are glittering in the air. If you enjoy thoughts of an enchanting winter location and love horses, you won’t want to miss this story. Listen closely, and you might hear the sleigh bells now.
A recipe for Aunt Shauna’s Hot Chocolate Mix from the Griffith Family is available at the end of the novel.
Reviewer’s Note: I began reading this series with Book 1. However, you can start reading the magical holiday series at any time. The author’s note shares that the stand-alone romances can be enjoyed in a loop.
"Book 1 leads to book 2, and so on, and at the end, book 8 loops back to book 1, with recurring characters. In other words, a reader can start with any book, read the subsequent book, and then complete the loop."
November 21, 2019
The Sleigh Bells Chalet by Jennifer Griffith is the story of two people, one is trying to let go of something and the other is trying to hold on to something. Then they meet. I enjoyed the way this author alternating between characters and their perspectives. It sounds as if it would read disjointed but the manner in which it is done reads very smoothly.
I have found the Ms. Griffith has characters in her story that I would like to know. Of course, these characters have problems but they are people that you would like to have as friends and neighbors. Ellery and Bing are such people. They find that together they can have something that has been missing from their lives; something more than an inn or horses, though those come into play too.
The Sleigh Bells Chalet is a lovely life affirming romance. It reminds us that sure sometimes bad things happen to good people but sometimes good things happen too.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have found the Ms. Griffith has characters in her story that I would like to know. Of course, these characters have problems but they are people that you would like to have as friends and neighbors. Ellery and Bing are such people. They find that together they can have something that has been missing from their lives; something more than an inn or horses, though those come into play too.
The Sleigh Bells Chalet is a lovely life affirming romance. It reminds us that sure sometimes bad things happen to good people but sometimes good things happen too.
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 19, 2019
Although there was a slight overlap with the first book in the series, The Christmas Cookie House, you can easily read this book first and not loose any of the essence of the fun in this second book.
Not looking for romance is the perfect time to find someone special. Ellery and Bing can attest to that statement as they discover how well they hit it off. There are always some rocky spots to figure out (as in any relationship) but somehow you know history isn't going to repeat itself. The unhappiness they both harbor isn't easy to quell, but Ellery and Bing have something special that will make that unhappiness fade.
I like the upbeat characters and the sense of family they have. Ms Griffith's delightful storytelling has made this another fun Christmastime story that I wish didn't end so soon! Sweet with an unusual twist about past loves.❤
Not looking for romance is the perfect time to find someone special. Ellery and Bing can attest to that statement as they discover how well they hit it off. There are always some rocky spots to figure out (as in any relationship) but somehow you know history isn't going to repeat itself. The unhappiness they both harbor isn't easy to quell, but Ellery and Bing have something special that will make that unhappiness fade.
I like the upbeat characters and the sense of family they have. Ms Griffith's delightful storytelling has made this another fun Christmastime story that I wish didn't end so soon! Sweet with an unusual twist about past loves.❤
August 20, 2024
Bing is emotionally burnt out and wants to quit the families thoroughbred farm and his cousin Freya forces to go on vacation with her to a near empty Chalet. Bing meets Ellery, owner of Bells Chalet, her grandfathers empty Chalet hotel. After hearing two ladies talking about horse drawn carriage it sparks inspiration and possibly get her enough money to payback the loan from the bank. I enjoyed Bing and Ellery movie quote challenges, Freya cousin / psychologist dialogues with Bing and the fun family, friends and town. It like reading a holiday movie book. I loved and now curious about the next book. Loving this series. Christmas in August - yay!
November 17, 2019
This was fun twist in romance. Instead of being brokenhearted over losing a woman, Bing is broken hearted and feels he'll never love again because of horses. I don't think I've ever seen that idea before. So, big points for unique. The story could easily be the basis of a Hallmark Christmas movie. I liked all the characters, excepting the one we weren't supposed to like of course. And I loved all the movie quote references. It was a sweet, clean, fluffy romance so if you have a free evening to curl up by the fire and sip hot cocoa, this would be a nice read to go along with it.
No sex, language or violence
(a little creepy leering)
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
No sex, language or violence
(a little creepy leering)
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 20, 2019
This is a delightful story involving reindeer games, uh I mean names. It is so cute how the Holliday brothers have middle names like Santa's reindeer. Blake was so annoying in the beginning but wit Peyton standing up to him it softened him up. Forced to work together to get his wellness spa and resort going make them realize they need some fun time. I received a complimentary copy and I am voluntarily reviewing.
December 30, 2019
This was really enjoyable. Ellery and her employees are so cute that it made me want to visit their hotel so much. Bing's love toward animals and his resistance to do anything that would in anyway harm animals made me like him very much.
October 23, 2020
Amazing story. Easy read. 2nd book in a 3 book series
December 3, 2023
Cute, short but quick enjoyable read for the holidays.
November 12, 2019
Romance, clean; Contemporary
This had a bit of a rough start for me, but so glad I kept with it. Ellery and Bing were heartfelt, honest and had such sweet chemistry. Bing with his heart hurting from the loss of his horse, and the injury to the others with his sister visiting Ellery's hotel and helping it come back to life was a cute fall and read. They were honest, caring, and genuine characters, both with their worries and hurts. Their gradual fall for each other as they both helped each other with the hotel's future was sweet and genuine. The first chapter was rough for me, stick through though, and a lovely romantic, winter read is waiting.
I received a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.
This had a bit of a rough start for me, but so glad I kept with it. Ellery and Bing were heartfelt, honest and had such sweet chemistry. Bing with his heart hurting from the loss of his horse, and the injury to the others with his sister visiting Ellery's hotel and helping it come back to life was a cute fall and read. They were honest, caring, and genuine characters, both with their worries and hurts. Their gradual fall for each other as they both helped each other with the hotel's future was sweet and genuine. The first chapter was rough for me, stick through though, and a lovely romantic, winter read is waiting.
I received a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.
November 21, 2020
I thought that this book was really cute. It was a fast read for sure. I was happy for both characters at the end of the book. It’s cozy. But I didn’t see much Christmas aspects of it. So I took a star off for that.
November 19, 2019
Such a fun story! It had great characters––quirky, flawed, scared, but still trying.
I recommend it even if you've not read Book 1––but that one was good too!
I recommend it even if you've not read Book 1––but that one was good too!
November 14, 2019
Oh, I just loved this! A fun romance doused in holiday spirit!
November 30, 2019
I’m rounding up because I’ve spent the last couple of days visiting with family, playing in the snow, and listening to Christmas carols. All of this was the perfect set up for reading this story. Reads like a Hallmark movie and everything gets tied up without too many surprises, but it was perfect for the occasion. Another cute Christmas story!
December 25, 2023
this was book two in the rotation of christmas novellas!! still super cute and feels like a hallmark movie within a book! this had lots of misunderstanding troupe elements, literally through the end hahah, but i did love that this one didn’t move as quickly! the first book they were practically married by the end, and this one seemed a lot more ‘realistic’. or as realistic as hallmark could get. i also loved all the movie, disney, and musical references and nods!!
February 16, 2021
Ellory and Bing’s Story
Jennifer Griffith has provided a wonderful novel, easy to read, and to picture this romantic town at Christmas time. Christmas doesn’t take over the novel, but becomes a minor character-as Ellory, Kit, Lenny and Mom attempt to revitalize Pop’s hotel. Ellory tried to keep her grandfather’s hotel afloat, even taking a loan from the local bank. The hotel should be filled, there’s lots of snow and skiing, yet the Inn was outdated, and the loan got them through the summer season, but only seem to extend the inevitable.
Bing, and his cousins owned a part of there grandparent’s legacy. Bing was the one to manage the business, he had a deep love of horses. They owned a thoroughbred horse farm. Bing was very good at his job, and he bought a beautiful horse, fast and beautiful, Snow White, she had won a number of raises, and soon was to enter the higher level of competition that held races like the Kentucky Department. While preparing her to leave for the race, she broke her leg, and was unable to be saved. Bing was devastated. Back on the farm hopes held for another great race horse, Rose Red, unfortunately Red suffered a fall and broke her leg. She was saved, but would always need watching and would never race again. Bing’s closest Cousin, a psychologist convinced Bing not to quit, but talked him into taking a vacation, along one to quiet place so he could regroup and decide what the future held him.
So F. (BING’s Cousin) planned and went with Bing on the vacation, helping, pushing, sometimes nagging Bing to figure out his lot. F. found the Bell Chalet, 9 hours from their home for the long vacation.
The meet cute happens as Ellory, Kit, Lenny and Mom were discussing what could they do to save the Bell Chalet, an unfortunate outdated inn, done in purple, with cactus decor. Bing and F. arrive and it’s very snowy. Ellory hadn’t had Lenny shovel the entrance yet, so after emptying the back of the truck, F. had dared Bing to jump out of the truck bed and over the luggage, which he accepted and then promptly fell on the porch hurting his ankle. Bing decided why not, just like his beloved horses, he injured his leg, he took it as a cosmic nod to his idea to quit the business. Needless to say it was a grand entrance into the Inn.
Bing couldn’t believe how beautiful Ellory was, but was ashamed that he was comparing her to his beautiful horses. Ellory saw a hunk of main, and chastised herself for looking at a married man. It took more than a day for Bing to understand that he was single, and he was with Cousin.
Hillary walked into town and was trying to figure out to save the Inn. Bing and his cousin were walking into town. They chatted as they walked. Ellory thinking of ways to pay off the balloon payment that would be coming too soon.
Both of these two very worthy people held their problems in, though you can see their obvious attraction. Now read the book! Read as this couple are drawn to each other, and enjoy the trust, intimacy, and the way they learn to trust each other. There are multiple underlying story lines that the author explores. Watch the hotel transform into the Silver Bell Inn. Ms. Griffith doesn’t provide you with a quick happy ending. Both Ellory and Bing, have to let go of the ghosts in their past.
I enjoyed the 2nd book in this series, I would have liked a little more to the ending, and the other characters ending. The epilogue provides the back story for the last book of the series.
Happy Valentine’s Day! Stay safe.
Jennifer Griffith has provided a wonderful novel, easy to read, and to picture this romantic town at Christmas time. Christmas doesn’t take over the novel, but becomes a minor character-as Ellory, Kit, Lenny and Mom attempt to revitalize Pop’s hotel. Ellory tried to keep her grandfather’s hotel afloat, even taking a loan from the local bank. The hotel should be filled, there’s lots of snow and skiing, yet the Inn was outdated, and the loan got them through the summer season, but only seem to extend the inevitable.
Bing, and his cousins owned a part of there grandparent’s legacy. Bing was the one to manage the business, he had a deep love of horses. They owned a thoroughbred horse farm. Bing was very good at his job, and he bought a beautiful horse, fast and beautiful, Snow White, she had won a number of raises, and soon was to enter the higher level of competition that held races like the Kentucky Department. While preparing her to leave for the race, she broke her leg, and was unable to be saved. Bing was devastated. Back on the farm hopes held for another great race horse, Rose Red, unfortunately Red suffered a fall and broke her leg. She was saved, but would always need watching and would never race again. Bing’s closest Cousin, a psychologist convinced Bing not to quit, but talked him into taking a vacation, along one to quiet place so he could regroup and decide what the future held him.
So F. (BING’s Cousin) planned and went with Bing on the vacation, helping, pushing, sometimes nagging Bing to figure out his lot. F. found the Bell Chalet, 9 hours from their home for the long vacation.
The meet cute happens as Ellory, Kit, Lenny and Mom were discussing what could they do to save the Bell Chalet, an unfortunate outdated inn, done in purple, with cactus decor. Bing and F. arrive and it’s very snowy. Ellory hadn’t had Lenny shovel the entrance yet, so after emptying the back of the truck, F. had dared Bing to jump out of the truck bed and over the luggage, which he accepted and then promptly fell on the porch hurting his ankle. Bing decided why not, just like his beloved horses, he injured his leg, he took it as a cosmic nod to his idea to quit the business. Needless to say it was a grand entrance into the Inn.
Bing couldn’t believe how beautiful Ellory was, but was ashamed that he was comparing her to his beautiful horses. Ellory saw a hunk of main, and chastised herself for looking at a married man. It took more than a day for Bing to understand that he was single, and he was with Cousin.
Hillary walked into town and was trying to figure out to save the Inn. Bing and his cousin were walking into town. They chatted as they walked. Ellory thinking of ways to pay off the balloon payment that would be coming too soon.
Both of these two very worthy people held their problems in, though you can see their obvious attraction. Now read the book! Read as this couple are drawn to each other, and enjoy the trust, intimacy, and the way they learn to trust each other. There are multiple underlying story lines that the author explores. Watch the hotel transform into the Silver Bell Inn. Ms. Griffith doesn’t provide you with a quick happy ending. Both Ellory and Bing, have to let go of the ghosts in their past.
I enjoyed the 2nd book in this series, I would have liked a little more to the ending, and the other characters ending. The epilogue provides the back story for the last book of the series.
Happy Valentine’s Day! Stay safe.
January 14, 2024
Charming Romance
Delightful story of an enterprising young woman who is working hard to save her Grandpa's legacy. Ellery Hart has some clever and entertaining ideas to restore the Bells Chalet and repay her looming loan payment. She must also avoid her leering, lecherous banker. She has terrific staff willing to provide the sweat equity for improvements. Into this scene walks Bing Whitmore, co-owner of Whitmore Thoroughbred Stables and his cousin, Freya. Bing is trying to escape the stress, pain of loss and heavy responsibilities of his stables at this quiet, off the beaten track chalet. He's drawn into the hubbub of revamping the chalet. The chemistry between Ellery and Bing brings hope and creativity to the restoration and resolution.The final result is redeeming and romantic. Wonderful story.
Delightful story of an enterprising young woman who is working hard to save her Grandpa's legacy. Ellery Hart has some clever and entertaining ideas to restore the Bells Chalet and repay her looming loan payment. She must also avoid her leering, lecherous banker. She has terrific staff willing to provide the sweat equity for improvements. Into this scene walks Bing Whitmore, co-owner of Whitmore Thoroughbred Stables and his cousin, Freya. Bing is trying to escape the stress, pain of loss and heavy responsibilities of his stables at this quiet, off the beaten track chalet. He's drawn into the hubbub of revamping the chalet. The chemistry between Ellery and Bing brings hope and creativity to the restoration and resolution.The final result is redeeming and romantic. Wonderful story.
December 29, 2024
Some context here: I picked up this book to read off Kindle Unlimited after waking up absurdly early on Christmas morning. I wanted something cozy and on theme for the holidays, and found the summary to check a lot of my boxes for appealing story elements.
That said, the pacing of this book was incredibly quick to the point where the plot felt shallow and the stakes unimportant. This also emphasized the lack of depth in characterization for me, to the point where the small cast had overlapping (if not entirely cloned) personalities/traits. In my eyes, this also caused the dialogue to read as clunky and many of the exchanges between characters to feel forced/unnatural.
I still don't know what Ellery looks like, just that she is hot enough for nearly every named male character to immediately throw themselves at her seconds after meeting her. The love interest, despite having centered his life and career around the raising, racing, and trading of horses, was the exact opposite of a cowboy and greatly disappointed me on this front.
Long story short, I did not really enjoy the writing style, nor did I fall in love with either of these characters or their story. 1 star.
That said, the pacing of this book was incredibly quick to the point where the plot felt shallow and the stakes unimportant. This also emphasized the lack of depth in characterization for me, to the point where the small cast had overlapping (if not entirely cloned) personalities/traits. In my eyes, this also caused the dialogue to read as clunky and many of the exchanges between characters to feel forced/unnatural.
I still don't know what Ellery looks like, just that she is hot enough for nearly every named male character to immediately throw themselves at her seconds after meeting her. The love interest, despite having centered his life and career around the raising, racing, and trading of horses, was the exact opposite of a cowboy and greatly disappointed me on this front.
Long story short, I did not really enjoy the writing style, nor did I fall in love with either of these characters or their story. 1 star.
November 23, 2019
The Sleigh Bells Chalet by Jennifer Griffith (5 stars)
The characters in this book have such a witty rapport! They quote movies all the time and it’s such fun to read! The dialogue between them is delightful!
Romantic and sweet with a Christmas-y feel. You’ll definitely finish Bing and Ellery’s story with a big smile on your face!
My only complaint is that we didn’t get to spend enough time with them as a couple after everything is resolved. (I guess that’s the best clue that a book is good; you don’t want it to end!)
A truly enjoyable, light-hearted read for the holiday season!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
The characters in this book have such a witty rapport! They quote movies all the time and it’s such fun to read! The dialogue between them is delightful!
Romantic and sweet with a Christmas-y feel. You’ll definitely finish Bing and Ellery’s story with a big smile on your face!
My only complaint is that we didn’t get to spend enough time with them as a couple after everything is resolved. (I guess that’s the best clue that a book is good; you don’t want it to end!)
A truly enjoyable, light-hearted read for the holiday season!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
November 25, 2019
Bing is heartbroken after losing a much loved racehorse and the serious injury of another. You can follow this story in The Christmas Cookie House but it is not essential, this book can be read as a stand-alone. He has to get as far away as possible and ends up at the Bell Chalet wherever Ellery is struggling to keep her grandpa's dream alive. Maybe these two can help each other, heal each other and find a HEA. This is a great Christmas story with some truly wonderful, if slightly quirky characters and a sleazy one too. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to all Christmas, romance and Hallmark fans.
November 15, 2022
A nice easy-going romance around Christmas time. Ellery is trying to save her grandfather's hotel, but she needs to come up with a marketing strategy to get reservations. Along comes Bing, a guest, trying to get away from his life. He offers to help Ellery remodel the hotel, but can he help with Ellery's marketing campaign? Ellery wants to offer sleigh rides; the problem is she knows nothing about horses. Bing knows all about horses, but he's trying to forget. It will be interesting to see if Bing overcomes his reservations about horses to help Ellery. Perhaps if Bing opens up, Ellery can help him.
December 20, 2022
so this book was ok. Not the best bit defibately not the worst. It was mediocre but then chapter 11 happened. They used the term powwow to describe a staff meeting and used the word kosher to ask it it's all good. It kinda left a bad taste in my mouth after that. What should have been 1 hour of reading took me 2 days to finish the book. I honestly should have DNF'd but decided to give the benefit of the doubt. I think in this day and age thoes words do not need to be used in everyday language. It's very inappropriate to be using them. I'm gonna assume the author didn't mean to be offensive but I don't think in gonna continue her series or books
November 20, 2019
I loved this story! So many references to old movies and quotes from them. Sparks were flying between Ellery and Bing. And I loved the instant banter between them! Ms Griffith must have watched a lot of old movies in order to include all those quotes from them. So clever and enjoyable. I especially loved their HEA. Next we have another romance story to look forward to in this Christmas House Romances Series. I’m anxiously looking forward to reading that one.
December 10, 2019
Romance is alive
An amazing story of loss and love. For Bing kissing one of his beloved horses has torn him apart. When his cousin Freya forces him to take a vacation he might just find love and heal his heart. Ellery tres to save her grandfather's legacy by running his chalet. All it takes is a stranger to help her give new life to the chalet and maybe find love too.
An amazing story of loss and love. For Bing kissing one of his beloved horses has torn him apart. When his cousin Freya forces him to take a vacation he might just find love and heal his heart. Ellery tres to save her grandfather's legacy by running his chalet. All it takes is a stranger to help her give new life to the chalet and maybe find love too.
July 3, 2020
True Love
Ellery is trying to keep her Grandfather's Ski Lodge going. So far this season they only have
booked one couple. How will she be able to make the loan payment? What will happen?
Jennifer has written a wonderful story of Ellery and Bing helping each other. Strong and believable characters make this a book you
can't put down. Can't wait to read the next one.
Ellery is trying to keep her Grandfather's Ski Lodge going. So far this season they only have
booked one couple. How will she be able to make the loan payment? What will happen?
Jennifer has written a wonderful story of Ellery and Bing helping each other. Strong and believable characters make this a book you
can't put down. Can't wait to read the next one.
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