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Ornamental Match Maker #34
The Christmas Dress
Join us at Heritage Inn, the location for a fifth standalone title from Marlene Bierworth, celebrating a holiday mystery, Christmas wrapped inside a great love story. At the resort, intervention from Mrs. Claus and Christmas miracles from On High, work together for the greater good to bring two lonely hearts together.
The Christmas Dress combines Patience’s quest to find her birth mother, workaholics on vacation, an author’s writing block, and who other than a police detective to keep the mystery rolling to the big reveal. And the dress? Well, you’ll have to come to the Christmas Eve party to see where that detail fits in with its counterpart.
Mrs. Claus has her hands full, merging the past, present, and future in this box of surprises, and it’s definitely not all neatly wrapped with red ribbons and a Christmas bow.
This is my eleventh contribution to the Ornamental Match Makers series. If you love clean / Christian romance and a short, fun read, then this book is for you.
May the Spirit of Christmas rein in your life all year round, and may readers the world over, continue to enjoy romantic tales everyday!
The Christmas Dress combines Patience’s quest to find her birth mother, workaholics on vacation, an author’s writing block, and who other than a police detective to keep the mystery rolling to the big reveal. And the dress? Well, you’ll have to come to the Christmas Eve party to see where that detail fits in with its counterpart.
Mrs. Claus has her hands full, merging the past, present, and future in this box of surprises, and it’s definitely not all neatly wrapped with red ribbons and a Christmas bow.
This is my eleventh contribution to the Ornamental Match Makers series. If you love clean / Christian romance and a short, fun read, then this book is for you.
May the Spirit of Christmas rein in your life all year round, and may readers the world over, continue to enjoy romantic tales everyday!
125 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2021
About the author
Marlene Bierworth
134 books164 followersMarlene Bierworth lives in Ontario, Canada and her goal is to inspire her readers to "Dream Big Dreams and Live Big Lives.
She seasons her stories to include action, adventure, romance and emotional conflicts, with the meat of the tale touching on current issues that concern families. When the story is told, the book ends, whether it is a short story or a full length novel.
Included on her list are historical and contemporary titles packed with faith-filled adventures, romance, suspense, intrigue, drama, holidays and mysteries for both adults and teens.
You can find a complete list of titles at http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00J9RM116
Life's experiences feed Marlene's imagination and from them evolve characters and engaging plots that will keep the reader turning the pages.
Fiction is her favorite genre but non-fiction continually tugs at her heart strings when there is a truth to be told or encouragement to give. She has published Book 1 in an ongoing series on the "ABC'S of MARRIAGE" complete with tips and worksheets for study and reflective purposes, for private study between couples or for groups. Successful marriages are her passion and she loves to interact with others to promote healthy marriages.
"Life is an adventure waiting to be told" and it is Marlene's goal to "help book lovers experience it to the fullest." Join her fan base and stay informed.
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/11180...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/marle...
She is also on Facebook Marlene Bierworth and Twitter (@MBierworth,
Pinterest, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
She seasons her stories to include action, adventure, romance and emotional conflicts, with the meat of the tale touching on current issues that concern families. When the story is told, the book ends, whether it is a short story or a full length novel.
Included on her list are historical and contemporary titles packed with faith-filled adventures, romance, suspense, intrigue, drama, holidays and mysteries for both adults and teens.
You can find a complete list of titles at http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00J9RM116
Life's experiences feed Marlene's imagination and from them evolve characters and engaging plots that will keep the reader turning the pages.
Fiction is her favorite genre but non-fiction continually tugs at her heart strings when there is a truth to be told or encouragement to give. She has published Book 1 in an ongoing series on the "ABC'S of MARRIAGE" complete with tips and worksheets for study and reflective purposes, for private study between couples or for groups. Successful marriages are her passion and she loves to interact with others to promote healthy marriages.
"Life is an adventure waiting to be told" and it is Marlene's goal to "help book lovers experience it to the fullest." Join her fan base and stay informed.
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/11180...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/marle...
She is also on Facebook Marlene Bierworth and Twitter (@MBierworth,
Pinterest, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 12, 2021
NOWHERE TO LOOK BUT UP
“Mrs. Claus is all about spreading Christmas cheer—especially to the many lonely-hearts seeking friendship, love, healing, second chances, and that special someone of their own.”
“These books are designed to be a fun, quick read with a touch of magic and romance. Each of the
Ornamental Match Makers' stories will read as a stand-alone and are created by various authors. They are clean, heartwarming tales. From historical to contemporary, from heartfelt to humorous, from magical to inspirational, each of these sweet romance stories ends in a festive happily ever after that will leave you wanting more—so be sure to check out all the titles by multiple authors for this series.”
The story is a clean, inspirational contemporary story that will start in New York and take two people to Heritage Inn—celebrating holiday, mystery, and a love story. The story’s two main characters are Patience ‘Pat’ Ward and Detective Caleb ‘Cal’ Romano. Each will receive an invitation to the Heritage Inn with a mysterious note or package. Pat will have a box with her invitation that she needs to wait until December 24th to open. Cal’s comes with a clue—“A little gift from the north pole to brighten your holiday. In return, you must seek out one who needs answers to settle her soul and remind her that miracles do exist.”
The story’s plot will have Caleb finishing his Christmas shopping with his sister, who also helps him with his mother since he will be away for the holidays. At one shop, Shonda will see an ornament and convince Caleb to buy it. “The girl you ask to the Christmas party is going to wear that dress.” Pat and Caleb will travel to Heritage Inn from New York but later meet on the first day. The chemistry between them is friendship as they get to know each other, yet at first, keep things close to their vest—later revealing more. I love that both Cal and Pat are Christians, and they aren’t afraid to talk about God and His blessings—having faith and sharing.
Cal: I think we should not balk God’s providence here, and if you allow me to aid in your quest, we can put this ghost to rest forever.
Pat: Why would you want to do that for me?
Cal: DId you miss the part about me being you not-so-secret admirer?
Pat: I won’t say no—the need is too strong, and I have no new leads as to my birth mother’s whereabouts or identity.
Cal: I can’t promise anything, only that I want to help. I want to be part of that solid foundation you build your future on.
“I love that history does that for us, brings the past into our present, and builds for our future.”
“He was falling hard just like Mamma had predicted when one met the perfect match.”
The story is mystery, secrets, solving clues, bringing in others to assist, and when two people who aren’t looking, finding that they have been brought together—two soulmates. It is sweet, clean, and had this reader entranced and, by the end, crying happy tears. What a wonderful story of love, compassion, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
“I’d like to take you up on that offer, sir. Let’s see how two separate lives can maneuver this thing called love.”
“I refuse to fight it anymore. If the Claus family are part of the miracle that God has planned for your life, who am I to argue?”
“I learned that love comes in many forms when we least expect it.”
“Mrs. Claus is all about spreading Christmas cheer—especially to the many lonely-hearts seeking friendship, love, healing, second chances, and that special someone of their own.”
“These books are designed to be a fun, quick read with a touch of magic and romance. Each of the
Ornamental Match Makers' stories will read as a stand-alone and are created by various authors. They are clean, heartwarming tales. From historical to contemporary, from heartfelt to humorous, from magical to inspirational, each of these sweet romance stories ends in a festive happily ever after that will leave you wanting more—so be sure to check out all the titles by multiple authors for this series.”
The story is a clean, inspirational contemporary story that will start in New York and take two people to Heritage Inn—celebrating holiday, mystery, and a love story. The story’s two main characters are Patience ‘Pat’ Ward and Detective Caleb ‘Cal’ Romano. Each will receive an invitation to the Heritage Inn with a mysterious note or package. Pat will have a box with her invitation that she needs to wait until December 24th to open. Cal’s comes with a clue—“A little gift from the north pole to brighten your holiday. In return, you must seek out one who needs answers to settle her soul and remind her that miracles do exist.”
The story’s plot will have Caleb finishing his Christmas shopping with his sister, who also helps him with his mother since he will be away for the holidays. At one shop, Shonda will see an ornament and convince Caleb to buy it. “The girl you ask to the Christmas party is going to wear that dress.” Pat and Caleb will travel to Heritage Inn from New York but later meet on the first day. The chemistry between them is friendship as they get to know each other, yet at first, keep things close to their vest—later revealing more. I love that both Cal and Pat are Christians, and they aren’t afraid to talk about God and His blessings—having faith and sharing.
Cal: I think we should not balk God’s providence here, and if you allow me to aid in your quest, we can put this ghost to rest forever.
Pat: Why would you want to do that for me?
Cal: DId you miss the part about me being you not-so-secret admirer?
Pat: I won’t say no—the need is too strong, and I have no new leads as to my birth mother’s whereabouts or identity.
Cal: I can’t promise anything, only that I want to help. I want to be part of that solid foundation you build your future on.
“I love that history does that for us, brings the past into our present, and builds for our future.”
“He was falling hard just like Mamma had predicted when one met the perfect match.”
The story is mystery, secrets, solving clues, bringing in others to assist, and when two people who aren’t looking, finding that they have been brought together—two soulmates. It is sweet, clean, and had this reader entranced and, by the end, crying happy tears. What a wonderful story of love, compassion, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
“I’d like to take you up on that offer, sir. Let’s see how two separate lives can maneuver this thing called love.”
“I refuse to fight it anymore. If the Claus family are part of the miracle that God has planned for your life, who am I to argue?”
“I learned that love comes in many forms when we least expect it.”
January 17, 2022
I truly enjoyed this book. I love the series and found this book extremely enjoyable! I love the added mystery and the way two totally opposite people were almost immediately attracted. Caleb, who grew up in a large and loving, close knit Italian family and Patience "Pat" who grew up in the foster system. Each having no real idea of what it was like for the other to grow up that way.
Both were successful in the choice of careers and both were happy with their lives. But when they met sparks flew and the rest you will just have to read about! It is a fantastic story!
Both were successful in the choice of careers and both were happy with their lives. But when they met sparks flew and the rest you will just have to read about! It is a fantastic story!
November 26, 2021
The Christmas Dress is a mysterious story as Patience, a young woman is sent a Christmas present and letter telling her she would be going for a week vacation to the exclusive Heritage Inn and to open her present on Christmas Eve. On the other side of New York, Caleb received a weeks vacation at Heritage Inn and a sheet of riddles he has to do everyday there, the first is to find a woman needing help. When he finds Patience at the Inn and she tells him her story of trying to locate her mother that left her on a New York church steps at 2 weeks old they start piecing together the puzzle of the riddles. They say Mrs. Clause sends couples to Hertiage Inn where magic dust is sprinkled and love is in the air. That is true for Patience and Caleb. Soon their puzzle brings them together and Caleb tells Patience he wants her forever. When she opens her present it is the exact dress in a picture of one of the owners close friends. Then when Caleb gives her the ornament he bought back in New York it was the same dress! And then at the Christmas Eve party a woman shows up wearing the same dress! Who is she?
November 13, 2021
This reader enjoys the premise of The Ornamental Match Makers series - Christmas ornaments from Mrs. Claus. Marlene Bierworth's stories in this series are my favorites. The Christmas Dress setting is at the delightful Heritage Inn with the famous love-owls and I enjoyed my virtual holiday vacation with Patience, Caleb and acclaimed author Jasmine Haliway. Mrs. Claus or maybe the author Marlene Bierworth merges the past, present and future in this inspiring romance. The story is filled with surprises, so different from previous stories in the series. Will Patience live up to her name as she seeks to measure up, to merge the lost past to a healthy present. Love comes in many forms. The Christmas Dress is an inspiring Christmas story - part romance, part mystery.
November 10, 2021
"The Christmas Dress" is an amazing book! A book that shows you can have peace and love in your heart, doesn't matter what others have done or said. The storyline and characters were wonderful in this book. I definitely recommend reading this book by Author Marlene Bierworth.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
November 13, 2021
I enjoyed visiting the Heritage Inn. It is such a wonderful and relaxing place to get ready for the holidays. When Mrs. Claus gets involved you know there is a little mystery to solve. A delightful Christmas read!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
January 11, 2022
What an incredible story for a Christmas miracle.
This story of faith, love and mystery for Patience and Caleb is extremely special at the holiday season. To be able to find love in a man so willing to help Pat find her birth mother is very incredible.And then to find her birth parents and be welcomed into her man's family makes for a very special Christmas present!
This story of faith, love and mystery for Patience and Caleb is extremely special at the holiday season. To be able to find love in a man so willing to help Pat find her birth mother is very incredible.And then to find her birth parents and be welcomed into her man's family makes for a very special Christmas present!
November 8, 2021
All the Ornamental Matchmaker books have been excellent. And this one is a step above with a unique mysterious plot in the story. Perfect book for who like mystery romance stories. And perfect Christmas reading! I received a copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
November 12, 2021
Ack to Heritage Inn!!
Wow! Another wonderful story from the Heritage Inn!! The descriptions of the Inn and the wonderful characters made this an easy book to read from cover to cover in one sitting!! Grab it now!!
Wow! Another wonderful story from the Heritage Inn!! The descriptions of the Inn and the wonderful characters made this an easy book to read from cover to cover in one sitting!! Grab it now!!
November 23, 2021
Patience and Caleb
Loved the mystery. Yes it was a long very story, but it was a mystery too. I love how they fell in love why solving that mystery. When dies Jasmine get her story? She really needs some magic.
Loved the mystery. Yes it was a long very story, but it was a mystery too. I love how they fell in love why solving that mystery. When dies Jasmine get her story? She really needs some magic.
December 12, 2021
Patience
A well written love story with a twist of mystery to help keep the reader engaged. Add in the spirit and beauty that is the Christmas season and you are in for a great read.
A well written love story with a twist of mystery to help keep the reader engaged. Add in the spirit and beauty that is the Christmas season and you are in for a great read.
July 20, 2023
I adore this Christmasy series! I enjoyed this story with the gorgeous red Christmas dress and a mystery also. It is fun everytime Mrs. Clause gets involved in matchmaking. As always a captivating story with an Ornament to set up the story.
February 24, 2024
Really Great Series
I have so enjoyed this series and getting to know all the characters. I loved Caleb and Patience story. Mrs Claus out did herself with this match. A really great read.
I have so enjoyed this series and getting to know all the characters. I loved Caleb and Patience story. Mrs Claus out did herself with this match. A really great read.
November 13, 2021
This book was absolutely wonderful! It has just the right amount of mystery, drama and romance to keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book.
November 19, 2021
Loved it!!
January 6, 2022
Joyful
Reading this book was fun. The story is told with humor mixed with romance and mystery. A joyful addition to Christmas reading.the
Reading this book was fun. The story is told with humor mixed with romance and mystery. A joyful addition to Christmas reading.the
July 27, 2023
great book
This was a great book. I love this author. I highly recommend this book and author. I cannot wait to read the next book by this author.
This was a great book. I love this author. I highly recommend this book and author. I cannot wait to read the next book by this author.
December 24, 2023
Nice
A short, sweet, miracle filled read with a happy ending. Throw a little mystery in the mix and there you have it.
A short, sweet, miracle filled read with a happy ending. Throw a little mystery in the mix and there you have it.
December 20, 2025
Cute story but needed to be proofread again. Lots of missing quotation marks and a few missing words to complete some sentences.
December 13, 2021
Absolutely loved it!
Caleb- a NYC detective from an Italian family
Patience- a travel writer who was " abandoned " shortly after she was born.
I enjoyed reading this intriguing story that is well written with charismatic characters. This story did have the emotional rollercoaster effect, and left me wanting more at the end. Their story has a loving HEA.
Caleb- a NYC detective from an Italian family
Patience- a travel writer who was " abandoned " shortly after she was born.
I enjoyed reading this intriguing story that is well written with charismatic characters. This story did have the emotional rollercoaster effect, and left me wanting more at the end. Their story has a loving HEA.
December 14, 2021
Mrs. Claus did it again!
The whole series is good. I enjoyed previous books by Marlene Bierworth in this multi-author series. The story line offers a bit of mystery, romance, and Christmas magic.It is a sweet, clean story so perfect for this season. Patience story is handled well with sensitivity to the subject. I loved the red dress theme in the story line. I I think this short novel can stand alone but you will want to go back to read the whole series.
The whole series is good. I enjoyed previous books by Marlene Bierworth in this multi-author series. The story line offers a bit of mystery, romance, and Christmas magic.It is a sweet, clean story so perfect for this season. Patience story is handled well with sensitivity to the subject. I loved the red dress theme in the story line. I I think this short novel can stand alone but you will want to go back to read the whole series.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews