Review: Holly’s First Noel – Faye Robertson

Holly’s First Noel by Faye Robertson
Series:
Release Date:  December 6, 2011
Publisher: Ever After (Entangled Publishing)
Page Count:  78 
Source:  Publisher
Buy the book at: Amazon 

Music teacher Holly Jones is in a festive predicament. Her boyfriend just dumped her the week before Christmas, so why is she only depressed he made off with the mince pies? When the charming science teacher next door overhears the dreaded call and suggests she accompany him on his Scottish holiday retreat, she accepts, eager to spend a quiet week rediscovering herself.

Noel Coward‘s wife died on Christmas Eve three years ago. To bury the memories of that day, he spends the holidays getting drunk and watching action movies—which makes him perfect company for a fellow teacher in need of solitude. Except, instead of wallowing in his grief, Noel finds himself comforted by Holly’s presence, fascinated by her mind, and after one innocent kiss, on fire for her touch. As the snow piles up outside, the temperature inside soars, while together, they discover the human heart’s amazing capacity to heal…and love.  

I really enjoyed both Holly and Noel.  Even though they had worked together for the past year, they both steered clear of the other, Holly being intimidated by Noel and Noel not sure what to make of Holly.  But once those barriers were down, they were absolutely perfect for each other.

Holly was one of those characters that was “out there”.  She spent a lot of time in her head and then would inadvertently ask questions or statements related to whatever conversation she had been having with herself internally.  Most people, including myself, would find that incredibly annoying.  But Noel seemed to understand Holly’s quirk and was able to roll with it, even if he couldn’t figure out who or what she was talking about.

Noel seemed to spent a lot of time apologizing to his dead wife for making strides towards having a life without her.  After three years, he finally felt something for a woman.  He wanted the wife, the kids, the whole package.  But at the same time, he felt as if he was betraying his wife and kept apologizing.  It makes you love Noel for being that type of man, but also infuriated that he would think his wife wouldn’t want him to have those things after she was gone.

This was a really cute and sweet Christmas story about two people finding the right person in less than perfect conditions (having your long time boyfriend dump you a week before Christmas and still mourning your wife’s death three years before definitely fits the “less than perfect condition” bill).  But sometimes when you least expect it, the best thing falls in your lap.