I have never before read a Susan Wiggs book, but I know of a few bloggers who are fans. I tend to trust book bloggers and their opinions, at least the ones I know well. So, when several Christmas books presented themselves on Netgalley, I did not hesitate in downloading the ones that were authored by Susan Wiggs. Y’all, she might not be a new favorite author, but I did really enjoy Candlelight Christmas to the point of emotional tearing up and also to the point where if I see one of her books, I will read it. Also, I want to give her props before I get into the meat of the review for setting her book in upstate NY, even though it’s kind of like the City version of upstate (not Plattsburgh or Buffalo, but Ulster County). Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs is a sweet romance that’s helping to get me in the mood for the season.
Darcy has just come out of a bad divorce — her ex Huntley Collins is getting back together with his ex wife. Darcy has played stepmother to Huntley’s children and just really fell for them. Unfortunately, they want their dad to get back with their mom, and so reject her. Unfortunately for Darcy, her family is best friends with his family and so he will be at the holiday celebrations. HOWEVER, she’s got this great friend, India, who invites her to spend the holidays with her family – the O’Donnell clan. FYI, they are fabulously wealthy and this book takes us from Florida to upstate NY. Logan is also a divorcee, and he is India’s brother. He has visitation with his son Charlie. He also has just purchased a mountain resort, against his dad’s advice. Anyways, sparks fly between Darcy and Logan, but she resists him because she’s just not into a man with a child after the disaster with Huntley. The heart wants what it wants though and magic is totally going to unfold in Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs — figurative magic you guys, not real magic. There are zero wizards in this book.
I am okay with Darcy and Logan as a couple. However, you guys, I think that their relationship was kind of boring. Now, I am not a fan of whacky made up over the top drama. However, I guess I just like a little bit of conflict or struggle when it comes to romance in a book. I want there to be some sort of obstacle they have to get past or some sort of build up for the relationship to be worth it and to feel like an investment. However, it just didn’t seem like there was much for them to overcome — I mean, yes, Darcy has an aversion to children, but she gets over it rather quickly. It’s nothing that I felt was deeply explored. There’s some kissing and some adult times, but again nothing that makes me say YO! Candlelight Christmas has all the swoons. However, I think that people who are looking for a gentle, calm, soothing romance are going to be all over Susan Wiggs’ latest book.
I am a total sap though and will admit that I did tear up during the very end of this book. Let me just say that there is a lot of dog talk and I am forever and always a sucker for puppies. Like, there’s no sucker punch prose or anything. My tears were from joy. Hey — I am the kind of person who gets choked up over that stupid Carters’ commercial with the little girl who talks about being born on a cold September night blah blah blah. So, understand that this book made me feel kind of emotional, in a good way. I liked the outcome of the book, even though it was expected. ALSO! There are all kinds of awesome recipes in Candlelight Christmas which adds a fun little extra touch.
On A Scale Of One To Clark Griswold, How Much Christmas Spirit Does This Book Have?
I am so leaning more towards the Clark Griswold end. Guys! There are traditions! There is a Christmas Pickle. There are Christmas miracles! There’s church scenes, sort of. There’s tree decorating. This book totally has me in the spirit, so yeah, if you want something that just screams Christmas, read Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs.
Disclosure: Review Copy Provided By Publisher Via Netgalley
Other reviews of Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs:
Soleful Reader – “Darcy is a fantastic addition to Avalon”
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Awesome! I’ve been trying to find a good, touching holiday story, and I’ve read Wiggs before, so thanks! This one is IT!
I’m enjoying reading about all of these Christmas-y books on your blog! Reading romances seems to be the norm for me when winter hits, so I’m definitely looking into some of these titles. This one sounds pretty delightful!