Review: Christmas at the Falling-Down Guesthouse by Lilly Bartlett

by Donna Huber

I have been a long-time fan of Michele Gorman and now her new pen name Lilly Bartlett. She writes such great romantic comedies with wonderful characters. Her Christmas novella, Christmas at the Falling-Down Guesthouse is no exception.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free book was provided for an honest review.

October 2017; Notting Hill Press; ebook (100 pages)
romance, comedy

Lottie and her young daughter rush to Wales after receiving news that her aunt, and only living relative, has been in a horrible car accident. They had already planned to spend Christmas in Wales instead of London this year as her aunt, who owns a small inn, has important guests staying this year. But heading to Wales a few days early isn't only unexpectant thing this holiday.

Lottie is a computer programmer who lives a pretty convenient life in London. So when she arrives in Wales thinking she only has to take care of her aunt is. she's shocked to find the inn in shambles and the staff on holiday. Whatever will she do?

Of course, hilarity and a little romance ensue.

Even with the serious condition her aunt and house are in, Christmas at the Falling-Down Guesthouse is a lighthearted comedy perfect for the holiday season.

The cast of characters is absolutely wonderful. With her resourcefulness combined with her total lack of domesticity, Lottie makes her an intelligent, strong woman with enough vulnerability to feel real.

I'm guessing I won't be the only one wishing Santa will leave someone like Danny under their tree this Christmas. The taxi driver,  turned honey-do, is a real softy. There is just something about a guy who is great with kids. He needs the extra cash Lottie offers to help her run the inn so he can go to the US to visit his child. He has only slightly more domestic skills than Lottie. They make quite the pair while trying to impress the reviewer and his family.

And speaking of the special guests...Wow! They are quite the characters. The kids are nightmares. Their father is sleazy and his wife is way too entitled. The reviewer seems to be the only sane one in the family.

Christmas at the Falling-Down Guesthouse is a short quick read, great for the busy holiday season. The characters are well developed, but I thought the ending was a bit rushed. I would have liked more response about the work Lottie pulled off from the aunt. I mean if the house was in such disrepair, how did she expect to secure a good review? I'm also hoping there are future novels featuring Lottie and Danny as they figure out a long distance relationship.

So this holiday grab a cup of hot cocoa and get ready to meet Britain's worst innkeeper.

Buy Christmas at the Falling-Down Guesthouse at Amazon

Donna Huber is an avid reader and natural encourager. She is the founder of Girl Who Reads and the author of how-to marketing book Secrets to a Successful Blog Tour.  

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