Dreaming of Christmas
by T.A. Williams
This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
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Pub Date Aug 27 2018 | Archive Date Nov 19 2018
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Description
It’s the dream Christmas: snow, mountains… and, er, an ex-boyfriend. But can Zoe still find love in the Alps?
Dumped on Christmas Eve by her long-term boyfriend, it's been a rough year for Zoe Lumsley. But then she gets an invitation she can’t refuse: an all expenses paid skiing holiday with old university friends.
The bad news: her ex, Grant, will be there with his new girlfriend. But so will her former flatmate Billy, the organiser, and in the meantime he’s done rather well for himself. As Christmas in the Alps approaches, it'll be great to see the old gang. Some more than others...
Perfect for readers of Tilly Tenant, Holly Martin and Philippa Ashley, this is the perfect magical Christmas getaway from the bestselling T.A. Williams.
Available Editions
EDITION | Ebook |
ISBN | 9781788630955 |
PRICE | £1.99 (GBP) |
Featured Reviews
A group of university friends are invited to a reunion in a ski resort over chrismas - all expenses paid by one of the group. This is almost a year since Zoe was dumped by her boyfriend of 10 years - and he will be attending the reunion too. Everyone there seems to have a secret, and Zoe takes up her old role as agony aunt to the group, but can she sort out her own life too?
An enjoyable read, a story of love and friendship in a delightful winter setting. Perfect for a cold winter’s evening - or in my case - a sunny summer’s afternoon.
I have loved all of T.A. Williams' novels and this one was no different. From the beginning of this novel, I just knew that I was going to love it. I read this book in a day - that's how much I enjoyed it! T.A. Williams' has such an elegant writing style that it makes you want to be exactly where he's describing. And in this particular novel, it was in the Austrian Alps, skiing with friends in the freshly dropped snow, eating delicious sounding food, and curling up in the lounge as the snow drifts past the window outside with an adorable labrador puppy at your feet!
Dreaming of Christmas follows main character Zoe, after she gets an invitation from her old school friend to go to Austria for Christmas. Zoe's not the only one to have been invited, and soon she is meeting up with people that she hasn't seen in 10 whole years - plus her ex Grant, who broke up with her last year just before Christmas. Zoe's dubious at first, but soon enjoys everyone's company - including, rather surprisingly, the company of Grant. As the days go on, Zoe's impressed with Grant's more grown up behaviour and when he comes to her and asks her an important question, she is thrown into turmoil.
About half way through, I was unsure as to how the novel was going to turn out for Zoe but the closer we got to the end, I got a bit of an inkling and everything fell into place. It's a wonderfully enchanting novel, which will help you feel extra festive - even in this heatwave - and you'll soon be wishing for the colder months! The descriptions of the Christmas trees, the sparkling snow, the fairy lights as well as the Christmas market and the food made this novel an absolute delight to read. And it is possibly one of my favourites by T.A. Williams.
Overall, this was a magical and beautiful read and I highly recommend you give it a try. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
I am a huge fan of this author and this book didn’t disappoint. One of the main things which run through most, if not all of his books, is that they feature a labrador. The lab in this one is brilliantly written.
I honestly couldn’t see where the love interest was going to come from almost until the author revealed all near the end. I like that he kept me guessing.
The setting for the story is, as always, described so well that I could almost imagine it in my head as I was reading. That the author can continually do this in his books is a testament to his story telling abilities.
Another brilliant read which goes to show that TA Williams has, hopefully, many more adventures to come.
Huge thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.
Zoe is dumped on Christmas eve by her long term boyfriend. So after a difficult year when she is invited on an all expenses paid skiing trip with her friends she thinks its the perfect getaway. What she isn't expecting is that one of these friends is her ex boyfriend and his new girlfriend....
This book is fab! If your're looking for a perfect Christmassy book then this is perfect! I think I have read nearly all of T.A. Williams books now and I am never disappointed. This one though is a personal highlight and I recommend it if you are a Christmas story fan.
I actually read this Christmas story on the hottest day in 2018 and I loved it - it left me feeling upbeat, positive and happy... and very Christmassy!! It is an excellent story and I really, really enjoyed it!
I loved the setting for the book, it was really well written and at times I almost felt I was living the story with the characters, I was completely caught up in the story and I love it when that happens - it, for me, is the sign of an excellent book!
It has fantastic characters and a brilliant storyline, I simply couldn't put it down and I read it in an afternoon - very highly recommended and no hesitation in giving it 5 stars - a brilliant Christmas story!
This was such a beautifully written Christmas book. It had the perfect setting in a luxury ski resort with falling snow! A group of old University friends who shared a house, have been invited to spend Christmas together in a really posh hotel with no expense spared. Who could resist such an invitation. His trademark labrador character makes a lovely appearance.
Zoe split with her long term boyfriend the previous Christmas Eve and the past year has been tough. She will find it difficult to see him, but is determined to move on. Their host, the geek of the original house has become a very wealthy man and he has planed the most perfect Christmas break for them all. He has trips organised, a personal floor of the hotel with dedicated staff attending to their every needs and days spent ski-ing or relaxing.
You really wish that you could jump into the pages of the book to enjoy this extra special holiday amongst friends. As with any large group of people. there are a few niggles and worries between them. You do wonder whether Zoe will fall back in love with her old boyfriend, or whether her interests might be diverted in another direction.
I enjoyed every page of this book and could have curled up with a lovely mug of hot chocolate and a travel brochure, to book myself a trip to this resort.
This is a brilliant addition to the ‘Dreaming of…’ series by this highly talented author. Each book has a stupendous setting which the author brings vividly to life in his stories and this is no exception. In this case the story is set in the Austrian Alps, at an exclusive resort where journalist Zoe has been invited, along with several other friends who had shared the same house whilst studying, to spend an expenses paid holiday over the festive season by one of their friends, Billy, who has been highly successful. This is a much better option than the previous year when the man she’d been with for more than a decade broke up with her and left on Christmas Eve....or is it? The problems are that her ex is also going to be there…. and she's been told to get an exclusive interview with Billy to help keep her job!
As old friends reconnect there are relationships to reevaluate, ski slopes to explore, secrets to uncover and love to be found as well as a delightful black Labrador to keep everyone amused! Get ready for another superb read with plenty of well developed characters to get to know, an intriguing story line to keep you guessing and the fantastic, opulent setting and emotively portrayed relationships to help keep you warm with festive feelings whatever the time of year!
I’ve loved every book I’ve read by this talented author and this is another winner as far as I am concerned. His stories are always ones I eagerly anticipate reading and thoroughly enjoy escaping into - and this one is definitely another of those. I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending this delightful festive read and eagerly look forward to reading and re-reading more by this author in future!
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
I do love a festive romance. After being dumped just before last Christmas Zoe deserved a special Christmas. Out of the blue she receives an invitation from an old university friend. Spend Christmas in the Alps along with her other university friends. The only problem is that her Ex Grant will be there.
with his new girlfriend he left Zoe for. The invitation is too good to pass up, she is curious to see her old flatmate Billy, he was very quite during university and now he has done very well for himself. Plus its a free trip to the Alps. I thought the author did a great job in describing everything. They really make you feel like you are with Zoe and co. As we spend time with the friends secrets are made and new alliances formed. I was cheering Zoe along as she put her ex Grant in place and found new love at the same time. Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance.
Zoe is dumped on Christmas Eve by Grant and so had a terrible Christmas and the following year is hoping for a much better one, and it looks like it will be when she gets an invitation from an old flat mate from uni for an all expenses paid skiing trip in the Austrian Alps as he has made it big...... only problem is Grant is invited as well!
Another great book by this author, I always look forward to settling down and being transported to a great location and this did not disappoint, lovely characters and of course the inevitable Labrador to steal the show!
One thing you can be sure of with T. A. Williams' 'Dreaming of' series, is that there will be not only a smashing story but also an amazing setting - and this novel is no exception.
Zoe's partner of 10 years decides to tell her on Christmas eve that he has someone else and is moving out right away. Fast forward through her worst times, and an ex-uni friend who was a bit of a nerd and has now succeeded in business beyond all their wildest dreams invites all the old flatmates to join him in Austria for an all-expenses paid break over Christmas. The bad news is that ALL flatmates includes the ex who dumped Zoe less than a year ago ...
This is an absolutely stunning read! The setting is magnificent, the luxury is opulent and, as always with this author, a black labrador puts in a cute and very welcome appearance! Skilfully crafted, the characters are a wonderful mix and their individual personalities shine through. Add in a terrific storyline with lots going on, this is one to command your full attention and leave you with the feeling of warm happiness and in eager expectation of the festive season. Deserving of five, snow-dusted, sparkling stars!
My thanks to publisher Canelo for my copy via NetGalley. This is my honest original and unbiased review.
Look, I don't decide this, okay? But either way: apparently it is now fully the season of Christmas books. And I'm not complaining. Especially... Well, after this one just made me dream away on so many levels!
The story
It’s the dream Christmas: snow, mountains… and, er, an ex-boyfriend. But can Zoe still find love in the Alps?
Dumped on Christmas Eve by her long-term boyfriend, it's been a rough year for Zoe Lumsley. But then she gets an invitation she can’t refuse: an all expenses paid skiing holiday with old university friends.
The bad news: her ex, Grant, will be there with his new girlfriend. But so will her former flatmate Billy, the organiser, and in the meantime he’s done rather well for himself. As Christmas in the Alps approaches, it'll be great to see the old gang. Some more than others...
The opinion
Some books you start reading and you basically have to do all the work yourself. The descriptions fall flat, the dialogue seems stiff, the plot unrealistic. And then there's some books... Where, basically, you're done reading before you even realize you've started. This book, let me be clear, falls in the second category.
I mean, I wanted to go to Austria before I read this book, obviously. Now, though? Now I have to go. Preferably this coming Christmas. Or at least this fall or winter. (A girl can dream, right?) I don't know if the author has ever been in Austria, but it certainly does sound like he has. From the opera to the streets, from the hotel via the houses to the ski slopes: I feel like I've seen them all. And - talking about those ski slopes: T.A. Williams made me want to get back on them. Almost. As far as Christmas miracles go: that might just be one!
Now, this is, of course, a romance novel. And, although I've read quite a few of those? It took me more than half the book to finally figure out who the love interests would be. Sure, there's one "plot twist" that I felt was pretty clear (think: the MC's best friend) but then there was another twist tied so closely to that one... And I completely did not see that coming until the last second!
What's more, rather than just focus on one love story (and what a love story!), the author manages to beautifully weave together couples throughout all the different stages of love... From long held, to almost lost, from undervalued to sneaky and "please no"... This book really does offer everything. With a nice little bang of a Christmas party to close it all off. Of course!
Just one final note: as has probably become clear, by now, I'm rather fond of books where the main character is a journalist. (think, for example, of The Little Brooklyn Bakery and The Little Wedding Island) And guess what? It does the trick for me - again. Anna is faced with that classic choice: her integrity or her job? Talk about the head breaker for Christmas!
The rating: 4.5/5
This is already one of my favorite Christmas novels of 2018. There, I said it. The scenery is beautiful, both of itself and in the way it is described. The characters just keep on giving, and so does the romance. Maybe the biggest compliment I can give it: it was 20°C+ when I read this book - but it made me feel like the holidays. If you want that coziness as well? Read it. It's as simple as that! (Goodreads)
-Saar
What a lovely and heartwarming book! It made me dream of a winter holiday in Austria. I loved the plot, the cast of characters, and the descriptions. I also liked the themes of love, going on with life, and friendship.
I love the books by this author as they’re well written, with interesting characters.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Canelo and Netgalley for this arc.
A lovely story about re-finding your footing! Zoe has had a rough year and a once-in-a-lifetime trip is just the medicine to set her right!
Don't miss this one :c) A wonderful addition to your holiday reading list!!!
My review has been posted to my blog & Goodreads.
Review has also been tweeted as usual.
Thank you! :c)
A nice cosy book of love and friendship in a beautiful setting. Perfect for cold winter nights. A must
I love this book! Christmas books are a real weakness of mine and this one is excellent. It’s so so descriptive! You can hear the crunch of the snow, smell the Christmas food, feel the chill tingle in your skin, it caught the Alps at Christmas perfectly and you are transported there!
Zoe joins her friends for skiing in the Austrian alps and finds an unexpected guest there too! How will this unfold? Why perfectly of course!
Thank-You Netgalley for the ARC.
This my first book by this author and it was a really lovely story... I'll be adding more to my TBR.
Zoe is dumped on Christmas Eve... of all days... after a difficult few months she's invited on an all expenses paid Christmas Getaway to a stunning hotel in Austria with friends from her Uni-Years.
She decides to go as it would be the perfect way to move on from her disastrous Christmas of the previous year when her long-term boyfriend, Grant, had walked out on her.
The only problem is that he is going to be there too!
I wasn't sure where the story was going as there didn't seem to be a love interest for Zoe... but I continued reading and all was revealed at the end.
I read this book in one sitting as I just couldn't put it down... a real heart-warming story.
Lovely tale of university friends reunited after 10 years to spend Christmas with their old friend Billy in Austria. Cue lots of angst pre-trip (whether to go,
ex-boyfriends, what to wear etc) and insights into the lead character’s life) and lots of skiing stories once I. Austria.
All in all, a warm tale that will fill you with a Christmas glow - a lovely read, 4*
Fabulous romance for Christmas 😊
Loved every bit of it.
A detailed review will be posted as part of the blog tour in November
University friends visit a luxury hotel in the Austrian alps for Christmas . Zoe is looking forward to the skiing, but not to seeing her ex boyfriend ,Grant. A really good read, settle down and enjoy the luxury, and find out how the friends lives all change.
My thanks to Netgalley for the ARC first of all.
This was my first book by T A Williams and believe me, I'm so annoyed! So very annoyed at myself, because it's the first of this author's that I've written! Dammit! On the plus side, as it's the first, that means I've plenty more to look forwards to.
Now, if that isn't a hint that this'll be a very good review...I give up.
The main protagonist, a certain Zoe (Clumsly) Lumsley was dumped on Christmas Eve by her longtime boyfriend from university, Grant. A year later, unhappy in her journalistic job and dreading the forthcoming Christmas anniversary, she finds solace in an unexpected all expenses paid holiday in Austria from another of her flatmates from university, albeit one now more known for being a reclusive IT billionaire. together with the other residents of the flat. This, unfortunately, includes Grant.
A series of adventures ensue with much skiing, quaffing of top quality wine and champagne, with all the protagonists having something to hide including, though she doesn't realise it until near the end of the book, Zoe herself.
The descriptions of the people and scenery are top notch and I found myself falling in love with the writing, and the book. If you wish to find out more about the plot, then you'll be able to find that elsewhere.
So, all in all, buy this book and get into the Christmas mood.
This is about a ten year reunion hosted by a roommate. Zoe was the one everybody came to for advice and somethings do not change.
A lot has happened in ten years but Billy’s crush on Zoe hasn’t. Is the time right for romance to blossom?
The setting for Dreaming for Christmas is simply magical; the snow covered Austrian Alps, and a five star hotel the looks like it its from a fairytale with its Christmas trees and decorations. This idyllic setting is the backdrop for the old friends to reconnect and catch up on the last ten years. Zoe is worried at seeing her ex and being judged at being single in her thirties, but she soon finds out that the others are all hiding secrets and that their lives are not as perfect as they first seem. Zoe is the friend they all go to for advice, and soon finds herself the keeper of others secrets and trying to sort out marital problems. Her relationship with Billy, the multi millionaire tech company owner who has paid for the holiday, is endearing. Billy has shed his geeky look and is the one person that Zoe can confide in whilst the others are confiding in her. However, it is Billy’s puppy Archie who steals the show in this book for me, he brings humour and plenty of love to all the guests.
T.A Williams has the ability to transport you to the Alps and make you feel part of the story, the characters feel familiar who you invest in and want them all to be happy. He weaves all the different dynamics and relationships together with ease, and there is plenty of humour and surprises along the way that add to the readability of the book. It is testament to how much I loved this book that I read it in one evening.
Dreaming of Christmas is beautifully written, the prose flows seamlessly, the characters are well developed and their interaction is very natural and have everyday problems that makes them relatable. The narrative is engaging, and the attention to detail fills your senses with the sights and sounds of Austria, and has a fun and festive feel. This book is pure escapism, perfect for curling up in front of a fire with a mulled wine or hot chocolate; the perfect Christmas read.
There’s one thing being dumped by your partner, and there’s one thing being dumped by your partner at Christmas. Clearly both of those aren’t nice at all, but at Christmas? Really? Santa isn’t the only one emptying his sack; Zoe’s boyfriend has done exactly the same thing…with another woman, yet HE’S the one doing the dumping? Forgive me for coming across thick but how does he get to do that?! I shan’t lie, several expletives went through my head – ‘what an absolute tool’ is unfortunately the strongest insult i can do if i want Amazon to accept my review!
Anywhoo, with Zoe trying to come to terms with her recent heartbreak, an invitation to hit the ski slopes, erm, running, gives Zoe a well needed boost. Until she finds out that her ex-boyfriend will be there too. I will admit that when i found out that Grant would be there too, I thought Zoe would refuse to go despite the issue being with him and not her. Thankfully she did go and what a brilliant read ‘Dreaming of Christmas’ turned out to be because of it!
What an absolute darling, Bella, is! Children really do cement the magic of Christmas, don’t they? As for Billy’s dog – the word LEGEND sprang to mind more than once! I adored every morsel of ‘Dreaming of Christmas’ from the Christmas spirit at the ski resort, to the rekindling of friendships thanks to Zoe and her friends, and even the situation with Grant and watching karma come and bite him on the backside! I snorted, i belly laughed, I ‘awwwww’ed’ – and yes, i even was extremely bereft when the book finished as I was truly in my element.
‘Dreaming of Christmas’ is definitely a Christmas dream come true as it symbolises just how Christmas should be. I am always impressed by T.A.Williams’ novels, but the fact that he is able to write characters of the opposite sex in such an outstanding and relatable manner, really impresses me more than words can say. I’m not saying that because this author is a male he shouldn’t be able to write female lead characters, not at all.What I am saying is that he clearly understands females and their ways because if he didn’t, he certainly wouldn’t be able to write characters who ‘woman’ far better than i can ‘woman’, and I am one!
A fantastic, cosy, and brilliantly written novel from the highly talented, T.A.Williams. I LOVED it, I really did. Thanks to T.A.Williams, the Mr Claus of Christmas books, I can safely say that ‘it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas….’!
No T. A. Williams book could be complete without a black labrador, so I was delighted to meet Archie, our four legged friend for the book. In terms of cuteness hes is matched only by Bella, the 5 year old daughter of one of Zoe's old housemates.
For Zoe and the others that all lived together have been invited to a reunion in an all expenses paid holiday to Austria over Christmas, by the reclusive success story of the group.
This is a book filled with festive cheer, skiing, glorious Austrian settings, a grand romantic gesture, a few men that are bit great specimens of their species, this was a joy to read.
I loved the descriptions of the setting and felt as though I was there beside Zoe and her friends, Of course it isn't all plain sailing, there are some rather dramatic moments too which added to the appeal.
Then there are the others in this group on holiday with whom Zoe takes on a agony aunt sort of role. With the exception of her ex boyfriend, I really liked all the other characters, especially once they started to open up a bit, and we got to see their true selves.
I loved how everyone seemed to gain such a lot from this holiday. Billy the organiser and reason they are all together has apparently changed massively since they last knew him, but as a result he was easily one of my favourite characters and although I had sort of work out where sections of the book were going, my reasoning was completely out!
This is a fun festive read, that I read incredibly quickly and I really enjoyed my time spent in the Austrian Alps with Zoe and the gang.
Thank you to Netgalley and Canelo for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I have a huge confession to make. Yes, yet another one. Although I have heard of T.A. Williams, much to my shame I haven’t read one of his books before. After having finished ‘Dreaming Of Christmas’ I am left asking myself ‘why the hell haven’t I read one of his books before?’ It’s safe to say that I now realise just what I have been missing. I absolutely, totally and utterly flipping well loved ‘Dreaming Of Christmas’ but more about that in a bit.
I have to say that I took to Zoe Lumsley from the moment that I first met her. She is in a relationship with a fella called Grant and has been since they were both at university. She thinks that they are both happy but she is dealt the hammer blow that Grant has been playing away from home so to speak. Not only has she been dumped but the love rat only dumps her on Christmas Eve. Believe you, me if I could have jumped inside the pages of the book to give her a hug and then kick him very severely in his nuts. Zoe picks herself up with the help of close friends and family and she manages to carve out a new life for herself. She throws herself into her work as a journalist for a celebrity gossip magazine. She then receives an invitation to a reunion with those she shared a house with at university. The reunion is due to happen in Austria and is all paid for by one of the housemates who has done rather well for himself. This throws up all kinds of feelings in Zoe. She is pretty excited to see all of her university buddies except for the fact that she will be seeing her love rat ex and she thinks that he will bring his new partner. Will the reunion be a huge success? Will Zoe come face to face with her love rat ex? Has Grant brought his new girlfriend? Will Zoe get back with Grant or is she destined to be with somebody else? Will Zoe get the scoop on the reclusive Billy that her boss is demanding? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I couldn’t help but become seriously addicted to reading ‘Dreaming Of Christmas’ from the moment I picked the book up and began to read. The page numbers flew past at speed and the first time I checked on how much I had read, I was stunned to discover that I had read over 40% of the book. I was so taken by the story, the characters, the author’s writing style and the setting for the story that I just had to keep on reading. The author’s writing style is such that you can’t fail to be drawn into the story. Indeed I felt as though I was ‘living’ the story so to speak. The author used such vivid descriptions that if I closed my eyes, I could easily imagine that I had been transported to Austria with all the sounds and smells. I also loved the fact that occasionally there was the odd German word which I had to read out loud to use the German degree I obtained but have never used. Another thing I liked was the fact that Billy had a delinquent black Labrador- he clearly has taste but then I am biased since I have two delinquent yellow Labradors myself.
‘Dreaming Of Christmas’ is a delightful, ultimately uplifting, light hearted romantic read guaranteed to get you in the festive mood. I absolutely loved it and I wholeheartedly recommend it to other readers. I can’t wait to read what T. A. Williams comes up with next but whilst I wait I will definitely be seeking out his other books and read them just as soon as I can. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
The setting, the drama, the romance, and the characters all combine to make DREAMING OF CHRISTMAS by T.A. Williams the perfect read to curl up on the sofa with and completely relax.
Zoe is struggling to get over a breakup with her long-term boyfriend but when an old college friend gets in touch and offers her a trip of a lifetime, she would be a fool to refuse. Even if it does means spending time with her ex. Anyway, she will be too busy with her other old friends in a place that will take her breath away to worry about Grant and his new girlfriend. Well, that's the plan anyway. But as we all know, life rarely goes to plan ...
I completely fell in love with the Alps as the writer makes the setting burst alive in front of your eyes and it was pure escapism for me every time I read a page. The characters are interesting, flawed, and compelling in their own ways and there are a couple of small surprises along the way which I didn't expect, but you will have to read it to find out for yourself! There is beauty, friendship, drama, and pure magic in the air in DREAMING OF CHRISTMAS by T.A. Williams and I highly recommend it to all contemporary fiction fans.
A lovely festive setting, an interesting group of people and an unlikely romance make this an enchanting Christmas story. Glamour, reunion, troubled relationships and romance simmering under the surface bring this modern-day fairytale to life, and it will have you turning the pages lost in its ambience.
Billy is definitely romantic hero material and Zoe can't believe how he's changed in ten years, but he's married and so she has to look elsewhere for her prince charming. Zoe is faced with numerous dilemmas, as she deals with her former flatmates' problems, but can she sort out her own life and make it a truly memorable festive time?
This is an easy to read, well written festive romantic comedy, set in the picturesque Austrian Alps, complete with a perfect fairytale ending.
I received a copy of this book from Canelo via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This was another gorgeous read from author T.A. Williams who once again takes his readers to an idyllic setting and makes you want your own snowy Austrian Christmas.
With every book that the author has written you can sense the depth of research he has undertaken with the locations of his novels. The details of the setting was superb and you can almost feel the wintry chill and the tantalising aromas from the many traditional feasts and foodie delights that the characters enjoyed.
Zoe Lumsley has had a difficult year emotionally leading up to this Christmas with the aftermath of a break-up of her 10 year relationship with Grant, whom she met whilst at university. When an unexpected invite arrives in the post to a reunion of all the students that lived in the same student house Zoe is very hesitant with the RSVP as she knows that Grant would have had the same invite. However, this reunion is somewhat special, it's a week in a luxury hotel in Austria and their host and fellow graduate is the shy, introvert geek Billy. With the encouragement of her friend Zoe makes the trip and awaits her first encounter with Grant since the break-up.
This was a lovely festive story of catching-up with friends from 10 years ago and an awful lot of changes have happened with the addition of husbands, wives, children and an adorable black Labrador puppy. Yay, we have our regular furry friend that the author T.A. Williams loves to include in his stories. These additions changed the dynamic and personalities of the group. For Zoe and all of the others they could immediately see a change in their host Billy who was now the owner of a successful international computer business and had accrued an almost allusive celebrity status with the addition of riches beyond our wildest dreams. But Zoe could still see glimpses of the shy young man from university.
A story that will make you feel all festive and warm with it's cosy romance. A story that will delight you with the stunning setting that will take your breath away.
Amazing book. Loved it from beginning to end.
Well written which kept me captivated throughout.
I will definitely be reading other books by this author
Opening, Dreaming of Christmas and reading the first page will transport you into the enchanting world of Zoe and to the Alps glistening in snow. And without a doubt, this is another "DELIGHTFUL" book that TA Williams.
As Zoe returns to her flat after a few days at home with her parents she receives a phone call. On the phone is Juliet, a friend from her university days. During her final year at University Zoe shares a house with Juliet and a few other students. They both became close friends when the Juliet left her long term partner on Christmas Eve.
Billy, one of their student house mates, whom is now a millionaire and has paid for a luxury reunion in an Austrian hotel over the forthcoming Christmas. Zoe is a little unsettled about going, her ex has also been invited.
Since graduating Zoe has followed a career as a journalist with a celebrity magazine. Her job is not ideal and is currently making her incredibly unhappy. With the opportunity of a much needed break she's determined to enjoy herself.
A Christmassy tale of friends catching up in the Alps, reflecting on their lives and considering future changes. As the snow starts to fall, adventures on the ski slopes begin, food that you wish would jump out from the pages to eat and cosy nights by the fires. As the friends gather and catch up on the past ten years, all is not as it seems with some masking their true unhappiness. But will Zoe make the right decision...... no spoilers here.
As with all of TA Williams books I have read Dreaming of St Christmas, is written in such a way that you are automatically transported to the Alps, your stomach rumbling at the food and Cosy nights by the fire.
I enjoyed every second of my winter vacation in the Alps following Zoe's story. A first class read, and the perfect start to our Christmas reading list. Yet again, an exceptional book, from a very talented author.
Thank you to T A Williams and Ellie at Canelo for our advanced review copy and invite to join the book tour.
Living in uncertain times, as we do, I find myself more often looking to uncomplicated things, and things that comfort the mind – in T. A. Williams’ Dreaming of… novels, I’ve found an uncomplicated happy place!
Dreaming of Christmas is the latest in T. A. Williams’ popular series featuring young women, unlucky in love, and searching for something more in their lives. In this case, it’s Zoe who finds herself a year on from being dumped at Christmas time and invited to spend some time skiing with her former Uni housemates.
Each of the characters have their own problems and knotty relationship difficulties, but a week away at Christmas may just be the thing they all need to revive them. Having not seen each other for 10 years, they have all changed in subtle ways, but rest assured that all ends well for the group of friends.
I’ve read several of T. A. Williams’ books now and they are all of a high standard and when I say they are easy to read, I mean it in the best sense. Zoe is a likeable girl, who has been unlucky in her personal life, but who is also doing a job that she’s really too qualified – a highly relatable character.
Ultimately, the novel is so likeable because wouldn’t we all like to be invited to a luxury hotel, all expenses paid, and then – just maybe – end up falling in love?
This had been a sweet Christmas read; full of friendship, snow and love, the perfect read for any warm hearty story!
This is the story of Zoe, it's been almost a year since her boyfriend broke her heart and left her for another woman, she thinks that she has got over him when she receives an interesting invitation to spend Christmas with her old friends, including her ex... So the main question will be, has she really got over him or love between them will flourish again? I have to say that her ex doesn't have my sympathy since the first page, he broke up with her because he was already seeing another woman... So I don't think in this case love is enough to repair the relation, trust is not something easy to repair, is something really difficult to ignore... so I would always say no to infidelity, but is Zoe who will have to decide!
The story not only turns around Zoe's love life, but all the characters she is sharing the amazing week in Austria, everything is planned and payed, but all of them had their own problems and secrets that we will discover as we enter to the story and start loving this nice group of friends.
This had been a quick read, it has not been difficult being transported to the beautiful hotel they stay in Austria and enjoy some warm wine, I wouldn't spend all day skying like Zoe, but it was a joyful read, heartwarming and sweet. It makes the reader believe that even in the worst cases, happiness is near you if you are ready for it!
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