Christmas Ever After

I love Christmas themed books. Especially when I need a boost. This book was perfect. The characters were well developed. The setting was magical. Comet was a great addition. A real love story. No sex. Riley learns to embrace her past and rediscover Christmas. I loved the traditions, the recipes, and the crazy sweaters. Need a lift? This might help. Thanks, Netgalley!

First sentence: Reynolds heard them moments before she saw them. People were singing Christmas songs, different Christmas songs, all at the same time, in exuberant, joyful voices. There was “Joy to the World,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” “What in the world . . .” Riley said as she stepped out of the hotel elevator into the lavish lobby of the Royal Grand Central Park, one of New York City’s finest hotels, and found more than a hundred high-spirited Christmas carolers. They were all wearing elaborate, vintage Victorian costumes and passionately singing as if their entry onto Santa’s Nice List depended on it.

Premise/plot: Riley Reynolds is a romance author who hates Christmas and is currently not living her 'happily ever after.' After her summer romance flops--at least from a publishing standpoint--her publishers strongly encourage her to write a Christmas romance instead. The problem, as I briefly mentioned, is that she does not celebrate Christmas--not since her dad died when she was eight. But she'll do her part to keep her job: play co-host at a weekend author event at a small lodge--Christmas Lake Lodge. Her co-host is the Christmas-loving, Luke, who is selling the lodge after Christmas. He wants the lodge to have one last hurrah before it closes forever.

Sound like a typical Christmas movie? Perhaps. But this isn't a bland Christmas movie, throw in a dash or two of MAMMA MIA and The Bachelorette. Before Christmas Camp begins, she does a television interview leading viewers to believe that there was one true love that got away that has inspired her novels...

My thoughts: I definitely loved this one. For the record, I don't have a problem with incredibly predictable, ultimately sweet Christmas-themed romantic comedies. In fact, I find them often more lovely than not. I AM the target audience of this one.

For those that are curious, this one is what I would consider clean or clean-ish. There is some kissing, not much else. Anything that might have happened in the past with her former boyfriends--stays in the past and off screen.

An author who hates Christmas but is assigned to write a holiday novel. Three ex-boyfriends who plan to win her back. One weekend-long event where it all goes down. With such a crazy scenario involved, it actually made me wonder just a bit whether this book reflects a real-life situation or not? The story's ending is somewhat predictable, but the journey is full of hijinks, drama, and the unexpected!

Take me to Christmas Camp. I want to see the lake with the beautifully illuminated Christmas tree in the centre, the Christmas angels and of course the super cute dog.

Riley is a very likeable main character who Has found Christmas difficult since her dad passed away when she was eight years old. As a writer her last book didn’t do very well so she has been encouraged to write a Christmas book. To promote the book she is to attend a Christmas camp full of Christmas traditions and with some of her loyal readers

Luke’s parents own Christmas Lake Lodge and he is to host the special camp. Unfortunately Riley and Luke got off to a bad start when she walked out of a TV interview that he was forced to finish. A remark she made in the interview causes a few problems and misunderstandings

The supporting characters, the Christmas traditions and the beautiful scenery all make up a wonderful Christmas romance that fully deserves five stars

After an awkward interview, Riley, an author, is forced to play "Miss Christmas" at Christmas Camp, thanks to an overzealous publicist and pressure from an agent. Ever the professional, Riley will face her fears, and her past, to fulfill the role--her secret is she hasn't celebrated Christmas since she was 8.

Luke, the Christmas Lake Lodge owner, isn't sure what to think, but he reluctantly agrees since he needs good press to help sell his family's lodge. His dog Comet is smitten with Riley, and that helps buffer their meeting. Helping Riley acclimate, Luke takes Riley to town to get warm clothes, tells her lore about the town, and makes delicious hot chocolate.

When three former boyfriends show up at the Christmas Camp, Riley is playing Bachelorette while leading crafts and other Christmas activities. It's a whirlwind of activity greeting the fans, trying to play Miss Christmas, and figuring out if there's a spark with the former loves, but the only one who seems to be melting her heart is Luke.

Everything is on the line for her next book, and it will all come to light at the Christmas Ball, but will the Christmas magic be enough to help Riley embrace the holidays, find a new love, plus save her career?

Heartwarming, entertaining, and a true Christmas Rom-Com I highly recommend!

**Received an ARC from the Publisher**

Christmas Ever After... ahh you did not disappoint. A beautiful story of finding the Christmas spirit and love.; mixed with humour, moments of crazy and many smiles.
I loved this book and it was one you can enjoy at any moment. Don’t wait time read about Riley and her three ex boyfriends who turn up to her Christmas Camp. Pick up this book and live the moment.

Loved reading this book. Hopefully its not a stand alone book. Riley is an author and she is asked to host a weekend getaway at a lodge in Colorado. Luke owns the lodge with his mom who suggested the weekend event and to help Riley with some publicity. To hear more read the book.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

Having gone part way through an awkward interview, Riley, whose an author, is forced into playing "Miss Christmas" at Christmas Camp,

This is thanks to her overzealous publicist as well as pressure from an agent.

Riley, will have to face her fears as well as her past to go through this role. But she has a secret - she’s never celebrated Christmas since she was 8.

Now Luke, whose the Christmas Lake Lodge owner, not entirely sure what to think, but he as he needs good press to sel his family’s lodge, he reluctantly agrees He has a dog Comet, who is smitten with Riley, I’m helping Riley acclimatise to her surroundings, Luke takes Riley to town to get warm clothes.

But after finding out where Riley is her former three boyfriends turn up at the Christmas Camp,

Riley, now finds herself playing Bachelorette, whilst at the same time leading crafts and other Christmas activities.

In between figuring out who out of her former boyfriends she has a spark with, she’s in a whirlwind of activities greeting the fans, and trying to play Miss Christmas,

She’s got everything on the line for her next book, and at the Christmas Ball she has to make her decision out of the three boyfriends.

Will the Christmas magic be enough in helpOMG Riley embrace the holidays, along with finding a new love and saving her career. Will she get her Christmas wish?????

I highly recommend!

A fairytale of a book - I want to spend a Christmas camp with Riley, Luke and especially Comet! A must read Christmas Story.

A fantastic quick read. Great characters and plot. A first for me by Karen will be looking to read more.

Well this is definitely a 5-star Christmas themed read, which is really nice as often so-called Christmas books aren't really that Christmassy - not this one, this one is full-on Christmas, with snow, Christmas trees, a Christmas lodge, snowball fights, etc. etc. It really gets you into a Christmas mood!

Bestselling author, Riley Reynolds, writes romances but her last book didn't sell very well and she is now supposed to be writing a Christmas novel, but she hasn't celebrated Christmas for years, so writing the story and trying to hide the fact that she isn't actually 'Miss Christmas' proves hard initially.

Her publisher comes up with an idea to host a 'Christmas Camp' at the beautiful Christmas Lodge, helping both the owner's son, Luke, to have a last Christmas celebration at the lodge before they sell it, and helping Riley to get ideas for her new novel from the people who have paid to see Riley and be at the Christmas Camp.

But after an awkward TV interview where Riley is questioned about how she can write romance novels when she hasn't found 'the one' herself, three of her ex-boyfriends turn up at the Christmas Camp hoping to win her back with various dates, which she agrees to.

But Luke is the one that Riley keeps thinking about and as the story goes along, and her feelings for Christmas change, she sorts out her feelings for all her ex-boyfriends, and of course Luke.

An easy-reading, very enjoyable and romantic Christmassy book to get you in the mood for Christmas. It would make a perfect Christmas movie!

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler 4.5 stars

Oh this book reads like a Christmas #Hallmark movie! It’s so fun. Riley is like the grinch and has never celebrated Christmas for many years. As a way to save her career, she has to host a Christmas Camp at Christmas Lake! You can’t get more Christmassy than that!

To top that, she is placed in a room with Santa everywhere and a Santa sleigh for a bed! I’d love to see that in the movie. And oh! The Santa alarm clock says Ho Ho Ho! LOL! I really love the first half of the book. It gets slow then it picks up when her three ex boyfriends show up. Christmas Lake sounds like a beautiful place.

Luke sounds like an amazing man with a sense of humor too! I like Caylee and I want to try some of Maryanne’s Christmas Lake Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls.This is a quick and enjoyable read. I highly recommend it if you like Christmas and Hallmark movies!

Thank you #netgalley and @HawkTalePublishing for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.

I received an advance copy of Christmas Ever After, by Karen Schaler. I have read other books by Karen Schaler and loved them, I loved this book too. This book is about author Riley Reynolds who is writing her first Christmas book. Three of her exes show up at Christmas Camp, who does she pick?

This is the first book I have read by Karen Schaler. This book is about Riley who writes about romance and is told she needs to write a book about Christmas. This book was very good. I cant wait to read her next one.

Get ready for an explosion of Christmas cheer! Christmas Ever After is an abundantly fun and heartwarming Christmas romance.

This story is chock full of Christmas. Best-selling author Riley Reynolds' last book didn't sell as well as her previous books. Something is missing. Her publisher and agent task her with writing a Christmas romance next, which is a very popular sub-genre in the industry. The only problem is Riley doesn't celebrate Christmas and has no clue what to write. She's scheduled to do a Christmas Camp for her readers at the beautiful Christmas Tree Lake Lodge. She is expecting to have the whole agenda all set up for her but son of the owner, Luke Larchmont wants her input. That could be trouble since she has no Christmas traditions to share.

I loved reading about all the the special Christmas activities at the Christmas Camp. There's learning about the Christmas Lake Angel, the Christmas Lake Christmas Tree, baking Christmas cookies, special hot chocolate, an ugly Christmas sweater pageant and the Christmas ball. Riley has three romantic dates with her three ex-boyfriends who are trying to win her back. But Riley realizes she needs to look forward and sees Luke Larchmont in that future, the guy who has reintroduced her to a love of Christmas. Kudos to Comet, the dog who was always there to save the day. I loved this story!

The latest Christmas book I finished was Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler, another new author for me. This book was really enjoyable! I zoomed threw this.

The main character, author Riley Reynolds last novel was met with negative reviews and she ends up having to commit to writing a Christmas book for her next novel. For much needed good publicity and ideas for her upcoming book, she has to commit to being a co-host to a weekend Christmas Camp at a beautiful Lodge that goes all out for the holiday! It wouldn't be so bad, if it weren't for the fact that Riley hasn't celebrated Christmas in years.

Luke, whose family owns the lodge, gets off on the wrong foot with Riley, after a tv interview goes awry, which makes for a rough start for the two of them.

Not only does the interview cause trouble for Luke and Riley, it also brings three of Riley's ex-boyfriends to the Christmas Camp, all with the intention of winning her back.

All of which makes for a fun, laugh out loud story! If you haven't guessed already, Riley and Luke might just make some special holiday memories themselves!

I loved it! Thank you to @netgalley for sending me an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#ChristmasEverAfter #NetGalley

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
4.5/5
I adored this book! I am that Christmas obsessed person listening to holiday music year round, with an ugly sweater in the making. I loved Schaler's earlier novel, Christmas Camp, and Christmas Ever After does not disappoint. Riley is an interesting character; like many characters in holiday books, she is in the "no-Christmas" camp. However, Schaler doesn't harp on this, and it isn't a negative at all. It works well as a framing device to introduce us as readers to the lodge's traditions. The only slight detractor is that Riley's past romantic interests kind of dominate the second half of the book- I would have loved if more time was spent on the Christmas camp activities.
All in all, this is a wonderful holiday read, and I hope that it also shows up on our Hallmark screens!

Simply amazing. As I was reading this it was like watching a Hallmark Christmas movie. The Christmas imagery was simply stunning and so easy to picture. The book flowed so well that I finished it in a day and a half. The heart and Christmas spirit in this story is out of this world.
From the Christmas miracle at the start of the book with Santa driving the cab, to the perfect timing and insight of Comet the dog, always in the right place at the right time.
Reading about some wonderful people who genuinely loved Christmas, and not just the commercial giving of expensive gifts was lovely and made me wish I was sharing it with them. I want to inject some of this Christmas spirit and love into my family Christmas this year.

This sweet romance is perfect for Christmas lovers everywhere. With a romance writer in career trouble, hunky nemesis plus ex-boyfriends, and holiday festivities galore, we have the perfect recipe for love in a magical setting. I'd love to go to Christmas Camp at this beautiful lake! Thanks to Netgalley and HawkTale Publishing for the advance digital copy.

This book was so good!! It is full of the joy and wonder of Christmas. This is a fun fast read that I highly recommend. I loved reading Riley and Luke's story and I feel completely in love with Comet. If you need a pick me up, grab this book. It is uplifting and full of hope, love and Christmas joy! Thank you HawkTale Publishing via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

A Christmas Bachelorette story is about to commence for book author, Riley Reynolds with three ex-boyfriends from her past! Will she discover that one of these past loves is her true love or is she about to discover a new one at the Christmas Lake Lodge?

The author is about to take us on a journey of learning about looking at Christmas through the eyes of a non-believer and someone who needs to find her Christmas Spirit before she can truly appreciate a great love!

Have you found your Christmas Spirit if not then this is the book for you!
I would definitely recommend this book!

I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and these are my willingly given thoughts and opinions.

I love to read Christmas themed books. This is a perfect book to get you into the Christmas spirit. I loved the characters and the setting of this book. It had everything I love about Christmas. The traditions were so much fun and the recipes sound so yummy. I can't wait to include them in our holiday traditions! I highly recommend this book, especially if you love Hallmark Christmas movies!


Thank you to Netgalley, Hawktale Publishing, and Karen Schaler for the digital arc I received in exchange for my honest opinion.

Romance writer Riley is in a bit of a writing slump. The sales of her last book were not great and her agent is not happy with her and if she doesn't turn things around her publishing house will drop her. The agent has the perfect solution, write a Christmas romance. The only thing is Riley has not celebrated Christmas since her father died with she was a child. Her publicist comes up with a plan, Let's have a Christmas Camp for some of her fans. They can help her come up with ideas for her new book. So off to Christmas Lake Lodge in the middle of Christmas Lake a beautiful winter town. The ex boyfriends of Christmas past show up at the lodge to surprise her each wanting her back. Trouble is she isn't interested in them any longer and there is someone new Luke the owner of the lodge. There's a little bit of the Bachelorette TV show around the ex boyfriend. Riley and the reader meet lots of new and interesting people during Christmas Camp. There's some recipes and activities included with the story so you can have your own Christmas Camp at home this year.

I really enjoyed this book! It had such a unique premise, which is why I requested it. I usually don't like love triangles (or squares) but this was a heartwarming story. I was rooting for Riley from the beginning! If you like holiday romances, add this to your TBR!

Christmas Ever After is my first Christmas read of the year, just perfect to read wrapped up in a blanket with a hot chocolate. After seeing A Christmas Prince and Hallmark’s Christmas Camp, i was thrilled to discover this written by the same author.

One of my Christmas traditions is watching Christmas films, so this reading like a hallmark film was perfect.

I wanted to go and visit this winter Wonderland and enjoy all those Christmas traditions, like making snow angels and watching Christmas films. Like looking at a snow globe, transported to the childlike magic of Christmas. Heartwarming memories, the importance of family and friends.

We meet a host of loveable characters at Christmas Lake Lodge but Comet, the dog steals the show.

The recipes featured were an extra special Christmas touch. I really hope it will be made into a hallmark film. Highly recommend if you love Christmas and Hallmark films. Perfect escapism. After reading this I'll definitely be reading more by this author.

Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is the reason I read every one of Karen’s Christmas books! Absolute, pure Christmas, romantic delight. I loved returning to Christmas Camp and Riley has definitely earned her place as a recipient of the charms this special place offers. All of the characters are fun, but the chemistry between Riley and Luke is palpable and nothing short of pure romantic bliss. The premise is funny, and the story delivers. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own and freely given.

What a brilliant read, you are taken to NYC and are travelled over to Colorado. The discriptive writting in this book is phenomonal and simply beautiful, i want to visit here.
Riley is a romance author who is on the brink of never making it big if she doesnt complete the next book but can she write a christmas book? She has never done any christmas traditions, isnt in a great loving relationship but yet she can write about it, she is struggling. her publicit Mike, sends her to Colorado to fix what she broke and to get her to enjoy this 'christmas camp' set up in the mountain village in Colorado, Riley isnt impressed by any of it and turns up in the clothing for a city life not that of an outdoor freezing temperatures. The man running the camp is Luke and the other workers are all good friends to Riley, as they get on so well. Luke took an extra three booking from three men who all want to surprise Riley- they are all of her EX boyfriends and shes not exactly enthused when she sees them.
She starts to be treated well and taken on romantic nights with these men, but can she fall in love with them again, afterall they are exes for a reason! but theres Luke and Luke is my favourite i must say. She has changed whilst being in Colorado and starts to enjoy christmas which she never thought she could but the question is, can she start this book? can she find love in the Rockies,,,... read on and open this book you will not be dissapointed.

Riley is an author whose last book was not a hit with her followers. To try and boost her readership and get her back on track her publishing company decide to brand her as Miss Christmas and have her write a Christmas novel. There is only one major flaw to this Riley hates Christmas. She keeps this from everyone and goes ahead with the plan of hosting a Christmas Camp at Christmas Lake Lodge for some of her lucky fans. When she is doing a TV interview about the camp, the interviewer – not the one she was led to believe would be doing the interview – goes off piste regarding the questions. This not only makes Riley angry but also has consequences for the Christmas Camp.
Riley has to go up to Christmas Lake Lodge to make amends to Luke, the resort manager but to also salvage things with her publicist Mike and Margo her agent. As Riley helps Luke make plans for the camp, she begins to like him. When the camp starts, there are three surprises for Riley, are they wanted or not?
This is a delightful novel about Christmas camp, what if means to so many and how many small things can mean so much to others.
I loved this novel and I hope you do to. I got so caught up in it and can see myself re reading this with the Christmas tree decorated, the lights twinkling, the fire on, cosied up on the sofa and just steeping myself in a great read. I really loved the idea of Christmas Camp and I do know that Karen Schaler actually runs one. Would highly recommend this novel. I will definitely read more books by Karen Schaler.

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler is a most delightful contemporary Christmas novel that will warm your heart and leave you smiling.
Log cabins, snow, Christmas trees and Santas are everything you need for the festive atmosphere – but what happens if you really want to avoid Christmas every year? This novel will awaken the spirit of Christmas in your heart.
Christmas is a time for making memories but for one character, a childhood trauma has meant Christmas was never celebrated again. Misunderstandings need correcting and a heart needs awakening.
Karen Schaler has created a charming novel that is warm, friendly, feel-good and humorous – there is definitely a touch of Mama Mia within the tale resulting in some situations that will make you smile.
Christmas Ever After would make a wonderful Hallmark movie. It is the perfect read to brighten an autumn day. It will inject a little Christmas spirit into your life.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

After reading three Christmas novels by Karen Schaler, I’m officially saying that I will read every Christmas novel she ever releases.

Her books are like a hug infused with Christmas magic.

Christmas Ever After might be my favourite book now. I loved being at a new location and having a new furry companion. Our male hero is definitely something special.

But most of all, we have Riley. Stories dealing with grief always hold a special place with me. Seeing her journey and building friendships at Christmas Camp was some of Schaler’s best work yet.

This author and her Christmas stories just keep getting better at better. I enjoyed some laughs, some tears, and a heartfelt of love. Karen Schaler’s Christmas Ever After was the book I didn’t know I needed in September during a pandemic. It was just what my heart needed.

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler is the second Christmas-themed story that I have read from this author, and I must say that even from this small sampling, Ms Schaler can certainly bring the holiday spirit, even on a grey and drizzly day in October. If you have watched and enjoyed A Christmas Prince on Netflix (also written by Karen Schaler) you are in for a treat with this sweeter than a candy cane story.

Riley is a highly successful romance author but her last book seemed to lack a personal quality, causing it to be panned by critics. Riley has always drawn on her past relationships to create the romantic idyll that her readers have come to expect. When she accidentally admits during a live television interview that a great love from her past has inspired her novels, three former boyfriends converge unannounced at a Christmas Camp that Riley is hosting for her fans, each believing themselves to be Riley's one true love. Adding to the confusion, Riley finds herself undeniably attracted to her co-host at the event, the owner of the Christmas Lake Lodge. Will she embrace the Christmas experience, and find true love at last?

This is a light and heartwarming read that is perfect for curling up with in front of the fire. Ms Schaler has created endearing characters and an atmospheric read that will be as difficult to resist as Christmas cookies.

Many thanks to NetGalley and HawkTale Publishing for this ARC.

I received an ARC of this enchanting Christmas story. It's the a romance author who still hasn't found her own romance story. Join her as she tries to figure out why. A great tale!

A new author and wonderful way to start my holiday reading! A fun and entertaining story that will make you laugh and cry. The author captured the essence of Christmas and how to recapture it when you've lost it.

Riley's father died at Christmas when she was 8 years old. Since then she hasn't celebrated the holiday due to the pain of the memories. Her job as a writer is on the line and her publisher schedules a holiday writer's camp to help make her next novel a success.

Luke, the owner of the Inn where the event is scheduled helps her find her Christmas mojo. Add in her three ex-boyfriend's surprising her and shenanigans ensue. Will surely get you in the Christmas seasonal mood!

I received a free ARC eBook from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions.

Christmas Ever After is a funny, uplifting, and heartfelt Christmas romance about finding your Christmas spirit, possible second chances in love, and finding a love "spark", that proves that anything is possible at Christmas.

When I first read the plot where the main character, author Riley Reynolds, does a live TV interview and makes a statement that causes three of her ex-boyfriends to try to rekindle their old romances, I knew I had to read this book. It really does resemble The Bachelorette at one point, and I love all dating reality shows, so this was right up my alley.

I sincerely loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good heartwarming romance filled with heart and hope.

Rediscover the true meaning of Christmas with Riley, a successful romance author who has avoided celebrating the "Season of goodwill" to all.

Think of all the best bits from your Christmases past, add a few characters - in this case, Comet the faithful dog and the "Three Wise Men", mix with a sprinkle of Christmas traditions and fairy dust! And you get a heart-warming and sometimes funny - yeti boots and novelty Christmas jumpers - romance!

I had lots of fun going on Riley's personal journey of rediscovery.

Thank you to Hawktale Publishing and Netgalley for providing an Advance Reader's Copy.

CHRISTMAS EVER AFTER is full of all things winter and Christmas. I had heartwarming feelings while reading it even if there were a Scrooge or two involved. I was drawn in from the beginning and loved everything about the Christmas Lake Lodge and Christmas Camp events. Such a fun, holiday romance!

Riley is a romance author trying to salvage her career. She’s to be the featured author at Christmas Camp so that her fans can connect with her and hopefully give her some ideas of what they’d like to read in a Christmas story. She’s hoping their traditions will help give her some guidance of what to write since her last romance novel bombed. (This is the brainchild of her publicist–who’s friends with Luke and knows how much Riley dislikes the holidays.)

Luke is hosting the Christmas Camp and author event as a last hurrah for his family before they sell the place. He and Riley spark but have trouble communicating from the beginning. Yet as time passes, their relationship grows. Friendship and family are woven throughout the story. The town and their traditions are delightful and add to the character of CHRISTMAS EVER AFTER.

The story is filled with holiday magic. The plot flows, the descriptions and characters are spot-on, and the love story is moving. The cover nailed the Christmas vibe–I could feel the cold of the winter wonderland! I also loved the inclusion of the recipes in the back of the book, as well as some Christmas craft ideas.

Ms. Schaler is an author I associate with Christmas. I’ve read her Christmas Camp books, and they all read like Hallmark movies. When I found out some of them are actually movies, it made total sense. I look forward to reading her next Christmas story.

Is this a real problem that real authors have? Probably, at times. This is a great Christmas story where you have someone without a lot of Christmas spirit. She gets thrown into situations that without her even realizing it, she once again finds herself getting her previous grove back. Loved the story and the characters. I would love to go stay at Christmas Lake Lodge and participate in a Christmas Camp. That would be so fun! I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler reads like watching a Hallmark TV movie in your head. Romance author Riley Reynolds is the pleasant most of the time Scrooge being visited by her the former boyfriends because of an interview answer she gave. As Riley says herself, she feels like she is part of the reality show, The Bachelorette. It is a fun read with great writing and some over the top Christmas festivities. Take the dueling Christmas Carolers and the totally Santa guest room. While I would like to see that, like Riley did at first I would want to send the full size cardboard cut-out Santa packing too.

A sweet Christmas story with a female lead that grows on you as the story continues even as she is somewhat nerve-racking too. Then Luke is nearly perfect so of course you fall a little in love with him too. The other characters round out the story with no real villains but plenty of drama and angst. It does end exactly the way you think it would but I would have been unhappy if this traditional romance story ended any other way. Here’s to family, friends, love, and traditions new and old.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to Net Galley for an advanced copy of this book. It is the first time I have read a Karen Schaler book and I really enjoyed it. I have watched the Christmas Camp movie on Hallmark so I understood the premise of the book, however I don't believe it is necessary to have either read or watched the Christmas Camp to understand the plot lines. I loved the idea of bringing back Riley's old boyfriends, it added a really funny dimension to the book. It is a great holiday read that promises the necessary happily ever after that you expect to find in a holiday book.

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler is a story about a popular romance author, Riley Reynolds. When her last novel does not get good reviews, she needs to rebuild her career. Her publicist decides she needs to write a Christmas love story and what better way to get in the mood than to host a Christmas Camp for fans at a lodge in the mountains of Colorado. While promoting the idea for her book, she is blindsided when asked why she has not found her own true love. Caught off guard, she quickly says she did have love in one of her past relationships. Her three ex-boyfriends watched the show, and each man thinks it must be him. Much to her surprise, they all show up at her Christmas Camp! Now she must decide who her true love really is. Throughout the weekend, she agrees to meet with each man individually to reconnect and let them know by the end of the camp who her true love really is. This is a heartwarming story where the heroine and the reader discover that sometimes one of the most important things in life is to have faith and just believe; after all, it is the magic of Christmas.

Riley is a romance author who is in a writing slump, after her last book did not do well. Her publicist and agent set up author meet and greet at Christmas Lake Lodge. They want her to write her first Christmas book. They make it sound like she loves Christmas. That is further from the truth. She hasn’t enjoyed Christmas since her father died, when she was eight. Luke’s mom is the owner of the Lodge. Luke is trying to sell it and is doing this event for his mom. The book is filled with Christmas magic, a few ex-boyfriends and an adorable dog Comet. Thank you to NetGalley and HawkTale Publishing for the E-ARC. This is my own opinion.

Riley Reynolds is a best-selling romance author whose last book did not do so well so she has one last chance to redeem herself by writing a Christmas book. She also must participate in a weekend event called Christmas camp where she will interact with select fans to get ideas for her new book. The problem is, Riley has not celebrated Christmas since her father died when she was eight years old. When Riley does a live interview to promote her new book, she is caught off guard by a question and announces that she had the love of her life but is now single. Who is that great love that Riley let slip through her fingers? Can Riley fool her fans and the family that owns the lodge where she is holding her event and make them believe she is Miss Christmas?

Luke is helping his mother out at his family’s lodge holding an event called Christmas Camp. He is everything Christmas and he thinks this is just the publicity they need to sell the lodge, that is until he meets the author that is holding the event. He does not trust that she will not run out on the guests and the event like she did in her live interview. When three ex boyfriends of Riley’s make reservations to surprise her, can Luke pull off this event and deal with Riley Reynolds and her ex boyfriends for an entire weekend?

Luke and Riley must rely on each other to make this event a success. Things seem to be going smoothly until Riley sees her ex boyfriends, all believing they were “the one that got away”. How can Riley choose just one man?

This was just the sweetest story of someone who rediscovers the magic of Christmas. I loved Karen Schaler’s writing style and I am excited to read her other novels. The premise for the book was unique and oh so much fun. It added such an interesting twist into the story as the reader tries to figure out which man Riley will choose. The characters were loveable and Comet the dog was just the cutest addition to the story. Thank you so much to the author Karen Schaler, HawkTale Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book to review. It was fabulous! All opinions expressed for this review are unbiased and entirely my own.

Riley Reynolds is a successful romance writer. Unfortunately, her latest book was not as popular, and her publisher pushes her to write and promote a Christmas romance. When Riley goes on national television to promote her upcoming book, the interviewer catches her off guard and she makes a vague statement about her personal life that leads three of her ex-boyfriends to believe they are the one that got away. When Riley travels to Colorado for a Christmas Camp to promote her book, all three ex-boyfriends arrive to sweep her off her feet ... although she is already interested in the handsome inn-keeper.

I wanted to read Christmas Ever After because I enjoyed Karen Schaler's Finding Christmas. This sounded like a fun, upbeat read.

Christmas Ever After is a very enjoyable cozy holiday read. I loved the setting. The inn has a Christmas theme, and each room has a special Christmas motif. Riley's room has a Santa motif:

"Inside her room were dozens of Santas. From a life-sized Santa cardboard cutout in the corner, to a collection of figurines on the dresser, to all the pillows on the bed, there were Santas everywhere. There was even an elaborate eight foot red-and-gold velvet Santa chair next to a real Christmas tree with Santa ornaments and a quaint stone fireplace. Hanging from the wooden mantle above the fireplace was just one red felt stocking that had Riley’s name embroidered on it. But it was the bed that Riley couldn’t stop staring at. It was a red Santa sleigh —an actual sleigh— that had been converted into a bed. And above the bed was a sign that read, Always believe." (Kindle location 1156).

The storyline about Riley and her three ex-beaus was fun to read. She finds herself being courted by her college boyfriend, her long time world-traveling ex-boyfriend, and her recent NYC boyfriend. Meanwhile, she has an immediate spark with Luke, whose family owns the inn. I loved the rapport between Riley and Luke, and appreciated his love of the inn's long history.

There is even a lovable dog - Comet, a Bernese Mountain Dog who immediately befriends Riley at the inn. (Lovable dogs or cats always add to my enjoyment of a light read!)

This story is told with humor and a lot of warmth, and it put me in a Christmas mood (although Christmas is still quite a time off!). I recommend Christmas Ever After for fans of romance, Christmas novels, and anyone who enjoys all things Christmas. (This book would make a great Hallmark movie!).

I could not have loved this book more. Seriously, go buy this right now if you love Christmas and romance! The characters were amazing, the feel-good Christmas spirit was everywhere, and I’m honestly ready to start the holiday season immediately. This one put me into the holiday mood.

Successful romance author Riley Reynolds is not a grinch, but after the loss of her father as a child, her and her mother, chose Hawaii every year over celebrating Christmas. After a successful string of book releases, Riley has a book bomb, and her publisher is giving her one chance to make it right. She has to write a Christmas-themed romance novel. Her publicist creates a Christmas Camp idea hosted by Luke, who is trying to sell his family’s Christmas cottage resort, and Riley will be the Miss Christmas host. Fans of her books will be coming to the cottage to spend a Christmas weekend with Riley while she comes up with new ideas for her book. With her secret ignorance of holiday traditions, and a mistaken interview comment that makes three of her ex-boyfriends think they are “the one that got away”, Riley has her hands full at Christmas Camp. Her exes have all shown up to reignite that romantic spark, and she must balance them, as well as her fans during her Christmas Camp experience. All while trying to create the perfect book.

This book was utterly fabulous. The descriptions of the Christmas decor were amazing. I want to go on my own Christmas Camp adventure now! Luke’s resort is the perfect mix of homey feel, and relaxed vacation atmosphere that you want in a get-away adventure. I loved how the author chose to describe the town, the decorations, the Christmas Lake and trees, and everything else. It was just an amazing creation of a book setting.

The characters were so well-developed. Riley is struggling with her lack of Christmas knowledge, her loss of romance in her life, the loss of her father, and these crazy feelings that she keeps having for Luke, the resort owner. When her exes come into the picture, she genuinely wants to see if there is a connection with the “one that got away” or if it’s the one in front of her now that she should go after. I loved her character arc throughout the story. We go on a ride with her romance adventures, watching her grow as she realizes what’s really important to her, but we also get to experience her growth and acceptance of her loss of Christmas spirit and how to get it back.

I want to talk a bit about the other characters because they were all SO fabulous. All the characters were so well-developed with their own backstories that we get to read about, and their own personalities to connect to. One of my favorites is the dog. Luke’s dog is amazing. He’s a bit anthropomorphized, but it made him so lovable.

Overall, I absolutely loved this book, and I highly recommend it!!

I loved this book! It was just what I needed to escape into a different time where COVID isn't happening, my kids aren't distance learning, and I can see my friends. What better place to escape to than a Christmas camp? I loved the snappy pace, the cute details (I want that dog!), and the Hallmark-ish plot. This is my first Schaler book, but I imagine I'll have read through all her books before COVID is over!

Thanks to NetGalley for the free book in exchance for an honest review.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3597898844

I love Christmas and Christmas stories. I really like how the main character changed from the beginning to the end. It was wonderful to see how close a community can work together and how traditions are important to continue for future generations. I also love a happy ending. This was a great book to read. We need more uplifting stories like this that give people hope for the future.

If you love Hallmark movies or classic romance stories set during the holidays, this book is such a cozy and perfect read for the holiday season. It incapsulates the magic and beauty of Christmas and I truly enjoyed reading it; it put me into the holiday spirit and mood instantly! The writing of this book is gorgeous and I love the lush descriptions and cozy feeling this book offers.

A cross between The Grinch and Mamma Mia!, Christmas Ever After is a wonderfully festive read, full of heart and Christmas spirit. This read is perfect for getting in the festive mood with snowball fights, Christmas baking, ugly jumpers and of course, some romance. I absolutely loved the setting of this book- it was cosy and so comforting to read. It was also great to see Riley Reynolds truly come around to Christmas, embracing the memories of her past, with some emotional moments.
This was my first book by Karen Schaler but now need to pick up all her other books as I am hooked!

I want to go to Christmas Camp!!!! Riley never celebrates Christmas and Luke's family makes Christmas wishes come true. Then as luck would have it, they have to work together to save Christmas Camp and get what they both need. If you are a fan of Hallmark Movies, The Bachelorette, and Christmas then this is the book for you. I can't wait to read more books by this author. I hope there is a Hallmark movie made from this book.

Book Review:

I received “Christmas Ever After” by Karen Schaler from Netgalley for my honest review.

Christmas for most is a magical time of year and so we meet Riley Reynolds an author who has been successful journalist, travel writer and writer of romantic novels but never a book about Christmas. Riley hasn’t celebrated Christmas since her dad passed away when she was 8 years old. Now Riley is thrown into an interview that her publisher Mike has set up to announce a Christmas Camp Event at a Lodge in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado where she will be running a weekend of fun to promote her future book relating to Christmas. Riley is in over her head since she has doesn’t celebrate Christmas. Luckily she has Luke Larchmont whose family owns the Lodge but Initially he’s not to thrilled with her behavior. You see Riley runs into a bit of trouble during the interview when she is asked about her love life which is nonexistent and ends up saying she has had a true love. Now Riley has had 3 great loves in her life but none presently. This angers Riley so much that she runs out on the second half of the interview and Luke is left to talk.

Well needless to say Luke and Riley work it out and Christmas Camp is magical. Events get planned and romance is in the air. Except who is this romance with? Riley’s 3 ex-boyfriends all show up to Christmas Camp believing they are the one true love. What will Riley do and does she still feel that “spark” with one of them. Well get on board and find out for yourselves lovers of Christmas Romance.

Verdict:

I love Christmas and romance so this book had me from the start. I love how descriptive of both the surroundings and the people Ms Schaler was in this beautiful novel. For those like me you will love this book. It’s a heartwarming of rediscovering Christmas and love. I give this book a 5/5 ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

What a fantastic romance. Well written plot and character dynamics. Can’t put this one down. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.

This is potentially the best Christmas book that I have ever read. It is a Hallmark movie meets the Bachelorette. It has an amazing cast of characters, a sweet romance, a beautiful small town and Christmas magic. I would love to see this as a movie, it is sure to be a fan favorite.

This is the PERFECT cozy Christmas read. I think we all need to get Karen Schaler a crown as the queen of Christmas literature! I will be purchasing this one for all of my friends to add to their "To Be Read" lists for the month of December.

This book is so heartwarming and beautiful to read, it truly got me feeling all festive and embracing the Christmas spirit as I got myself lost in the story.
The setting of Christmas lake sounds like a dream, somewhere magical and stunning that brings this christmas story to life.
And the Characters are all so wonderful and unique. Riley is so likeable and relatable at times, and following her journey as she begins to open her heart up to christmas again was heartwarming. Then there were the three ex boyfriends., each so different, but equally lovable in their own ways. And then, there is Luke. I found myself cheering him on from the start! I adored everything about this character, and as the relationship between himself and Riley blossomed as the story went along was beautiful.

A perfect Christmas read that has left me feeling all warm and happy inside. A definite must read!.

What a cute book!!! Definitely should be a movie!!! I loved how this was set in Colorado! Made me miss home! I would definitely go visit Christmas Lake if it was real and stay at the lodge.

Could you imagine all your ex's showing up to an event you are putting together!!! 😳😳 No thank you 🤣.

I loved all the traditions that were shared and the recipes!!! Omg I'm totally going to bake both!!!!

Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this book!

Oh my goodness! There are SO MANY things I love about this cozy little Christmas novel!!

The storyline follow Riley, a woman who does NOT connect with Christmas at all, and the need for her to host a Christmas Camp (yes, THE Christmas Camp cozy novel) at Christmas Lake Lodge. I mean, doesn't the name alone- Christmas Lake- make you want to visit??

So, I lost count of how many times I laughed out loud during this endearing novel. SO MANY cringe-ey hilarious and heartwarming moments for Riley.

I loved how much she grew as a character, and how her experiences show her there's more to life than what she "thinks" is important.

You don't have to have read Christmas Camp in order to read this novel- it does a great job of covering the basics, but if you think you want to read it, then start with CC and move your way to this one. :)

Enjoy, y'all! This is one of my favorites so far this year!

I love Christmas books. I love Christmas movies, especially Hallmark ones. They always leave me feeling so good. This book did not disappoint!
Riley is an author in trouble. Her last book missed it mark and now her publisher wants a Christmas romance. Should be easy except Riley doesn’t have a special person in her life and hasn’t celebrated Christmas since she was eight years old. What in the world was her team thinking when they set her up for a Christmas Camp with her fans and started marketing her as Miss Christmas?
Luke had grown up at Christmas Lake Lodge, but now his mom is retiring and has put the lodge up for sale. Hoping to get some publicity that leads to a better price, he agrees to cohost a final Christmas Camp. He wasn’t really into it but what son could say no when his mom was so happy about it?
Colin, Brendan, and Tyler are all ex-boyfriends of Riley’s. When she mentions on live tv that her romance novels are based on a past true love, each of them believes he is the one. They all show up for Christmas Camp and the chance to claim Riley’s heart. And you thought Christmas lights were the hardest thing to untangle at Christmastime!
This book was such a delight to read. It had all the feels. I love Christmas Camp. I want to attend one. If you are looking for some Christmas spirit, it can be found between the covers of this book. I loved the dilemma that Riley had. I enjoy the Christmas fun. The characters were mostly enjoyable, (Mike might be on the naughty list). The ending was a win for me.
Pick up a copy of Christmas Ever After, make some cookies and cocoa, turn the tree lights on and enjoy a feel good Christmas romance!
*I received an ecopy of this title from NetGalley for review consideration. I voluntarily reviewed this book. My review is based on my enjoyment and opinions of the book.*

This was an adorable holiday story. A light, quick and funny read, I would definitely read another book by Schaler. Just like reading a Hallmark movie!

This book is total rom-com material. And is a perfect Christmas read. I totally judge a book by its cover and this one did not disappoint, and fits into the story beautifully.

Riley Reynolds our MC hasn’t celebrated Christmas for years and has become something of a christmas grinch, trying to save her writing career she is sent to most Christmassy of places and forced to endure getting in the christmas spirit. The book is fully of warm lovely characters, great friendship and reminds us what the season is all about. Beautiful written and perfect book to enjoy by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa.

Thank you to Netgalley for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Another fun and charming Christmas romance from Karen. I have come to love her Christmas stories because they are always full of humor, romance and great characters and this one fits the bill perfectly. Riley was a great character and her predicament when all three of her exes show up to win her back was hilarious. Great Christmas read!!

This was such a cute holiday read that has the potential to be my favourite read of the season!

Beyond anything else, this novel has the most amazing setting which created the perfect atmosphere for a winter holiday read. In all honesty, that's only one small reason why I loved this book so much but I think it's the biggest reason for me. This story (and the setting) gave me all of the warmhearted feelings of winter and reminded me why I love the season.

I was nervous when the novel introduced a storyline similar to The Bachelorette but the drama involved did keep the novel entertaining. I will say though that this storyline (along with the three additional characters) was not my favourite part of the story but my enjoyment of the rest of the novel more than made up for it.

If you like a Hallmark movie, if you like a cheesy holiday romance, or if you just need something to get you into the spirit of the holidays...check this book out. From start to finish, this story filled me such warmth and had me smiling throughout.

***Thank you to HawkTale Publishing for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***

I just love Karen Schalers writing. It feels like home and excuses comfort and Christmastime. Reading her novels have come to be a seasonal rite of passage.

This is the second Christmas book I have read by Karen Schafer. I really like her writing style. She draws her readers in. I loved the ending. Her Christmas stories are filled with love, joy and understanding.

Christmas Ever After by Karen Schaler is a fun, charming, and hilarious read. The cast of characters make this book pop to life. I love how fiery the female protagonist is. However, she has a bit too much attitude for me to really say she's a great character to love. She is a great in the fact her flaws make her real. That's the best thing of all. The other main characters were more likable and interesting. I loved how Riley was described a a prima donna. She truly is one whether she thinks so or not. Finding true love, salvaging careers, and a piece of themselves-these characters have a lot happening in their world. It's engaging to read. I was hooked. I had to find out more. A woman who doesn't believe in Christmas at first finally finds her way back to it and the meaning of true love. In the end, Riley became the woman she was meant to be. Luke was an amazing hero. I loved him from the start. Every woman needs a man like Luke. Overall, this story was sweet and heartfelt. I recommend it to all.