Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill’s most prominent family, hasn’t been home for Christmas in years. He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him, and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life–unless he comes home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for … for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.
But Christmas in the country presents unforeseen surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled . . . and determined to have nothing to do with him.
Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, joyous songs, and divine hope, work its magic in his heart . . . and hers as well?
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Julie Klassen writes wonderful historical novels and this was a perfect Christmas read while I was on vacation this year (December 2021). I enjoyed seeing the character arcs of both the hero and heroine and the realistic romance that developed between them against the backdrop of the family Christmas season.
What a charming, delightful book! A perfect Christmas romance. I loved Richard and Arabella and had such fun watching them fall in love. But I confess that it was the orphan Jamie who completely stole my heart, which then made me love Richard even more because of the ways he helped the boy. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention Wally the terrier.
I loved returning to Ivy Hill for Christmas! It was fun to learn about English Christmas customs while enjoying this story. Julie did a great job showing the hero’s journey from a self-focused man to one who truly cares about others. The dog was a fun addition to the story. I’ve enjoyed all of Julie’s books, and I’m glad she gave us another visit to Ivy Hill and the wonderful characters there.
The beginning of the story is set in 1822 London. Richard Brockwell has chosen to live there rather than at Ivy Hill was his family. He’s a writer trying desperately to become published and rather a self-centered bachelor. When he goes home to Ivy Hill for the holiday he meets Arabella. She is put off by his reputation.
The story is one of growth in beliefs, second chances, and redemption. The romance portion of the story is sweet and well written. Richard comes to gripe with mistakes from his past and tries to start a new direction for his life.
The transformation of one character took me by surprise. There are a few twists to the story and the ending wrapped things up well. A very enjoyable read.
I received an ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily choose to review it.
A Regency Christmas to Delight Your Heart
Combining excellent characterization, sincere, effective faith elements without becoming preachy, and a story you want to savor, Julie Klassen ensured that my first book of hers will not be my last.
While Regency novels can be tiresomely predictable, not all are. In some ways, this one is no different. However, despite my saying that, there is nothing tiresome about An Ivy Hill Christmas. Instead, we’re treated to a realistic look at Regency nobility–all their faults and virtues.
One of the best things about this book is that despite being a novella, the story has rich layers that provide depth to a story that a weaker writer couldn’t have delivered. Brava! Indeed, characters are multi-faceted and while flawed, not irredeemable. The cast of characters is large without being cumbersome, and the author does credit to each one.
No, really. She does.
Although there were a few small things that I questioned historically, I doubt anyone would notice, and I suspect I am likely wrong. I didn’t look them up. Frankly, the story was so good and they were so minor that I didn’t care.
Thrilled to have been provided a review copy, I toss a delighted five stars like confetti without compulsion of any kind. In fact, I bought my own Kindle copy because it was on sale for just $1.59. Recommended for lovers of Austen, lovers of good historical fiction, and for lovers of fiction that “shows” the truth of Scripture in action instead of yammering on about it.
An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen is a delightful Christmas read. I loved every minute spent in this story. The pacing is perfect. The plot is highly engaging — so much so I could not put this book down. The characters are lovely. They are unique, endearing, and very, very memorable. I enjoyed following Richard as he navigates being with his family, dealing with his past, and reconciling his future. I also really enjoyed the sweet romances. They left me smiling from ear to ear. My most favorite aspect though is the witty dialogue. This story had me chuckling often because the subtle verbal jabs and the imagery conveyed through the diction is just excellent. An Ivy Hill Christmas is a joy to read and I’m so glad I took the time to escape into this story!
Richard’s character really pulled at my heartstrings. He hasn’t been the rake he once was for a very long time, but his reputation won’t stop preceding him. Everyone keeps treating him as he once was, refusing to believe or acknowledge that he is a changed man. Several times in this story a character will say something like, “I know who you [Richard] are … you are X.” But they say this after he just showed them he is no longer X anymore. It was so frustrating to me. No wonder Richard believes he is never deserving of forgiveness — no one ever lets anything go! It doesn’t help that Richard hides behind sarcasm and dry wit, but still, give the guy a break already. I thoroughly enjoyed Richard and Arabella’s journey to romance, but often she is the worst offender. She constantly judges Richard by what she thinks she knows even though his actions prove otherwise. There is a really good reality check in all this for me. Am I judging a loved one in my life by his or her past? Am I so comfortable keeping that person trapped in the persona they used to have I refuse to see the progress they’ve made even when it’s right in front of my face? And, worse of all, am I the reason why someone believes he/she can’t ever be forgiven for a past deed? This is some serious food for thought!
An Ivy Hill Christmas is a wonderful read. I truly enjoyed this story and highly recommend it. If you are a fan of Christmas lit, Historical Romances, or just plain superior storytelling, then this is the book for you!
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Julie Klassen, via Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. I also purchased a copy of this story in eBook form from Amazon.com on September 8, 2020, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The true character of a man
It has been some time since I last read a Julie Klassen book, and I was swiftly reminded why I once enjoyed her work. Her storytelling is engaging and thoughtful. An Ivy Hill Christmas was just that with a sprinkle of a Dickens A Christmas Carol, sans the ghosts.
A spoiled son returns home for Christmas but is faced with his past and all the perceived ideas about his life. Those events shaped how he chose to live his life, but people help shed light on those moments(his ghosts). He soon lets his guard down and we begin to see the true character of the man and hope is restored. At least it was for me.
His story could also be your story. How many times do we believe something is true only based on what we see but have never taken the time to ask questions? What about those times that we hold a grudge because someone did something to a friend or loved one? This is why it is pivotal to wait, ask, and then pray before we start making judgments on others. This is what we are commanded to do as Believers—lay our cares at Christ’s feet.
**I was given a copy of this book from the publisher through CelebrateLit. The views expressed are my own and a positive review is not required.
Take me back to Ivy Hill any day, especially a day during the Christmas season where I can roam the quaint streets with old friends. Sharing a history with these authentic, loveable characters draws me to the pages. In my mind I leap onto the well-worn paths and country roads into the familiar homes with ease.
Klassen exposes some delightful Christmas traditions involving baskets filled to overflowing, caroling, giving, and including less fortunate people that spark a yearning to share.
Even while participating in the Christmas glitter and coverings, the characters cannot mask the ever-present problems of finances, work, society, politics, and relationships. Sound familiar? They are part of our lives today. For a needed retreat from the imposed solitude of today, go to the quaint, but far from perfect, life in Ivy Hill. Honestly, I want to return to this place often.
This was my first introduction to Julie Klassen’s Tales from Ivy Hill series. I found the book to be quite enjoyable. I would compare it to Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. A story of charity, care, and redemption. One that is quite memorable and the reader won’t want to put down. Well done, Julie Klassen.
I loved the sense of participating in the Regency era through likable characters, whose deeper complexity is gradually revealed. The novella proved to be an early Christmas treat.
I loved reading one more story set in Ivy Hill! We get to catch up with our favorite characters and see how life has been for them. This book is so well written. I felt like I was right there with the characters the whole time. I definitely loved this Christmas novella!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Title: An Ivy Hill Christmas: A Tales from Ivy Hill Novella
Author: Julie Klassen
Pages: 224
Year: 2020
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
Arabella Awdry is the vicar’s daughter and has had a crush on Richard Brockwell for years until one fateful day when she overhears a conversation between some young men and discovers what Richard really thinks of her. She now wants nothing to do with him. Ten years later when he returns to Ivy Hill in much reduced circumstances and no longer a member of the aristocracy, she keeps her distance. She knows he is looking for a rich woman to wed. She deems it her job to protect these women from his conniving ways. She won’t allow them to be used for their money, so she sets out to ruin his reputation.
Richard Brockwell is still reeling from his removal from the aristocracy. He was forced to move from his home and move in with his mother. He has no source of income, except what his mother gives him. No woman of the aristocracy wants to marry him, and he has no skills to earn an income. So, he sees his only option is to marry one of the local women who has money of her own. He is met with fierce opposition in the form of Arabella Awdry. Why does she dislike him so much? Thank goodness she doesn’t have any money, or he might be forced to consider her as a future bride.
I have not read any of the other books in this series, but this novella was certainly enjoyable. I loved the rumors Arabella created about Richard; they were hilarious! I liked looking underneath the layer of an aloof man displayed to the world to find the generous one. The romance is fairly predictable but still very entertaining. I hope to read more books in this series as this one piqued my curiosity.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
real rating 4.5
This book was on my Christmas TBR this year, and to be honest, I was so looking forward to reading it. I love regency romances with happy endings, so I knew this one wouldn’t let me down, even more, it being about Christmas. Plus, I’ve been wanting to read Julie Klassen for a while now. So, perfect timing.
Well, as expected I did love it. I loved the main characters and love that it wasn’t just about the love story but about other things too, and loved the side stories too. However, I would have liked just a bit more romance between the main characters, that’s the only reason I don’t give it 5 stars.
I find the book perfect for Christmas season and to officially declare that Christmas season has begun! I’m definitely going to read more Julie Klassen in the near future.
If you’re looking for a book to start Christmas season look no longer. Go grab a copy, a hot tea or chocolate, a blanket and get cozy for this regency Christmas romance.
This isn’t just another book in the Ivy Hill series, it is so very well written that it could also be a stand alone book. Julie takes us back to the little village of Ivy Hill and unwraps another love triangle. Now that we’ve been introduced to some new characters, we need to know how the story continues, please.
I highly recommend this author and the Tales from Ivy Hill.
Spoil alert: there’s a recipe at the end!
An Ivy Hill Christmas is a novella included as part of the Tales from Ivy Hill series by Julie Klassen. While I had a hard time liking Richard Brockwell for the first part of the book, he slowly redeemed himself through his actions later on. I found myself wondering if someone could change their nature that way, but I gave him the benefit of the doubt. Arabella Awdry, on the other hand, seemed to be generous and charitable from the start. It was interesting to see their relationship change and grow.
I thought the epilogue was a little strange and that it would have been better to include it in the main part of the book instead. 3.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this story! I have only read book one of this series, yet did not have any trouble enjoying An Ivy Hill Christmas.
The author did a great job showing how the main character, Richard, changed so much from the self-centered man that he was at the beginning of the story. It was neat to be able to walk through this novel and see as his eyes were opened as to how he needed to treat people, what true forgiveness is, and the true significance of Christmas.
(4.5 stars)
Julie Klassen’s sweet historical romances are absolutely delightful! I am familiar with a few Ivy Hill residences, but this is the first time I’ve read one of the books and lets just say it did not disappoint and I will be reading the rest of the series.
Richard Brockwell is commanded by his mother to join the family and their guests for Christmas, really left with no choice he leaves for the country. He doesn’t see much of a point in being there, doesn’t want to face the memories and home, and most certainly doesn’t want to be around any marriageable females, or their mothers. Arabella Awdry is of quite the same mind, set on not marrying and leading her own life-though her future will be more centered around charity works while Richard’s is around himself. But the Christmas season, Ivy Hill and their families have a different plan for their Christmas holiday together. With a little bit of Christmas magic, trust in God and loving friends and family hearts are softened, futures change and opportunities present themselves.
One thing I love about the last couple chapters of this book, and the epilogue, is that they aren’t rushed. Klassen gives these delightful characters the time they need to come to God, and find themselves before they really open their eyes and hearts to love. There is something about a story that takes it’s time like this and it makes the love story that much sweeter.
An Ivy Hill Christmas is a charming read at Christmas time, but really could be read any time of the year because of the wonderful themes and reminders throughout. Klassen uses her Christmas story to convey beautiful messages about personal relationships with God, speaking about and treating others kindly, serving others and so much more. These themes come together along with the well written characters to form a wonderful story. I’m excited to dive into the rest of the series now!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author(s) via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Visiting Ivy Hill at Christmas was great for the imagination. Having read the previous books, catching up with old friends and meeting new ones was fun and festive. It felt like I was stepping into the Victorian English countryside and experiencing the twelve days of Christmas traditions with the characters. A fun read.
Richard Brockwell is a cad. And quite frankly, he doesn’t care. The only reason that he is going home for Christmas is because his family cut off his money supply.
What he didn’t plan on was having his eyes opened to the hurting world around him. A young orphaned apprentice who was being mistreated. His coworker who lost his business. His late best friend’s family who due to various circumstances were now destitute. Even his young nephew plays a roll in helping him to see that there is more to the world than his existence.
Arabella Awdry is not convinced the Richard could ever change. She wants to make a difference in the world. The Richard she meets again fits the playboy persona.
This book is about transformation. Not only Richard’s but also Arabella’s. They both soon learn that a thousand small ways of making a difference matter more than grand gestures.
I had not read any books in the Ivy Hill series. Characters did seem to overlap. If one read the three prior books, they might appreciate this story even more. But I was able to easily follow along. I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well-developed, and the English Christmas customs were definitely fascinating.
Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for allowing me to read an ARC copy through NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own.
I’ll preface this review by saying that I did not read the others in the Ivy Hill series. Yet. That being said, I love so much how Julie’s writing pulls me into the family dynamics and the setting. I felt the cold, I felt the tension between the characters, and I felt like I wanted to be cozied up to the fire as it all happened in front of me.
Richard seems like a spoiled son of the gentry. He’s aimless and has yet to settle down. He decides to leaves London and go home for Christmas. Not is as it appears to be, both with Richard and with his family.
This read as a novel despite it’s shorter length. I can always count on Julie to deliver a heart-warming historical read.
Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for an advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.