Christmas in Eternity Springs Emily March

Published: HQN
Date: October 4th 2016
Format: e-ARC
Pages: 336
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: Publisher via NetGalley
Rating
                   

After a devastating betrayal, Claire Branham packs up the pieces of her life, along with a twenty-million-dollar secret, and moves to Eternity Springs. She opens a specialty shop—Forever Christmas—and, with the help of a surprise romance with the town’s sexy new handyman, Claire’s heart begins to heal. Until her past comes knocking…

Jax Lancaster never questioned the need to abandon his career as a Navy submariner in order to care for his young son in the wake of his ex-wife’s death. Desperate to help with this loss, Jax straps on a tool belt to give Nicholas the one thing he wants: A life in Eternity Springs. What Jax never expected to find a second chance at love with a fascinating woman for whom Christmas has become a business. But when the truth about Claire threatens their newfound happiness, can Jax prove to her that in Eternity Springs, the spirit of Christmas is real. . .and will last a lifetime?

Emily March again delighted me with another story set in Eternity Springs, her town in Colorado, where Celeste, the town angel, over sees and facilitates unobtrusively the healing of many a broken heart and person.

Christmas in Eternity Springs is #12 in the series, but don't let that put you off. This can easily be read as a stand alone. However I have read them all and loved every minute of it.

This is partly the story of Nicholas, a little boy traumatised by an accident that has left him afraid of all things Christmas. We actually met him in the previous book where he overcame a fear or two. When he and his Dad pass through Eternity Springs they meet up with the gorgeous red head, Claire. Jax, Nicholas' dad, is entranced at the first meeting.

However like many of the people who wind up in Eternity Springs they both have wounds and places that need healing. Claire has been taken for a ride by a scoundrel, and so she is leery of all things men. She no longer trusts and believes. As well, she has issues with Christmas because of previous experiences. She has some hidden talents and a secret that haunts her. Facing her dislike of Christmas she has opened a town store called Forever Christmas.

Jax is just re-establishing himself with Nicholas, he has been a navy Dad and so absent a lot. He is finding his way into fatherhood and a new life outside the navy. He has been burnt in his relationship with his previous wife - Nicholas' mother. Her family was wealthy and he felt somewhat threatened as well. He won't make the mistake of becoming involved with someone who has more money than him.

While this is a Christmas story it really tracks through the months leading up to Christmas, so perfect for reading now. If you feel a little blah about this festive time, this is a great read for you to renew your belief and love. If you love the season then it will just underline for you what the spirit of the season is all about.