Review of The Christmas Tree Farm by Laurie Gilmore
There’s something truly magical about cozy winter reads that transport you to picturesque towns filled with their own charm and quirks. That’s exactly what drew me to Laurie Gilmore’s latest offering, The Christmas Tree Farm. As a lover of all things holiday and romance, I was completely enamored by the quirky premise of a grumpy woman buying a Christmas tree farm in a town that seems ripped straight from a holiday postcard. Given that this is the third installment in the Dream Harbor series, I couldn’t help but dive into this seasonal delight with a cup of hot cocoa in hand.
At the heart of The Christmas Tree Farm is Kira North, a character who embodies the grumpiness of a holiday season she refuses to embrace. After a hasty purchase of a Christmas tree farm in the excessively picturesque Dream Harbor, Kira is thrown into a world where fairy lights twinkle, and hot cocoa is abundant. Enter Bennett Ellis, a man seeking a break from his chaotic life and unexpectedly caught in a snowstorm at Kira’s farm. Their contrasting personalities—a classic grumpy/sunshine dynamic—lead to some genuinely humorous moments and a tension that keeps the pages turning.
Gilmore crafts a narrative filled with relatable struggles, especially around themes of healing and finding oneself amidst family dynamics and expectations. I found myself rooting for Kira’s growth as she navigated her internal conflicts, and I appreciated how Bennett, the proverbial sunshine hero, doesn’t shy away from challenging her assumptions. Their banter is sharp and heartfelt, offering delightful comic relief that felt reminiscent of classic romcoms.
What really stood out to me was Gilmore’s writing style—refreshingly simple yet layered with emotional depth. The pacing is spot-on for a cozy read; it’s engaging without feeling rushed, allowing for those heartwarming moments to breathe. My favorite scene? A cozy blanket fort built during the forced proximity of the snowstorm, which serves up both warmth and an undeniable spark between Kira and Bennett.
Readers have embraced the story with comments like “the vibes of the small town were immaculate” and “a charming break from reality” that resonate well with my own experience. The delightful quotes that pepper the narrative add to the charm, creating a cozy ambiance that left me dreaming of holiday romances.
As we wrap up our journey in Dream Harbor, I can confidently say that The Christmas Tree Farm is a delightful read not just for those who enjoy winter-themed romances but also for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a heartwarming story. With its balance of humor, budding romance, and personal growth, it’s perfect for readers seeking both cozy and spicy tales.
So, if you’re hoping to get swept away by some holiday spirit this season, grab a warm drink, settle in by the fire, and let Kira and Bennett guide you through a snowy escapade that just might thaw your Grinch-like heart. Happy reading! 🎄✨