Christmas in Evergreen: Tidings of Joy by Nancy Naigle

Nancy Naigle has become the Queen of taking Hallmark movies and translating them into book form. Despite the fact I’ve seen the movie, reading the book still feels as warm and cozy to me as if I didn’t know the story. I’d say that is the sign of a good writer.

In her latest book, we see Katie taking the scenic trip from New York City to the town of Evergreen (the setting of several other books and movies) by train. Katie is a writer looking to get some rest and relaxation and inspiration for a second book. On the train she meets Ben, a former NYC reporter turned Evergreen librarian who informs Katie the things that make Evergreen so special. It doesn’t take long for Katie to understand what Ben has told her, but is this place really too good to be true? After her editor mother requests Katie write an article on the town, will she be able to write with the critical eye that she requires? Having had several negative articles written by other journalists in the past, Ben is feeling very protective about the town he calls home.

Evergreen has a unique history, and this is the year that the town needs to find the key to opening the time capsule which was sealed up fifty years ago. This provides a context for the story which includes many activities we have associated with Christmas. The community absolutely loves Christmas, and eats and breathes it during the season. For those that have read any other books (or seen the Hallmark movies) set in Evergreen, you will understand the small town charm that oozes from its citizens: the reason why many that visit never leave.

I love to read these books and watch Christmas movies and 2020 only makes me want it more. I’d love to be transported to Evergreen for a stay and this book allows me to feel as though I have. The characters are well developed, likeable and the story engaging. Although this book is not officially part of a series, there is a history in Evergreen that continues from the earlier books. I love how several romances transpire during the length of the book and Hallmark really does this well. What I really appreciated, though, was the added bonus of the time capsule: what it unlocks is simply magical.

Thanks to Netgalley and Hallmark Publishing for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.

My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5.