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I believe this book contains two novellas previously published and now combined into this book, though I haven't read enough of this author to know for sure. A friend sent me this book in a box of books.

I enjoyed "All is Calm" more than "All is Bright" and since Bright is the second novella, that made it harder to want to read it.

We aren't told if Lauren's payment for the horse was considered acceptable by the horse's former owner. I guess it was since there was never any talk of horse-napping or stealing in the reasons that law enforcement wanted to talk to her.

Bluebird Ranch sounds like an ideal place for troubled and traumatized kids--and adults too, apparently.

I didn't really guess who was behind the problems in either novella. That's often the norm for me, so your experience may vary. ( )

2 short stories that are perfect for Christmas! Both are love stories with suspense.

In All Is Calm, Lauren is in trouble after a hockey at the stable she works at ends up dead. Someone is still out after her and Brendan, a Special Ops Intel man helps her to find out who is responsible. Lauren and Brendan become close long the way.

In All Is Bright, Delilah, manager of Tidewater Inn is being pursued by someone out to get revenge. The Sheriff, Tom does all he can to protect her and find out who is behind the attacks. There is no denying that Delilah and Tom have chemistry.

I was provided this book courtesy of publisher Thomas Nelson and The Fiction Guild in exchange for my honest review.
( )

Colleen Coble has done it again, she keeps me turning the pages until there are no more, and then I can’t wait for her next book.
These are novellas from two of previous book settings, the Bluebird Ranch and Tidewater Inn, and yes we have met some of these characters before, so you are in for a real treat.
There is romance, weddings, and reuniting with old friends, and of course, danger around each corner, and not know where it is coming from. Who or whom would want to kill these sweet people? It takes awhile to find out, and while there are a few hints along the way, you still keep wondering and hoping no one we love will be murdered.
Pick this one up for a time when you want to savor and have a little time for reading, you can read each one in a single sitting, but all can be read alone. Enjoy.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson and was not required to give a positive review. ( )

A special thank you to Thomas Nelson-Fiction and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Talented storyteller, Colleen Coble delivers two delightful Christmas holiday novellas in one charming book, All is Calm (Lonestar Series) and All is Bright (Hope Beach Series) —packaged with a beautiful holiday cover, to add some spice to your holidays. For fans of both intriguing mystery, and romantic suspense--with holiday settings.

I tend to pick a few Christmas books for the holiday-- with a mix of mystery, romantic suspense, and thrillers, to get you in the mood for the upcoming season. I read the novella back in October; however, with holiday books, I typically wait and post my reviews in December, to keep them fresh in reader’s minds as we approach the season.

All is Bright

As a big Colleen Coble fan, I have read all the books in the Hope Beach Series (highly recommend), --was excited yo catch up with familiar characters at the coastal Tidewater Inn, from previous books included in All is Bright.

Both stories are equally intriguing; however, I probably enjoyed this one more, due the bed and breakfast, the beach setting, the mystery, as well as enjoyed seeing Tom and Delilah finally get together. Even though this is a novella, the suspense and mystery is as captivating as a full length novel. Also a sneak peak for readers of Seagrass Pier (Hope Beach #3) A great story of Elin and Marc.

There are many surprises awaiting for Delilah. Bittersweet, she has to face her fears from the past, in order to move on with her future; while allowing others into her personal life.

As always, Coble writes with vivid descriptions, drawing you into the picturesque setting, with a nice escape to this coastal seaside town for the holidays and an upcoming wedding. In addition, she includes a reader’s guide and discussion questions for both stories.

All is Calm

All is Calm was a great introduction for me, not having read any of the Lonestar Series. Also set in an idyllic setting – a ranch in Texas and a haven for many lost souls. We we meet Lauren, who is trying to escape danger (a witness to a murder). She decides Bluebird Ranch is a perfect choice, especially close to Christmas time.

She had spent a life-changing summer there twelve years ago when she was seventeen. It was a terrific ranch that paired abused children with abused horses. When she was a foster kid, the place had been the one bright spot for her. There was always a place there for a good horse and a hard worker. She grabs Angel, the horse and leaves.

Special Ops, Brendan Waddell always considered the Bluebird Ranch a little piece of heaven, as the Christmas lights welcomes him. He was visiting his old friends - always Uncle Brendan for the children, and offering him some time to recuperate with his injury.

Both Brendan and Lauren are looking for a safe haven. He is spending time with an old friend; however, he senses Lauren is running from something. He sees the darkness in her eyes and suffering. He has to find out what is going on. Being in the law enforcement business he has a way of finding out people’s past.

Soon he discovers Dustin’s death and the events surrounding Lauren's situation. Lauren just wanted to get Angel away. However, the two hit it off with their own tragedies, for a budding Christmas romance at Bluebird Ranch. A mystery is uncovered with a happy ending.

Highly recommend for holiday gifts, or your own guilty reading (double) the pleasure! If you have not read Colleen Coble, an author to follow, and one to add to your reading list. ( )