Rating: ★★★★★

Genre: Holiday Romance / Cosy Mystery

Available On: Amazon

Laurie Gilmore wraps readers in the festive magic of Dream Harbor once again with The Christmas Tree Farm, the third book in the charming series that began with The Pumpkin Spice Café, and continue with The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. As someone who loves a grumpy-sunshine romance with a hint of festive mystery (so much so that I’m actually halfway through plotting one of my own as a future instalment of The Cheshire Set!) I found the latest in the series utterly delightful.

The Christmas Tree Farm Summary

Kira North, seeking a fresh start away from her privileged upbringing in Georgia, buys a rundown farmhouse in Dream Harbor, only to discover it comes with a Christmas tree farm. Determined to prove her independence, she faces the challenges of restoring the farm, all while grappling with her disdain for Christmas. Bennett Ellis, on a break from his life in California, arrives in Dream Harbor to visit his sister and escape a series of failed relationships. Their paths cross when Bennett, accompanied by his three dogs, trespasses onto Kira’s property, leading to a tense yet intriguing first meeting. As the town’s festive activities unfold, Kira and Bennett find themselves drawn together, uncovering not only the secrets buried within the farm but also a deep connection that challenges their perceptions of love and independence.

The mystery element in The Christmas Tree Farm revolves around the previous owner’s buried secrets on the farm. This includes discovering long-lost love letters and uncovering conspiracies tied to the property. The townsfolk, along with Bennett and Kira, investigate what the owner may have hidden, adding intrigue and adventure to the romantic storyline. This subplot intertwines with the characters’ personal growth and deepens their connection as they work together to solve the mystery.

Themes and Character Development

The Christmas Tree Farm delves into themes of self-reliance, vulnerability, and the courage to embrace change. Kira’s journey from a guarded, independent woman to someone who learns the value of community and accepting help is both relatable and inspiring. Bennett’s character offers a refreshing take on the “sunshine” archetype; his patience and unwavering support highlight the strength found in kindness. Their evolving relationship underscores the beauty of finding balance between independence and partnership.

The residents of Dream Harbor add depth and warmth to the narrative. Jeanie’s continued presence ties the series together, while new characters, including Bennett’s trio of dogs, infuse humour and charm. The town itself, with its holiday festivities and close-knit community, serves as a character, enveloping readers in a cosy, festive atmosphere.

Romance Tropes in The Christmas Tree Farm

Trope Count: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Laurie Gilmore masterfully employs beloved romance tropes, enhancing the story’s appeal:

Grumpy x Sunshine: The dynamic between Kira’s gruff exterior and Bennett’s cheerful demeanour creates engaging tension and delightful interactions.

Small Town Setting: Dream Harbor’s idyllic charm fosters a sense of intimacy, with townsfolk whose meddling and support add layers to the romance.

Forced Proximity: Circumstances continually bring Kira and Bennett together, from shared responsibilities on the farm to town events, allowing their relationship to develop organically.

One Bed: A classic setup that leads to moments of vulnerability and closeness, propelling their emotional connection forward.

Holiday Romance: The festive backdrop of a snow-covered Christmas tree farm and the town’s holiday traditions create a magical atmosphere, making the romance even more enchanting.

How Spicy Is The Christmas Tree Farm?

Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️

The novel balances cosy romance with tasteful intimacy. The chemistry between Kira and Bennett is palpable, with scenes that are tender and evocative without overshadowing the story’s warmth. Readers who appreciate emotional depth complemented by subtle spice will find this book satisfying.

Final Thoughts on The Christmas Tree Farm

The Christmas Tree Farm is a heart-warming addition to the Dream Harbor series, encapsulating the magic of the holiday season through themes of love, community, and personal growth. Kira and Bennett’s story is all about the transformative power of connection and the joy that can be found in unexpected places. Laurie Gilmore’s storytelling continues to enchant, making this novel a perfect companion for cosy winter nights.

All that being said, these books really do live up to their twee titles. Personally, I enjoy the almost-sickly-sweetness of these novels, but I can well understand it wouldn’t be to everyone’s taste. The town itself lives up to the name; there’s something dreamlike about the small town setting and all the shops, people and situations in it (it’s much like Virgin River in that respect, but I love that series too!. It’s supposed to be that was, it’s purposeful, and I love it. But if you’re not a fan of slightly contrived, a bit kitsch setups, these might not be your cup of tea.

For fans of the series and newcomers alike, this book offers a delightful escape into a world where love and holiday spirit intertwine seamlessly. As I eagerly await the next instalment, The Strawberry Patch Pancake House, I find myself once again charmed by the residents of Dream Harbor and their heart-warming tales.