The Christmas Catch

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts.

This was my first Toni Shiloh book, and it was a great introduction to her work. I'm eager to read more–and soon!

Second-chance romances are hit or miss for me, and this one was a big hit. Bebe was a delightful leading lady. I loved how much she loved her daughter and wanted the very best for her. She had a crazy ex-husband, yet she wanted so much for him to show up for their daughter. Jahleel, who mostly went by Jay, had some tough lessons to learn, and he was growly about them, but he had some redeeming qualities. I especially liked how chivalrous he was. That is one of my favorite qualities in a man, and it was well highlighted in this novella. Seeing Bebe and Jay come together and re-explore, but in new ways, the love they once shared was wonderful.

“... the twirling action of the skirt was plain fun.” Yeeeeesss! We girls still love a twirly dress after we become women. Cherish the child inside, y'all! May we always retain a bit of whimsy. I love that this author featured this moment. It's not something I see often, though it's something I feel every single time I put on one of my twirly dresses or skirts. Well done, Mrs. Shiloh!

“When we place man's limitations on God, His promises seem impossible. When we remember He is perfect, just, and loving, then His promises shine like the truth they are.” So true! I love, love, love this line. Everything, especially promises, is possible with God, y'all.

I was disappointed in only one line: “She was like a gorgeous Mary Poppins.” I understand the sentiment. Bebe was really, really pretty. However, I also believe that Julie Andrews and Emily Blunt, the two women who have portrayed Mary Poppins in movies, are really, really pretty, and they did spectacular jobs as the exceptional nanny, too! This is a complete reader-preference thing, as I'm sure this line won't bother many other readers. It just felt noteworthy to me because I'm so fond of Mary Poppins. The Mrs. Andrews version was a part of my childhood, and the Mrs. Blunt version was a charming addition later on.

I'm eager to read another of Toni Shiloh's books later this year. Any suggestions on which one to pick first?

Content: one crude sexual term, one tattoo