Christmas at the Sleigh Café

by Melinda Curtis

I was delighted that Christmas at the Sleigh Café met my expectations for a Melinda Curtis clean and sweet romance with some serious themes. This was a quick read for me because I was enjoying it so much. The story takes place in Christmas Mountain, Montana. Allie Jameson has not made her fame or fortune in New York City as her family expected. She is passionate about dancing, but bad breaks, including one in her foot, have led to a bus ride back home to regroup. She is met by her long time best friend, Nick, a trained chef who has also returned to Christmas Mountain to help his family and decide on his future.

Allie quickly becomes involved in helping others as a barista at Nick’s family’s coffee shop, a substitute dance teacher, and a designer in setting up her mother’s new business. Nick is always there to support Allie as she works through various issues, but what is it that Nick wants out of life? Is friendship really enough for either of them or might a kiss destroy that friendship?

Christmas at the Sleigh Café is a wonderful story to read at Christmas time, but the themes and issues are relevant all year long. I recommend this book for characters, setting and plot. These elements merit at least four stars, but my enjoyment of the book, including Allie’s inner dialogue and the gentle humor, ramp it up to 5 stars for me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Rating: 5/5

Category: Romance, Women’s Fiction

Notes: I realized when writing my review that this book is part of a multi-author series, the Christmas Mountain Romance Series. It seemed like a standalone to me so I recommend it even for readers who have not been following this series.

Publication: October 25, 2022—Franny Beth Books

Memorable Lines:

“And I suspect my time as a dancer is over.” The words cut me. They cut inside where I kept my dreams wrapped in gossamer wings.

“As for the meaning of life…” He shrugged. “I think it’s to be kind to one another, find something you’re passionate about, and love someone.”

I stumbled as I turned, probably tripping over pieces of my heart. I couldn’t see for the tears that suddenly filled my eyes.