An Ivy Hill Christmas

Written by Julie Klassen

Narrated by Elizabeth Jasicki

Spend a festive Christmas in the English village of Ivy Hill, as divine hope, friendship, and unexpected
romance work their magic. …

Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill’s most prominent family, hasn’t been home for Christmas in years.
He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him,
and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life—unless he comes
home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and
his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.

But Christmas in the country presents many surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first
love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled—and
determined to have nothing to do with him.

Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, and joyous songs, change his heart … and
hers as well?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 1, 2020
• ISBN: 9781980087908

Julie Klassen

Julie Klassen (www.julieklassen.com) loves all things Jane--Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing's Best Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full-time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota. For more information, visit julieklassen.com.

Reviews for An Ivy Hill Christmas

[Sam Ashish · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The writer really captured the feeling of christmas in this book, both the writer and narrator are really talented. Great story and great narration. Clean romance story.

[cheryl · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Great Christmas story for the era but a little predictable

[Regan Deppe Willers · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A perfect Christmas love story! Similar to an Austin novel, charming and lovely to read!

[Tania Rook · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

Like a first year literature student's remake of Scrooge, Pride and Prejudice and Oliver Twist. Characters you already know in slightly different settings. What a sham.

[lamb521 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Title: An Ivy Hill Christmas: A Tales from Ivy Hill NovellaAuthor: Julie KlassenPages: 224Year: 2020Publisher: Bethany House PublishersMy rating is 4 out of 5 stars.Arabella Awdry is the vicar’s daughter and has had a crush on Richard Brockwell for years until one fateful day when she overhears a conversation between some young men and discovers what Richard really thinks of her. She now wants nothing to do with him. Ten years later when he returns to Ivy Hill in much reduced circumstances and no longer a member of the aristocracy, she keeps her distance. She knows he is looking for a rich woman to wed. She deems it her job to protect these women from his conniving ways. She won’t allow them to be used for their money, so she sets out to ruin his reputation.Richard Brockwell is still reeling from his removal from the aristocracy. He was forced to move from his home and move in with his mother. He has no source of income, except what his mother gives him. No woman of the aristocracy wants to marry him, and he has no skills to earn an income. So, he sees his only option is to marry one of the local women who has money of her own. He is met with fierce opposition in the form of Arabella Awdry. Why does she dislike him so much? Thank goodness she doesn’t have any money, or he might be forced to consider her as a future bride.I have not read any of the other books in this series, but this novella was certainly enjoyable. I loved the rumors Arabella created about Richard; they were hilarious! I liked looking underneath the layer of an aloof man displayed to the world to find the generous one. The romance is fairly predictable but still very entertaining. I hope to read more books in this series as this one piqued my curiosity.Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.

[maydacat_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This lovely tale transports readers back to a time quite different from today. Every age has a unique set of challenges, and it was enlightening as well as entertaining to get a peek into the lives of these characters. Richard is coming home for Christmas, bringing his friend, a publisher, with him. Both are skating on the edge of financial difficulties, hoping for time to regroup. The old homestead has other guests who add to the merriment of the season. Richard also makes the acquaintance of an orphan, a printer’s apprentice, whose young life is about to take a turn for the worse. Love is in the air for more than one couple, but it is challenged by mistakes in judgments and lack of communication. The novel is well written, both in plot and character development as well as setting the scene. I would be hard pressed to select a favorite character, but the young apprentice is likely to touch your heart. This is a charming story, for Christmas or really, anytime.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is a wonderfully sweet and fun Christmas romance. I loved getting to hear about some of the characters from previous stories based in Ivy Hill. This is a quick read and it teaches Richard some very good lessons about life. I enjoyed Murray also. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

How about a visit to Ivy Hill during Christmas? What could be better than a visit to a small English village during this special time of year? Most people would love this trip but Richard Brockwell is there only because his mother has demanded that he come home. Richard's life in Ivy Hill hasn't always been pleasant so you can bet that he plans to return to London as soon as possible but then....he meets Arabella Awdry and his perspective changes. An Ivy Hill Christmas is a delightful Christmas novella set during the Regency era and Klassen gives us all of the joys and 'feel-goods' of this special time of year, including Christmas caroling, mistletoe, kissing boughs, and giving baskets to those who are less fortunate. She also reminds us that forgiveness is the greatest gift that we can give or receive and God's love and grace are available for all! There is also a wonderful romance and I recommend it to all who enjoy Christmas stories and Christian Regency fiction.I received a copy of this book from the author and Celebrate Lit. A favorable review wasn't required and no monetary compensation was given. These are my own thoughts.

[stardust_fiddle · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Not only is this the first book I’ve read in the Tales from Ivy Hill series, it also appears to be the first novel I’ve read by Julie Klassen, although I have definite plans to read more of her work in the near future. It should be noted that this book can be read as a standalone, with no difficulty in understanding the plot or identifying the characters, since Klassen tactfully introduces them. In many cases, Regency stories are usually a turn-off for me, particularly if they are romances, and I am numbered among the seemingly rare few who is not a great fan of Jane Austen’s books. They are just not, personally, my cup of tea. However, I did love this novella!With the perfect blend of social concern and spiritual well-being, “An Ivy Hill Christmas” makes a wonderful book for a snowy afternoon. On the frontispiece, there is a black-and-white map of Ivy Hill to give readers a mental image of where some of the story’s main locations are in relationship to one another. But as the village remains close-knit, the residents of Brockwell Court do not. Most notably, Richard Brockwell is nearly 30 years old and lives as a rakish bachelor in London, enjoying himself and fitting into an archetype of a young Ebenezer Scrooge who thinks of no one but himself. “Richard was, he knew, a selfish creature. A person could not change his nature, his very heart, could he? He thought not.” Coerced into returning to Brockwell Court for the Christmas holidays, he vows to remain firm against his mother’s desire for him to marry and settle down into a respectable life. Until the Christmas guests arrive, and Arabella Awdry steps through the door. This is a character-driven novel, and it is the secondary characters whom I find to be the most entertaining and insightful. Wally, the little terrier, stole my heart immediately, particularly with how Richard dresses him up each day. Pickering, Richard’s steward, has a dry sort of humor that I find surprising and at times hilarious. Richard’s brother and sister-in-law manage Brockwell Court compassionately and efficiently, a task Richard has no desire to become responsible for as the second son. However, the more he sees acts of kindness performed toward the less fortunate in conjunction with the fate of a childhood friend, the more he begins to look beyond himself to see the world of need that exists. He is struck by the thought “That the heavenly Father would willingly send His Son into a harsh, fallen, and dangerous world? Astounding.” From that launching point, he finds the motivation and inspiration to confront and seek to rectify injustice, surprising himself along the way and prodding us, too, into action. No gift of kindness is too small when it comes from a heart reflecting the Savior’s love.I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

[eamace · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

He is small but ever so brave. - Richard when thinking of JamieWhat an incredible introduction to Ivy Hill! I most certainly will be looking for the rest of the story as they say. Richard Brockwell appears to be a self-centered, rather spoiled young man that has nothing positive to show, except that novel he has written that is regularly refused and returned by publishers. Since his return to Ivy Hill for Christmas is required, he decides long before to be less than amiable with the other guests. Interesting how things can change...Is it fate or God that young Jamie has ties to a charity that Richard refuses to donate to? Can Richard change his ways and become a self-respecting person, one that others would seek to spend time with? The author uses rich detail to take the reader out into the snowy weather and on walks through the woods. You can almost smell the trees, hear the fire crackling and the snow squeaking as you read. I look forward to learning more about this family.This ARC was received through Baker Publishing Group, Bethany House Publishers, NetGalley and CelebrateLit. The comments and impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

[lifeofliterature · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Julie Klassen is a gifted storyteller, and it did not take many pages for me to be swept into the holiday cheer of Regency England in this novella. I liked the characters a lot, especially Arabella, (and, yes, eventually even Richard) and was impressed with their development and growth in the short novella. I enjoy stories where characters have a background as friends first and really enjoyed their interactions. I like the historical aspect of the story and the descriptions of Regency-era Christmas traditions. There is good integration of second chances and forgiveness as well. You do not need to read the entire Ivy Hill series to enjoy this novella but you will definitely encounter familiar characters by reading the rest of the series. I really liked reading this novella and highly recommend it!I received a complimentary ecopy of this book from Celebrate Lit Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[meganleigh844 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

“An Ivy Hill Christmas” by Julie Klassen is a companion novella to her “Tales from Ivy Hill” trilogy. It can also be read as a standalone. I have absolutely loved her “Tales from Ivy Hill” novels! They remind me of the show “Lark Rise to Candleford” or any show with a small, English village set in the country where all the residents know one another. I became so invested in Ms. Klassen’s characters that I was so delighted to hear I would be able to visit Ivy Hill once more through this novella. This book is everything a lover of Regency stories would want in a Christmas novella. It includes all the traditions and customs of the time and just has that “olde Christmas” feel to it. I was delighted to once again meet some of my favorite characters and get to know some new ones. My Jane Austen loving heart was excited to pick up hints or nods to “Pride and Prejudice” and “Emma” throughout Ms. Klassen’s novella. Of course, Ms. Klassen always includes beautiful sentiments and lessons. This story has lessons on forgiveness and on learning that a person is valuable and significant just as they are.The characters of “An Ivy Hill Christmas” are well done, and I did not feel like the story was too rushed, as is often the case with novellas. I especially love Richard, our main character. I appreciated his transformation from a bit of a “bad boy” bachelor to a sweet and caring man. Of course, there is romance and a bit of a love triangle as well. I honestly went back and forth on who I wanted Richard to end up with. I invite you to grab some mulled cider, your favorite blanket, start a warm fire and cozy up with this book. You will be transported to an idyllic country village during a 19th century Christmas.Happy Christmas!Content: This book is pretty much a clean read. Some examples of the content are: people drink alcohol and smoke pipes; someone curses, but the words aren’t actually written; mention of a woman’s bosom; a man had a mistress; a person has a past of sleeping with women before marriage; a boy is physically abused.Rating: I give this book 5 Christmas bells.I want to thank Julie Klassen, Bethany House, NetGalley and Celebrate Lit for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.

[anne_rightler-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

An Ivy Hill Christmas is a captivating addition to the Tales from Ivy Hill series written by Julie Klassen. Having read this author before, I was hoping for a good holiday read and I was not disappointed. The characters were great--evocative, vibrant, and likable. The story gripped me right from the start and just got better and better as the characters interacted and, of course, with a delightful romance set in a beautiful English village setting. I loved the depiction of a Regency-era Christmas and all the English traditions. The author has deftly woven a message of grace and forgiveness throughout the story. An Ivy Hill Christmas is a delightful Regency romance and readers who enjoy sweet Christmas romances won't want to miss this novella.I received a complimentary copy of this book via CelebrateLit. A favorable review was not required, and opinions are my own. This review is part of a CelebrateLit blog tour.

[eccl-3 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen takes place in England in 1822. Richard has gone home for Christmas to learn the home he has been living in is being sold and his mother is encouraging him to rekindle his relationship with Arabella. Richard has secrets he has been hiding from his family that come out while he is visiting that affect his future.This is a fun to read story full of family drama and love. I enjoyed reading this story. It is well written with strong characters. This is a good story of seeking forgiveness and second chances. Through Richards caring for his friend and the little servant boy, this story shows that people are not always what they appear to be.I received a complimentary copy of the book from CelebrateLit through NetGalley, this is my honest review.

[harley0326 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It’s Christmastime 1822 in the grand place of Ivy Hill. The festivities are starting and for our entertainment we have the dashing Richard and the allusive Arabella . Richard is coming home only because his mother has summoned him. He must appease her or he may find himself penniless. I really did like Richard and his charm that captured women’s attention. Well not everyone admired him. That is what makes this story so fun. Arabella is not pleased to see Richard and doesn’t even want to speak to him. I loved how the author has them pushed together in different places and is forced to be civil to each other. Richard does come off as a well let’s say an uncharitable person. All that is about to change when his path crosses with someone in dire need. I enjoyed watching Richard show that his heart can be touched by others. If only his family can get over the past and he can learn how to forgive and be forgiven. He is not a complicated man, merely someone who wants to be accepted and to find true love. Arabella won my heart by her strength and ability to stand up for herself . I know I The banter between Richard and Arabella is funny at times and I wasn’t sure if they would ever see eye to eye on anything. The author brings this time period to life with vivid descriptions. I wanted to join the group as they caroled and celebrated a special holiday. The best part of the book is how God was the center of the story with illustrations of kindness to others, forgiveness and being able to accept who you are. “Do you think a man can change his nature?” “With God’s help, yes.” We can’t change people but we can pray for them. Arabella realizes that God is in control . I love happy endings and was pleased with how the author demonstrated God’s unconditional love as two people find their way back to each other.I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[kimpotter-309059 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An Ivy Hill Christmas by Julie Klassen is a Tales from Ivy Hill novella. Richard Brockwell is being coerced into to returning to Ivy Hill for Christmas. If he doesn’t show up his mother will cut off his money. He plans to only stay until the holidays are over. Arabella Awdry has heard all the stories about Richard’s escapades; so, she doesn’t trust him. Can he convince her that he has changed? This is a return to the charming English village of Ivy Hill. I liked being able to re-connect with all the characters from the other books. I loved the cover! It sure has a classic Christmas feel to it. The Ivy Hill series puts you in mind of a Jane Austen script. I feel that Ms. Austen and Ms. Klassen would have been best friends! It was so refreshing to be able to experience an English Christmas with all the old-world traditions. This was a very heart-warming story with the undertone that anyone who wants to can change.I received this book from the author for my honest review.

[rafram-951185 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

When Richard Brockwell arrives in Ivy Hill for a Christmas visit, he is unprepared to meet childhood friend Arabella Awdry . She is familiar with his reputation as a rake and a libertine and she avoids him like the plague, while he keeps staying away from all eligible ladies.An Ivy Hill Christmas is the Christmas historical romance novella by Julie Klassen, published by Bethany House Publishers. The story is set in fictional village Ivy Hill 1822 and we follow younger son Richard Brockwell as he comes to spend Christmas with his family. His mother wants to cut him off financially if he doesn’t make an effort to find a suitable lady to marry. Richard tries to scare off every eligible lady and continue his care-free life in London. His childhood friend Arabella Awdry also has no plans to marry and wants to spend her time doing charity work in London. They come to have a nice and relaxing time together, but Arabella is convinced Richard cannot be trusted.Main character is budding, yet unpublished author, Richard Brockwell who seems a seriously shallow and uncharitable man with a bad reputation in London. I loved to follow his journey as he stayed with family and friends in Ivy Hill.Supporting character is bluestocking philanthropist, Arabella Awdry. She is a strong and independent lady who is seriously unimpressed by Richard’s behavior around women; but has a secret wish for love and happiness. I liked her multilayered character a lot and she is my favorite of this story.This sweet story was such a pleasure to read. It gave me all the Christmassy feels with the decorating, carol singing and church going. Even the rare occasion of snow. I loved how the beautiful book cover also set the tone of what to expect.As always I loved Julie Klassen’s signature writing and the light and amusing dialogue. I particularly enjoyed the mystery element to do with a secret from Richard’ past.My favorite part of the story was descriptions of church on Christmas Day. The part I found less enjoyable was descriptions of how a printer’s apprentice was treated. But I felt it made an excellent dramatic element.When Richard scared Arabella off and she made her lack of interest in him blathantly clear, they both relaxed more which made room for feelings to grow. Richard seemed to go through a substantial change from his self serving life and become more aware of people around him.This story is recommended for anyone who enjoys historical romance fiction and for fans of Julie Klassen. Similar authors to explore might be Kristi Ann Hunter or Erica Vetsch.Thank you to publisher House Publishers and NetGalley for this eARC, which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.Conclusion: This is the entertaining Christmas novella about confirmed bachelor Richard Brockwell who pretends to be a rake and Arabella Awdry who pretends to be a spinster. A satisfying Christmas add-on to the Tales from Ivy Hill series and the perfect read on a quiet afternoon in front of the fire or while on a break from Christmas preparations.