A review by chronicreader96
A Christmas Cracker by Trisha Ashley

funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

I started reading this book just before an extremely difficult time in my life. I ended up not reading for a while, but this book was the perfect antidote to slowly get me back into reading again.

A Christmas Cracker tells the story of Tabby, who was sent to prison for something she did not do. She gets given a second chance at Mote Farm to try and help restore a failing Christmas Cracker factory.

My rating for this book is completely based on my personal enjoyment. There was nothing particularly ground breaking or spectacular. But it was a lovely, easy read that kept me intrigued. I really liked the English countryside/stately home setting. I felt as if I was being given a warm and comforting hug and returning to a simpler life. My biggest issue was that I didn’t really root for the romance aspect of the book. It almost felt forced and I struggled to feel any proper chemistry between the characters. The ending also felt particularly rushed.

That being said, I fell completely in love with the characters and Mote Farm. Pye and Pugsie (a cat and dog) managed to particularly worm their way into my heart. I found myself smiling whenever they joined in the narrative. I felt a sadness when I was nearing the end of the book because I just did not want to say goodbye to the varied and wonderful characters who came to feel like friends. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author now! 

I would recommend this to fans of easy to read Christmas romcoms with a countryside charm. 
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