‘One Enchanted Eve’ by Melissa Tagg: Festive and Romantic Novella Set in Small Town America

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STORY: Once Rylan Jefferson dreamed of her own bakery. As a pastry chef she excels at her work. But she lacks the skill to create beyond what the recipe card instructs. Enter Colin Renwycke. One of Rylan’s pupils at the culinary institute where she teaches, Colin has a plan.  ONE ENCHANTED EVE 

He’s good at the creative side of baking, but it’s the technical part (putting it all together to be successful) where he sometimes flounders. When Colin impulsively invites his driven teacher home for Christmas, Rylan discovers there’s more than meets the eye as regards her clumsy pupil.  

One Enchanted Eve, by Melissa Tagg | Novella Review

‘One Enchanted Eve’ by Melissa Tagg: Festive and Romantic Novella Set in Small Town America #FWarchives Share on X

Every time I read a novel by Melissa Tagg, like the title of this novella, I am left enchanted. This latest (recently arrived on all “virtual shelf” platforms) is equally as charming. We are swept into the nostalgic “hamlet” of Maple Valley again as we play catch up with the Renwycke siblings which includes Drew (One Enchanted Christmas) and Leigh (who, in all likelihood will someday receive a story in this collection). Drew’s life has changed since last we were ensconced in his life, and Leigh is still struggling over the best way to parent her daughter. But as this is Colin’s story, it’d be best we talked most about him.  

NOVELLA REVIEW | One Enchanted Christmas by Melissa Tagg: A Hallmark-esque Novella with Charm for Days  

After One Enchanted Christmas, one is left to wonder how Colin would come off on the pages of his own story. You see, he was something of a “rebel” who lacked the ability to be responsible. Fortunately, he’s come a long way since then, and as a reader, I sympathized with his feelings and plight. He becomes a kind of “leader” in this story even if only for Rylan. He grows into the person she needs just when she needs him. Partially because he wants to (which is where all change must start) and partially because of the friendship between them.   

It’s a beautiful experience for them both as they learn that “needing” the right thing or person at the time we might be seeking something is nothing to toss away.  

Rylan and Colin are both looking for something whether they realize it or not. They’re searching for fulfillment, home and the love of someone who won’t shatter their heart. Not only do I appreciate the deeper themes, but the Christmas fluff is charming and perfectly on point. These characters are some of the best we’ll meet over the Christmas season as they’re sure to burrow into your heart. (On a minor, but totally important note, who else loves this heroine’s name!?) Those of us who adore Hallmark movies will find a kindred spirit inside these pages.  

One Enchanted Eve is, like its predecessor, the best kind of story to enjoy while curled up by the fireplace.♥  

A B O U T THE B O O K

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Author: Melissa Tagg
Publisher: Larkspur Press (Indie)
Source: Amazon Purchase
Publication Date: 2016
E L S E W H E R E Amazon | Goodreads
Genre: Fiction; Contemporary Romance, Novella
Series: Enchanted Christmas Collection, 2
Rating: ★★★★★    

Review text is © Rissi JC and first appeared on Finding Wonderland (Dreaming Under the Same Moon), RissiWrites.com