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The Christmas Catch
When two high school sweethearts reunite, will they take another chance at love or let life sideline them at Christmas?
Benched with a career-ending injury, NFL wide receiver Jahleel Walker is forced to return to his hometown of Peachwood Bay, Georgia, during the holidays to heal, despite his rocky relationship with his father. Nothing shocks him more than running into Lucille "Bebe" Gordon.
Bebe Gordon came home to Peachwood Bay three years ago with a divorce certificate and her daughter. When Jahleel returns--for the first time in eight years--all the memories of the past come rushing back. The connection between them is still strong, but Jahleel has no plans to stay in Peachwood Bay, and Bebe won't risk him leaving her again. As their hometown's Christmas festivities bring them together, Jahleel must decide if he's only home for the holidays or if the Christmas spirit that brought them together will last all through the year.
Benched with a career-ending injury, NFL wide receiver Jahleel Walker is forced to return to his hometown of Peachwood Bay, Georgia, during the holidays to heal, despite his rocky relationship with his father. Nothing shocks him more than running into Lucille "Bebe" Gordon.
Bebe Gordon came home to Peachwood Bay three years ago with a divorce certificate and her daughter. When Jahleel returns--for the first time in eight years--all the memories of the past come rushing back. The connection between them is still strong, but Jahleel has no plans to stay in Peachwood Bay, and Bebe won't risk him leaving her again. As their hometown's Christmas festivities bring them together, Jahleel must decide if he's only home for the holidays or if the Christmas spirit that brought them together will last all through the year.
224 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2024
About the author
Toni Shiloh
55 books1,573 followersToni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and an award-winning Christian contemporary romance author. A native of Texas, she now lives in northern Virginia. Learn more at http://tonishiloh.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
October 31, 2024
3/5 ⭐️
- This was a cutesy Christmas read that gave all the feels without the spice and truly gave hallmark movie vibes! It was a really fast read and gave me all the happy feels!
- Loved that there were so many important themes of family and finding yourself outside of just the romance included. This would be a great Christmas read if you want to feel all the happy feels.
- If you’re looking for a Christian romance that will give you butterflies, this is a great book to pick up. Made me smile!
- This was a cutesy Christmas read that gave all the feels without the spice and truly gave hallmark movie vibes! It was a really fast read and gave me all the happy feels!
- Loved that there were so many important themes of family and finding yourself outside of just the romance included. This would be a great Christmas read if you want to feel all the happy feels.
- If you’re looking for a Christian romance that will give you butterflies, this is a great book to pick up. Made me smile!
November 21, 2024
4⭐
Genre ~ contemporary Christian romance
Setting ~ Georgia
Publication date ~ September 24, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 212 (p+ 17 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 4 hours 58 minutes
Narrator ~ Jasmin Walker
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ NFL player, single mom, former childhood sweethearts, second chance, no steamage
Bebe & Jahleel lived on the same street growing up and were childhood sweethearts. Now he's nursing an injury at his parents house and she lives in her parents old house with her adorable, well behaved 7 year old daughter. I love when kids in my romance are not causing a ruckus. Boo to her neglectful father, though, hate that for such a sweet girl.
This was really sweet. I enjoyed the elements of them finding they're way back to each other after an unnecessary breakup back in the day.
Overall, this was full of southern charm with shrimp and grits, ma'am's and the grace of God.
Narration notes:
1 narrator for dual, but she did fine.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ contemporary Christian romance
Setting ~ Georgia
Publication date ~ September 24, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 212 (p+ 17 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 4 hours 58 minutes
Narrator ~ Jasmin Walker
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ NFL player, single mom, former childhood sweethearts, second chance, no steamage
Bebe & Jahleel lived on the same street growing up and were childhood sweethearts. Now he's nursing an injury at his parents house and she lives in her parents old house with her adorable, well behaved 7 year old daughter. I love when kids in my romance are not causing a ruckus. Boo to her neglectful father, though, hate that for such a sweet girl.
This was really sweet. I enjoyed the elements of them finding they're way back to each other after an unnecessary breakup back in the day.
Overall, this was full of southern charm with shrimp and grits, ma'am's and the grace of God.
Narration notes:
1 narrator for dual, but she did fine.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
September 26, 2024
A sweet second chance football romance.
This book was set during Christmas, but I feel like it could be read at anytime of the year and enjoyed. We have an injured football hero and the girl he broke up with back in high school. Throw in a darling 6 year old and you have a new found family.
I really enjoyed the Texas setting as well as the characters. The romance was a little fast paced, but Christmas books tend to go that way. I liked the ending too, it was so sweet. 3.5🌟
*Thank you to the author and publisher for a complimentary copy to read. All thoughts are my own.
This book was set during Christmas, but I feel like it could be read at anytime of the year and enjoyed. We have an injured football hero and the girl he broke up with back in high school. Throw in a darling 6 year old and you have a new found family.
I really enjoyed the Texas setting as well as the characters. The romance was a little fast paced, but Christmas books tend to go that way. I liked the ending too, it was so sweet. 3.5🌟
*Thank you to the author and publisher for a complimentary copy to read. All thoughts are my own.
September 24, 2024
I’m a huge fan of second chance romances and this one did not disappoint!
Jahleel and Bebe grew up next door to one another. They were also high school sweethearts. But a pre-college breakup and subsequent ghosting has left them in an awkward place. So when Jahleel and Bebe see one another for the first time in decades, Bebe’s left to figure out if she can truly forgive and forget.
Jahleel has some forgiving to do himself. A football injury has him back at home in Georgia with his parents—and his father feels like his worst critic. Will being back home cause the rift in their relationship to widen? Or will he risk being honest for the possibility of restoration?
I loved everything about this book! I enjoyed the setting, Bebe and Jahleel’s journey, the family elements, and the faith thread woven throughout.
I read Toni’s 2023 Christmas novella and she has become a go-to Christmas author for me. I LOVE Christmas and her stories are full of holiday festivities and general merriment! 🎄
Make sure to add this one to your holiday TBR!!
Thanks to Toni Shiloh for having me on her launch team and Bethany House for the eARC and gifted physical copy!
Jahleel and Bebe grew up next door to one another. They were also high school sweethearts. But a pre-college breakup and subsequent ghosting has left them in an awkward place. So when Jahleel and Bebe see one another for the first time in decades, Bebe’s left to figure out if she can truly forgive and forget.
Jahleel has some forgiving to do himself. A football injury has him back at home in Georgia with his parents—and his father feels like his worst critic. Will being back home cause the rift in their relationship to widen? Or will he risk being honest for the possibility of restoration?
I loved everything about this book! I enjoyed the setting, Bebe and Jahleel’s journey, the family elements, and the faith thread woven throughout.
I read Toni’s 2023 Christmas novella and she has become a go-to Christmas author for me. I LOVE Christmas and her stories are full of holiday festivities and general merriment! 🎄
Make sure to add this one to your holiday TBR!!
Thanks to Toni Shiloh for having me on her launch team and Bethany House for the eARC and gifted physical copy!
November 6, 2024
Those who know me well, know that I'm not a fan of the sports...of any sorts. 😅 Therefore, the fact that I picked up a football themed story without a moment's hesitation is a great testament to my bookish affection for Toni Shiloh, the Queen of Romance Tropes. Long may she reign! 👑 🥰
In "The Christmas Catch," Shiloh combines southern charm, Hallmark vibes, sincere faith, and a second chance romance into a festive read that celebrates the Reason for the season.
If you love heart-warming holiday novellas, don't miss The Christmas Catch!
In "The Christmas Catch," Shiloh combines southern charm, Hallmark vibes, sincere faith, and a second chance romance into a festive read that celebrates the Reason for the season.
If you love heart-warming holiday novellas, don't miss The Christmas Catch!
October 1, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up. Adorable, sweet, faith-filled story- everything I could want in a Christmas romance!
October 3, 2024
This second chance romance has all the elements of a great Hallmark Christmas movie. There's the heroine who is fine on her own, but wouldn't mind someone who loves her. There's the sweet little girl who has spunk and charm. And there's the slightly brooding hero who needs to fix his past. They all come together over Christmas in the sweetest, hot chocolate infused way. A delightful read that is faith-infused in every way.
August 13, 2024
What a delightful Christmas story! I loved every second of this sweet second-chance romance.
I really liked Bebe and Jahleel. They had amazing chemistry, but they also had history. There were some unresolved issues that they still needed to work out. I was rooting so hard for them!
Jahleel and his dad had a big falling out when he left home years ago. There was a lot of hurt and resentment built up, but I was hoping they could get past all that and reconcile.
This book was a lot of fun, but it also had a lot of depth. I loved the strong message of faith that was woven so seamlessly throughout the pages. If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas romance, I highly, highly recommend this story. It was a breath of fresh air and just what I needed during a stressful time.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I really liked Bebe and Jahleel. They had amazing chemistry, but they also had history. There were some unresolved issues that they still needed to work out. I was rooting so hard for them!
Jahleel and his dad had a big falling out when he left home years ago. There was a lot of hurt and resentment built up, but I was hoping they could get past all that and reconcile.
This book was a lot of fun, but it also had a lot of depth. I loved the strong message of faith that was woven so seamlessly throughout the pages. If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas romance, I highly, highly recommend this story. It was a breath of fresh air and just what I needed during a stressful time.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
November 18, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up. This was a cute Christmas story about second chances and trusting God to lead your decisions. I’ve been struggling with getting into the Christmas spirit, and this book helped me get more into it with all the Christmas music and movies references. I’m looking forward to reading You Make It Feel Like Christmas next!
September 23, 2024
The Christmas Catch is a sweet and festive second chance romance. The meet cute at the beginning of the book was fun, as Jahleel “Jay”, was hyped up on pain meds when he saw his former high school sweetheart. He quipped that Bebe was a “fine Georgia peach” and had a “mini me” (her daughter) standing next to her. So funny!
But as Jay began to heal from his injury, he couldn’t help but think back to how he had treated Bebe when they graduated high school and he chose football over her and broke her heart. He realized that even though he loved playing football, he may have made the biggest mistake of his life. Could he possibly win her back?
Bebe had a wonderful little girl left over from her marriage, however, she also had been hurt by two men who were supposed to love her. Could she ever trust another man to be faithful after her husband broke his wedding vows? And she was definitely attracted to Jay, but he left her once before to pursue a career in football.
This story had lots of Christmas cheer and activities, as well as a solid faith thread. There was family drama that Jay had to work through, too. I enjoyed this second chance romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
But as Jay began to heal from his injury, he couldn’t help but think back to how he had treated Bebe when they graduated high school and he chose football over her and broke her heart. He realized that even though he loved playing football, he may have made the biggest mistake of his life. Could he possibly win her back?
Bebe had a wonderful little girl left over from her marriage, however, she also had been hurt by two men who were supposed to love her. Could she ever trust another man to be faithful after her husband broke his wedding vows? And she was definitely attracted to Jay, but he left her once before to pursue a career in football.
This story had lots of Christmas cheer and activities, as well as a solid faith thread. There was family drama that Jay had to work through, too. I enjoyed this second chance romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
September 25, 2024
I enjoyed this story so much. A great warm up to what I hope will be a long season of Christmas holiday reads for me. This story was faith forward and so sweet. A second chance I rooted for even though I feel like Jay had more explaining to do about his past behavior. But I still loved the story because I loved the characters and it was also a second chance for Jay and his dad. Plus there was an adorable child. The holiday reads season is off to a good start for me. Happy reading!
September 23, 2024
Such a sweet Christmas story! I loved Jay, Bebe, and her daughter Hope right from the start. This story is full of wonderful characters, a great second chance romance, and a strong faith message showing the power of God’s love, forgiveness, and redemption. And it wouldn’t be complete without a Christmas miracle or two.
I highly recommend this story. I am amazed at how much depth is packed into this Christmas novella. This one is definitely on my list of favorite contemporary holiday stories. (And possibly will earn a reread when the holiday season arrives.)
I received an early copy and have shared my honest review.
I highly recommend this story. I am amazed at how much depth is packed into this Christmas novella. This one is definitely on my list of favorite contemporary holiday stories. (And possibly will earn a reread when the holiday season arrives.)
I received an early copy and have shared my honest review.
September 14, 2024
I just can't get enough of Christmas centered romance books here lately. My favorite so far is this book right here - "The Christmas Catch".
It is a novella, but is very filling & detailed enough without being overwhelming. The pacing is perfect and the characters are all realistic - I felt as if I knew them all! I couldn't help but smile & feel all warm inside as I read about Jahleel & Bebe's second chance romance after being high school sweethearts.
I love how their story is centered around faith & the real reason for the holiday season. No hot & heavy love scenes, just innocent kisses & intimate talks on how they feel about each other. I ate this up!! The way Jahleel is so committed to showing Bebe he has changed without rushing things between them had me swooning!
I love how Jahleel & his father have a conversation to heal from their past mishaps & are able to move towards a healthier relationship. Communication is key!
Thank you to NetGalley & Bethany House Publishers for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.❤️
It is a novella, but is very filling & detailed enough without being overwhelming. The pacing is perfect and the characters are all realistic - I felt as if I knew them all! I couldn't help but smile & feel all warm inside as I read about Jahleel & Bebe's second chance romance after being high school sweethearts.
I love how their story is centered around faith & the real reason for the holiday season. No hot & heavy love scenes, just innocent kisses & intimate talks on how they feel about each other. I ate this up!! The way Jahleel is so committed to showing Bebe he has changed without rushing things between them had me swooning!
I love how Jahleel & his father have a conversation to heal from their past mishaps & are able to move towards a healthier relationship. Communication is key!
Thank you to NetGalley & Bethany House Publishers for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.❤️
August 19, 2024
Sweet Christmas romance filled with second chance love and faith.
Lucille “Bebe” was down to earth and easy to like from the start. I agree with her questioning her initial choice with Will. He was SO unlikable and the way he treated his daughter was irksome.
Jahleel was a treat. He is just what Bebe needed and their romance was so sweet. I loved the awkwardness at first and them needing to rekindle their romance from years ago.
This is a fun one to get you into the feel good, holiday spirit!
Lucille “Bebe” was down to earth and easy to like from the start. I agree with her questioning her initial choice with Will. He was SO unlikable and the way he treated his daughter was irksome.
Jahleel was a treat. He is just what Bebe needed and their romance was so sweet. I loved the awkwardness at first and them needing to rekindle their romance from years ago.
This is a fun one to get you into the feel good, holiday spirit!
October 2, 2024
The Christmas Catch by Toni Shiloh
4h 59m narrated by Jasmin Walker, 224 pages
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance, Christmas, Sports Romance, Novellas
Featuring: NFL, Wide Receiver, San Antonio, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; Thanksgiving, Football, Coastal Georgia, Divorcée, Single Mother, Teachers, Estranged Family, Second Chance Trope, Curmudgeon Pastor, High School Sweethearts, Dual POVs, Movies
Rating as a movie: PG
Songs for the soundtrack: "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" by Toni Braxton, "This Christmas" by Chris Brown, "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley, "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas (Hippo the Hero)" by Gayla Peevey, "Give Love On Christmas Day" by The Temptations
Books and Authors mentioned: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, Mary Poppins Series by P. L. Travers and illustrated by Mary Shepard, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️¾🎄🏈🏟
My thoughts: 📱40% 1:58:01 Chapter 7 - This is cute, I'm only stopping due to nonstory-related fatigue.
This was a quick read. It wasn't amazing and had a few elements I chose to ignore, like visitors at a committee meeting, but overall it was enjoyable. I'm looking forward to the next one.
Recommend to others: Yes. If you're looking for a quick low-drama read, this is it.
4h 59m narrated by Jasmin Walker, 224 pages
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance, Christmas, Sports Romance, Novellas
Featuring: NFL, Wide Receiver, San Antonio, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; Thanksgiving, Football, Coastal Georgia, Divorcée, Single Mother, Teachers, Estranged Family, Second Chance Trope, Curmudgeon Pastor, High School Sweethearts, Dual POVs, Movies
Rating as a movie: PG
Songs for the soundtrack: "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" by Toni Braxton, "This Christmas" by Chris Brown, "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley, "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas (Hippo the Hero)" by Gayla Peevey, "Give Love On Christmas Day" by The Temptations
Books and Authors mentioned: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, Mary Poppins Series by P. L. Travers and illustrated by Mary Shepard, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️¾🎄🏈🏟
My thoughts: 📱40% 1:58:01 Chapter 7 - This is cute, I'm only stopping due to nonstory-related fatigue.
This was a quick read. It wasn't amazing and had a few elements I chose to ignore, like visitors at a committee meeting, but overall it was enjoyable. I'm looking forward to the next one.
Recommend to others: Yes. If you're looking for a quick low-drama read, this is it.
September 25, 2024
Kudos to the author for getting me into the Christmas spirit when it's only September. While I like Christmas stories, it's not very often I feel like decorating and listening to Christmas music in Sept. In fact, I typically refuse to acknowledge it... but Toni!
She's so great at full length novels as well as novellas! They can pack a punch in a short amount of time.
We start off meeting Jahleel when he gets injured during an NFL game. He ends up back at his parents home to recuperate, but it's the last place he wants to be. Let me tell you, his dad will have you wanting to try some illegal tackles!
Then we meet his high school girlfriend, Bebe. Just so happens to be neighbors with his parents. Bebe is just living life with her sweet daughter, Hope. Then Jahleel shows up. Unfortunately, her history with Jay causes her heart to betray her while her head tries to keep her in check.
I really enjoyed how they struggled with their pasts while trying to find footing as friends. Their past helps them to have the strong base of already knowing each other, while trying to learn who they are now as adults. There are so many facets to the story. Some that warmed my cookie loving heart and others that made me want to reach into the story and wring some necks!
I appreciated how the author wove the thread of faith into the story (the good and the hard). She gave us hope, forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust. It was all such an integral part of the story.
Now, we also meet May and Ryan, and y'all, we need to bombard Toni with wanting their story! Read this book and tell me you don't agree! hahaha
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
She's so great at full length novels as well as novellas! They can pack a punch in a short amount of time.
We start off meeting Jahleel when he gets injured during an NFL game. He ends up back at his parents home to recuperate, but it's the last place he wants to be. Let me tell you, his dad will have you wanting to try some illegal tackles!
Then we meet his high school girlfriend, Bebe. Just so happens to be neighbors with his parents. Bebe is just living life with her sweet daughter, Hope. Then Jahleel shows up. Unfortunately, her history with Jay causes her heart to betray her while her head tries to keep her in check.
I really enjoyed how they struggled with their pasts while trying to find footing as friends. Their past helps them to have the strong base of already knowing each other, while trying to learn who they are now as adults. There are so many facets to the story. Some that warmed my cookie loving heart and others that made me want to reach into the story and wring some necks!
I appreciated how the author wove the thread of faith into the story (the good and the hard). She gave us hope, forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust. It was all such an integral part of the story.
Now, we also meet May and Ryan, and y'all, we need to bombard Toni with wanting their story! Read this book and tell me you don't agree! hahaha
*I received this book for review. This is my personal opinion.
November 17, 2024
First Christmas book of the year and I loved it! I didn’t realize when I started it that it’s a Christian romance, and it was the best surprise! This book healed something in me and I will definitely be reading more from this author. The Author’s Note at the end also made me tear up…in a good way.
October 5, 2024
Toni does it again with this sweet and swoony novella!
This was my first sports romance, and I am here for it. This Christmas read was a perfect way to cool down and beat the summer heat. I love the way Toni weaves faith into her stories, and this was no different. Can't wait to see what she writes next!
Thank you NetGalley, Toni Shiloh as well as Bethany House for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.
This was my first sports romance, and I am here for it. This Christmas read was a perfect way to cool down and beat the summer heat. I love the way Toni weaves faith into her stories, and this was no different. Can't wait to see what she writes next!
Thank you NetGalley, Toni Shiloh as well as Bethany House for the opportunity to read and review this advanced copy.
September 20, 2024
Such a sweet and cute holiday story. I loved that it included a couple of football references especially when Jay tried to work out a plan.
I didn’t expect the amount of God and prayer talk in the book but I found that it made the story feel more natural compared to other contemporary romance novels I’ve read.
Thank you so much to the team for sending me this early! Highly recommend if you’re a fan of the holidays and contemporary romance!
I didn’t expect the amount of God and prayer talk in the book but I found that it made the story feel more natural compared to other contemporary romance novels I’ve read.
Thank you so much to the team for sending me this early! Highly recommend if you’re a fan of the holidays and contemporary romance!
September 28, 2024
I have never been disappointed by a Toni Shiloh book and The Christmas Catch was certainly no exception. I absolutely adored this story. I originally read this book when the author indie published it but it has since had an internal and external makeover thanks to Bethany House. The new cover is so cute and fun, and the inside is filled with so much goodness too! The Christmas Catch makes for a super cute and relatively quick read with plenty of the Christmas feels. There’s talk of Christmas decorations, cookie baking, Christmas music, a reindeer farm, and so much more. It’s a great read any time, but definitely worth adding to your Christmas TBR.
In addition to festive Christmas vibes is a heartwarming second chance romance. The fact that Bebe and Jahleel had known each other so long definitely helped the plot line because it otherwise may have felt too rushed, but I didn't feel that way at all. Their chemistry was great and I actually enjoyed that there was some tension about them giving their relationship a second chance, but there was not some huge drama fueled blow up that tends to happen in romance novels. I also enjoyed the sweet innocence of Bebe’s daughter. Jay's father started off as a very disappointing character as he sure didn't love the way a Christian, especially a pastor, should (but this isn't a dig at the author as you can tell it was written that way on purpose). It definitely left room for Jay's father to realize his need to change and Jay's need to forgive. If you have never read a Toni Shiloh book, you should. Start with any of them because you can't go wrong.
In addition to festive Christmas vibes is a heartwarming second chance romance. The fact that Bebe and Jahleel had known each other so long definitely helped the plot line because it otherwise may have felt too rushed, but I didn't feel that way at all. Their chemistry was great and I actually enjoyed that there was some tension about them giving their relationship a second chance, but there was not some huge drama fueled blow up that tends to happen in romance novels. I also enjoyed the sweet innocence of Bebe’s daughter. Jay's father started off as a very disappointing character as he sure didn't love the way a Christian, especially a pastor, should (but this isn't a dig at the author as you can tell it was written that way on purpose). It definitely left room for Jay's father to realize his need to change and Jay's need to forgive. If you have never read a Toni Shiloh book, you should. Start with any of them because you can't go wrong.
October 19, 2024
When NFL wide receiver, Jahleel Walker, is benched with a career ending injury, he goes home to Peachwood Bay to recover. Bebe Gordon moved back home three years ago, after a messy divorce. When the high school sweethearts meet again for the first time in eight years the feelings are still strong. Can Bebe put the past in the past and forgive Jahleel for breaking her heart all those years ago?
🏈
This book was so cute! The characters were well written and Bebe’s daughter Hope was such a good addition, she was so sweet! The faith aspect was really nice and well done. I loved watching Jahleel and his father’s relationship grow throughout the book. This book had funny moments and super sweet moments. I would definitely recommend adding this to your Christmas reading list! 🎄
🏈
This book was so cute! The characters were well written and Bebe’s daughter Hope was such a good addition, she was so sweet! The faith aspect was really nice and well done. I loved watching Jahleel and his father’s relationship grow throughout the book. This book had funny moments and super sweet moments. I would definitely recommend adding this to your Christmas reading list! 🎄
August 14, 2024
The Christmas Catch was a delightful Christmas read. Bebe, who is raising her daughter Hope, is afraid to live life after her divorce. Injured football player Jahleel has a strained relationship with his father and left home after having had a falling out with him. Jahleel and Bebe had a history.
Shiloh crafted a wonderful, sweet Christmas read with a great storyline, delightful characters, a wonderful faith thread, reconciliation, and a second chance at romance. You don't want to miss out on reading this, especially if you are a football fan.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Shiloh crafted a wonderful, sweet Christmas read with a great storyline, delightful characters, a wonderful faith thread, reconciliation, and a second chance at romance. You don't want to miss out on reading this, especially if you are a football fan.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 11, 2024
This was a cute second chance romance with holiday flare and a strong emphasis on Christian beliefs and prayer.
September 18, 2024
Christmas, football and second chances make this novella a must read for fans of Christian Christmas fiction! This story is another wonderful Christmas story by Toni Shiloh. The characters were well thought out and developed and the second chance romance is so sweet!
There are wonderful clean romance scenes, heartwarming family moments, hot chocolate, reindeer and so many Christian faith elements woven into this story. There are family drama moments but also heartwarming ones as well. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable Christmas read this upcoming holiday season.
Thank you to the publisher for an opportunity to review an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
There are wonderful clean romance scenes, heartwarming family moments, hot chocolate, reindeer and so many Christian faith elements woven into this story. There are family drama moments but also heartwarming ones as well. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable Christmas read this upcoming holiday season.
Thank you to the publisher for an opportunity to review an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 2, 2024
A novella as sweet as southern tea is what you get when reading The Christmas Catch by author Toni Shiloh.
NFL player Jahleel “Jay” Walker is back home in Georgia, recovering from a season-ending injury. He’s got a lot on his mind, dealing with what his future holds, a preacher father who is cold as ice, and the beautiful, kind next door neighbor he dated and dumped over a decade earlier.
Divorcee Bebe Gordon is a wonderful mom to her seven year old daughter, but after the what she went through with Jay, then even worse from her ex-husband, she’s rightfully gun-shy as far as relationships go.
But the sparks she and Jay had in high school didn’t seem to fade one bit. Jay’s throwing Bebe a Hail Mary, but will the Lord direct her to complete the catch for a future together, or are they destined to fumble? You will want to find out in The Christmas Catch, plus it has my favorite, an epilogue!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
NFL player Jahleel “Jay” Walker is back home in Georgia, recovering from a season-ending injury. He’s got a lot on his mind, dealing with what his future holds, a preacher father who is cold as ice, and the beautiful, kind next door neighbor he dated and dumped over a decade earlier.
Divorcee Bebe Gordon is a wonderful mom to her seven year old daughter, but after the what she went through with Jay, then even worse from her ex-husband, she’s rightfully gun-shy as far as relationships go.
But the sparks she and Jay had in high school didn’t seem to fade one bit. Jay’s throwing Bebe a Hail Mary, but will the Lord direct her to complete the catch for a future together, or are they destined to fumble? You will want to find out in The Christmas Catch, plus it has my favorite, an epilogue!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
October 17, 2024
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
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
September 29, 2024
ARC Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is just like a nice warm hug on a cold day. Please just give me all the seasonal books. I just can’t get enough of them. I know it’s still a little early for most of you to read Christmas books, but I’m reading them for you so you know what to read when it really counts…and this is one of them!
There was so much I enjoyed about this book. The setting was fun, the importance of family and faith woven throughout, the main characters Bebe and Jay and of course Hope! It is a novella, which only adds to the list of reasons to read this. I admire authors who can write a good novella, it is so much harder to get everyone to fall in love with the characters and the story in a much shorter book. Toni Shiloh accomplished just that. Also, just look at this cover. It is just too good!
🏈 Sports Romance
🎅 Kisses only
🏈 Dual POV
🎅 Second chance/reunion
🏈 Uplifting Faith
🎅 Single mom
💚 Quote:
"Bebe Willabee."
The use of her maiden name brought her eyes back to his mouth, perfectly framed by his neatly edged beard and mustache.
The better to catch your eyes.
A goofy smile appeared on his face, "Don't you look like a fine Georgia peach."
❤️ Thank you to the author Toni Shiloh, NetGalley and Bethany House Fiction for the eARC and gifted physical copy of the book.
This book is just like a nice warm hug on a cold day. Please just give me all the seasonal books. I just can’t get enough of them. I know it’s still a little early for most of you to read Christmas books, but I’m reading them for you so you know what to read when it really counts…and this is one of them!
There was so much I enjoyed about this book. The setting was fun, the importance of family and faith woven throughout, the main characters Bebe and Jay and of course Hope! It is a novella, which only adds to the list of reasons to read this. I admire authors who can write a good novella, it is so much harder to get everyone to fall in love with the characters and the story in a much shorter book. Toni Shiloh accomplished just that. Also, just look at this cover. It is just too good!
🏈 Sports Romance
🎅 Kisses only
🏈 Dual POV
🎅 Second chance/reunion
🏈 Uplifting Faith
🎅 Single mom
💚 Quote:
"Bebe Willabee."
The use of her maiden name brought her eyes back to his mouth, perfectly framed by his neatly edged beard and mustache.
The better to catch your eyes.
A goofy smile appeared on his face, "Don't you look like a fine Georgia peach."
❤️ Thank you to the author Toni Shiloh, NetGalley and Bethany House Fiction for the eARC and gifted physical copy of the book.
November 15, 2024
2nd Christmas read of 2024 done! This was really sweet and cozy. Jay and Bebe were wonderful characters, and Hope was sweet. I did think Jay’s feelings for Bebe sprouted out of nowhere. One moment he didn’t seem to remember her at all, and the next he met her and wanted a second chance relationship. I also wasn’t a fan of May and Ryan’s relationship with how sudden it was. Then Jay and his father seemed to reconcile out of nowhere without any buildup. Butttt all that didn’t really affect my enjoyment of the story. The author has an inherently warm way of writing that just endears you to the story.
I liked the conflict and my heart just broke for Hope over her father’s choices. I liked the mentions of Christmassy activities too!
I liked the conflict and my heart just broke for Hope over her father’s choices. I liked the mentions of Christmassy activities too!
November 16, 2024
Cute and Hallmarky
It was a cute Christian Christmas Romance. THE tropes were second chance romance with a little family forgiveness. It was very fast pace but lingered in certain areas that I wished the author would've built the plot more. I loved Jahleel and Bebe's journey to figuring out their next steps. And Hope was just the sweetest! But I needed Bill to get his tail handed to him for that paternity stunt!!
It was a cute Christian Christmas Romance. THE tropes were second chance romance with a little family forgiveness. It was very fast pace but lingered in certain areas that I wished the author would've built the plot more. I loved Jahleel and Bebe's journey to figuring out their next steps. And Hope was just the sweetest! But I needed Bill to get his tail handed to him for that paternity stunt!!
October 26, 2024
This is a sweet second-chance-at-love novella. Bebe and Jay are likable, and Bebe's daughter is adorable. The plot moved quickly to the predictable (but enjoyable) end. I was impressed at how much character development the author squeezed into a novella, particularly Jay's relationship with his dad.
The football--Christmas combo makes for the perfect fall or holiday read.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of the book.
The football--Christmas combo makes for the perfect fall or holiday read.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of the book.
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