We are once again invited into the magical world of the inhabitants of Ivy Hatch, in Elizabeth Holland’s brand-new offering, Christmas at The Vintage Bookshop of Memories. 

Readable as a standalone book or as a follow-up to the excellent The Vintage Bookshop of Memories, this once again is another welcome addition to the romance fiction genre. 

Nonetheless, the characterisation and plot to The Vintage Bookshop of Memories, were that good that it was always going to be a tricky task when writing this sequel.  Christmas at The Vintage Bookshop of Memories does not trump its predecessor.  Therein lies the main problem with this book, it suffers by this comparison.

Regarding the narrative, we pick up the action again twelve months on from the last novel.  Katie Wooster’s life is in turmoil with no job or place to live, but in a matter of days she is going to be bridesmaid to her best friend Prue Clemonte. 

This is a story about the wonder of female friendship.  There is also the chance of a new romance for Katie.  The question is whether she has healed up enough from her last relationship that was emotionally abusive.

The author needs congratulating for it being such an easy read once more.  Reading all about Ivy Hatch again felt like I was putting on a comfy pair of slippers at times.

However, I wanted more from the plot.  I missed the drama and conflict of the first instalment.  Maybe it was because this second book is shorter, but I found myself not caring as much about Katie, as I did with Prue in the first one.  Everything was just a bit too nice.

I also was not that moved reading Christmas at The Vintage Bookshop of Memories.  This could be an unfair criticism though when you consider this is supposed to be a heart-warming Christmas novel after all.

I guess what I am trying to say is that I liked this book rather than absolutely loving it. As a forty-three-year-old male, it needs to be acknowledged that I am sure I am not in Elizabeth’s target audience.   

Nevertheless, it is clear from her first two excellent novels that we are dealing here with an author that shows extreme promise.  The Balance Between Life and Death, and The Vintage Bookshop of Memories, are two very accomplished pieces of work. 

Overall, the final verdict is that if you want a joyful, easy Christmas read then this could be the book for you.  I just wanted a bit more from it though.  I wanted a bit more than friends reunited! 3/5.