It is never too early for a Christmas story especially one told by magical storyteller, Anita Hughes, a favorite of mine. Emma has a long history of breaking off her relationships, always during the holidays. This time it is with Scott. Alone in the Big Apple on Christmas Eve, Emma has found a jewelry shop open and is trying to sell the bracelet Scott gifted her but would not take back. Browsing Emma spotted a watch similar to the one she gave to her first love, Fletcher. She turned it over and read the inscription" "You have my heart. Emma." Was it a coincidence or is it fate? Making an even exchange for the bracelet, Emma left the shop to call her BFF, Bronwyn, who immediately tells Emma that's it is synchronicity, a meaningful coincidence that will play an important part in your life. Bronwyn convinces Emma to find Fletcher, and they discover he's staying at the Smugglers Inn in Vermont. Bronwyn sends her best friend to stay there for a week to see what fate has in store for her. Will Fletcher be a part of Emma's future? 

It is a perfect setting and the Inn is romantic. However, when Emma arrives, she discovers Fletcher is there with his ten-year-old daughter, Lola, and his gorgeous fiancee, Megan. Emma meets Lola who is preparing to sing in the talent show at the Inn. Emma helps by accompanying Lola on the piano and a sweet, close friendship develops.

Meanwhile, Fletcher and Megan keep busy with the activities at the Inn, but according to Lola they are not getting along and argue a lot. Lola does not care for Megan nor does Megan care for Lola, and she just pretends to to please Fletcher. Fletcher is producing a play on Broadway and Megan wants to change her role to the lead. When Fletcher tells her she is not right for the lead, Megan leaves abruptly to attend a big party in the Big Apple where she will meet with a producer. So much for his fiancee. . . 

CHRISTMAS IN VERMONT is a sweet, holiday treat of a holiday novel. Smuggler's Inn in Snowberry, Vermont, is a lovely winter wonderland and there's a cute subplot to try and save the Inn from going into bankruptcy, and the happily-ever-after is the icing on the cake. As usual Anita Hughes never lets me down. I loved it. Thank you.