9780062884244
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The Forever Christmas Tree audiobook

  • By: Sandra Hill
  • Narrator: Megan Tusing
  • Category: Fiction, General
  • Length: 9 hours 2 minutes
  • Publisher: HarperAudio
  • Publish date: September 25, 2018
  • Language: English
  • (214 ratings)
(214 ratings)
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The Forever Christmas Tree Audiobook Summary

The Christmas bells are chiming across the Outer Banks town of Bell Cove, North Carolina, but there’s one local ‘grinch’ who’s not listening . . .

He’s got bad-boy looks and a Bah Humbug attitude, so when the local paper asks the villagers to vote on the “Biggest Local Grinch” as a fund-raising project, Ethan Rutledge isn’t surprised to hear he’s made the ballot. He might own the local Christmas Tree Farm, but the holiday hasn’t been welcome in his home since Wendy Patterson left him heart-broken twelve years ago.

But now Wendy’s back, fresh from a tour of duty as a female Navy SEAL. She’s bold, beautiful, and has five Navy buddies trailing after her–as if she needs a bodyguard! And what’s all this about them wanting to start a treasure hunting company right here in Bell Cove’s failing bell factory? Then Wendy learns about how Ethan’s been nurturing the one thing he has to remember her by: a gorgeous Norway Spruce tree.

Can the magic of Christmas and the spirit of the town help rekindle the romance between two people who thought they’d left love behind years ago?

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The Forever Christmas Tree Audiobook Narrator

Megan Tusing is the narrator of The Forever Christmas Tree audiobook that was written by Sandra Hill

Sandra Hill is a graduate of Penn State and worked for more than ten years as a features writer and education editor for publications in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Writing about serious issues taught her the merits of seeking the lighter side of even the darkest stories.

About the Author(s) of The Forever Christmas Tree

Sandra Hill is the author of The Forever Christmas Tree

The Forever Christmas Tree Full Details

Narrator Megan Tusing
Length 9 hours 2 minutes
Author Sandra Hill
Category
Publisher HarperAudio
Release date September 25, 2018
ISBN 9780062884244

Subjects

The publisher of the The Forever Christmas Tree is HarperAudio. includes the following subjects: The BISAC Subject Code is Fiction, General

Additional info

The publisher of the The Forever Christmas Tree is HarperAudio. The imprint is HarperAudio. It is supplied by HarperAudio. The ISBN-13 is 9780062884244.

Global Availability

This book is only available in the United States.

Goodreads Reviews

Shelleen

October 05, 2018

He’s got bad-boy looks and a Bah Humbug attitude, so when the local paper asks the villagers to vote on the “Biggest Local Grinch” as a fund-raising project, Ethan Rutledge isn’t surprised to hear he’s made the ballot. He might own the local Christmas Tree Farm, but the holiday hasn’t been welcome in his home since Wendy Patterson left him heart-broken twelve years ago.But now Wendy’s back, fresh from a tour of duty as a female Navy SEAL. She’s bold, beautiful, and has five Navy buddies trailing after her—as if she needs a bodyguard! And what’s all this about them wanting to start a treasure hunting company right here in Bell Cove’s failing bell factory? Then Wendy learns about how Ethan’s been nurturing the one thing he has to remember her by: a gorgeous Norway Spruce tree.I loved this book. Ethan and Wendy still love each other from 12 years ago and never got over the hurt from that time. But they fight it as much as possible. They both claim they hate each other and were hurt to much to be friends. This was a fun Christmas story with a little sex thrown in.I received this from the publisher and Pure Textuality for review.

Amanda

July 12, 2018

Wendy Patterson wanted to become a doctor and take over her father's practice but due to a broken heart, left her home town of Bell Cove to become a female Navy SEAL. Ethan Rutledge gave up hopes of being a veterinarian to take over the family Christmas Tree farm, because of one mistake. Can love be better the second time around or were they doomed from the start? Throw in a few SEALS, some dancing seniors, a town full of busy bodies and a town fund raiser project that happens to be a Grinch contest with a surprise winner for this first book in a new series. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Sandra Hill knows how to take you into a story and make you feel as though you are there, add in a wonderful sense of humor and you are in for a treat.

Susan

December 31, 2018

Good second chance story in a small town. Twelve years earlier, Wendy left town after her boyfriend cheated on her and got another girl pregnant. Broken hearted she left for college, where she was later recruited for the WEALS, the female SEALs program. She hasn't been back to Bell Cove since then, though her family has visited her. But after a rough mission, she was ready for a break. The one thing she didn't look forward to was the possibility of seeing Ethan again.Ethan hasn't been the most cheerful person lately. Instead of following his dream of being a veterinarian, the choices he made in the past sent him in a different direction. He married the girl he got pregnant and is now the single father of an eleven-year-old girl with health problems. Instead of being a vet, he runs the family Christmas tree farm. Hearing that Wendy was coming back to town brought back the old memories and resentments, putting him in a Grinch-like funk.The sparks flew between Ethan and Wendy from the moment they saw each other again, and they weren't all good ones. Ethan was downright rude, blaming Wendy for leaving, even though it was his actions that had caused the rift. Thank goodness Cassie was there because otherwise, I think Wendy would have pushed him off the boat - I sure would have. They have a couple more contentious encounters before they decide to meet privately to talk. I loved the way that meeting started - nothing like getting your feelings off your chest right at the start. By this point, both of them realized that what was between them twelve years earlier had not died after all, and both were pretty freaked out by the idea. Neither one wants to risk their heart again, plus there's the whole matter of working on opposite coasts. No matter what they do, they can't seem to stay away from each other, and the feelings between them continue to grow. There are quite a few internal debates where they remind themselves that it's a bad idea, but that doesn't stop them.There were some pretty terrific scenes between them as each opened up about their lives since they've been apart. I also liked seeing Wendy with Cassie, and how well they get along. But both Wendy and Ethan were chained by their fears. Neither one was willing to risk rejection by being the first to confess their feelings, which put them on a course to being separated again. I ached for them both when duty called. It took a kind of "tough love" from Ethan's grandmother to make him see the light, but he came through with flying colors. I loved his big moment at the end.I really liked Ethan's daughter Cassie. She is a sweet girl who has not had an easy life. Besides losing her mother at a young age, Cassie suffers from a debilitating disease. She has been through multiple surgeries, with more in her future, but she manages to keep an upbeat attitude. I liked how she connected with Wendy. There was a surprising twist in what she knew about her dad's relationship with Wendy, one that made me ache a bit for her and her mother.There were several secondary stories going on also. First was what was happening with Wendy's SEAL teammates. They were all fighting the blues from their last mission and talked about their holiday plans. Included in those plans was the idea of checking out a treasure hunting business that was up for sale (see the Jinx series). That morphed into most of them deciding to join Wendy in Bell Sound. I loved the arrival of the SEALs, perfectly timed to give Ethan a taste of the green-eyed monster. The SEALs tentative plans got a boost when they ran into an issue that the town had. I loved seeing more of these guys, as they are some of my favorites from previous series. I can't wait to see them get stories of their own.Bell Sound got its name from the bell-making factory that has called the town its home for a long time. But the business is in danger of closing down due to dwindling orders for their specialized bells. The town doesn't want to lose the factory or the history behind it. When the owner, the last of the family, came to town to investigate his options, the townspeople were determined to show him its importance. There were some interesting interactions between Gabe and Laura, the newspaper editor, over the fate of the business and other properties. I liked seeing the creativity that came up with an excellent solution. The Grinch contest was a hilarious method of raising needed funds for the city as well as bringing an influx of tourists.There were also some hilarious goings-on involving Wendy's aunt Mildred. She has been living in Wendy's house and caring for it. Mildred was somewhat lonely and always kind-hearted, and over the last several years has invited various senior citizens to live there with her. The current crop includes Raul, a somewhat younger Spanish man who is also a dancer. He and Mildred are quite an interesting pair. The others are a lively mix, and their interactions are always amusing. They go beyond amusing to hilarious when the SEALs arrive. I loved the bonding among the elders and the SEALs and the obvious respect they have for each other.

Monique

September 17, 2018

When she gets a short break after one of her missions, Wendy Patterson – a WEALS, a female Navy SEAL – decides it’s time to go back home and decide what to do with her house, currently occupied by her Aunt Millie. Unfortunately going back to Bell Cove also means having to see Ethan Ruthledge, whom she hadn’t seen in twelve years when she left town. Ethan has been shanghaied on the town council: money is needed for various projects, and Ethan is being such a grouch that his friend Laura of the local newspaper proposes they hold a contest for the Bell Cove’s biggest grinch, and nominates Ethan. But they were not prepared for the attraction that still lingered after all that time away from each other.Sandra Hill’s wacky sense of humour is legendary, as are her colourful and often over-the-top characters and plots, but the has managed to tone down her outrageousness, while losing none of her wit, and THE FOREVER CHRISTMAS TREE turns out to be one of her best novels. This being the first book in a new series, the author introduces us to the town and the many, many characters in such a way, that in the first chapters when nothing had really happened, I was laughing myself silly while getting acquainted with everyone. The “local grinch” contest was a brilliant idea, it was very funny, and did not unfold as I expected. All the characters are wonderfully fleshed out, and some of the stand-outs are definitely Millie, Cassie, and “JAM” and “Geek” – two SEALs, friends of Wendy’s. The latter whose invention I hope to hear more about in the future. While there is some zaniness going on, Ms. Hill’s storytelling skills shine like never before, and the dialogues are outstanding. I really liked those people and their town: apart from the SEALs and WEALS, they are mostly ordinary people, it’s life and it’s great! I loved that Ethan and Wendy addressed their situation like rational adults, and that the rekindling of their romance took its own sweet time. Only one thing bothered me: given the abundance of details about everything and everyone, the reason for Wendy and Ethan’s estrangement was never fully explained; they know, but we don’t, and I feel it was important that we also got the whole story. THE FOREVER CHRISTMAS TREE is a terrific second chance romance, a great debut to a new series that could last a very, very long time, and a delightful Christmas story. If you have never read Sandra Hill, THE FOREVER CHRISTMAS TREE is an excellent place to start!I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.I give 4 1/2 stars

Yaritza

August 15, 2018

A wonderful Christmas romance with a Grinch contest. That was a fun idea. I loved that a fundraiser turned out to be a fun filled event. Everyone in Bell Cove joined in and dressed up for the cause. Love is everlasting even when you thought it ended. Wendy and Ethan were sweethearts for many years. A mistake got in the way of their happiness. 12 years later Wendy comes back to find out Ethan didn't become a Veterinarian like he wished for. Wendy's life didn't turn out like she wanted neither. She didn't end up a doctor like her father, but became a Navy SEAL. This book really brought the whole Bell Cove town together as a family and love persevered. Christmas is a time to reflect, enjoy, have fun, spend time with love ones. I can't forget the hot SEAL's in this novel. Who can resist, I sure can't! Great read for Christmas!

Ann

November 06, 2018

This was another wonderful book by Sandra Hill love all her books they make me happy sad but they always work out can't wait to find the rest of her books too read

Ann

September 18, 2018

Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....I was pretty excited to start a new series by Sandra Hill. I knew it would be good because I've enjoyed everything she's written so far. This new series seemed promising since it starts off with a Christmas story by one of my favorite authors. Now even though this ones a new series it starts off with characters from a prior series. In fact Wendy's in that series. So this new series started out with the best of both worlds. Prior characters I enjoyed and a new series. Since I already knew Wendy I knew I liked her. I also know the group of friends she has and love them. They added to this wonderful story. Who I didn't know was Ethan and the people of Bell Sound. But right from the start I knew I needed to know more about them. This town seems so much fun to live in. I love their grinch contest. You really need to read the story to enjoy it. As a whole this is a great story with people you'll just want to read about. It drags you into their lives and leaves you wanting more. My own problem with the story was how mad Ethan was with Wendy when everything was his fault. Period! I did forgive him because he was young but it took a bit. The Forever Christmas Tree is full of humor, Christmas cheer and love for family and friends. The perfect holiday book to read! Follow me on:https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...https://twitter.com/RomancingreaderARC received for a honest review

Candyce

October 09, 2018

I have really come to love Christmas romances the last couple of years, so I was really excited for this one. Wendy is going home to Bell Cove for the first time in twelve years, but is nervous about it. Things happened many years ago with a special someone and she's not sure how to handle that yet, even though she thinks he will be living somewhere else living his happily ever after.Ethan's life turned out different than planned, but it gave him Cassie, that is something he would never change. His dreams did change though. Instead of becoming a veternarian he ended up taking over his father's company and enjoys it more than expected.The wonderful thing about The Forever Christmas Tree is that it takes place in a small town that makes you feel right at home. Wendy's aunt has let people stay in their big house and by doing this created a nice community of her own. It's a small town so everyone knows everyone.I loved the touch with the Grinch contest. That's one of my Christmas favorites. And all for charity right. The whole journey can be followed in the book and I loved all the characters we meet in this town, including Wendy's friends and colleagues.The Forever Christmas Tree is not only told through Wendy and Ethan, but also her Aunt and even a chapter from Ethan's little girl. I loved that the author did this. It gave me a cozy feeling and it was nice that the romance wasn't the most important part of the book. The factory needed to be saved. Just like the romance, this wasn't the most important part, but we did see it solved.Don't worry though, there is definitely romance. It's clear that Wendy and Ethan were meant to be and may even still be. I loved reading about their past, but them also dealing with each other again. But can it work out with Wendy leaving after the holidays?The Forever Christmas Tree is also different in the sense that Wendy was the one who was a soldier and not Ethan. Women can be just as strong and Wendy definitely proves that. This book is filled with a lot of lovable characters who get into your heart and Bell Cove becomes a place you want to live.I only gave this book four stars, because even though I got all the feelings I need from a Christmas romance, the happily ever after wasn't necessarily the Christmas one I want in a book like this. All in all, a Christmas romance that left me feeling warm and happy. I will definitely read the next books in this series!

Cara

September 09, 2018

I have never read a Sandra Hill book before, but when I read the synopsis for The Forever Christmas Tree, I knew I had to read it, and I have to say that after the first chapter it firmly had me gripped. The story starts when Wendy return home to Bell Cove for the first time in 10 years, after she was back in the States after her latest mission for the WEALS (women's branch of the SEALS), but she is not coming alone, she is also bringing some of her fellow WEALS and SEALS with her, but as soon as she arrives back in Bell Cove, she sees the man that broke her heart and sent her running from Bell Cove 10 years ago, Ethan Rutledge. Now I'm not going to spoil it by giving you any more details in this delish book! But I will say, that despite the fact you are in the Outer Banks, there will be 100% chance of Grinch sightings, orange spray tans, wild aunts and tons of dancing! This book is magnificent! To say I loved it is just too mild! To say this book it truly everything! Is more precise! To say Aunt Mildred is 100% my life goals is also 100% accurate! Every character in this book feels like a long lost friend, the writing is superb and the plotline is fantastic! There is one part that I'm curious to know! Is there really such thing as a Navy WEAL? That is one detail that I really would like an answer for. Now when it comes to scoring this books, there is only one score I can give The Forever Christmas Tree, and that is 5 stars!

TJ

July 17, 2018

I just finished this book and its another winner from Sandra Hill. The Forever Christmas Tree takes place for the most part at the Outer Banks, NC. Having vacationed there several times over the years it was refreshing to read about a place that held such great memories for me. The story is engaging and the charactors well defined. I think one of Ms. Hill's hallmarks is her characters - after reading the Viking/SEAL and Navy SEAL books I would know JAM, Geek or K-4 if I bumped into them on the street. Having read the previous books starring these Navy SEALS you are rewarded by seeing them in a totally different environment - no tangos to kill just tangos to dance with some geriatric partners. Ms. Hill tells the story of second chance love - will the chance be acted on? This is a great book for the holidays (it takes place during Christmas in the OBX) OR an excellent beach read. I highly reccomend taking a chance on Ms. Hill's latest book - I wasn't dissappointed and I doubt you will be either!!

Rosemarie

October 31, 2019

Great introduction to a new to me authorThere was a lot in this story, which is very much character oriented. It also sets the stage for this new series, Bell Sound. I love this small town, and the idea of a Grinch contest is super. There were some times when I wanted to tell them to just talk to each other! But that is true in real life, too! Cassie is a great addition and added a lot to the story, as did the crew of senior citizens! I can't wait to see what happens next in this series! There is a brisk pace with an uncertain tone, and a character oriented storyline with some steamy scenes and lots of vibrant characters. If that sounds good to you, then try this. Enjoy!

Cindy

July 25, 2018

If you love Debbie Macomber, Robyn Carr or Sherryl Woods, you will LOVE this Christmas story!Ethan and Wendy were high School Sweethearts until he went to a party one night, got drunk, slept with someone else and, you know the rest. Wendy was so devastated by everything that happened that she moved away, for 12 years! Now that she's back, they both realize that the steamy attraction never ended. Problem is that, Wendy has decided long ago that she will NEVER allow herself to open up to Ethan again!This is the type of story that makes you want to sit in a comfy chair in front of a fire with a cup of hot chocolate!!!

Sheila

January 06, 2019

This is the first time I have read this author. I bought the book because of the title. I really loved this story. The 2 main characters(Wendy and Evan) were very strong and the reasons why they broke up I think was basically the reasons that the story ended the way it did. Of course, there were lots of people setting them up. When Wendy decided to go home for Christmas she never thought about them getting back together. I highly recommend this book.

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