It's never too early for a Christmas book! Especially not a book like this one! If ever there was a novel to warm your heart and make you forget just how horrid 2020 has been then this is the one! 

Immi and Gray are madly in love. However, there just seem to have been too many obstacles in their way over the last year that seem to keep them apart and stop them beginning that journey of spending their lives together. Gray's mum has been ill and he's committed to getting her on the mend and helping out with bills. He's a good son and Immi, while frustrated at the situation realises the reason she does love him is because he is so caring. Her own life has not been easy but she's soon confident that things are on the up and the Christmas of all Christmases is on the horizon, and she simply cannot wait. Her patience and their love and commitment to one another is finally paying off and soon Immi will have all she's ever wanted in life. She hopes! But as we all know, the course of true love never does run smoothly.

Set in a village called Aysbury in what appears to be a most idyllic location, Christmas at Lock Keepers Cottage instantly transports the reader into a community that we all want to be part of. Told from the main character Immi's perspective, we soon become friends with the wonderful array of characters, each with such a warmth and sense of devotion to their community. Her grandfather Tollie is a stubborn but lovable old rogue! And, not everyone is who they seem. Some it would appear have hidden depths and Immi's wonderful caring personality brings out the best in people.

I think what I loved most about this book was the wonderful sense of contentment it gave me by the end. I honestly just loved everything about it. I loved that there was drama, a bit of historical detective work and a good old love story or two thrown in. And don't even get me started on the Santa Ahoy cruises! Goodness me. I did shed a tear or two! And, I've decided that I want to go live in Mrs Price's cottage if the Lock Keepers cottage isn't available! Lucy Coleman has done what many authors struggle with and that is to create a sense of place. Her descriptions make the reader feel right in the heart of the community. 

The overriding message from the novel is that we must never let our past shape our future and make us afraid to move on. We must take a leap of faith that everything will work out OK in the end because it usually does. Bravery comes in many forms and we find our heroes in the most unexpected people and places. A highly recommended read.