TIS THE SEASON
The Christmas at the Heartbreak Cafe novella features the return of several characters from Melissa Hill's novels. The summary says: "The Heartbreak Cafe, situated in the picturesque Irish tourist village of Lakeview is a local institution, and owner Ella has run a thriving business since it first opened its doors thirty years before. To honour all those happy years, Ella plans to host a huge Christmas party to thank the community for its support, and to bring all her loyal customers and staff together for a major celebration. She has spent weeks preparing; baking the cafe's all time-favourite treats as well as Christmas favourites like mince pies and mulled wine, and decorating the cafe's interior in the finest festive garb. Everything is set for it to be an amazing celebration of not just the cafe, but of life in Lakeview. But Christmas week, only days before the party, Ella receives a devastating letter. Her landlord won't be renewing her lease in the New Year, and her beloved cafe will have to close. What will she tell her loyal customers? Will she have to start anew? Or is there a way Ella can save the business by harnessing support and convincing her landlord by Christmas that her cafe has a special place in Lakeview hearts and minds."