NEW RELEASE
The Christmas Party - Carole Matthews (2014)
Fossil Oil's Christmas party is a no-expense-spared extravaganza this year and it's certainly going to be unforgettable. For new recruit Louise Young, it's her first Christmas with the company, and whilst as a single mother she desperately needs the job, she could well do without the advances of her boss, Tyler Benson. Tyler's wife has racked up as many Christmas parties as hot dinners and the thought of another one, especially with her husband being less than accommodating to her, is nearly too much to bear. Melissa Harvey is also a seasoned pro. Being the wife of Fossil Oil chairman Lance has its benefits but she's not looking forward to another Christmas party where her husband will drink himself stupid, especially when she'll be sitting next to her lover! Carole Matthews' twenty-fifth novel contains much more than festive cheer and a sprinkling of snow. Indeed there's barely a turkey in sight. Instead there's infidelity, deception, romance and a drunken magician! I loved the various plots that Matthews pursues in the novel, although there were a couple of gaps that I noticed and I would have preferred things to be a bit more wrapped up at the end. However, what's great about this book is that it doesn't go over the top on the Christmas theme and lose sight of the bigger issues of story or characters. Matthews creates a memorable cast with wonderful storylines that just happen to play out against the backdrop of the Christmas party which means that more than just a Christmas story this is a good all-round chick lit read and exactly what Christmas chick lit should be all about. Twenty-five novels is a feat in itself and this one is a perfect testament to Matthews' achievements as a writer. (JC)
Carole Matthews' festive offering this year is The Christmas Party. The summary says: "Louise Young is a devoted single mother whose only priority is to work hard so that she can provide for her daughter, Mia. She has a good job as a PA in a huge international corporation and she's grateful for it. The only problem is her boss who can't seem to keep his hands to himself, but Louise can handle him. What she really doesn't have time for is romance - until she meets the company's rising star, Josh Wallace. Louise has always said no to nights out, preferring to stay in with her child but for one night only, she's decided to let her hair down. It's the office Christmas party, she has a pretty dress to wear and she's looking forward to some champagne and fun with Josh. She's completely unaware that others around her are too busy playing dangerous games to enjoy the party - until she's pulled into those games herself ... Romance is in the air and secrets are about to be uncovered. It's going to be a night to remember at the Christmas party."