The Xmas Factor

A thoroughly engrossing account of the hassle of preparing for Christmas which interweaves the story of two women, Beth and Carol, as they both seek to make Christmas wonderful for those they love. A story full of warmth; mixing poignancy and happiness together into a marvellous climax.

As a Christmas lover I couldn't resist getting this book when I saw it, and it didn't let me down. The story of how different women's lives entwine, and detailing their struggles to achieve "the perfect Christmas".

Two women have to deal with Christmas and all the complications that can bring while juggling work and family

Beth, a second wife, has to prove to the village and her husband and difficult step daughter that she is up to the role filled by his perfect late wife

Carol, a magazine editor, fights for the survival of her publication while trying to care for her son and give him the perfect Christmas.

This story relates of some ordinary people experiencing familiar tricky situations. The atmosphere is really touching. A lot of wit in the writting and the narator reads it really well.

I always find the narrator can make or break a book no matter how good the story is and kim Hicks does a really good job with this one. Its light hearted but enough of a story to make you want to keep listening but not to heavy. I fully recommend it .

A little obvious in places but on the whole a good tale and a nice reading.

This was an easy listen (apart from the narrator's awful Liverpudlian accent!). The story is very light with mainly likeable characters but a number of unlikely co-incidences to draw the story together. Not going to win any awards, but if you want something that's easy on the ear and of a chick lit styling this will appeal.