Merry and Bright: A Novel

Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. She’s taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry’s well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her—minus her photo—and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl.

Soon Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects—or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away.

This is a typical Debbie Macomber book. A lot of the book takes place via a dating web site. I can see this becoming a Hallmark movie. Of course it has a happy ending.

I recommend this to all who like a light romantic read.

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Best selling author Debbie Macomber pulled out another great Christmas read this holiday season. She did a great job of creating well developed main characters with great supporting characters as well. It was nice to see how she also developed the relationship between Merry and Jay from the start of the book to the very end. I also enjoyed seeing the relationships that Merry had with her brother and parents. It is always nice to read about a supportive family.

In addition to the well developed characters I really enjoyed Debbie's well written story. It was sweet, with not a lot of drama but just enough to keep it interesting. I also liked how she incorporated a little humor into the story as well when it came to Merry and Jay's relationship growing online through the dating website. Lastly, I enjoyed reading how Jay's feelings developed for the two versions of "Merry". It really showed in the end it matters what a person is like on the inside rather than what a person looks like on the outside when finding true love.

If you want a quick, easy read that has romance, christmas and a few laughs than this is the right book for you.

Can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve for the next holiday season.

You’ve got mail…

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is the first book I’ve ever read by this author, but I don’t plan on it being the last! The cover is a charming Christmas scene and drew me in right away. The story brought back wonderful memories from two favorite movies: You’ve Got Mail and The Sound of Music. Indeed, the story is a sweet, light, festive romance that just screams Hallmark, and, since I enjoy holiday reads year-around, and she has many, I definitely plan to check out more of her stories in the next few months. This is the story of Merry Knight and Jayson Bright. LOL! Even the play on names makes me smile…

As the story opens, Merry is working as a temp at a consulting firm, but she might as well be a full time employee with the insane hours she’s putting in. To make things even more stressful at work, she can’t stand her boss, Jayson Bright. After pairing the demands of her job and her family and with readying for the upcoming Christmas season, her own social life is the farthest from her thoughts. But, her special-needs brother and her mother conspiring together as an early Christmas present for Merry, decide to sign her up with an online dating site using a picture of a dog. Merry doesn’t have the heart to be mad at them since they only want her to be happy. Lo and behold, through the listing, she strikes up a friendship with a mystery man who seems perfect for her.

Jayson becomes aware of the same dating site through his friend, who is now a very happy customer and planning his wedding. Jayson’s dubious, but he decides to take a chance and signs up for an account with the service. He immediately sees a listing with a dog picture that reminds him of a beloved dog he had and messages her. They hit it off immediately, chatting every night. But, when they make plans to meet, a huge obstacle to any future plans becomes very apparent to one of them.

The primary characters are both likeable and genuine. Merry loves Christmas as Christmas holds many fond memories for her. Jayson doesn’t care for Christmas as it’s never been a happy time for him growing up. She loves nothing more than to spread Christmas cheer while he is very serious and finds Christmas to be distracting and non-productive. She’s very family-oriented and he’s not. Can these two get past their original impressions and their differences? Is there any hope for an HEA for a Christmas elf and a Scrooge?

Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Merry and Bright:

“Christmas is a condition of the heart.”
---
“I kissed her.”
His words were met with silence and then, “How was it?”
“On a scale of one to ten, it was about a hundred.”
---
“I’ve always loved catching snow on my eyelashes.”

This is an emotional sweet and clean holiday romance with a slew of laugh-out-loud moments. Family relationships figure strongly in the story. It’s kind of predictable, but I still enjoyed every minute of it. If you enjoy lovely Christmas tales set against a snowy wonderland that will most assuredly pull at your heart strings while leaving you snuggled in warm fuzzies, I’d highly recommend that you check out Merry and Bright.

My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there!

Christmas is in the air! I love seeing all the twinkling lights, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, and being able to snuggle up under a warm blanket and watch some sappy, romantic Christmas movies on Netflix. Sometimes, though, you want to read a good book instead that has the same effect which is exactly what I felt when I read Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber.

Merry and Bright is the story of Merry Smith and Jayson Bright, two people who seem to be in two different places in their lives but are both secretly yearning for the same thing: love. Merry's focus is helping to take care of her family as well as work her intense temp job. Jayson is all business, as Jayson is Merry's boss, and his focus is all on a major campaign that is nearing its due date.

For Christmas, Merry's brother and mother create an online dating profile for her, knowing that she needs a man in her life. At first Merry is against the idea until she gets a message from a charming stranger and before long a relationship is blossoming. What neither of them realize is that "Jay" online is really Jayson Bright and "Merry" online is Merry Smith. (Jayson never puts two and two together due to Merry's name being misspelled on her desk at work.)

They agree to meet face-to-face but to Jay's disappointment Merry doesn't show. What he doesn't realize is that as he sat there, Merry shows up and realizes who Jay actually is. It's Mr. Bright, her boss! Now Merry wants to end the relationship, since her and her boss do not get along well, but how can she when she can't without revealing who she really is?

This story is full of charming characters, is wonderfully written, and a quick read which is perfect for the holiday season. It's a sweet story that is not too far fetched and not too sappy. You find yourself rooting on Merry and Jayson, and really do want to see these two get together. Not to spoil anything, but I did finish the book with a little smile on my face. It's a cute story that gets you in the Christmas spirit.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Random House Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review

I have read only three of Debbie Macomber's Christmas romance novels, but her latest, Merry and Bright, due out October 3, 2017, is by far the best of the three. It shows that, while things could go horribly wrong, with internet dating, sometimes they go wonderfully right.

Merry Noel Knight has taken a year off from college to earn money for her senior year working as a temporary data entry clerk at Matterson Consulting, Her boss, Jayson Bright, is feeling pressure to prove himself to his uncle, the owner of the firm.

Merry is under pressure to complete the data for a huge report, and has no time for dating. Without her knowledge, her mother and her younger brother who has Down's Syndrome set up an account for her on the online site, "Mix & Mingle". In place of her photo, they post a photo of the family dog. Meanwhile, Jayson's cousin and best friend reveals that he is engaged to a childhood friend who he found on Mix & Mingle. After refusing to try it, Jayson (Jay) decides to set up an account for himself.

At work, Jay is stressed out and insists on everything being done by-the-book. He becomes a thorn in Merry's side. Outside of work, Jay is a nice guy, and it is this Jay who Merry meets online.

The book compares Jay's childhood of boarding school, and being used by his mother to manipulate his father, to Merry's family life of holidays together and sharing daily meals. It also shows the capabilities and loving personalities of those with Down's Syndrome. This book has a predictable ending, but is a wonderfully heart-warming, feel-good Christmas season story.

What Made This Book Reviewer Grumpy:

Using "bring" and "brought" when the words "take" and "took" should have been used.
Using "I've got" and "you've got" when it should have been "I have" and "you have".
Frequent use of split infinitives, such as "to forcibly turn", "to personally thank", etc.
Look for me online as "The Grumpy Book Reviewer".

I am a sucker for a good Debbie Macomber holiday read and this one didn't disappoint. It's sweet and full of laughable moments and should be on everyone's holiday radar.

Merry Bright is working at a temp job so that she can save up money to pay for her last year of college. She is working for a bit of a scrooge named Jayson Bright. He has a deadline to get a project done before Christmas and demands everyone work a lot of overtime.

Neither have time to date. One day Merry comes home and her brother Patrick, who has down syndrome, is so excited she is home. He tells her how their mother and him set her up on Mix and Mingle for an early birthday present. He is so excited she can't really get mad but she is not real happy. Though she is not sure she likes that they set her profile up with a dog for a profile pic.

Cooper, who is Jayson's best friend and cousin stops by for a visit and tells Jayson how he has met the one and she ended up being someone they both new from childhood and he met her on Mix and Mingle. He caves and checks out Mix and Mingle and sees a picture of a dog, intrigued he sets up his own profile with a picture of a dog as well.

Things start of great but then thing something happens and it's not so great and well you just need to read it. I really liked Merry, she is a sweet and thoughtful young woman who loves her family a lot. I liked Jayson too though it takes a bit longer to warm up to him as he does come off as bit of a scrooge but he had a totally different upbringing. I think Patrick, Merry's brother, was my favorite as he was just so cute! 

This is not a unique concept and it has a You Got Mail feel to it for sure but it's still cute and was a lot of fun to read so if your looking for something light and fluffy and full of Christmas this is for you! :)

May your days be Merry and Bright... And may all your Christmases be white...
Ah sigh, what a heartwarming and fun Christmas romance Merry and Bright turned out to be. The You've Got Mail retelling was so adorably done that I have a feeling I'll be pulling this one back out each year and making it a holiday tradition to read it.

Merry and Bright is a quick, light contemporary office romance with a few twists. One is that Merry gets signed up for the dating service by her hopeful mother and her younger brother with special needs because she takes so much upon herself and is missing out on life. Jayson signs himself up because he's looking for a reason to hope that there is something more out there than his parents' multiple marriages and jerking him back and forth as a leverage between them while in the mean time, he's pushing himself hard to impress a cold, dollars and cents type uncle.

They have a few kerscuffles at work and then meet a different version of each other on-line. It was engaging to see how they both slowly come to know each other both off and on-line. Then of course, there was the inevitable when one learns the truth about their on-line relationship and it gets interesting with what comes next.

I enjoyed both Merry and Jayson even though he starts out a tad Scroogish because he's never gotten the chance to catch the Christmas spirit because of his bleak past. He is mesmerized by Merry's family and all they do for each other and others around them. I just wanted to wrap him up in a hug while sharing cookies and cocoa.

The romance was a sweet one and stuck to an exchange of kisses at most, but it was adorable and spicy with the built in conflict of secrets and on-line identities. I really wanted to see Jayson win over Merry. He needed her so much, but she needs him as well. She has given so much to help with her family's health issues and financial hardships and she also doesn't see her own worth like Jayson does.

So, this was a surgary holiday romance that was light and easy. Perfect for a chance to step away from the holiday crazies to help get back in the mood.

I rec'd this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

Merry Knight is a young woman who's almost finished working a temp position at a consulting firm. There's only a few days before Christmas, and she has a deadline at work, along with helping her disabled mother Robin and Down Syndrome brother Patrick decorate for the holidays. Her father, a pharmaceutical salesman, is away quite a bit, and they've only the one car, she depends on public transportation to get anywhere. She thinks her boss is mean-spirited and has it in for her, and she's just trying to stay employed until her contract is finished. Her life is definitely complicated right now.

Jayson Bright, a young executive working for his uncle Matthew at Matt's company, has a potential contract with the Boeing Company, if he can make the deadline. So he's pushing his employees to get the data finished before Christmas Eve, even if it means working mandatory overtime. He has no time for nonsense, and believes in following everything by the book. He's a hard worker and serious about his life.

But Merry's best friend is happily married and now pregnant. She found her spouse on a dating website called Mix & Mingle, and Robin wants Merry to sign up, but Merry insists she's too busy. Since her birthday is coming up close - December 26 - Robin and Patrick sign her up as an early birthday gift, and rather than use a photo of her, use one of their Golden Retriever, Bogie. Merry, while surprised and not too happy about it, decides to see what just might be out there for her...

Jayson, receiving a surprise visit from his cousin and best friend Cooper, is stunned to hear that Cooper is getting married. Both of them had lousy childhoods with multiple-married parents, and they decided early on that neither one would even start looking for a spouse until they were in their forties. But it turns out that Cooper, on a fluke, met his soon-to-be wife on Mix & Mingle, and better yet, it's someone from his past. After Cooper leaves, Jayson, realizing his life is empty, decides to take a look and see what might be just around the corner. He sees Bogie, fills out an online form, and uses a photo of his own late retriever in return...

Soon Jayson and Merry are communicating without either knowing who the other is. The more they talk, the more they like about each other. But will deciding to meet face-to-face change their budding relationship? Will they be able to survive the knowledge of knowing how they feel about each other? Will they each decide to go their separate ways or will Christmas light its magic and bring two lonely people together?

Debbie Macomber has a lovely tradition of writing an annual Christmas story that touches your heart and brings warmth to the season. This one is no different. We read the story, chapter to chapter, from both Merry and Jayson's points of view. Each one shows us their lives and the changes they are going through. We watch their relationship begin warily, and then, as they start to trust each other, change slowly. But it isn't an easy change. Anyone who's seen the film The Shop Around the Corner will notice the similarity, but I don't think it matters if you enjoy anything of that nature.

It's a lovely book for the holidays, and I enjoyed reading it. I have no doubt that everyone who has read it - or is going to - knows that the magic of Christmas will bring a happy ending. But then again, isn't that what we want to see anyway? A warm, inviting book that will have you longing for snow and a glowing fire to read by. Highly recommended.

Merry Knight is heading into Christmas in the midst of a whirlwind. Her uptight boss is demanding overtime from everyone, but Merry needs the temp job to pay for college tuition. Additionally, she’s helping to take care of her family, as well as volunteering, shopping and baking. It’s a busy schedule, way too busy for a social life, but Merry’s mother and 18-year-old autistic brother think a boyfriend would be a nice addition to her life. When Merry rejects their idea to try Mix & Mingle, an online dating site, they go forward with it anyway --- minus Merry --- in hopes of giving her a Christmas that’s merry and bright.

Jayson Bright is desperately trying to secure his future with his uncle’s company, but it’s meant long hours for himself and his staff. It’s not his fault that the current project has a deadline just days before Christmas. To make matters worse, there’s a certain temp who’s been giving him a hard time, and something about her that keeps lingering on the edges of his mind. Maybe even his heart. But Jayson doesn’t have time for romance or anything but work right now. And his last relationship attempt was an epic failure. Still, he’s intrigued by the fact that his best friend just got engaged and takes his suggestion to check out a certain online dating site.

When Merry discovers that her mother and brother put her profile on Mix & Mingle without a photo, she uploads a picture of their dog. After scrolling through profiles that don’t interest him, Jayson is intrigued by the photo and fills out his own profile using his childhood dog’s picture. The two begin emailing every night without knowing each other’s true identity. Both leave the office on the same elevator, rushing home to email…each other! But when they arrange to meet and Merry finds none other than her boss waiting for her with flowers, she leaves before he sees her. How can this never-smiling, follow-the-rules guy be the same sincere, charming man she emails each night?

If you liked You’ve Got Mail, you’ll certainly enjoy MERRY AND BRIGHT. Warm and sweet as Christmas cookies, this new Debbie Macomber romance is sure to be a hit this holiday season. There are no shortage of likable characters, including Merry’s mom, who’s battling multiple sclerosis, and her brother, whose kind nature and no-holds-barred honesty nearly allow him to steal the show. All that, plus a captivating plot that tugs at the heartstrings. Macomber comes through again with a light and lovely novel just in time for Christmas. And as a bonus, there’s even a chapter from her next book.

Reviewed by Susan Miura

Again, Debbie Macomber comes up with a heartwarming holiday story that keeps you captivated from beginning to end. Merry is a temp working for a company trying to meet a deadline right before Christmas, she's working a lot of overtime. She lives with her mother (who has MS but is still somewhat mobile right now), a brother with down's syndrome, & her father. Jayson Bright runs the company Merry works for & is not known for being nice in the office. He's also busy with the overtime work & has no time to date.

Merry's mom & brother decide to fill out an online dating application to get her a man for her birthday. They put a picture of the family dog instead of her so she can be liked based on her answers & not her looks. Merry isn't thrilled by this. Meanwhile, Jayson's best friend/cousin is getting married to an old friend of theirs that he met up with again through that same dating app. Jayson decides to try it out using a picture of his dog as well when he sees Merry's & wants to message with her.

The ensuing results of this are well worth the read. Highly recommend this book even if you've never read a Debbie Macomber book before, You'll want to pick up more after reading this.

*Given ARC through NetGalley for honest review

As usual, another holiday read from Debbie Macomber that hits just the right spot. I almost gave up early on, figuring this one just was not going to cut it for me, but kept on (I figure she deserves it.). Then, the book got exciting, I got totally involved in it and was glad I gave it a good shot.

Merry is a temp working at a consulting firm for a man who comes across as the world’s biggest curmudgeon, who hates everything that people do that makes them and those around them happier and be better people. This boss, Jayson, is quick to cite the chapter, line and verse of the employee handbook, when Merry tries to brighten things up, pointing out her infraction. Merry beginning to dislike him more and more as time goes on. Jayson, for his part, fells lost, even though he doesn’t realize is and certainly won’t admit it. He has worked all his life to succeed. Unlike Merry, who has a loving close family and who had a love-filled, good-memory childhood, Jayson’s childhood had a lonely, empty childhood, and his life thus far has not been much better. Jayson has gone to work for his bachelor uncle and hopes to succeed at the company’s current project, so his uncle will like him enough to let his run the company. Both Jayson and Merry end up on an on-line meet and greet, dating site, texting each other for long periods each night. Merry thinks she knows Jayson, who thinks he knows Merry. When they finally agree to meet, Merry cannot believe that her “chat mate” is her curmudgeon boss and chickens out of the meeting before it occurs, not telling Jayson why. After this, things between the couple go from good to bad to good again. Can Merry ever accept the fact that her “chat mate”, Jay, is really the boss she detests so much? Can Jay ever figure out what to do about his “chat mate” Merry and the “Mary” (whose name was misspelled on the nameplate by the company HR) at his office, to whom he is attracted for reasons he cannot understand?

This is a charming holiday story that will delight the reader. It definitely will get anyone in the holiday spirit. The story is well written, as is generally the case with Debbie Macomber. The characters are also well done and perfectly suited for their respective roles. As usual, I loved this one. Debbie has been filling my holidays with cheer and good stories for years and years, and, if you enjoy her books or want this, you will find her doing the same for you with this one. I highly recommend it. If you read nothing else this holiday season, read this one. I am sure you will not regret it. I only hope the story of Merry and Jay will continue in other books Debbie Macomber writes. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.

Book Info
Hardcover
Expected publication: October 3rd 2017 by Ballantine Books
ISBN 0399181229 (ISBN13: 9780399181221)
Other Editions (7)
Source:Netgalley EARC

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BOOK BLURB

Christmas is the season of the heart, and #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber is here to warm yours with a delightful holiday novel of first impressions and second chances.

Merry Smith is pretty busy these days. She's taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry's well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her--minus her photo--and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl.

Soon Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects--or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away.

My Thoughts

For me Christmas has always been a bittersweet holiday. Having experienced more than a few loved ones loss during December made those Christmas celebrations a little less joyful and a lot more sorrowful.

My love of holiday romance tales though is a lifelong pleasure that even grief never tarnished so when get a chance every once in a while read a few well before the actual month of December and fall in love with the magic of the season all over again.

What drew me to this particular story was the intrigue of finding out just whom Miss Merry found herself as an online match, that is he was until the day she found out the mans real identity and could not bear to reveal hers.

This is a modern-day contemporary holiday romance that has a positive message for those who think meeting someone online can be a good thing, of course in this case the two have met in real life but are not aware of that fact through most of the story.

I enjoyed the Knight families ability to find the joy in life rather than dwelling on it’s shortcomings, especially the ones that kept them struggling to make ends meet.

I enjoyed the close relationship between Merry, her brother and her mother and their relationship with her as well.

I enjoyed Jay and Merry's getting to know each other process, it beat struggling through awkward first dates hands down but it also set the bar high for them both to live up to.

The icing on the cake was when, despite her misgivings, Merry let her heart rule her head with Jay as she slowly realized that even though the man she knew was not her first choice the man she came to know through their computer correspondence definitely was.

[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]

Fans of Debbie Macomber know that she always releases a Christmas themed novel, and this year that novel is called Merry and Bright. Once again, the author has written a delightful holiday story...one that is a quick and engaging read with characters that are well-written and realistic. Overall, it is the feel good and heartwarming holiday story we've all come to know and expect from author Debbie Macomber at this time of year.

Merry Knight has a full schedule on her hands and no free time to pursue a relationship. She is finishing out her one year contract with Matterson Consulting, a job with a very demanding and by-the-book boss, Jayson Bright. When she isn't at work, she helps take care of her family...especially her eighteen-year-old brother Patrick, who has Down Syndrome. Needless to say, she is caught off guard when she comes home from work to find out her mom and brother signed her up for an online dating service called Mix & Mingle. To make matters even worse, they use a picture of the family dog as her profile picture. Thinking nobody will take her profile seriously, she is surprised when she receives a response.

Jayson Bright is trying to prove to his Uncle Matt that he can handle anything that comes his way at Matterson Consulting, including meeting the deadline that involves the contract with Boeing. This literally takes up all of his time, leaving him with no time for a social life. He receives an unexpected visit from his cousin (Cooper), who is in Seattle on a layover from a business trip. During the visit, Cooper tells Jayson that he met the love of his life and is getting married. He explains that it is a girl from their childhood in which he reconnected with through Mix & Mingle. Curiosity has Jayson checking out the Mix & Mingle website the following day, and that's when a profile picture captures his attention...it is a picture of a golden retriever.

The story that unfolds is perfectly paced and well developed. It is a testament to the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with two characters so devoted to their jobs that they forget to take time for themselves. The online relationship that occurs is quite adorable, and I truly loved the fact that the author found a way to include Patrick. Considering that Patrick is so important to Merry, it was heartwarming to see just how protective he is of her. I loved that both characters chose profile pictures of their dogs...especially since both of them felt it was important to get to know the person, and not judge by their appearance. There are some twists, and the relationship that starts out great online doesn't have the same luck when the truth comes out.
.
Overall, this was the heartwarming Christmas story that I have come to love and also look forward to by author Debbie Macomber. Once again, she puts the focus on a message for all to learn from....never let your work stop you from from having personal happiness. It was great seeing Merry share her love of the holiday with Jayson...and seeing him look at it through her eyes as well! I also loved the fact that the author gave a great deal of attention to Patrick, which showed Merry's love and devotion to her family. The use of the dog pictures was a great way to show that people need to look beyond appearances. Debbie Macomber always has an underlying message in her books that make them a worthwhile read.

I would like to thank Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this book. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.

Merry And Bright
Debbie Macomber
5 Stars

Synopsis:

Christmas is the season of the heart, and #1 New York Timesbestselling author Debbie Macomber is here to warm yours with a delightful holiday novel of first impressions and second chances.

Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. She's taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry's well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her--minus her photo--and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl.

Soon Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects--or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away. (Goodreads)

Review:

The characters are well developed and well rounded. I really liked Merry, she was a sweet, caring, loving person. She loves her family fiercely and she is happy with her life. But after she spends time with Jay/Jayson, she realizes that she is missing having someone special in her life. I really enjoyed the time spent with her brother, Patrick, he was an amazing character. Jayson was a good guy who has not had a lot of love in his past, and he began to loosen up and enjoy life more after meeting Mary/Merry. I enjoyed meeting and getting to know all of the characters and spending time with them.

I have read a lot of this author’s books and I have loved them all. This book was no exception. All of her books are feel-good reads that are clean, with no swearing or anything explicit in them. This author shows that you can write a heartwarming romance without any vulgarities in it. I thought that the title of the book was very clever.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted women’s contemporary romance. It is a quick easy read and once I started it reading it I did not want to put it down. If you are looking for a great holiday read that makes you feel happy, grab this book.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book.

Merry and Bright is a sweet reminder of the true spirit of Christmas and another winner by Debbie Macomber. Her Christmas books are great for getting one in the Christmas mood.

Merry Knight is taking a year off from school and working as a data entry temp at Matterson Consulting to save up for school. Each member of her family does their part to support each other financially and emotionally. Her dad travels as a pharmaceutical rep while her mom has MS and is limited to what she can do. Her eighteen year old Patrick has Down syndrome. He goes to school and works at a grocery store. Merry's job requires overtime work because of a project nearing the deadline and her boss, Jayson Bright, is a stern, by the book boss. To add to the stress, it is the Christmas season and a busy but special time for Merry. Merry's social life is non existent. Robin, her mom, and Patrick decide to sign Merry up for an online dating service using a different name, Merry Smith, and a picture of their golden retriever. They misspelled her name at work so her nameplate says Mary Knight.

Jayson Bright is under a lot of pressure to finish a project that Matterson Consulting is doing to gain work for the Boeing Company. His life revolves around the company and he has high goals to move into his uncle's place as head of the company when his uncle retires. Jayson's family life growing up consisted of being moved back and forth between parents when neither seemed to want him. He grew up in boarding schools and summer camps with his best friend and cousin, Cooper, who had the same kind of life. Christmas is just another day for Jayson. He always got presents but there was not a special celebration for the holiday. Cooper reconnected with Maddy, a girl that they knew at summer camp, on an online dating service and now they are engaged. Taken by surprise by Cooper's announcement, Jayson acknowledges his own loneliness and signs up with the online dating service under a different name. Jayson is drawn to Merry Smith whose picture is one of a golden retriever, a dog he once had.

As Jay and Merry connect online, they become friends but decide to wait a while to meet in person. But the situation gets complicated when they agree to meet. I don't want to give anything away so I am not going into anymore detail. When two people with different views of family and the Christmas season become friends, interesting things can happen. This is a sweet story of true Christmas spirit as seen in a close family enjoying gifts of the heart, time, baking, going to church and other traditions.

Thanks to Debbie Macomber and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Yes, it's a Christmas book. Yes, I know it's not Christmas yet but I've had this book waiting for me for a while now. It doesn't release until October but the synopsis just kept calling to me and I couldn't wait any longer. And life is going to be crazy the first of October to read and write the review then, so I decided to grab it now and enjoy. And I did! It was fabulous! I've read the last several Christmas books that Debbie Macomber has written and have loved them. This one was no exception!

I had a big ol' grin on my face the whole time and kept thinking that this was just super cute and I couldn't wait for the big reveal to happen. Cute, cute, cute, cute!!!!

I loved Merry's relationships with her parents and teenage brother. Patrick, the brother, melted my heart. Patrick has Down Syndrome and loves his sister Merry very much. So in a moment of wanting to cheer her up, he and her mom create a dating profile for her online. They use the image of a their dog for her profile picture and surprise her with their news. What she doesn't expect is to find another user with the picture of their dog as their profile. A wink, a click and a short message lead to lots of fun conversations (via the internet of course) and the chance at a happy and Merry Christmas.

Merry's personal life is stressful right now. Work is stressful. She just wants to enjoy nothing more than chatting online with her new friend Jay after a long day. Their friendship slowly starts to evolve and it's time to put it to the test of meeting. Will they be able to ever meet? Will their friendship be enough to keep them happy once they do meet?

Seriously this was a super cute story that I devoured last night. I think I say this every time I read one of her Christmas novels...I sure hope they make this into a Hallmark movie! Yep, the same sentiment rings true for this book. I want a Hallmark movie out of this one! It's just a sweet, feel good and happy novel. A cozy Christmas story that warms your heart and gets you in the mood for family and friends and just the magic of that time of year. I'd happily curl up on the couch with my hubby and family, popcorn and blankets, and laugh and giggle and smile and sigh all while watching this.

There are so many more things I want to say about this book but I really don't want to spoil it and if I start to say something about the characters or a scene, I just know I'll give something away, even if I were being vague. So let me leave it at that and say one last time that I highly recommend this for a cute, super sweet read. If you need a good pick me up, grab this one.

Content: Clean

Happy Reading!!!

A cute play on words “Merry and Bright” as Merry is the name of the main female character in the story and Bright is the last name of the main male character in the story. It is a delightful story.

Robin Knight has MS and is Merry’s mom. Her mom needs help from time to time with Merry’s younger brother Patrick who is eighteen and has Down syndrome. He also has a dog, golden retriever named Bogie.
Patrick has a heart of gold where his sister is concerned and only wants what will make Merry happy.

Merry is working as a temporary at her job and the boss is working them overtime and crazy hours.
Jayson Bright, Merry’s boss never smiles.
One evening when she gets home from work her brother is so excited to tell her about an early birthday surprise he and his mom got her, that he can’t even wait till after dinner. Patrick tells Merry in an animated voice that they got her a “man” for her birthday! Beyond speechless, Merry cannot believe what she just heard! Her mom and brother signed her up to a dating website, “Mix and Mingle.”
They used her real first name but gave her a fictitious last name since they weren’t sure how she would react to their gift. The picture of herself was Bogie, Patrick’s dog so she could be anonymous if anyone she knew was looking on the site, and then they wouldn’t recognize her.

Jayson’s best friend Cooper was looking at the dating site, “Mix and Mingle” with a work friend and stumbled upon an old friend. That old friend is now his fiancé and he has come to ask Jayson to be his best man at his wedding. After Cooper left, Jayson decided to look on the dating site and search for women in his area.
A lady with her pic, as a golden retriever caught his eye. He had a soft spot for golden retrievers so he decided to play along. When Merry gets home from work the next night her brother is so excited to tell her she has a wink on the dating site and his name is Jay!
And so the adventure begins! Jay and Merry beginning talking to each other on the dating site but do they ever meet? As we all know texting and emailing messages don’t always have the same meaning as talking face to face.
If Merry really knew whom she was talking to would she still be talking to him?
What all does Patrick do to try and keep Merry and Jayson together?
You need to get the book and find out! This is a delightful, funny, and heartwarming holiday story.
I was given this book, by Netgalley.com for review purposes.

Merry and Bright is a lovely holiday offering by prolific author Debbie Macomber. Set in the lovely city of Seattle, this story finds two unlikely, driven people discovering one another.

Merry Knight is a contract worker in data entry at Matterson Consulting, working long hours to meet deadlines for an important Boeing contract. She is coming up to the end of her year long contract and looking forward to going back to complete her college degree in special education. The job has been interesting, but the company never got the spelling of her name correct on her desk plate and she has had more than one run in with her handsome but seemingly arrogant boss.

Her family is tight knit and loving, but they have financial struggles. She has taken this year to earn the money she needs to finish college. Her dad is a hardworking pharmaceutical salesman. Her mom, Robin, is an MS patient, her younger brother, Patrick, has learning challenges. But the home is blessed with love.

Wanting to do something nice for Merry, her mom and brother set up an account for her on the Mix & Mingle website. One of Merry's good friends has found a good match there and her mom is concerned about Merry's lack of social life. They set up her profile very truthfully but rather than using an actual photo, they use a picture of their golden retriever, Bogie. While not happy about this, Merry is intrigued.

Jayson Bright is an up and coming Vice President at Matterson Consulting who is putting in very long days trying to wrap up the bid for the huge Boeing contract. If he can be successful with this, it is almost certain that his uncle will put him in the lead when he retires. When visited by his more carefree cousin, Cooper, he learns that Cooper has reconnected with a childhood friend of theirs on Mix & Mingle and they are now engaged. Urged by Cooper, Jayson investigates the website and is intrigued by the profile with the retriever photo. Setting up his own profile using a photo of his childhood golden, Rocky, Jay begins corresponding with Merry.

With shades of You've Got Mail, this delightful tale will excite and amuse at the missed moments and best intentions until the sweet ending brings it all together. With snow and Christmas lights to set off this lovely story, this holiday tale is indeed a gift to the reader. I recommend this book,

Every year Debbie Macomber gives us a beautiful Christmas story.
This year I was more than delighted with Merry and Bright.
The story conveys an emotion as I had not felt for a long time.

Merry, who was born on December 26, has an envious inner positive energy.
She works as a temporary employee at a company while saving money to pay for her senior year of college. She wants to be a teacher.
She comes from a solid and loving family.
Her mother suffers from multiple sclerosis and her 18-year-old brother, Patrick, has down syndrome. The family is beautiful.

The Christmas party is a long-awaited tradition. It is at this time that they take the time to thank all the people for their help and support throughout the year by giving them time to cook for these people.

With such a love-filled life story, Merry has clashes with her boss, Jayson Bright.
A handsome man, but always serious, he never smiles.

Jayson carries the responsibility of the VP of his uncle's company on his shoulders. With deadlines and all reports to do, he has no time for social life or smiling.

So when he knows that his cousin, Cooper, was in love and marrying soon, Jayson is astonished. More so to know that the meeting of Cooper and his fiancée was through a dating website.

Determined to risk his luck, Jayson signs up, but doesn't put his picture on the profile, but a dog he had in his teens.
Jayson is interested in the profile of a woman whose photo was also a dog.

They exchange messages for some time until they decide to meet each other.
From there everything changes because the woman didn't appear. But, she did. She saw him. She freaked out.

Merry is surprised to discover that the man she had been talking to online was her boss.
Company policy didn't allow for loving relationships between employees.
In a few days she would not work there anymore.
And she and Jayson had had several clashes in the office.

How could she forget his pedantic and serious way?
How would Jayson be after having his heart broken by a woman he didn't even know?

The end of the story has a lot the magic of Christmas, with human mistakes and success, full of merry and bright
5 stars

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber was a sweet lighthearted Christmas romance.

Mary Knight is our heroine, who lives with her mom, dad and brother. Mary works as a temp, until just before Christmas, which will complete her one year contract, as she wants to go back to school. She works hard and is willing to work overtime. At work she is known as Merry, because of an uncorrected spelling error by HR.

Jayson Bright is the boss of the company and he is a workaholic, especially since he is trying to win a bid. Jayson comes across to his staff, as cold, and unfriendly. His cousin tries to tell him to go out and have some fun, find himself a date, even using one of those computer dating sites.

Mary's mother and her brother, Patrick, who is challenged, also try to tell Mary to find a boyfriend. One day without her approval they set up a profile for her on a dating site. The picture used was that of her dog, Bogie. She figures no harm done, as who will look at her with a picture of a dog. Mary meet Jay.....
Jay sees the dog picture, which brings memories of when he was a kid. Soon Mary and Jay begin a friendship on the internet

Jayson is working overtime to try to meet his deadline, and when he needs help, it is Merry who will stay late to finished to project. Neither Jay nor Mary know each other's identity, until they agree to meet. Only Mary doesn't show up. When Jay asks why she didn't come she tells him that she knows him, and there can be nothing further between them. However, as she works more with Jayson (who still doesn't know who she is), she realizes that he really is a nice guy.

What follows is a warm and sweet story of two people who are lonely and by finding each other, they begin to change the way they look at things. Christmas was a perfect setting for this romance. Will Mary be able to tell Jayson who she is? Will Jay accept that Merry and Mary are one and the same. You will have to read the book to find out.

Merry and Bright is a sweet warm romance with a couple we could not help but root for. Another wonderful fast paced romance, with a Christmas theme by Debbie Macomber that you need to read

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is set in Seattle, Washington. Merry Knight is a temp at Matterson Consulting. Her contract will be up on December 23 and Merry will be glad for the break. Her by-the-book boss has been pushing the workers and the mandatory overtime has put a kink in her social life. Merry’s mother (Robin) and brother (Patrick) set up a profile for her on Mix and Mingle with a photo of their dog. They want to find someone for Merry who will be interested in her as a person (not her outward appearance). Merry is stunned, but, to her surprise, one man stands out to her. He did use a photo of himself either (his childhood dog). The pair start chatting online at night while Merry deals with her difficult boss during the day. After getting to know each other, they agree to meet in person and Merry is astonished by the man’s identity. It is the last person she expected to see or wanted to. To find out what happens between Merry and her online suitor, pick up a copy of Merry and Bright.

Merry and Bright is a fun, entertaining story (Debbie Macomber never disappoints). It has good characters, a lovely city (I want to live there), a cute premise, and a set during a magical time of year--Christmas. I liked the themes presented in the story—Christmas is a condition of the heart (isn’t that just beautiful), kindness, generosity, openness, showing love to those we cherish, bad things about assumptions, misconceptions and judgements can be harmful/detrimental. I found Merry and Bright to be well-written with a nice ease to the writing (it flowed nicely). My rating for Merry and Bright is 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). My one critique is the story is predictable. Once I started reading, I accurately predicted the rest of the story. Merry and Bright is a lovely, heartwarming Christmas tale that will delight fans of Debbie Macomber.

When it comes to setting a Christmas mood with her magical words, there is no author who does that better -for me – than Debbie Macomber. I’ll read anything she produces throughout the year. Yet her holiday themed stories capture my heart every single time with faith, love and hope shinning through the pages. This year she brings us Merry and Bright. A delightful romance of two people who should not have worked under any circumstances. Still, it’s amazing what the heart can discover when there are no distractions to get in the way, when only our words show our true selves to another person.

Merry is at heart a happy person who absolutely loves the holiday season. It takes a super Grinch to mess up that mood but her boss is working very hard to make that a reality. No choice overtime, a grumpy, unreasonable boss have put a damper on Merry’s spirits this season. Oh, she hasn’t lost that magic but it certainly isn’t a bright as it once was. She has responsibilities at home, and work is seriously getting in the way of enjoying her life. When her mother and brother set her up at an online dating site she’s incredulous. But a few conversations with one man has her rethinking just about everything. Determined to not meet face to face immediately, Merry is slowly coming to the conclusion that Jay is simply perfect for her… right up until they meet in person and the man behind the written words is revealed.

I loved Merry and Bright. It will bring a smile, perhaps some frustration, definitely emotions and a belief that no matter what is shown on the surface when we dig down a bit we’ll often find gold. If you are already a Debbie Macomber fan, then you’ll be picking up this one fast. If you haven’t discovered her yet (which would be pretty amazing considering she’s been giving us amazing stories for years now)… well, then this story is a perfect way to discover the magic of the season and true love.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

Do you like lighthearted Christmas romance stories?
Well, if your answer is yes, then this book will not disappoint! Merry (aka Mary) Knight is working on a temp assignment at Jayson (aka Jay) Bright’s company. When her mother and brother sign her up for an online dating service, she’s hesitant. She’s so busy working that she has no time for romance. Meanwhile, Jayson Bright is a curmudgeon workaholic from a dysfunctional family.
He’s also Merry’s boss. When they meet online, they don’t realize that they are already connected to one another.
I really liked Merry. She’s a hard worker and she likes the simple things in life. I liked Jay, but, felt he had some growing up to do. However, his bad-temper was partially due to his sad childhood, and it was understandable why he was so grumpy.
The way the story plays out is funny and romantic. I also loved how Merry dealt with the issues in her own life (outside of dating). Her mom is sick and her brother has special needs. In spite of all this, she mostly remains happy and carefree with an optimistic look on life, for the most part.
I also loved reading about Christmas! The holiday scenery and decorations, the way they were described, was so much fun to read about!

Title: Merry & Bright
Author: Debbie Macomber
Publisher: Penguin Books-Random House-Ballantine Books
Published: 10-3-2017
Pages: 272
Genre: Women's Fiction
Sub-Genre: Holidays, Mothers & Children, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
ISBN: 9780399181221
ASIN: B01N6OUZID
Reviewed For Ballantine Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars

Debbie Macomber never fails to deliver a story that warms your heart and puts the Christmas Spirit back in your soul. Like most of us Mary Knights life is busy with work and family and every day life. She doesn't feel like she has time for a social life. Her family feels differently. Unbeknownst to her they sign her up with a dating profile and unbelievably the replies are numerous. At first Mary is skeptical until she finds a kindred soul among the replies and begins chatting back and forth. The e-mails growing in depth and length. When the time comes and they decide to leave cyber space and meet in the real world Mary is shocked when her on line perfect friend turns out to be none other than her grouchy, irritable boss, Jayson Bright.

Will Merry find her Christmas spirit crushed? Will Jayson and Merry follow their hearts to the conclusion they seek, friendship and love found in the most mysteries of places, on line in infinite cyberspace.

If you have never read Debbie Macomber you are in for a treat. She always brings her best in her stories and leaves readers with a warm heart and a smile on their faces. Christmas came early for me this year in the form of Merry and Bright. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. This story is fast paced and filled with characters you want to read about and learn about their lives and their extended family and friends. here is humor and hope throughout the story that you can not help but to respond to. Mary is Christmas Spirit and Jayson is the Grinch, but over the story you can watch Jason soften and become or open. Once you start you will not want to put the book down. Enjoy and a early Happy Holidays to you.

My rating of "Merry & Bright by Debbie Macomber" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.

It has been years since I’ve read a Debbie Macomber and to be honest, I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy her work as much as I once had. I am very happy to say that I was still heart struck by her talent. She has a way of bringing so many emotions into the story in as few words as possible all while building tension between the characters.

Merry’s family signs her up on a dating site and she is pressured into checking it out. At the same time Jayson Bright decides to check out the same site after his best friend found his fiancé there. Neither post a picture, but both feel an immediate connection to the other. What results is much like the movie “You’ve Got Mail” and the comparison is even made at one point in the book.

However, don’t expect this to be an exact retelling of that cinematic feature. Instead, Ms. Macomber puts a fresh spin on it with a few twists that were pleasantly surprising. This is a fast pace read with plenty of wit and charm and although low to non-existent in the steam factor, I never really missed it.

Watching Jayson change from a “glass half empty” kind of guy into one who saw the world in a better light is the true gem of this story. There was one moment when I wanted to thunk him on the back of the head for being an idiot, but other than that he’s a hero that can outshine so many of those in today’s contemporary novels.

Merry shines when her love for all things Christmas as well as her good will toward mankind is allowed free expression. Don’t mistake that childlike enthusiasm for a weak heroine. She is anything but and she proves it repeatedly to Mr. Bright.

This is an excellent read for the holidays and I highly recommend it if you’d like something sweet with a touch of angst and something clean.

This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and Ballantine Books.

Dual POV
Safe
No Triggers

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is a fun Christmas story. Debbie Macomber can be depended on to write a unique Christmas story each year and this one does not disappoint.
Merry Knight is working as a temporary employee at Matterson Consulting firm; she has not been able to get HR to correct the spelling of her name from Mary to Merry on her name plate. The company is working on a proposal for a large contract and everyone is working mandatory overtime in the weeks before Christmas. Merry has not desire or time for dating. She is also very busy helping her mom who has multiple sclerosis and younger brother with downs syndrome as her father travels a lot for his work. Her mom and brother sign her up on a dating site using the picture of the family dog for her profile. She gets several messages and begins communicating with Jay.
Jayson Bright is in charge of getting the proposal in on time and is a grumpy, demanding boss. No eating at one’s desk and no Christmas decorations allowed. His cousin and best friend encourages him to try online dating as that is how he connected with his future wife. He signs up, using his dog’s picture, and begins communicating with a lady named Merry.
You can see where the plot is going but there are many hysterical twists and turns along the way to the end. I did not want to put this book down; I was anxious to find out what would happen next to the characters or what silly situation they would find themselves in. I have been a fan of Debbie Macomber for years and was excited to read this book. I give it 5 of 5 stars. The characters come to life on the page and feel like friends. Hanna’s brother, Patrick, is shown in light of what he can do and not as being disabled, very nicely portrayed. I recommend this to everyone who enjoys a good, clean, Christmas romance.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I absolutely loved this book so much. Merry Bright lived a very dull life. She worked and took care of her family. Her contract with a consulting company was about to end and she would be able to return to school to finish her last year of college with the money she had earned. Her mother and brother were determined that she should date and socialize so as a surprise for her birthday, they set up a profile on an on-line dating site. Her pseudonym was Merry Smith and the picture they used was of their golden retriever because they wanted someone who took the time to get to know her by her heart, not her looks. She wasn't happy but went along.

There was one man who stood out and she began to chat with him online. Their chats were wonderful and Merry began to look forward to their evening chats online. After some time, they decided they should meet, but when she recognized who he was, she left without introducing herself. He couldn't possibly be the same person she had been chatting with online. Was it even worth continuing this online relationship? Would they ever be able to be more to each other? He was as much a mystery to her as she was to him. You will have to read the book to see how the story ends.

This was the perfect Christmas romance and it made me feel happy to read such a sweet story. There was no sex or foul language and the romance was sweet and genuine.

I was given an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Merry Knight works as a full time temp employee at a consulting firm. She mainly enjoys her job but seems to have gotten on the wrong side of her employer when she eats and her desk and decorates her cubicle for Christmas. She is cheery and happy but lacks a social life. So her Brother and Mother decide to create an online dating profile for her. At first Merry is not to happy with the idea but eventually begins to have fun with it and begins an online relationship with a man who seems too good to be true.

Jayson Bright is the Vice President of his Uncle's Consulting Company. He has deadlines to meet and finds himself reprimanding his temp employee for and then feeling bad about it - but as the boss he must enforce the rules. He also does not have much of a social life. He works hard to make his deadlines and that does not leave him much room for fun. When he learns his Cousin Cooper is getting married and that he became re-acquainted with an old friend online, he decides to set up an online profile for himself. It isn't long before Jayson meets a woman online and begins an online relationship with her.

So the book is pretty predictable but that did not stop me from enjoying this book. I found that I liked all of the characters and was rooting for them both individually and together. This is a fast and enjoyable read for Christmas 2017. Debbie Macomber books are light and sweet but also deal with some real life issues. In this book we see characters with down syndrome and Multiple Sclerosis. If you are looking for a sweet feel good book for the Holiday season, this is a wonderful book. This book is also perfect for those who enjoy romance novels but without sex scenes or excessive (foul) language.

I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishing - Ballantine and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is a wonderful light read perfect for the Holiday Season in front of the fireplace.
Merry Knight, a busy frugal young woman, is working at Matterson Consulting trying to help her widowed mother and Down’s syndrome brother make ends meet. She has little time for herself or to date. So, for her birthday Merry’s mother and brother sign her up for an online dating service, Mix & Mingle.
What happens as a result of their good-natured interference makes up this lovely novel. The individuals are well thought out, the dialogue and the situations are believable. And of course, in Debbie Macomber’s style, the story is a clean enjoyable romantic story that I didn’t want to end. I hope these characters reappear in more of Debbie Macomber’s books because I became quite fond of them.

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Ballantine Books with no obligation to review it. This is my honest review after reading

Another beautiful book and full of messages from great Debbie Macomber. I am a fan of her books, her writing and her characters.
In Merry and Bright, she brings the story of the upbeat Merry, a girl who had everything to be always complaining about life and being bitter. Even with her mother and younger brother problems, she does not get discouraged and is always with a smile on her face and willing to help anyone who needs her, even her grouchy boss Jayson Bright. Jayson is Merry's opposite, he's always serious and angry, a workaholic addicted to perfection until the day he starts communicating with a mysterious girl over the internet. What I find very interesting is that Jayson does not fall in love with girl only, he falls in love with her whole family and this detail marked me enough.
The book brings a message of resilience, strength in adversity and hope, great for the Christmas mood. I loved the plot, the suspense and the movie that inspired the book. One detail that made me sad was that I expect a more closed and less fast ending. As the plot was very focused on the suspense of the couple finding out who the virtual friends were in real life, in the end the main conflict was solved without great emotions and I missed a lot of epilogue showing the couple with his cousin Cooper and enjoying each other , but even this detail did not take away the brightness of the plot.

This is an enjoyable holiday story. I found the characters engaging and the writing effortless.
It is a girl meets boy; girl is annoyed by boy; boy doesn't really notice girl type, of story. Merry is a 25-ish woman working as a temp. at a well-known information company in the Seattle area of Washington state. She has a one-year contract so that she can earn enough money to complete her college degree as a special education teacher. She has a downs syndrome younger brother and lives at home with him and their parents. Their father is a traveling salesman; so most of the time it's just the three of them. They are a close-knit, loving, family. Merry has seen Jason Bright around the office. After all, he is the VP and apparently next in line as President; once his uncle retires. Due to an on-line dating site and the unexpected decision for 2 people to try new options; they start messaging, without knowing their true identities; and find that they like each other. This was was wonderfully delightful Christmas story.
I received a free e-book from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Merry Knight is so busy doing for others, she doesn't take time for herself. Her mom and brother decided to help her and sign her up on a dating site, but they use the picture of a dog for her profile in an attempt to screen out trolls. It works, and there's a profile of a guy who has done the same thing. Intrigued, they're chatting back and forth and hope to meet.

By day Merry is a temp working on a big project for a grumpy boss. Jayson Bright, with no Christmas spirit and a stickler for the company rules. Working side-by-side with a deadline, she finds he might not be so bad in spite of the scrooge-like behavior. Jayson comes from a dysfunctional family and tends to be a cynic, living in a cold sterile world with no attachments..

As fate would have it, Merry discovers her potential date is none other than Mr. Bright and stands him up on their first meet. It's hard for her to reconcile the two sides of the man she's come to care about. Time is not on her side with the deadline looming. Apologizing for missing their date, she promises him they will meet--they know each other. He's determined to solve the mystery of this woman who makes him long for a family he's never experienced.

These star-crossed lovers will need to decide how much to give of themselves, forgiveness, and overcome a few obstacles to find love and their HEA. This is a Christmas story with all the feels!

**received this book on NetGalley from the publisher**

Merry Knight doesn’t have time for dating. Between a big project at work with her demanding boss, helping her mom, and spending time with her brother, who has time for dating? Sure, it would be nice, but she has more important things to worry about right now. Then her well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for Merry, and dating looks like it just might happen.

Soon Merry is chatting online with a charming stranger, and hopes to get to know him better. Until they meet in person, and she finds out he’s the last man she could ever actually date. Now Merry is torn between the kind man she knows online—and the all-business person she knows in real life.

I’m not going to lie: the only reason I read this was because of the author. I generally avoid Christmas tales, because the commercialism of the season disgusts me, and the fact that stores put Christmas decorations out in September drives me up the wall. But this was a very sweet, satisfying read, with some touches of humor. Merry’s family, especially her brother, add so much to the story, and I actually finished reading this in just a few hours. (I’m ashamed to say I didn’t catch the significance of the title until I finished the book.) A lovely, uplifting story, that just might get you in the Christmas spirit.

(Galley provided by Ballantine Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)

Debbie Macomber has written another delightful Christmas novel.

Merry Knight is a hardworking young woman who lives at home with her parents and her younger brother who has Down’s Syndrome. Her mother has multiple sclerosis. Merry’s family is very important to her. Her boss, Jayson Bright, is a young executive in his uncle’s consulting firm.. He is in line to inherit the company. He is all business and a real stickler for the rules. He has never been close to his mother and father who divorced when he was very young and each remarried several times during the time he was growing up. He doesn’t know what it means to have a close family.

Merry’s mother and brother sign her up for ‘Mix & Mingle’ without her knowledge because they think she works too hard and needs a social life. Merry and Jayson are matched up on the website and start communicating online. Merry doesn’t know that the ‘Jay’ she has been communicating with online is really her hard-nosed boss. Jayson doesn’t know that the ‘Merry’' he is falling for online is the same Mary that he has required to work so much mandatory overtime. After a few weeks, they decide to meet in person. Interesting situations ensue.

This story has well developed characters and a believable story line. I have never read a Debbie Macomber book that I didn’t love. I look forward to her Christmas novels every year. This year’s novel did not disappoint. I highly recommend Merry and Bright to anyone who loves a good, wholesome Christmas story.

4 Stars - I recommend if you enjoy Christmas rom-coms. :) (I know this is not everyone's genre!)

Merry Knight is working a temp job, (for an awful boss), and taking care of her family (her mother has MS and her younger brother is Autistic) all while saving for her final year in college. Her family has had a hard time making ends meet, and getting daily chores done. Because Merry is so selfless, her mother and brother sign her up for an online Matchmaking site called Mix & Mingle. They don't use her real name, and use a picture of their dog, just in case she's mad. Soon after Merry gets a "wink" from a match who also has a dog as a profile picture. When she finds out that her match is actually her boss, a total jerk, she doesn't know how to proceed. Holiday hi-jinx and shenanigans ensue.

I am a sucker for Christmas rom coms. I can't help it. I'm trash for Hallmark channel in the winter, and I love reading these books. I've been disappointed by the last few that I had read by this author... but finally I felt like this one was back to what I expected. I thought that this was cute, predictable, romantic, and heartwarming. Just the type of book I need when the world is hurting so much. I loved the family aspect of this one. I loved that Merry was so close with her parents and brother. I love that those relationships were featured heavily in the book as well. If you're looking for a happy Holiday read, I definitely recommend this one. :)

Merry and Bright

By Debbie Macomber

I can’t say enough about this book--so heartwarming with vibrant, warm characters.

When I first started the book, I thought, oh no, this sounds depressing. It detailed Merry’s home life. She lives at home with her father, mother (who has MS) and Downs brother. The family gets by. She has been working as a temp, working her butt off for a company that has a rather grumpy boss, Jayson.

Ding ding. Enter Jayson. Has not had the most loving childhood and really doesn’t know what family is about.

Merry’s mother and brother think she needs to find love and sign her up on an online dating service. She rather reluctantly goes along with it. She soon finds herself involved with “Jay.” I can feel their connection. But it’s only online. Can they hit it off in real life? I will not say anymore for fear of spoiling the book.

The book was quick and fun, with some angsty turns. It was not all fairy-tale all the way.

*I received an advanced readers copy in return for an honest review.*

It’s the Christmas season. Merry Knight is extremely busy. In addition to getting ready for Christmas and taking care of her family, which includes a mother with multiple sclerosis and a brother with Down’s Syndrome, her boss at the consulting firm where she works is increasingly difficult and demanding because of a big project that must be finished.

Christmas is also Merry’s birthday. Since she has no time for social life, her mother and brother decide that something must be done about it. They sign her up on an Internet dating site. Her little brother comes up with a clever idea for the picture. He posts a picture of their dog. Surprisingly this picture attracts a man. Soon Merry is chatting with this man and finding him very attractive.

This is a delightful Christmas story. Merry is a good character. You can’t help but respect her desire to take care of her family. However, it’s the family that steals the show, particularly her little brother. It was wonderful to see how charming a child with Downs Syndrome can be.

I recommend this story for Christmas or if you just love romance. The characters are well drawn. Their emotions are true to life and make you root for them to succeed. Although you know how the story must end, you want to keep reading because the characters are so likable.

I received this book from Penguin Random House for this review.

I've always enjoyed Debbie Macomber's holiday stories and Merry and Bright is no doubt one of my favorites. Debbie has such a way of bringing positive cheer with these delightful stories, even if there's a little bit of a hurdle to get there. It's what makes them warm your heart and delivers such wonderful messages.

I immediately liked Merry and her family, especially her brother, Patrick. Despite things being tough for the family at times, there was a bond that you couldn't help but love. Her mother and brother wanted the best for her, even if they had to take an extreme route to get there. On-line dating services aren't for everyone, but this turned into a fun story between two characters that were so obviously not going to connect otherwise. And Patrick, gosh he was such a fantastic brother and Merry was so lucky to have him.

Despite Jayson being a stickler and hard-nose at his uncle's company, I found myself feeling a bit sorry for him. He had a soft spot--you could tell it in the way he conversed with Merry via their messages. I also thought it was cute that he used his former dog as his profile picture.

Anyone looking for some holiday cheer will find this story so delightful. It's just cute and will leave you feeling all warm on the inside when you're finished.

**ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Merry Smith works 3 jobs in order to help her family survive. Mom has MS, her brother has Down's Syndrome and, her father is a traveling salesman! Merry works at a consulting company where she can't stand her boss and, apparently, the feeling is mutual. Jayson is driven over the edge by the snarky, won't follow his rules, woman who is also the smartest person he knows! Neither has the time or energy to date so, Merry's mom and brother sign her up for an online dating service. Jayson's best friend pushes him into doing the same. These two find each other by noticing the fact that both of them have pictures of golden retrievers as their online photo. They spend hours on end talking and getting to know each other very well. The only problem is that Jayson starts pushing to meet in person and, Merry is afraid that could ruin everything!!! Will their Christmases be Merry and Bright?

I so enjoy reading a Debbie Macomber novel and her Christmas oriented ones are some of the best. “Merry and Bright” warmed my heart and gave me some chuckles and laughs along the way.

Merry Knight is a young woman who has set most of her dreams aside while she struggles to help out at home. She has a wonderful mother and a younger (though adult) brother with Down's Syndrome to help support.

At work, she has a semi-tyrant of a boss (thank goodness the job is a temporary one that is coming to a close following Christmas.) What she doesn't have is a social life. Her mother and brother decide, much to her initial dismay, to give her an early gift by signing her up for a dating site.

She approaches the site with some trepidation but is soon conversing with an individual who seems to be everything she could want. When reality catches up with the more unrealistic online world, Merry is in for some disappointments.

The story has cross-purposes going on and humorous situations. I really started rooting for Merry and her family and wanted a happy ending for them. I enjoyed the book tremendously and will be waiting for the next holiday story for 2018.

I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Netgalley.

Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings

Merry Knight has put others first her entire life. With a brother with Down Syndrome and a mother battling MS and a father who traveled for his job, Merry Knight has held her family together. Her brother and mother decide to give her a gift and sign her up for online dating and the story takes off from there!

Merry and Bright is a feel-good, light, upbeat story by an author who knows how to reliably craft them. The plot was rich and hooked me immediately, and the characters were three-dimensional enough to keep my interest. It will make the holidays even brighter for most readers. Nice work, Debbie. You always come through for me! I was lucky enough to have received a galley, but that didn't influence my review.

Debbie Macomber has done it again. All her books are really great. But, her Christmas books
touch the heart with warmth and smiles. Her heroine comes from a caring, loving family which impresses the hero, whose life is very different. It 's fun to to watch them get together.
I received a copy free from Net Gallery in exchange for an honest review. Loved this book.

I loved Merry and Bright! I thought the on-line romance was a fun topic.

I really liked Merry. She lives at home to help out with her mom who has health issues and also to help out with her brother who has Down Syndrome. Merry is a pick-yourself-up-by-the-bootstraps kind of girl who is saving money to go to college. She has a great attitude toward her situation and is a hard worker.

I enjoyed the on-line conversations between Merry and Jayson. I found it hard to put this book down because I was cheering for Merry and wanted to see her get her happy ending.

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is going on my list of all-time Christmas favorites!

Macomber, Debbie
Merry and Bright
A delightful Christmas romance, sweet and loving. I was reminded of YOU’VE GOT MAIL even before it was mentioned as one of Merry’s favorite movies. In truth, the basic story of lovers’ confused identities is a classic one, back to (and likely before) Shakespeare, though Will could not have foretold online dating. Lovely lessons that people can change and should be given a chance to, that we do show different aspects of our selves in different settings, that love is a worthwhile risk, and family can be one’s strength. The writing flows beautifully, and yes, I did stay up a bit late because I just couldn’t stop reading.

I opened this book up yesterday, intending to read it in between chapters in my other book. Now 24 hours later I'm done with this one, and my poor other book has been neglected. (I received the book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review - and glad I did!)

Merry is working long hours at a job and spending the remainder of her time with her parents and brother. Her mother and brother sign her up for a dating site, and she forms a great connection with someone. Her Scrooge-like boss Jayson also signed up on the site - and guess what!? He is the one. I fully realize the base plot has been done before, but it was an enjoyable, light holiday read and I couldn't put it down.

Tis the season and I wanted to read a holiday book by this author. She is who I think of when I think holidays and happy. This book lived up to my expectations. Merry, the main character, is a young woman, bright and refreshing, who has a lot going on in her life and she meets a guy who seems to to fit her at all. The season brings them together, along with a little help from her mom and brother.

It's a great holiday, feel good story, perfect for this time of year.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Debbie Macomber gives us another great Christmas story and proves she can adapt and move into the future with her writing. I always have loved her books but now she has Merry Knight doing the on-line dating route when her mother and brother create a profile for her. She becomes entranced with the online chats she has with Jayson. No one does romance like Debbie and it's always refreshing to read a nice sweet story. Her books always include family and friends as wonderful secondary characters and in the future it's fun to see them reappear , sometimes in their own book. Great for young and old on your gift list.

The premise of this story is different and really cute. I enjoyed the characters of Merry and her family quite a bit. I had a tougher time with Jayson, though. He never really won me over. And I definitely felt like Merry should have made him grovel a little more after the party incident! So, overall, I enjoyed reading the story, but I wish Jayson's character would have been more likeable; he just didn't seem good enough for Merry.

I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I've read and enjoyed many of Ms. Macomber's earlier books; but her recent work is disappointing. Merry and Bright seemed like it was written by a twelve-year-old for a group of twelve-year-old readers. The plot was boring and predictable and the characters lacked depth. I sincerely hope Ms. Macomber can recover some of her former writing style.

This sweet story is so typical of work related romance today. The author has combined so many elements that are both endearing and humorous, it is easy to get caught up in the story.

The author knows how to get into the emotional head of her characters and craft a story that is deep and yet so very much like you and I. No one is uncomplicated and we all have fears that hold us back. This story takes on a big fear and blows it away in a memorable story that doesn’t let you go.

Merry and Bright is a delightful story, just in time to get us geared up for the holiday season. A feel-good story that you will enjoy!

A new Debbie Macomber is always cause for celebration and this holiday themed romance is no exception! On line matchmaking by her brother and mom lead Merry into a on line romance with Jayson who she does not initially realize is actually her boss. While I normally object to this sort of workplace romance, this is an exception because the circumstances are unique. Merry's terrific- an everywoman with lots of things on her plate, including a special needs brother. Jayson is also pretty cool. Macomber hits the right notes with these two. It's a sweet, engaging romance that tiptoes into your heart. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC.

Every year without fail I look forward to Debbie's Christmas book. She has yet to disappoint me. This book was FANTASTIC. I loved the premise, I loved the characters, I loved the Christmas vibes. I love love loved it!
As I am and have struggled with online dating myself multiple times it was nice to read a story where there was still some struggles with online dating. I can honestly say that had I not been reading this on public transportation while on vacation for my birthday, I would have cried like a baby at the happy ending.

I enjoyed this book SO MUCH thank you to Debbie, the publishers and Net Galley for the E-ARC

Heart-warming, entertaining romance! Both Merry and Jayson work long hours, striving towards their separate goals. Jayson's trying to beat a deadline; while Merry's saving and helping her family. Jayson's not a Scrooge but stiff in social instances; Merry's upbeat, into her family and the holiday season. Charming how the two join together; charming read.
Voluntarily read ARC, thru Netgalley and publisher, for honest review.

Loved this sweet Christmas romance. Merry has a lot on her plate, taking care of her brother and parents, with little time to herself. Her brother and mother decide to add her name on a dating site, but her picture is of a dog. She soon strikes up a friendship that she really enjoys, could this be the man for her until the day she decides to meet him and finds out it is a person that she knows. She tries to stop this friendship, but they both keep going back to the dating site.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The perfect quick Christmas read. I see Hallmark all over it!! A must read for the Christmas season.

Such a sweet, sweet, and more sweet Christmas story. This was the December book selection for my book club and just about everyone agreed that the book was perfect for a holiday read. Merry Knight is the main character of the story. Her mother and brother set her up on a dating website for her birthday using a photo of their dog as her profile photograph. Due to her not having a real photo of herself and the messed up spelling of her name, chaos ensues and the story is basically her realizing the huge debacle she has gotten herself into and how she gets herself out of the situation.

First, romance isn’t a genre that I typically read because it can feel a little cheesy and unrealistic, but I was intrigued by this book for a light, fun read. It was perfect, not at all cheesy!

Second, I love, love, loved the opening letter from Debbie. It felt like I was reading a letter from a dear friend. It instantly put me on a trajectory of loving the book (almost no matter what).

Third, the characters were incredibly relatable. I saw bits of myself in Merry, and my own family reflected hers in some ways. I really enjoyed the character of Jayson Bright, it was easy to love him and hate him all at the same time. I can appreciate the writing skill it took to find that perfect balance for his character. Patrick was awesome! His innocence in his involvement was so enjoyable throughout the story. Also, I loved the misspelling of the nameplate that is the foundation of being able to tell Merry from Mary as the story progresses. It was so clever and created great dimension to the 2 characters in 1.

Overall, the book had a lot of great laugh-out-loud moments and one-liners, as well as a lot of great really touching moments. I was very emotionally invested in the story by the end of the first chapter.

Finally, I loved the ending. I couldn’t put the book down, and I didn’t want it to end but I actually felt like it all wrapped up really well. Nothing was left hanging or unaddressed. I’ve read a lot of books lately that have started out great, then lost momentum as if the writer was rushed for a deadline and couldn’t give as much focus and detail to the story. This was not one of them. I felt like Debbie maintained great attention to detail and development of the story all the way through to the end.

A fun, feel good story about romance. and love. When Merry's mom and brother sign her up with an online dating service she ends up connecting with her unpleasant boss but neither knows the others true identity. When Merry discovers the truth the question becomes should she reveal herself or end the relationship.

I really liked the way the chapters alternated between the point of view of the two main characters, Merry and Jayson. This really helps the reader understand the characters and become more involved in the story. It was somewhat predictable but that did not make it any less enjoyable.

If you see anything written by Debbie Macomber, you should pick it up and start reading! She is an incredible author and I promise you will love the book, no matter what the title. I checked this one out of my local library .. I have been on the wait list for this book for almost FOUR MONTHS! It was worth the wait!

All of her books are easy to read and you will get involved with the characters .. I always have a warm fuzzy feeling when I finish a Debbie Macomber book. The only down side is that they end .. and I go in search of another one!!

A sweet holiday read that kept me smiling! Merry Knight has enough on her plate without her mother and brother meddling in her life. Not only does she have both of them to think about and take care of, she temporarily has a boss that could make a grown woman cry. When her family signs her up on a dating website she can't believe it. Yet she finds herself looking forward to her daily chats with one of the guys who was interested in getting to know her. It will definitely be a huge surprise when she finds out who is really on the other side of the computer!

Not to be missed! I highly recommend.

A wonderful story set during the Christmas season. I finished this book in two sittings. Couldn't put it down. A fast paced story with twists and turns and emotional ups and downs. This story exemplifies the old adage of not judging a book by its cover. I believe in second chances and Merry & Bright is a heartwarming story about finding room in your heart to take a leap of faith and give someone a second chance. Having the story set during December makes the story all the more poignant as Christmastime is always about giving and giving of ones self. Debbie Macomber is an awesome author who brings you into the story. You feel as you are walking beside the main characters and are cheering them on like they are your friends. Debbie Macomber has paired these two unlikely main characters that in any other world would not have been together. No spoiler alerts here, just a recommendation to read this feel good book! I was unaware that Debbie Macomber writes Christmas stories annually. I think I will have to collect a few and enjoy them this December.

This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

What would you do if your mother and brother signed you up on a dating service? Then search for you a date. It actually goes really well. Merry finds a wonderful man. They talk often, she really enjoys talking to him but he suggests meeting. She is unsure but finally agrees. Upon arrival.she discovers who it is and can't go through with it. She knows him....but she really likes the man she chats with but not so much the real man. Can she put the two different sides of this man together.and find love? Read this story it is so good.

I love a good Christmas story (I'm addicted to the Hallmark Channel and Lifetime around Christmas), and Debbie Macomber has a way of writing just the sweetest love stories set in that time period! Merry and Bright was certainly no exception to this!

Merry Knight is always busy. So busy that her mom and brother sign her up for online dating (I'd kill my mom, but thankfully she doesn't understand how to operate a computer). Jayson Bright sees her profile and they start chatting.

What a wonderful and sweet story this is! It has kicked off my Christmas romance wonderfully!

If there is any author that does Christmas books in an exceptional manner, it is this author. I think I have read every Christmas novel, probably every book this author has written. But I look forward to her Christmas book every year. This one was such an easy, enjoyable read.
Merry was such a charming character and you couldn't help but fall in love with her and her story. I couldn't help but feel for Jayson too. All these characters have a way of crawling into your heart and you root for the happy ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley.

WOW is all I could say as I finished this book... It gives one the true sense of what Christmas is all about... The importance of our families in our lives and how they support and encourage us... Well worth reading...
I voluntarily reviewed this book after I received a free copy from the author which in no way influenced my review

Christmas is my favorite time of year! In fact, as I’m writing this review, I’m listening to Christmas music. Yes, I know it is October. Reading Christmas books puts me in the mood for Christmas, and Debbie Macomber’s Christmas books are always some of the most Christmas-y.
In Merry and Bright, Merry, or as her nameplate says “Mary,” has been working as a temp, and Jayson Bright is her somewhat grouchy boss. She is way too busy to date, so when her mom and brother sign her up for a dating site online, she’s surprised when she finds someone she likes talking to. She and Jay hit it off right away and after several conversations, agree to meet for coffee.

From that point on, it is a roller coaster of emotions for both Merry and Jay. But things aren’t always as they appear, and sometimes Christmas miracles bring people together.

This book is an easy read. It is very sweet, and I love the characters in it. Merry’s brother is my favorite. I recommend this for all you Debbie Macomber fans.

Merry and Jayson's relationship is far from typical. Merry is a temp at Jayson's families company and working long hours on a huge time consuming project. Jayson is a stickler for the 'rules' which ruffles Merry's feathers so she despises Jayson. They both wind up on an online dating site, and due to the vague photos they each post have no idea who the other is, but they know they have a lot in common. Will they meet and find even more in common, or is their relationship doomed? Very sweet Christmas romance that's worth a read for the holidays or anytime you want a sweet holiday story.

You Got Mail meets the festivities of the holidays in this adorable story from Debbie Macomber... Merry works for a creep, or at least so she believes, but when she begins to talk to a guy on a dating site, her mood just might change a little.

This is an adorable, clean story about listening to your heart, treating your fellow man like you want to be treated, and seeing a person for their worth, not always their actions. Filled to the brim with Christmas cheer, I felt this would make a cute Hallmark movie and enraptures the reader without adding stuff more sensitive readers avoid,

New book by Debbie Macomber...I'm in!! I look forward to every one of her books and I have never been disappointed. Her Christmas theme books are delightful and this one delivered.

How could you not love a character whose name is Merry and be based at Christmas time? Then you add a character whose last name is Bright... match made in heaven, right? Well, maybe, not.

I recommend this book for an enjoyable adventure of love and discovery. Merry and Jay learn the true meaning of the holiday season and the gift of giving to not only each other but to others.

Such a cute story. This was a read in one day book. The flow was quick but detailed and fun. The characters were well developed and I felt like I knew them. The story was predictable at the beginning but the author included plenty of plot twists and turns that kept the reader interested. I couldn't put the book down. It's Christmasy but not over christmasy. It can be read at any time of the year. Great story to snuggle up on a couch with a blanket and warm drink.
I received a digital copy of this book from netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

It is Christmas time and Merry Knight who spends all her time at her temporary job and taking care of her mother with MS and her brother with Down's syndrome has no time for herself, never mind a love life.
For her birthday her mother and brother sign her up for a dating site. She corresponds with someone every night on line but also starts to have feelings for her boss even though he is boorish.
What happens next makes you feel good. The heart knows what it wants.
The book was perfect to cheer you up and smile. Love always wins. A perfect holiday read.

What is there to say about a Christmas book that is just fun to read. From the moment Merry's Mother and brother decide to surprise her with an online dating profile, minus her picture, to the conversations between her and her mystery man, this book was a delight. What happens when you meet your mystery man only to find out maybe he is not so mysterious at all. This was a very enjoyable read, always enjoy Debbie Macomber, especially her Christmas books.

A merry and bright Christmas tale centered around an online dating service with a fairy tale ending.
However, I was left with an unsatisfied ending for both Merry and Jayson will still have many conflicts to overcome. Merry is not always happy and resilient to problems encountered with Jay and Jayson. Jayson still has to overcome his sarcasm of people and of people's feelings of Christmas.
For a Christmas tale, the book had an excellent title, plot, and ending but it still left me with a feeling of how will Merry and Jayson cope with their future bad days for all days will not be good Christmas days.

This is a wonderful Christmas read with captivating characters and a beautifully written story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face. I really liked Merry Knight and her dynamic with the other characters, especially her grumpy boss, Jason Bright.

This book will definitely put you in the mood for Christmas. Ms. Macomber writes with so much love and emotion, the story will stay with you long after you finish the book.

I received a free advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my unbiased review.

A heart warming and feel good love story that will get you in the right mood for the holiday season. A tale of two opposite personalities who find a mutual understanding and respect for each other on an on line dating service. All of this transpires before one of them finds out that they know the other one. An engaging story that will hold your interest until the final paragraph.

I have rated this book 4.5 stars.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review.

This author writes such lovely Christmas stories and this one is no exception. Merry is taking a break from school with a year long temp job so she can afford the next year. She loves her family dearly and spends most of her free time with them. At work, she doesn’t seem to get along well with her boss, Jayson Bright. He is all work and no play. Mary’s mom and her brother sign her up on a dating service as a surprise to get her out and enjoy life. She is stunned that they did it, but agrees to try it out. A fun read that I really enjoyed.

One of my favorite part of the holiday season is the many Christmas offerings from our favorite authors. That feeling of comfort and joy feels so familiar and intimate. This is my second holiday story from this author and it not all the right notes for the holiday purpose intended.

Merry is a temp for a large corporation and she has been putting in long hours to help reach a deadline and secure a large deal for the company. Her boss, Jayson Bright, is intense and is doing everything to complete the job, but his intensity is off putting to the people at work. They think he is insensitive and not nice. Kerry's family recognizes that she is working too hard and needs a social life, so they sign her up with a dating website is a picture of her dog. She finds this humorous but goes along with it to appease her family. Jay gets a similar lecture from his cousin who met his fiance on the same dating website and urges him to check it out. He thinks it's ridiculous but he's also lonely and listening to his cousin discuss his wedding and his undying love for his fiance makes him a believer.

Jay signs up and is drawn to the picture of the dog and decided to use a picture of his dog on his profile and begins a conversation with Merry. The two not it off and find a connection through their correspondence. Jay wants to meet Merry and they agree on a meeting place. Merry recognizes Jay and quickly exits. She knows who Jay is and she is conflicted because she doesn't like the person she works for. Can Merry follow her heart and believes Jay is the person who has been messaging her? Can Jay forgive her for standing him up?

This was a cute story and Kerry's family is so adorable, I wanted more Patrick

I loved this book and couldn't put it down. Debbie Macomber out did herself again. This story was super cute and sweet.

Merry is a hard working temp who spends her free time taking care of her parents and her brother and Jayson is a grinch/scrooge of a fellow who never grew up in a loving family environment. Merry and Jayson meet on a dating website but little do they know they work together.

I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and book club.

I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Merry’s had a tough time lately, but the stranger she’s been communicating with has helped life seem a little better. Of course, the stranger is the guy from the on-line dating site her mom and brother signed her up for without her knowledge. What a surprise she has waiting for her! I don’t want to give too many details away, but suffice it to say, the holiday is looking up! Another Debbie Macomber best seller! No one does holiday stories like her!

I loved the current love story through the dating site and the instant messaging between the characters. I found myself constantly smiling and eager to keep reading. The story had a wholesomeness to it on a real level that made the story. This author never disappoints on how she can make me feel a part of everything personally. This time I was given an up close and personal insight into a special needs person that I didn't have before and he really was special and openly honest. Loved it! Provided by NetGalley.

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is a classic feel-good holiday romance that I would highly recommend. Although the book ends the way one expects a Debbie Macomber novel to end, it is always a pleasure getting to know Macomber’s characters. Merry Knight and her family are warm and loving and, in the way loyal Macomber readers have come to expect, their kindness and generosity of spirit reach into Jayson Bright and help him to become the person he never knew he wanted to be. Macomber brings her readers into 21st century on-line dating but maintains the sweet old-fashioned world she has created in her many books, such as the Blossom Street series. This is a short work and the whole idea of “Merry” and “Bright” as character names may seem a bit cutesy, but Merry and Bright is what Debbie Macomber’s readers want—a story that warms the heart and creates a world we all wish we lived in where the spirit of Christmas exists all year long.

What a delightful Christmas book by Debbie Macomber! Merry Knight and Jayson Bright are both great protagonists even if Jay does start out as rather egotistical! When Merry's mother and brother register her with an on-line dating service, she never expects to be attracted to anyone. Merry's special needs brother adds an extra touch to the book. I highly recommend Merry and Bright to anyone who enjoys Christmas stories. I received my copy through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

I can always depend on Debbie Macomber's books to be an easy and enjoyable read and this book was no exception. The characters were interesting - a nice touch having the Mother with MS and the 'special' brother (who was obviously very well loved by his family). Of course it was easy to see how the story would end right from the first page - but how the characters get to the ending is the enjoyable part. Yes, it was a bit sappy in places, but so what. It's nice escapism!

Who doesn't love a good Christmas Book? This was my first book by Debbie Macomber and I loved it! The story line was one of love and understanding and the characters were easy to like. If you need a feel good book you will want to read this. She may be my new favorite author!

A great read anytime of the year but especially at this time of the year. Loved the “special “ relationship with her Downs brother; he was amazing and how the entire family pulls together with the family finances. Made me want more so I️ read 12 Days Of Christmas another great read,

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber is a Christmas romance comedy that reminded me of a Christmas Hallmark movie. It is about two busy lonely people who find each other on a dating website. The funny thing is that they already knew each other. I enjoyed this light, quick read and highly recommend it to anyone who likes watching Hallmark movies that always have happy endings.

I received this ARC for an honest review. The story between Merry and Jay pulled me in from the very beginning. I had a hard time putting it down last night., and it was worth losing a little sleep. I loved how you get to know the characters. You understand why Merry and Jay are so work oriented. I hate having spoilers in my review; so my recommendation is to read this book.

Just in time for the holidays, a heartwarming, fun, and touching story that will fill your heart with love. Debbie Macomber is one of my favorite authors, and her books don't disappoint! This one is no exception. It's a fast, heart touching story that keeps your attention from the first page to the last.

I received an Advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley. Merry and Bright was a wonderfully written sweet holiday story with some interesting moments, made sweeter with a happy ending. My favorite characters were Merry and her brother Patrick. Their family relationship was wonderful. I would very much like to read more about Merry and Mr. Bright.

This was an adorable read that is perfect for the holidays. It is a book filled with finding love, remembering what is important during the holidays as well as giving relationships that you thought were negative a positive spin. The characters of Merry and Jayson were simply honest and true characters that find their soulmates. This was an enjoyable read that I highly recommend.

Debbie Macomber is my go to author for holiday themed books. This one was truly delightful. A bit predictable, but I did not read it for plot twist or suspense. Instead I was looking for something that reflects the spirit of this time of year. This story did not disappoint!

My thanks to Ballantine Books for providing this ARC via Netgalley

Debbie Macomber has done it again-she has written another great Christmas Novel. The character are believable and well developed-Merry is the perfect Christmas character and Josh is the perfect Christmas love for her. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a great read without having to skip over language and sex.

Debbie Macomber has done it again. All her books are really great. But, her Christmas books
touch the heart with warmth and smiles. Her heroine comes from a caring, loving family which impresses the hero, whose life is very different. It 's fun to to watch them get together.
I received a copy free from Net Gallery in exchange for an honest review. Loved this book.

Such an adorable book! The story line is full of joy and hope as well as self-doubt, as the holidays approach. The characters are unique and have great interactions throughout a wonderfully written book. Loved this story of new found love and family togetherness at Christmas!

I received a copy of this book thru Netgalley; all opinions expressed are my own

I was given an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest and independent review.
Over the years I have read loads of books by Debbie Macomber which I have really enjoyed and this was no exception.
This was a heart warming, easy to read romance which whilst being predictable, made me smile.

I loved this sweet Christmas love story with its quirky secondary characters and lonely hero and sweet heroine. This book made me laugh and I love a good romance. With her mom and brother both wanting her to find her HEA, they set her up online. I loved the plot twist and she did have her HEA. I highly recommend this Christmas story by Debbie Macomber.

I enjoyed this book. It is a fun, quick read for a lazy afternoon. Gets you in the mood to start thinking about the holidays. Mary/Merry works for Scrooge. He is just trying to prove his worth to his Uncle and was not a very nice person to work with. They both end up on a dating site, and instant Christmas movie. LOL

If you know this author, you will know what I mean by her typical book. Light, wholesome, and basically brainless romance. It was cute, something nice at Xmas. I listened to it on CD form and the reader was good. Predictable story, like I said, typical of this author. She could probably write for Hallmark movies.

A great read anytime of the year but especially at this time of the year. Loved the “special “ relationship with her Downs brother; he was amazing and how the entire family pulls together with the family finances. Made me want more so I️ read 12 Days Of Christmas another great read,

I always enjoy the yearly Christmas novel from Debbie Macomber. This year, things take on a You've Got Mail vibe, but with the characters connecting through a dating site called Mix and Mingle. That anonymity and a misspelled name set the stage for a fun courtship that takes the read right up to the holidays.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley for my unbiased opinion of the book. If you love Debbie Macomber's Christmas stories this one is a must! Its a quick read so as to not interfere with your holiday shopping and great gift idea! I have read 75% of her catalog and I can't get enough of her books.

Y-E-S ! ! Ms. Debbie M. has penned another winner. This was a FUN, CLEAN, SWEET, Romance read. Everything we have come to expect from a Debbie M. novel. The story kept me engaged... and, watch for Mr. Patrick, he is special too. If you like wholesome stories, you will love this one. I am sure.

My favorite author never fails to deliver a heart warming Christmas story and I am not disappointed this year. Couldn't put the book down as usual. I don't want to give the story away worth the read to find out the story.

I love a good Christmas story and this on did not disappoint. It was a wonderfully written story that I could not put down. The characters were engaging and I really liked that Patrick was a special needs person. Awesome job!

This was so very heartfelt. It was everything a Christmas story should be. Warm, inviting, and thoughtful. Truly a joyful book and I loved it. Debbie Macomber has done it again!!!! Thank you for this!!!

What an enjoyable story of love in the work place amidst the holidays. It was such a different take on two people meeting through today's technology. It's got me in the mood to read more holiday stories.

Merry and Bright is another wonderful Christmas book written by Debbie Macomber. It is beautifully written with engaging characters. If you are looking for a good holiday read you will not be disappointed with this one.