I loved reading this Christmas book. It had everything you could want from a novel set at such a magical, festive time, but simultaneously, Moorcroft has created a narrative that is realistic. By this I mean that there is family crisis, serious woes and enough sadness to make you realise that Christmas-time is not the “Hallmark” scenes that we have come to associate with this time of year.

Throughout the story, Sweden strongly features. Afterall, Nico was born there, and both him and Hannah have very strong ties to this country. I loved this setting because it is so snowy – an essential ingredient to a Christmas story! I haven’t read a book that features Sweden so heavily and I found this a rather refreshing change. Furthermore, it made me just want to snuggle under a cosy blanket even more, which is perfect for a Christmas read. Moorcroft has clearly done her research with this setting and I did feel like I was travelling there with the characters because the descriptions were so vivid.

As vivid as Sweden becomes, so does the small village of Middledip, where the rest of the story takes place. Both Nico and Hannah return to their childhood village and, as if Fate were in charge, their paths cross. Middledip is the typical remote village: everyone knows each other’s business but there is also a strong sense of community. It is this that entices both Nico and Hannah as the lives that they thought were solid, end up breaking apart. Middledip offers them both a home they never realised they needed.

So, what makes this book so surprisingly sad? The theme of addiction and neglect runs throughout the pages and this was completely unexpected. Moorcroft introduces this from very early on in the story, preparing readers for a novel that is not “sugar-coated” in the slightest. Nico, struggling from his own eating disorder, finds himself in the middle of child-care issues as his now ex-wife cannot cope with his own child, Josie, and Josie’s sister, Maria. On the other hand, Hannah Anna Goodbody (which, in my opinion, is one of the best character names I have encountered in literature!), is emotionally addicted to staying with her Swedish boyfriend, particularly with the financial stability that is provided for her boutique. Thrown in with this are the serious issues of bullying and even child neglect. They are difficult topics at the best of times and I think the Christmas season emphasises the importance of family, honesty and communication.

I loved how the characters developed and could not help but adore Maria. I recognised so many qualities and behaviours in her that I witnessed when my children were growing up. Maria, just a toddler, certainly lightens the narrative which is needed when reading about some tough topics. I could vividly picture her antics and fell in love with the close bond that she shares with her step-sister, Josie. I found myself really rooting for Nico to find the best solution to keep the family together.

I have really enjoyed this festive read. There is a happy ending after all, but there is enough “grit” in this book to make it feel like you are reading about real characters. The pressures of Christmas that I have experienced in the past seem meek in comparison: learning about Nico’s family struggles and Hannah’s bid to be an independent businesswoman. Consequently, I applaud Moorcroft for not sticking to the stereotypical, glossy Christmas read and providing us with something a bit different: slightly tragic but pleasing nonetheless.

With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A cozy and charming Christmas read. This is my first book by Sue Moorcroft but absolutely not my last! The story had everything I love in a cozy Romance: delightful relatable main characters, lovable colorful secondary characters, a cozy gorgeous setting, whimsy and charm. Hannah is working in Stockholm when she runs into her childhood friend Nico. It’s Nice to catch up and even though there is and attraction Hannah is in a relationship and Nico has loads of baggage. Fast forward a few months, Hannah has been dumped Nico has made some major life changes. Their has cross again after they both have moved back to Middledip, A small village in the UK. Will there past challenges allow them to find a future together?

The story bounces between the perspectives of Hannah and Nico. Hannah‘s ex-boyfriend is a complete ass, but Nico has a lot going on. not only is Nico dealing with an eating disorder he is also dealing with his ex-wife’s addiction. which would be hard enough if it was just Nico, but there are also kids involved Nico‘s own daughter Josie and his ex-wife‘s daughter by another man Marie. Niko was such a sympathetic relatable character. my ex-husband is an addict and I know the impact that has on the family. I thought the subject matter was handled very well in the story. I also found a male having an eating disorder interesting it is not often talked about. Nico’s adorable kids Josie and Marie balanced the heavier subject matter out well. Hannah was a wonderful character who fit seamlessly into Nico‘s family. loved traveling back to Sweden for the Swedish Christmas festivities. Julia Winwood narrates the audiobook and brought the perfect amount of festive energy to the story. I particularly appreciated the sweet voices she gave Josie and Marie. A sweet snowy Romance.

this book in emojis 🧣 🏒 ⛸ ☃️ 🛫 👨‍👧‍👧 🛠 🎅🏻

*** Big thank you to Avon UK for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***

This is a super cosy, festive read - perfect to get you in the Christmas spirit!
Hannah runs a boutique in Stockholm and one day bumps into her brother's best friend, Nico, who is also working in the city.
Each of them are battling issues - Hannah has an idiot of a boyfriend and Nico is trying to manage his ex-wife and her substance abuse as well as his own eating disorder, of top of looking after 2 children.
The book is set between Middledip, which reads as a friendly, cosy village in the UK, alongside Stockholm. Perfect for a bit of armchair travel.
If you're looking for a warm, feel good book, that tugs on your heart strings and has a happy ending, you can't go wrong by picking this up.

Despite growing up in a hot country, Christmas always makes me think of cold crisp days, bobble hats and mulled wine. And of course a little romance.
This Christmas book will not dissappoint. It is a story of Hannah and Nico - and takes place in Stockholm and Middledip (and now I want to read other books in the Middledip series). It is normal to have obstacles in the way of true love. Boyfriends, children, ex-wifes and countries, but in this delightful tale, all of this can be overcome, with a little help from Hannah's wonderful grandmother and the rest of her family.
I loved the character of Hannah who is so resiliant and determined to overcome the quite frankly horrible things that happen to her. She inspired me to be a better person.
Grab a hot chocolate, a packet of biscuits, and snuggle down under a blanket in front of a crackling fire for a good read.

The book covers so many different aspects such as eating disorders, addiction, failing relationships, family, friendship and parenting. Each of these have been included in the story in such a smooth and beautiful way. It was amazing to read Nico and Hannah’s journey as they faced the different challenges in their lives and emerged stronger than before
Despite the title, only a small part of the story actually takes place during Christmas – so that was a big disappointment to me. Its really better being read at any time and with the emphasis on love, doing the right thing and family values, all with a light touch of humour,

This is another brilliant story from Sue Moircroft.
The story is partially set in Middledip, where characters from previous books reappear, and Stockholm. This doesn't affect reading this book as it is a stand alone novel.
Although the title suggests this is a Christmas story it could easily be read at any time if the year as only a section actually takes place at christmas.

Hannah is happy living in Stockholm and working in her little boutique. She bumps into her brother's best friend Nico, whom she first met when they were both teenagers and he moved from Sweden to her little English village. They renew their friendship quickly, both feeling like there's the potential for something more between them. But Hannah has a boyfriend in Stockholm, the increasingly inattentive and standoffish Albin, and Nico is in London dealing with his ex-wife and taking care of two young children. But then Hannah loses her shop and she moves back to the village, where she bumps into Nico, who has also just moved back. Is it a sign the stars are finally aligning for them, or will life throw more obstacles at them both?

This was a fabulous Christmas romance. I enjoyed every second I spent with Hannah and Nico, and I was prepared to fight every horrible character who tried to hurt them. That feeling honestly doesn't happen to me all that often, so I think it's a testament to how well all of these characters were crafted. Add in truly beautiful settings, from Sweden to Middledip, two very very adorable little girls, and a grandmother who isn't above giving fate a little push in the right direction, and you end up with pretty much the perfect Christmas romance novel!

This is a cozy Christmas romance that I enjoyed. Hannah is dealing with a few things in her life. She has lost her business to her nasty ex-boyfriend. Her gran has broken her wrist and needs help and she keeps bumping into her brother's best friend Nico who she has feelings for. Nico has problems of his own. Can these two move from friendship into a romantic relationship and should they even try?

The main characters Nico and Hannah are well written and extremely likeable. They both have baggage they are dealing with and both develop some skills in dealing with difficult situations. Nico’s kids Josie and Marie are such a delight. I love when children are in a story to add to it, not just to make a character attractive to others. It was so sweet seeing the two of them together and how Nico took Marie into his home because it was best for both her and Sophie. There were a lot of unlikeable characters in this story. These were the ones that helped Hannah to finally stand up for herself and develop a backbone. Nico's ex-wife and ex-mother in law, were both pieces of work, but when dealing with addiction, it is hard to predict how one will act. The book covers so many different issues such as eating disorders, addiction, family, friendship, betrayal, parenting, standing up yourself and new beginnings. This was a well-plotted story, that does start a bit slow, so make sure you stick with it. All the issues and situations blend very well together into an entertaining and heartwarming Christmas story. I enjoyed reading Nico's and Hannah’s journey as they faced the different challenges and emerged stronger than before. I definitely recommend this one.

What a marvelous read, it is the first time that I read one of Sue Moorcrofts Christmas themed books. It is certainly not the last one!

This is the heartwarming seasonal Tale, that gets you into the Jule mode and inspiration. This story takes you to the big city of Stockholm as well as the little village of Middledip,Cambridgeshire, two different worlds that complement each other.
The storytelling is excellent and it pulls you quickly into the lives of the lovely characters, you simply imagine that you are there experiencing their story.
This is the wonderful way how the author weaves in her details and descriptions of where the story takes place. It gives you the feeling of wanting even more. Another lovely detail making this story more homey is the way she also uses so Swedish words and sentences to strengthen even more the parts that take place in Sweden.

The storytelling captures you and this is the story of Hannah Anna Goodbody and Nico Petterson who knew each other in their teens but, hadn't seen each other for a couple of decades.
It is October in Stockholm and Hannah is busy in her shop, where she meets Nico, that she hadn't seen for such a long time and the memories roll in on her. Nico a promising ice hockey player that spent some years in Middeldip with his father.

This book has what it takes to make it a feel good read, the people, the places, some bit of mystery and making the characters get together to find hope and love.They fight for what they really want in their lives even when misunderstandings cross their ways.
Choices are made that will affect their lives and as the story goes on it takes you on a journey you hadn't expected.

I simply loved this book and I do look forward to reading more of this authors books. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read this book. My thanks to the author and the publisher for this chance!
Charlotte N

I normally love Sue’s books but I struggled to get into this one.

2 stars

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.

I really enjoyed this book about Hannah and Nico and the children. It was a lovely Christmas story and I enjoyed the settings in England and Sweden. I highly recommend this book.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Listened to this as an audiobook - loved the characters and the story - a warm romantic novel with the usual misunderstandings

This time of year makes it almost a requirement to read a Christmas story.
The Characters are engaging and the story has a real feel good factor about it.
Just what you need this time of the year.
I have to say this is one of the best I have read.

A nice heartwarming Christmas romance with lovely descriptions of snowy scenes in Stockholm.
Sweden really appealed to me, and I enjoyed learning about some of the traditions in Sweden during the festive season.

The story is simple but well written and the characters were engaging. A single mum struggling at Christmas is a current relevant situation and it was lovely to be invited in to see how things worked out for Hannah and whether she would be granted a Happy Chistmas with Nico.

I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for trusting me with an advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

I was not a fan of this book at all. The jumping back and forward really annoyed me. I didn't think that there was much depth to the characters and was a bit too far-fetched even for a Christmas book. I don't like leaving poor feedback but I would be being dishonest.

2🌟

Perfect cosy Christmas read to escape the joy of 2020. Not that I expected anything less from Sue.

The book is set in both village in England and Sweden and are the perfect setting for a cosy Christmas love story.

I kinda felt misleading with this book for once i was expecting a cozy book and within the first few chapters i got mentions of substance abuse, eating disorders and mental health problems that i was not expecting at all, especially because there were zero trigger warnings for that. If I knew it was going to be mention I'd have thought twice to get this book. Another thing is, I don't mind smut but not this graphic and in a supposedly "light Christmas book". I almost DNF this but I wanted to finish it to see if in the end paid off but sadly it didn't.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

I love Sue Moor rifts stories especially the Christmas ones. They are full of rural charm and likeable characters simply lovely

A fabulous festive escape.
Hannah own a beautiful boutique in Stockholm, amongst idyllic winding streets, covered in snow,
She bumps into her brothers friend, Nico, and chemistry sparks, unfortunately she has a boyfriend, albeit not an ideal one, and Nico has children to focus on!
Hannah has to return home to Middledip to look after her nan only to realise Nico had moved there too.
Will they? Won’t they?
Fantastic description of Stockholm and fictional Middledip, with a few twists and turns, all leaving a cosy festive feeling.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an e-arc of this book! My opinions are my own.

What better way to get into true Christmas spirit than by reading a Christmas romance novel? I was eager to start this one, especially with everything that's been happening this year. I could use a little bit of lights, hot chocolate and holiday cheer wrapped up into a nice book!

Hannah is an English woman living in Stockholm, Sweden. She owns her own boutique, but when she breaks up with her boyfriend she has to leave it all behind.
Nico, Hannah's brother Rob's best friend, is a Swedish man living in England. He is a single parent, father to an eight year old daughter, Josie. He split up with his wife a few years ago, when she became pregnant... by another man. Now, it turns out his ex-wife is no stranger to substance abuse and he suddenly finds himself looking after two year old Maria, too.

When Nico is in Stockholm for work, he and Hannah meet up. They get along great and quickly become friends again after not seeing each other for years. They might even be falling in love... If there weren't so many obstacles standing in their way.

To be fair, I don't read a lot of romance novels because they aren't really my thing, usually. I do however love Christmas so I was very curious about this book. I was a little surprised that in the first few chapters, there was already mention of substance abuse, eating disorders and mental health problems. So much for a light book, I thought. Though a little trigger warning might have been nice, the book keeps a light tone throughout its pages. The characters started to grow on me and I got invested in the story. The reason I don't like romance novels is because the characters often make weird decisions based on the fact that they don't communicate with each other. Unfortunately, this book was no exception and that is the reason I cannot give this book more than 3 stars.

I loved the Christmas setting and all in all this was a cosy book to read curled up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate.