I’m a huge fan of Roseanna M White and her books. I’ve read all of them. And I’m super lucky to get advanced copies to review. This book was so fun. It’s not super long. Reads really fast. And will hit you in all the feels.

There is a bit of tension in this book. But I wouldn’t say it has any suspense or mystery really. Though it does have conflict, resolution, and romance. Plus lots of Christmas. And yummy treats. And snow. Oh, and of course the remaking of the story of the Nutcracker!

I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I read what the book was going to be about. But once I got started on the novel I couldn’t put it down. I fell in love with the characters. None of them have had the perfect life. Several have lost loved ones. Many are searching for true love. They stand up for justice. And sometimes they make the wrong decisions and need help along the way.

This was incredibly well written.
The characters reach out and won’t let you go. I really liked Cyril as a character. He had a hard life in his formative years. And he may have misunderstood some things from his time with the family before which led to him staying away.

Mariah is a wonderful character as well. She has so much joy and excitement with life. I love her character and her view on life. I also have to giggle because I have a daughter named Mariah Joy and this Mariah character 100% made me think of Joy which was fun to find that connection.

There is a special spot in my heart for Louise as well. She’s had pain. She’s had suffering. And maybe she grew up a little too fast. She’s beautiful on the outside but has to learn to be beautiful on the inside as well.

I can’t say enough good about this sweet novella. It filled a nice spot while I wait for book three of the Imposters series as well. If you’ve read them you know why that wait is so hard! Grab a copy today and let me know what you think of this sweet romance novel.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

What a delightful and endearing Christmas Novella!
Roseanna White’s stories never disappoint me, and this one was delightful and lighthearted, while at the same time engaging, with excellent character development and a Christian Christmas inspired message that touched and warmed my heart.
Lady Mariah Lyons, stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, loves her home -Plumford Manor- and has enjoyed a beautiful childhood dedicated to serve, keep the family traditions, and help the people of her community, particularly the children. There’s one thing lacking: her childhood friend Cyril, who left many years ago and with whom she ended up losing connection. But things drastically change when the same Cyril Lightbourne reenters her world as her stepfather’s heir. Mariah once harbored wishes of a future with him, but now that she knows he’s pursuing Lady Pearl, her nemesis who bullied her, she doesn’t want a man who can be attracted to that kind of woman. But Cyril charms her once more with his openness and genuineness, his acceptance of her sparky and dreamer personality. Everyone wants her to behave properly and demure, but Mariah has a light that must not be snuffed, and Cyril recognizes that. But things get complicated when a Danish Lord connected to Royalty who is determined to win Mariah’s hand by Christmas, and at the same time, have his revenge with Cyril. Will Mariah let her family pressure her to an arranged marriage, or can be strong enough to fight for what fills her heart?
A heartwarming Christmas tale based on The Nutcracker, full of small little details that I loved! The Christmas traditions, the joy of picking the tasteful sugarplums, the making of a Christmas Play with the children of the village. The characters were the best part: Mariah was a sweet, kindhearted girl who dreamed and had the most vivid imagination. Her kindness and compassion compelled her to do things that could bring joy to people. And isn’t that what Christmas is all about, sharing with other the joy of the birth of our savior? Even if going against other’s expectations, she doesn’t care of her image as long as her heart is full. Cyril falls pretty quickly for her. He though the vivid Mariah he had known during his childhood had changed into a proper lady, But, when he recognizes her playful innocence and her big heart toward making others happy, she’s not only the same Mariah he knew, but womanhood has made her even more bright and alluring in her own sweet, joyful way. But how can he compete with the Danish arrogant lord who is determined to win Mariah at all costs? The plot is very engaging, especially because of the characters, and their dialogues and banter. I loved secondary characters as Professor Skylark and his brilliant Christmas artistic creations. All the Christmas traditions -especially the ones related with the sugarplums- made me feel the vibes and the warmth of the Christmas Season, the joy of giving and caring for the needy. The part of the making of the play with the children was charming, and I loved the sense of community they shared, mostly fostered by Mariah. The villain was so conceited and vain that he was perfect for the part he played in trying to tear Mariah and Cyril apart. And the inspirational message of giving, thinking of others, bring joy to others, and also about trusting God, forgiveness and redemption, left me grateful for my Loving God and my faith.
I read it pretty quickly because it hooked me since the first chapter. I enjoyed the struggles to get to the Happily Ever After, it didn’t feel predictable at all. The romance was so sweet it made me sigh! Cyril is easily competing with my others book boyfriends.
In short, the perfect Christmas story that will warm your heart and make it sing!
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

In Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor, Roseanna M. White offers readers a sweet story of childhood friends rekindling their relationship and becoming more during an enchanted Christmas season. With a children’s play, sugar plums, and nutcrackers, the novella’s tone felt light and merry. The novella touched gently on forgiveness, hope, and the true miracle of Christmas – the Christ-child born to dwell with mankind. Although a bit convenient, misunderstandings were easily explained and missteps were freely pardoned. Overall, the story was less impactful than the author’s full-length novels, but still a nice read.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor is a stand-alone novella by Roseanna M. White with an inspirational message of Christmas cheer and hope.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed this enchanted Christmas story! Lady Mariah is full of wonder and delight, even though she has a difficult choice in her future. I hope I would be so inspiring and positive in the face of such a difficult decision. Cyril is the chivalrous hero every Christmas story needs. It was sweet to see them rekindle their friendship to something more. Lord Gyldenkrone is an excellent foe; there were times I was truly unsure of how his storyline would unfold. I enjoyed the wintry setting and the memorable side characters as well. Though the faith thread is light in this novella, it was enjoyable and fitting. You should definitely consider this atmospheric tale when making your seasonal reading list! You won’t be disappointed 🎄. Thank you to the publisher for my review copy. All thoughts above are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor
by Roseanna M. White
Pub Date: Sept. 3, 2024
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Inspired by The Nutcracker, this Edwardian-era historical romance is a tale of holiday spirit, love, and the power of family and friendship from bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White.
White is one of my longtime favorite authors. This book was delightful! I found it much different than recent books I have read by White but it is magical.
This was a sweet and heartwarming romance! It was filled with cozy, warm, and delicious winter traditions, community and romance. It also highlighted the good that can come when people examine their own actions and try to rise above and do the right thing. Faith is mentioned, but not preachy. By the end there were two romances in the story, and I was pleased with how it all turned out!
I highly recommend this Christmas romance for readers who like clean and wholesome books.

This Christmas novella is the PERFECT way to get in the mood for holiday season! I’m not usually one to read Christmas books unless it IS Christmas, but I couldn’t resist a new Roseanna White book!

I bashfully admit to not knowing much about The Nutcracker. I mean, I’ve seen the ballet. When I was in elementary school because my friend was dancing in it. It’s just not something that’s been in my family Christmas tradition! I was a bit apprehensive that I might somehow be lost or miss things going into this story without that knowledge. But I’m so glad to report I was wrong! You do NOT need to be a Nutcracker fan to become completely invested and wrapped up in this delightful story. It also did NOT feel like a novella, which sometimes aren’t my favorite because they’re not developed enough.

I immediately loved Mariah and was eager for her to get her happy ending with the right guy! I was also so happy with all of the resolutions that all the various secondary characters find with that magic of Christmas sparkle that gives the story that perfect feel-good ending so essential to Christmas books!

Do yourself a favor and grab this great little story to enjoy or gift during the season.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not asked to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.

As the holidays approach, Lady Mariah has two suitors coming to visit and she’s a little worried. There’s Lord Gyldenkrone, a cousin to the Prince of Denmark, seeking a bride to take back to home, and then Cyril Lightbourne, the heir to the estate Mariah lives at. Mariah and Cyril had such fun dreaming up stories when he visited while they were children, and they corresponded after, but their letters became fewer and farther in between as the years went by. And recent news connected Cyril with Lady Pearl, a mercenary type of debutante, so Mariah wonders about what kind of man he’s become.

Lady Mariah’s whimsical outlook on life brought joy to so many around her. Which man will appreciate her for who she is?

This was a sweet and heartwarming romance! It was filled with cozy, warm, and delicious winter traditions, community and romance. It also highlighted the good that can come when people examine their own actions and try to rise above and do the right thing. Faith is mentioned, but not preachy. By the end there were two romances in the story, and I was pleased with how it all turned out!

🛷🛷🛷🛷/5

Talk about an enchanting Christmas time story!

I always love how @roseannamwhite writes characters so deeply and genuinely. And these ones at Sugar Plum Manor are no exception.

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this story and all of the characters and I’m happy to say I loved absolutely all of them. Especially Professor Skylark and his inventions because they’re truly magical!

Mariah is such a sweet soul and is the easiest person to fall in love with. She is charming in her own way and has the kindest heart, and my favorite quality of her is her ability to stay young at heart and always want to bring the Christmas magic to every person she encounters.

And it’s adorable to watch Cyril watch her bloom and be the one to sit by her and support all her wild adventures. And love her in spite of everything else while everyone else in her life tries to trample down her dreaming and scheming. It’s an absolutely beautiful story full of sugar plums, Christmas magic, family ties, scheming plots, growing love, and sweet sweet dreams ✨

Roseanna White has authored a light-hearted Christmas tale blending the Nutcracker with an Edwardian (Downtown Abbey-like) plot of a lost long-heir returning to a manor and falling in love with the family's daughter. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and a blanket and settle in for an afternoon of reading!

Set in England in 1902, Roseanna M. White’s new story, Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor, is perfect for getting the reader in a holiday mood. With plenty of sugar plums, Christmas cheer, and a nod to The Nutcracker, this charming tale is full of the magic of Christmas. The characters are well-drawn and engaging, especially Mariah and Cyril who reconnect after a shared childhood. As they rediscover their friendship and fond memories, they work together to bring Christmas joy to the people of the town.

“When everyone works together, amazing things can happen.”

While this is a light-hearted, delightful story, the author also weaves inspiration into it with references to the Christ child and the real purpose of Christmas. It’s also filled with forgiveness, family, and hope. This tale should appeal to those who enjoy entertaining, easy-to-read, clean and wholesome stories. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own

Wowza! This was a spectacular read! Roseanna reimagines the story of the Nutcracker beautifully. The ending especially was perfect and wonderful and I loved it! For this being a novella, it truly has a full story within its 184 pages. A stunning must read Christmas story!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and also purchased my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

Sugar plums, sleigh rides, Christmas plays, and all the charm, whimsy, and romance of an Edwardian Christmas season with the true meaning beautifully woven into the story! I adored this book. The Nutcracker is a favorite ballet & I enjoyed all the clever nods to this fun story. The romance was a childhood friends to more with a twist where an additional suitor’s vying for the heroine’s hand. This wonderfully written novella really brings the Christmas spirit & renewed all those feelings of delight I look forward to this time of year.

Lady Mariah Lyons loves living at Plumford Manor with her beloved stepfather, mother, & siblings. She especially cherishes the Christmas season and is busy preparing. But, there’s a shadow over her festivities when she learns that her childhood friend & the heir to the estate Cyril Lightbourne is coming to celebrate, but is courting her cruel nemesis Lady Pearl. Mariah once hoped Cyril would be her real life hero from the stories they made up together, but now she must put away childish things & settle for his friendship. Mariah has another surprise though, her parents have invited Lord Søren Gyldenkrone from Denmark. The handsome lord is there to court her and offers her the chance for their children to become royalty.

When Cyril returns to Plumford Manor, his fond memories return along with his delightful friendship with Mariah. Unfortunately, the family misinterpreted his relationship with Lady Pearl & now there’s an unwanted suitor whom Cyril has had a run in with before. As he realizes his feelings for Mariah may be more than friendship, can Cyril convince her to be more than friends and choose him.

This story had so much Christmas magic. From the delightful setting, delicious food, fun Christmas traditions, and sweet romance, this book grabbed hold and didn’t let go. Normally, I read Christmas books closer to the season, but this book was so engaging and lovely that I’d read it any time of year. Though it’s a novella, there’s a lot packed into this story with endearing characters who experience a lot of growth. I also enjoyed how the true meaning of Christmas with the celebration of Christ’s birth was beautifully woven in.

Highly recommend this delightful Christmas novella & look forward to cozying up with it again closer to Christmas. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

“Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor” is everything I expected in a Christmas novella written by Roseanna M. White. I love the festive title, gorgeous cover, and spiritual themes of this sweet story!

This inspirational story holds plenty of depth and packs a punch—a bit unexpected for a shorter read. This master storyteller crafted characters who are so easy to connect with and I fell in love with them all!

I enjoyed this Edwardian-era story because of the joy, hope, and love it exudes and the heart-filling spirit it offers. I just adore Mariah!

The spiritual messages and themes of reconciliation, family, and the gifts of our Savior are sure to touch your heart—not just at Christmastime, but the whole year through.

First Line: Feeling ever so sneaky, Lady Mariah Lyons eased into the bustle of the kitchen, a smile barely contained by her lips.
Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Christmas
Author: Roseanna M. White
Page Count: 208

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions are 100% mine.
A 2024 Fav♡rite

Combine the cozy Christmas season with early twentieth century England and it was easy to love this novella right from the beginning! Although this is a novella, the plot has complexity and depth far beyond its shorter pages. I really liked the characters in the novella and was impressed with how developed they were for a shorter story. The historical setting was well researched and described, and although this book is centered around Christmas, I do think it can be read any time one wishes for a cozy romantic read. The joy of Jesus’s birth was the center of the faith story and I appreciate the author ensuring these spiritual themes shone. I really liked the novella and highly recommend it to those who wish for a clean romantic read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

If you like Christmas, treats, fairy tales, love triangles, early 1900s, and plays, this one should make its way into your Christmas rotation this year.

I very much enjoyed this story! So much so that I didn't want it to end!
Miracles of love, forgiveness and family are what matters in this story.
White is an excellent storyteller that gives us the gift of the true Christmas meaning.
Wonderful characters and a cool plot that will keep you turning the pages to see what happens along the way.
I enjoyed the bit of mystery that took place here. Just the right amount of everything that will get you into the true meaning of family and Christmas!
By the way, that's my favorite season of all. The tantalizing smells of wonderful food too.
The baking was always my favorite part of Christmas.
5 stars for keeping me engaged from start to finish. A novel that will go on my favorite shelf of books.
A story I soon won't forget.
My thanks for a copy of this wonderful book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

What a way to start my Christmas reads for the season! This book was so lovely! Magical! Sweet!! I can't even!

This is a shorter story so don't expect the misunderstandings and apprehensions to last too long. Which, I was thankful for. I got to appreciate the characters and the fact that they were all flawed, yet--good people at heart. Even the one that came into the scene to add some conflict.

I really, really, really cannot state enough how Christmassy and magic this book was. With themes of sugar plums and magical stories--I was thoroughly transported. 

This was exactly the Christmas story I wanted.

Roseanna M. White is the master of stories written with depth, emotion, and loads of fun – and Christmas at Sugarplum Manor is the perfect example of this!

Because the main characters of this play don’t always see that fun. It’s too easy to look only at the circumstances that surround you and how they might wall you in, which makes learning to look beyond them even more special. Can Lady Mariah see the gift in her unique ability to share joy with sugar? Can Lightbourne overcome his feelings of inadequacy over not being born to the station he’s been given? Can Gyldenkrone see that responsibility is only better when it’s served with love? Can Louise put aside her grief and hope for a promising tomorrow? I found myself highlighting section after section of White’s lyrical prose, as lessons were learned in perfectly given realizations.

It’s easy to forget the true wonder of Christmas in our American traditions of decorations and wrappings that take so much time and attention, but Christmas at Sugarplum Manor highlights that inherent joy. Even though each character has his or her own set of problems, Mariah sets out to remind them of the true meaning of Christmas, and I love how White goes about making this happen.

From Nutcracker-inspired plays to sugary treats and gorgeous decorations, this book has all the traditional trappings of Christmas – but it’s so much more than that. It has love and hope, vengeance and forgiveness, humbleness and drama and tragedy and redemption. In other words, Christmas at Sugarplum Manor the perfect story for the holiday season.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor by Roseanna White

What a delightful Christmas story! I love every part of this whimsical story: the characters are enchanting and endearing; Nutcrackers are central features; baking and sharing delicious sugar plums (I’ve never eaten sugar plums, but this makes me want one); childhood friends reunited with surprising outcomes; the villagers and the unique Christmas play Lady Mariah and Cyril created in their youth becomes a wonderful and fun play at Christmas Eve that the whole village takes part in. And the ball with all the lovely gowns and decorations makes for a magical story.

Unexpected surprises for others in Mariah’s family; themes of reconciliation and forgiveness, the wonder of Christmas celebrating the birth of Jesus, love and faith.

~I purchased a copy and I received an e-book copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain was exchanged), this is my honest review~

This was a charming, delightful and enchanting story. Mariah has so much life and energy and goodness, she emulates light. With two eligible gentleman come to court her, she has a lot to think about. I enjoyed the characters so much, and the storyline was a perfect fairytale Regency romance duet. I have always loved Christmas time, and this is so fun to immersed myself in the holiday festive mood, but also the spiritual truths. This story is about loving one another, treating those around us well, and being honest and true to all. A lighthearted, clean, wholesome romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.