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.

A very sweet Christmas story! I love the main characters, the development of the story, and the redemption in the end. There's more than just romance, thankfully. Plus, I never knew how sugar plums were made until this story! The story is not too long, but just right. Perfect for a Christmas read!!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor was a very full-bodied lovely Christmas novella.

There were lovable characters, a bit of a villain and a well learned lesson of what Christmas is truly about. I really appreciated the message about being able to dream and have fun amidst all the adult responsibilities.

Mariah was such a lovely, charming character full of dreams and it was easy to love her and being swept away by her Christmas spirit. Her joyful personality was pivotal to the two main leads turning to God in some periods of uncertainty.

Highly recommend it to anyone who want to read some Christmas novellas.

This book was perfection. The true meaning of Christmas, the Nutcracker, sugar plums, a bit of romance, what more could you ask for? I was instantly transported to Mariah’s world and enjoyed every second I spent there.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bethany House Publishers, and the author for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own..

Roseanna White’s new Christmas novella, Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor, was an absolute delight. Romantic and filled with the wonder of the Christmas season, this story left me with a warm heart and satisfied smile. Magical, nostalgic, and charming, White has delivered a feast for the senses. You cannot read this book without feeling the thrill of Christmas hope throughout your entire being. This is truly an absolutely stunning read you will not want to miss!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

This was such a fun Christmas read! This one had the vibes of Pepper Basham's Freddie and Grace books (Mariah reminded me an awful lot of Grace anyway) and a significant nod to the Nutcracker, which is a show I have some fond memories of, along with a beautiful story that showcased the true meaning of Christmas. This story follows Lady Mariah Lyons and the 2 gentlemen vying for her hand. There was a lot of fun packed in this short novel, along with great character development, lessons in the importance of both humility and joy and a subtle but solidly present faith thread as the miracle of Jesus's birth was given as the reason for the joy of the season. I enjoyed both the lightheartedness of the children's play and Mariah's imaginings, as well as the depth of the characters and overall story. Though this tale was novella-length, it still packed quite the punch! For those who enjoy fun, light Christmasy historical romances, this is a great one to read! Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Though marriage to Cyril Lightbourne, a very distant relation that Mariah Lyons’s father’s estate will pass to someday, would be convenient, Mariah has to face the fact that he’s not the same kid she played with years in the past when he first visited Plumford. Their letters became strained over the years, and she’s heard that he’s set his sights on the flirtatious, malicious Lady Pearl, which lowers Cyril in her own esteem anyway. Still, she’s glad that their old friendship is rekindled when he comes to Plumford at Christmastime, and she has enough to deal with anyway, since a Danish lord is visiting Plumford at the same time, set on winning Mariah’s hand.

I’m always wary of romances set at Christmastime, since they’re often much more sappy and devoid of plot than other romances, but I recently fell in love with some of Roseanna M. White’s other works, so I was excited to receive an ARC of this novella. And it did not disappoint. It’s short enough that there aren’t any major surprises, but there are some lovely minor surprises, and I actually found myself cheering at some moments near the end of the story. I was confused at first when a 3rd POV popped up, that of the Danish Lord, Søren Gyldenkrone, but it really paid off in the end.

I’m a complete novice when it comes to what this book is based on—The Nutcracker—but that by no means lowered my enjoyment of it. The Christian element is mostly related to the characters clearly being Christ-followers themselves and some allowing their faith to change their thinking (for the better). The only downside to getting an ARC of a Christmas book in August is that I don’t get to read it while ensconced in a colorful, wintery environment myself (technically, I could have, but I don’t like putting off ARCs like that). I may have to re-read this one next December (only because this December would be too soon), just for the full effect. In case it’s not clear, I highly recommend this sweet, well-themed Christmas romance.

Christmas at Sugarplum Manor by Roseanna M. White has a beautiful cover that makes the reader think of all the good feelings toward the holiday season. The plot does have a good manor landlord who takes care of the people in his village. Giving them gifts for Christmas and allowing them to have a good meal. A treasure hunt for the children. Of course, there is snow on the ground for the Christmas season. However, there are two gentlemen fighting for Lady Mariah’s affections, so the story does read a little boring at times. One of them is an old friend, and the other one has darker intentions. While romance is one of the major threads in the story, readers will lean toward one gentleman over the other. This story does have a Lifetime Christmas move feel to it. As for me, the writing was pretty dry because White spent a lot of time in thoughts of the character instead of moving the action along. I don’t mind getting the characters’ thoughts, but I don’t need pages and pages of thoughts while the characters stands around. Overall, Christmas at Sugarplum Manor by Roseanna M. White is not the Christmas story for me. It was kind of dry and boring at times. Yes, it does have its good parts, but I needed more.

I received a complimentary copy of Christmas at Sugarplum Manor by Roseanna M. White from Bethany House Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Delightful story full of the magic of Christmas. Mariah Lyons, stepdaughter of the Earl of Plumford, loves her stepfather and Plumford Manor. Too bad she cannot inherit the estate. It goes to a distant relative, Cyril Lightbourne. Long ago, Cyril and Mariah were friends but lost touch as they grew up. Now Cyril has returned to learn to become the Earl.
Cyril and Mariah unearth an old play they composed when they were youngsters and enlist the village children to entertain everyone on Christmas Eve.
Full of the spirit of Christmas and quite a few things Nutcracker Suite, this tale also has themes of reconciliation, forgiveness and childhood innocence. And above all, it showed the reason for Christmas: that Christ came in humility to dwell among His people.
This story totally put me in the mood for Christmas with snow, sugarplums, nutcrackers and fairies. It was a community working together to bring joy.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author and an ecopy via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

Enchanting tale that is sure to get you in the mood for the upcoming holiday season. Readers will delight in the elements of Hoffman's Nutcracker woven through a splendid tapestry of Christmas traditions including sugarplums and sweets, and sleigh rides through the snow.

While there is a sweet Christmas romance, I loved the story of family. Mariah's anticipation of her family's holiday traditions is contagious. I loved the tradition of a Christmas play with the children of the estate workers. And I loved Professor Skylark's inventions.

As family and guests gather for the holidays, Mariah finds two very different men vying for attentions. Will Mariah's sweet and charming nature win, or will she be encouraged to set aside the whimsical joys of her youth?

The joy of the miracle of Christmas is woven effortlessly through this sweet novella. With excellent character development and plot pacing, I found it the perfect length for a magical escape at the busiest time of year.

***** I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher through Netgalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Charmingly sweet, perfect little Christmas story.
Isn't this cover absolutely gorgeous?! And the story inside its pages is equally charming.

I loved this sweet Christmas tale. It definitely has a Nutcracker feel to it.

The characters were delightful. I loved Mariah and Cyril. And even enjoyed getting to know the Gyldenkrone.

The setting was fascinating. The lord and the castle. The village and its people. The forest. All of it. I love reading stories set in the Edwardian era, and this book portrayed it so well.

As a Christmas novella, this one is definitely topnotch. My only complaint was that the story was shorter than I would have liked. :) Everything happened very fast, and it all was wrapped up quite neatly by the end.

Magical (in the sense of a Christmasy tale), enchanting, and delightful. I recommend!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

The author writes with her usual fascinating historical touch from delightful descriptions to scenes you'd love to be in. With the description of the ball gowns to the sumptuous dinners I simply couldn't get enough.

We all know Christmas books are extra special, and this is one you'll surely want to read, I loved all the discoveries I made as I read, the extra oomph, it has a magical Christmas appeal sprinkled throughout, an unexpected chance at romance and sugar plums.

Though I've never had sugar plums I am now craving them in a pie or some type of pastry. Warm and delightful, a story with well-developed characters that I'm hoping we'll see more of in future books.

Did you know the author has recipes that go with all of her series. There is a link in the book, and I went scrolling checking out these recipes and wow, they all sound so delicious. I will be checking it out again and trying some of them.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

This book combines the character development and attention to historical detail that Roseanna M. White always delivers with an interesting take of the story within Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. I have yet to be disappointed by one of her novels. Christmas romances are always fun to read, and I recommend this whimsical story with a powerful message. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and I am willingly giving this honest review.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor by Roseanna M. White is a wonderful look into Christmas of old! A lovely story with lost love, new romance, revenge, and the discovery of the real meaning of Christmas.

Cyril returns to Sugar Plum Manor to take his place as the rightful heir. Although he feels inadequate and unwanted by past and recent events. He reconnects with the family including Mariah, his childhood friend who has decided to welcome him as a friend only. What was supposed to be a family Christmas turns into a house party with a Danish royal vying for Mariah's hand in marriage.

A sweet and intriguing story with interesting characters and situations. I received this book from Ms. White and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

This novella is a delightful, sweet romance set in 1902 in England. Mariah wants a husband who will appreciate her for who she is: Her sense of child-like fun. Her caring for the people of the village. But her sister is much pretty than her, and her current suitors both came very close to proposing to the beautiful but self-centered Lady Pearl. It's clear she'd only be their second choice, mainly desirable for her connections and as a way to get back at the other suitor. Cyril fully appreciates her sense of whimsy and caring, but how to prove it? The Danish lord isn't marrying for love and assumes she'll grow out of her silliness, but Mariah's sister encourages him to treat her as a person rather than a goal.

The characters were likable, complex, and acted realistically. Historical Christmas details were woven into the story. A moment happens when both men realize they've been acting badly and need to change their behavior. Everyone gets a happy ending, filled with fun and delight in the Christmas season. The focus of Christmas was the birth of Christ, and why He came was woven into the story. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this enjoyable novella.

Sweet Christmas novella with a nod to the Nutcracker, story lovers, family, and serving others.

Lady Mariah Lyons, loves her stepfather the Earl of Castleton. He has been a wonderful landlord, taking good care of the manor and the town and she loves accompanying him. She strives to bring joy to the workers at the manor and the townspeople, and they love her. This will all change once she marries and leaves. She feels her own siblings Fred and Louise, and her mother view her as silly and never seem to appreciate her company.

Cyril Lightbourne, presumed heir to her stepfather, and her dear friend once upon a time, will be joining them for Christmas at Plumford Manor. Along with the too-handsome Lord Soren Gyldenkrone who comes to call, let the adventures begin!

I really enjoyed the fun traditions they shared at Christmas, and the search for belonging and family that we all long for.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and net galley for allowing me to read a copy, all opinions are my own. I hope you enjoy this captivating Christmas novella by one of my favorite authors!

Thank you to Roseanna White, NetGalley, and Bethany House for this #gifted book!*
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Title: Christmas at Sugarplum Manor
Author: Roseanna White
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
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Synopsis: As childhood friends, Lady Mariah of Plumford Manor and Cyril Lightbourne created a beautiful imaginative world known to them as Sugarplum Manor. When Cyril left the manor, the two continued their adventures through written correspondence. And Mariah had dreams of romance and continued adventures. But as Mariah grew older, her mother deemed it time to grow up and put away the childish notions. When the now-engaged Cyril is invited back to Mariah’s home along with a Danish lord suitor, Mariah’s childhood dreams appear to be crushed. Through family struggles, troubled friendships, and misunderstood courtships, Cyril and Lady Moriah search to bring the magic of childhood back to the Christmas season and to Sugarplum Manor.

Analysis: Roseanna White’s new novella is filled with the magic of Christmastime and the romance of regency. Plus it has plenty of nods to the holiday classic story and ballet The Nutcracker. I loved the main characters, Cyril and Mariah, and Mariah’s family. And while I really enjoyed the main plot of the romance, I think I enjoyed seeing Mariah’s family relationships grow even more! The romance is sweet, and the setting is beautiful. You’ll have visions of fairies and sugarplums dancing in your head all through the pages. And the true meaning of Christmas is pointed to multiple times throughout the story. If you’re looking for a festive read to get into the holiday spirit, Christmas at Sugarplum Manor is a great place to start!

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

PS - I think novellas are perfect for the busy Christmas season!

*I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions ťexpressed in this review are my own.

This is just a lovely tale that will put you in the mood for Christmas. It was like reading a fairy tale within a fairy tale.
The Nutcracker-inspired story has good guys, bad guys, sugar plums, faith, family, imagination and love.
But I would mainly sum it up as an adventure in joy.
If you'd enjoy reading a unique Christmas story that is simply magical, this is it!

A favorite quote:
""But that's what Christmas is about, isn't it? The impossible becoming real. An infinite God becoming a fragile babe. That perfect God making a path for us to come back to Him, and doing it in a way both spectacular and yet so mysterious, so hidden that people could and still do deny it."

Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor is the perfect recipe for the coziest, most heart-warming read you never knew you needed. Mix together a pinch of Pride & Prejudice, a dash of Downton Abbey, a sweet sugar plum, and a sprinkle of the nativity throughout, read slowly for several hours, and enjoy!
If you are familiar with Roseanna White’s books, this one will feel like coming home for the holidays with her usual engaging writing, well-researched historical setting, and lively narrative. If you are not familiar with her historical novels, this is a great place to start! I love how well developed the characters are for a shorter story, and how some remain true to who they are amidst pressure to conform, while others see the need to change their wrong ways and are willing to follow through. There was one Danish word I had to look up the meaning for, but otherwise it was a very smooth, easy to follow read that was clear in my mind’s eye. Most importantly, even among all the fun, everything points to celebrating Christ’s birth and all He has done for us.
Mariah, Cyril, and the others are very real to me now, and I hope they make appearances in future works. Grab a copy of this delightful novella for a unique, unexpected Christmas treat that will have you smelling cinnamon, tasting sugar, hearing carols, seeing lights, feeling warm by the fire, and celebrating the wonders of Christmas in your own heart.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

If you want to read a book that expresses everything that is magical about Christmas, look no further than Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor by Roseanna M. White. 

As usual, Ms. White’s words have the power to conjure vivid details, but this time she even managed to get my olfactory senses going. I swear I smelled cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and everything good about Christmas baking! 

This delightful book will have you wishing Christmas was around the corner, that it was snowing, and everything you love about Christmas was about to begin. And I haven’t even got to the story yet! 

The character of Lady Mariah, who loved everything about Christmas, was someone that everyone needs in their life if they need a hefty dose of friendship, whimsy, love and laughter. Her childhood friend Cyril Lightbourne, is someone she has loved all her life and you can’t help but root for these two as one obstacle (a Danish lord) threatens to tear them apart forever. 

I loved the faith element in this book, the celebration of Christmas, and the sense of tradition in the Castleton family. I loved how the author had her characters grow and helped some to find joy again, and others to find God. 

If you want a heartwarming read that is hard to put down, I highly recommend Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley for my honest review.