Adored this book, which I hope is the start of a new series.

Great characters, a location I would love to move to, talk about books and a mischievous Pygmy goat called Felix - just what you need on a damp dull autumn day to make you LOL in places.

A sweet holiday romance set in a snowy seaside village. When Sophie gets a surprise package containing a beautiful book, she wants to find out who sent it. Her search leads her to Harry, a mysterious man who has just come back from London and lives alone in an old manor house. As Sophie and Harry spend time together, they discover that some stories can turn into something special. This heartwarming tale is perfect for the holiday season and shows that love can be a wonderful surprise.

Sophie Stevens is enjoying her time is the village of Mistingham. She has a concession in a local shop to sell her handmade notebooks and she has friends. But, as the end of the year gets closer, Sophie feels the familiar restlessness begin to creep in. She never stays anywhere for long, that way she stays in control and avoid getting hurt.
Then a package is delivered to her. A beautifully bound copy of her favourite book, Jane Eyre, but she has no idea who sent it.
Harry Anderly is spending his time restoring his family’s manor house on the edge of the village. Leaving the villagers to speculate that he is grumpy and standoffish.
Sophie volunteers to help organise the Christmas Festival. Hoping t will give her a way of finding our who sent the book What she’s not expecting is that she will be working with Harry on the event. As Sophie tries to find out who sent the book she uncovers more than she expects, but will it be enough to ease her fears and convince her to take a chance.
This book has a great cast of characters, a lovely setting and oozes Christmas charm. Perfect to get you in a Christmassy mood.

This was a delightful story, with lots of feel good factors and a few sharp bits to keep it true. Some really good characters, including the animals and a lovely ending especially for Christmas.

If you are looking to start your festive reads now in October and not sure where to start then The Secret Christmas Bookshop by Cressida McLaughlin is a great place to start in my opinion because it is a cosy winter romance without being to heavy on the festivity.

This is a new standalone from Cressida and introduces us to a whole host of new characters who are big on community spirit and traditions. Our main character Sophie has never had a place to call home that is permanent which offers solid foundations, stability and love. Having always been ready to up and run as soon as she starts to set down roots anywhere and start again in a way of protecting herself from making strong bonds and face getting hurt, her first instinct is to run and start again.

I adored not only this storyline but also Sophie as a character, she has a dream job making notebooks which really intrigued me being such a big stationery addict myself but I also really warmed to her character. She was such a loveable woman who I was hoping I would see let her barriers down and let those around her who love her to help her feel safe and secure to be able to actually start living her life rather than always being on the run.

There was a lovely romance blossoming and yes you could see this romance happening a mile off but that's fine with me as I was still so preoccupied trying to get to the bottom of the mystery of who was behind the secret book shop book gifts which I still hold my hands up and say I didn't solve until the point before they were discovered.

I will say at times I was so frustrated with Sophie and wanted to give her a good shake and a hard wakeup call but luckily our characters felt the same as me and gave her some tough love for me!



This was a heart-warming romance that was full of community spirit and learning to trust again to be able to truly start living.

I’ve been enjoying Cressida McLaughlin’s books for quite a few years now. So when I had the opportunity to read an advance copy of The Secret Christmas Bookshop, I jumped on it.

I loved this book. I loved the setting, which is beautiful and comes across really well. I loved the mix of people who live there, and how they affect Sophie. I love how they work together for the community.

I really loved Sophie, who has not had the best upbringing, and so protects herself. I loved the fact that she makes handmade notebooks. I also loved Harry. He seems like a bit of a grump, but is actually lovely. And I was really pleased by the fact that Sophie didn’t fall for him because of the grumpiness, but because of the loveliness. I loved the way their relationship was written - you could feel the caring, rather than just being told it was there.

I also loved how Christmassy this book was. The festive atmosphere just oozed out.

Overall, this was such a lovely, festive hug of a book. Don’t miss it!

I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

I was grip to the story from the first few pages I loved the characters I know would get together I was just so pulled onto the plot I could ee the manor and town it my head I loved being part of the Christmas community live all the characters they all had a part to play in the plot very good I recommend to you all fab live the writing style

The story centers on Sophie, a complex protagonist shaped by a difficult upbringing, which has left her guarded and hesitant to trust. I found her to be a compelling character. Opposite her is Harry, the brooding new Lord of the manor, who initially comes off as antagonistic but has hidden depths. Their dynamic works well, with both characters complementing each other like two sides of the same coin. Harry’s love for books instantly makes him likable.

The book is filled with a colorful cast of characters—friends, family, neighbors, and even pets. The idyllic village of Mistingham in Norfolk, especially during Christmas, feels like the perfect cozy setting.

Though predictable, the story’s warmth and feel-good nature are part of its charm. It’s a comforting, uplifting romcom with a guaranteed happy ending, which is exactly what I wanted. I read it in one sitting and found myself lost in the village, the romance, and the festive atmosphere. While it concludes satisfyingly, I hope there’s more to come from Mistingham in future books.

Overall, this is a heartwarming, nostalgic read that fills you with joy and warmth, perfect for cozy winter nights.

I love Cressida’s books and was pleased to get hold of an advanced copy thanks to Netgalley.
The story focused on the town of Mistingham with its human and animal inhabitants. The main characters of Sophie and Harry had a depth to them which I felt made them more interesting. I especially enjoyed reading about the adventures of Felix the sweater wearing goat. Despite following the usual format of girl meets boy there was plenty going on in the book for it to feel enjoyable. During the times I was unable to pick the book up due to other commitments I was thinking ‘ I wonder what’s happening in Mistingham’ as if it was a real place.
Many thanks Cressida, Netgalley and Harper Collins for the advanced e book.

The plot of The Secret Christmas Bookshop is much ado about nothing. What saves it are the characters; not just Harry and Sophie, the romantic leads, but the supporting cast. Reading it, I was always drawn back in from my irritation at Sophie and Harry's unnecessary lack of communication by the personalities jumping from the page. Do read this and enjoy it. Just don't overthink it all!

Set in the perfect coastal village of Mistingham, this is the story of Sophie, a woman without roots.
Sophie receives a beautifully bound copy of Jane Eyre, with a message enclosed, but doesn't know who sent it to her.
In her attempts to find out she ends up organising the village Christmas festival, alongside the dour Harry.
There were times in this book when I wanted to reach into the pages and give Sophie a good shake!
This is a good Christmas read with a hefty sprinkle of romance.

Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.

While this is a nice easy Christmas read I struggled to get into it and found it quite slow in places.

As usual in my reviews, I will not rehash the plot or the publisher's blurb - there are already reviews like that out there!

I was drawn to this book by the title - a case of "you had me at bookshop". This is an enjoyable, light, cosy read with a sprinkling of romance and mystery - but it also deals with some darker topics such as childhood abandonment, loss and homelessness.

There is an excellent cast of believable characters that doesn't feel contrived (unlike in some novels these days) - my favourites included Sophie, Harry, Felix (bless!), Fiona, and Jazz.

As a fan and compulsive purchaser of notebooks (as well as books obviously!) I really enjoyed reading about Sophie's creations; the bookbinding aspects of the novel were also interesting to me. The village sounds lovely - a seaside haven all year round - I liked the sense of community and it made me want to visit Mistingham (or the closest thing to it!). I loved the idea of the Christmas festival.

All in all a lovely, cosy read - perfect for a chilly day fuelled by hot chocolate!

I haven't read any other novels by this author but hope to in the future.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.

I really enjoyed this Christmas feel good story. There was a journey to follow for Sophie and Harry however you also get the sub stories with Jazz and others that keep you focused. Highly recommend.

This book was beautiful! Everything you could possibly want in a Christmassy romance novel. The setting was perfect and all the supporting characters really added to the lovely community feel of the seaside town. I was really rooting for Sophie from the start, she obviously had her barriers up due to her background but it was so lovely seeing her and Harry’s relationship develop. He was just the typical swoon worthy character in my eyes! Basically this book was just perfect and I was so sad to finish it and leave these characters behind.

The perfect amount of Christmas magic and sparkle! Light enough to warm you, but with enough darkness and shade to make a compelling story. Plus it has special books and a troublesome goat - what more do you want?

I loved this author's Cornish Cream Tea series, and this one looked just as delightful. We head to the beautiful seaside village of Mistingham on the Norfolk coast where we meet Sophie. Sophie is a fairly relative newcomer to the village, but is a likeable character who has had a difficult background. She has been welcomed into the community and sells her notebooks which she makes herself. When she receives a mystery present of an old bound book, she sets out to track down who sent it. We also get to meet Harry, the local "Lord of the Manor", who has returned to the village to renovate his late father's manor house. Harry, whilst initially is brooding, grumpy and unfriendly, is a character who grows on you as the storyline moves on.

The story of arranging the village Christmas fete was lovely and I enjoyed all the organising and arranging, especially as Sophie and Harry were tasked to do this all together. It's obvious both of the main characters have flaws and have experienced things in their lives which affect them to this day, but they still work together well as characters and it was fun watching their interaction together and with all the other villagers! The storyline moved along well, and it was wonderfully festive as it moved nearer into the Christmas season. I loved the location and could imagine myself amongst them all!

Whilst, it didn't grab me as quickly as some of her other books have, it pulled me into the storyline slowly, building up the relationships between both the characters and the reader. By the middle of Sophie and Harry's story I was won over and I enjoyed it right through to the end. The storyline had lovely themes of friendships, community and of course, Christmas! The star of the book though had to be Felix the jumper wearing goat who I could easily have taken home! This is a perfect story for this time of year!

I love a novel with a community feel and Mistingham was definitely a special community. Sophie and Harry are a great, likeable couple with great chemistry who you can truly root for. On top of this the secret books plot is great and really apt. However, the star of this story is undoubtedly Felix, a troublesome jumper wearing goat. This is a must read festive treat!

Book Review: The Secret Christmas Bookshop by Cressida McLaughlin

Cressida McLaughlin's The Secret Christmas Bookshop is a heartwarming and festive romantic escape, set in a charming seaside village that comes alive with holiday magic. Known for her delightful storytelling in The Cornish Cream Tea series, McLaughlin once again weaves a tale brimming with charm, mystery, and the spirit of Christmas.

The story centers around Sophie, a relatable and warm protagonist, who receives a mysterious, beautifully bound book in the mail. Intrigued by this unexpected gift, she embarks on a quest to uncover the identity of the sender. Her search leads her to Harry, a reclusive and enigmatic figure living in a crumbling manor house. Harry, newly returned from London and the subject of much village gossip, is the perfect contrast to Sophie’s curiosity and warmth. As their paths cross, the chemistry between them slowly blossoms, set against the backdrop of snow-dusted streets and cozy bookshops, all under the enchanting glow of the holiday season.

McLaughlin has a gift for creating inviting atmospheres, and the village itself almost becomes a character in the story. The description of the quaint seaside setting, the wintry landscape, and the festive decorations draw readers into a picturesque world, making it the perfect cozy read for the Christmas season. The narrative is as much about the charm of the setting and the people who live there as it is about Sophie and Harry’s developing relationship.

The romance unfolds at a gentle pace, making room for both characters’ personal growth. Sophie’s quest for the mysterious sender becomes more than just a holiday mystery—it’s also about discovering her own desires and hopes. Harry, meanwhile, is dealing with his own past, and as his character is gradually revealed, readers will be drawn to his vulnerabilities and depth.

While the plot has a few predictable moments common in holiday romances, the warmth and charm of McLaughlin's writing make it easy to forgive. Her skill in capturing the festive spirit, combined with the allure of a cozy bookshop and the tantalizing mystery of a secret book, keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

Overall, The Secret Christmas Bookshop is a delightful and comforting read that will appeal to fans of romantic fiction, especially those looking for a cozy, festive story. McLaughlin’s novel is filled with warmth, hope, and just the right touch of Christmas magic, making it a perfect addition to any holiday reading list. Whether you're a fan of gentle romance, books about books, or simply looking for something to get you into the holiday spirit, this book offers all the festive feels.

Step into the close knit community of Mistingham in Norfolk and meet an interesting mix of people and animals including a Christmas jumper wearing goat that gets itself and owner into a heap of trouble. Main character is Sophie who has not had an easy life including being in care . She butts up against Harry , the man of the manor who has upset the village Christmas 4 day festival. This is a lovely storyline with some delightful characters