This was a captivating story, once I got into it, I just couldn’t put it down. I liked the character of Darcy, an intelligent woman who didn’t give up. Max came across as arrogant at first but he had a lot of trauma in his background. I loved their relationship, although it didn’t run smoothly. There was so much to enjoy about this book, the Danish customs around Christmas, the uncertainties of online dating and especially trying to find out about the unknown woman in the painting. There were times when I smiled at the actions of some characters, there was outrageous behaviour by some characters and heartbreaking moments. This was a lovely read that I thoroughly enjoyed. This author always creates characters that stay in the memory for a long time. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Despite its Christmas-themed title and snowy setting, this novel can be enjoyed any time of the year. It offers much more than just holiday romance, delving into the fascinating world of art, with elements of art history, restitution, and crime woven into the plot. The romance is rich and engaging, but the gripping storyline, set against the backdrop of the art world, adds depth and intrigue. The only downside is that the conclusion felt a bit rushed—I wish it had been longer. Nevertheless, it's a captivating read, and I would highly recommend it!

Karen Swan has recently become one of my go-to authors, and 'All I want for Christmas' didn't disappoint (thanks to Netgalley for my ARC copy, this has not affected my review). Following a messy break-up, art historian Darcy moves to Copenhagen to finish her PhD. Whilst there, an undiscovered portrait is found on the back of a masterpiece held dear by the Danish people (imagine a portrait being found on the back of Constable's 'The Haywain'). Darcy is tasked with finding out who is the woman in the portrait. Her friend, Freja, is keen to see Darcy dating again, so persuades her to sign up for three dates on a dating app. Sparks fly when she meets Max - but Max turns out to be on the opposite side of the race to trace the woman in the portrait...I really enjoyed this book, perfect for a Christmas read, with an excellent story and well developed characters.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I enjoyed reading this book.

We meet Darcy who is a PHD student in Copenhagen from the UK.

She’s sharing a flat with Freja whilst she writes her thesis, and has recently come out of a relationship.

Christmas isn’t far off and her friend tries to make her start dating again, but Darcy would rather spend her time working on her thesis.

The company that she’s with as she’s studying, uncovers a hidden portrait in a painting and she’s given the job of finding out more about the hidden portrait.

Whilst carrying out her investigations, with the trust, it’s not an easy task, hidden secrets are revealed.

I highly recommend this book.

Initially I thought that this was going to be another book about online dating disasters, but this is a Karen Swan book so there is lots more to discover!
Darcy is studying for her PhD when she is offered the chance to research the figure in a recently discovered painting which was glued to the back of a famous painting by Johan Trier. As Darcy’s research delves deeper into the lives of the Mansen family, who Trier painted for, she discovers long lost secrets and a genuine mystery.
Tension between Darcy and Max, her online date and trustee for the Madsen foundation, heightens as her research looks to upset both his family history and that of the Madsen trust.
The research into art history and art restoration was fascinating and very thorough. The mystery and secrets were revealed tantilisingly slowly so I was desperate to discover the final outcome.
Great characters and storyline.

Loved this latest seasonal romance from Karen Swan. Not only do we have a glamorous foreign setting in Copenhagen but we are also introduced to the world of fine art. As usual, there are wonderful characters to be discovered as well as the mystery of the hidden painting plus, of course, a sprinkling of romance. A great book for autumn, with the nights drawing in, and encouragement for Christmas.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

All I Want for Christmas by Karen Swan is a captivating holiday romance infused with art, history, and a deep sense of self-discovery. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Copenhagen, this novel combines romance with a rich narrative about personal growth, making it more than just a festive love story.

The protagonist, Darcy, has relocated to Copenhagen to complete her PhD studies, seeking solace from a recent breakup. Love is the last thing on her mind as she dives into a research project involving a fascinating historical discovery. The academic intrigue provides a compelling undercurrent to the story, keeping the reader hooked as Darcy uncovers not only professional secrets but personal ones as well.

Swan’s portrayal of Darcy’s internal struggles is nuanced and relatable, especially when her housemate, Freja, creates a dating profile for her, pulling her reluctantly back into the world of romance. Enter Max—handsome, wealthy, intelligent, and maddeningly moody. Their connection is undeniable, but it’s complicated by the fact that Max is deeply involved in Darcy’s research, creating tension and conflict that adds complexity to their budding relationship.

As Darcy navigates her professional aspirations and romantic entanglements, she also stumbles upon some personal truths that force her to confront past choices and emotions. Swan’s ability to weave art history into the narrative adds an intellectual layer, elevating the book beyond the typical holiday romance.

The supporting characters, especially Freja, bring warmth and humor to the story, and the vivid descriptions of Copenhagen in winter set the perfect festive mood. However, it’s the interplay of romance and discovery—both in the personal and historical sense—that makes this book shine. Darcy’s journey is not just about finding love but also about finding herself, and that emotional depth gives the novel substance.

All I Want for Christmas is a beautifully written, heartwarming read with a mix of romance, intrigue, and art that will appeal to readers looking for something more substantial in a holiday tale. Karen Swan delivers once again with a story that is magical, engaging, and perfect for the season.

In Karen Swan’s novel, Darcy, an art history PhD student in Copenhagen, is recovering from a breakup when she meets Max, a lawyer, through a dating app. Their chemistry is undeniable, but their professional lives collide when Darcy is hired to investigate a newly discovered painting tied to a famous masterpiece, and Max’s firm holds the key archives.

They agree not to date, but emotions grow complicated as Darcy uncovers more about the painting—and about Max. The story blends an art-based mystery with a passionate romance, filled with twists and deep emotional layers.

I have read and enjoyed other books by Karen Swan but this one just wasn’t for me, The book is very well written and I appreciated the detailed descriptions of the art world and how it works but the casual sex and use of dating apps left me cold. I’ll sit this one out but will still look out for this writer’s next book.

I hate being that reviewer that hates the book but everyone else loves. Unfortunately for me I got sick of the constant sex references, the playing of men against each other which totally overshadows what could have been a fab book set in the gorgeous Copenhagen

I always look forward to reading anything by Karen Swan and this was no exception. A tale of modern dating with some dreadful characters! Set in Denmark this book has it all, friendship, romance, mystery and Christmas what’s not to love.

Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for this ARC

Once again Karen Swan produces an extremely enjoyable intelligent romance. Although set in Denmark in the winter there is so much more than romance and Christmas as a theme. The story line of the identity of the sitter in a hidden picture was well written and conceived.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for the advance copy of this book.

Set in the beautiful city of Copenhagen, this is a beautiful tale of the chemistry between two people and how they discover each other over their love of history and art. Another success for Karen Swan

I enjoy most of Karen's books, apart from the Wild Isle Series, but that's another story. Regarding her "normal" books, they usually make quite an impact on me, but this one didn't. There was far too much description, that I sometimes skipped over in order to get back to the story. I quite liked Darcy, though some of her decisions were questionable. I don't think Max's character was rounded out enough. The ending was too rushed, and was therefore a disappointment. I did appreciate the fact this book is not overly festive, with just a few references to Christmas - the title is misleading for those looking for a festive read. I enjoyed the art mystery, and the fact the book was set in Denmark. There was enough there to hold my interest. Just a few tweaks and it could have been a five star read. With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. It had a slower start to it, however as the story started to progress it picked up
In pace. I really liked the festive feel without it being too much of a Christmas book!

Yet another intriguing story by Karen Swan. This is a wonderful read full of great characters, romance and intrigue set at Christmas. Another page turner for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.

This is another beautiful read by Karen Swan. In this festive treat the characters explore what happens when work and romance mix and it’s not just our main characters exploring this theme!
We follow Darcy as she tries to uncover the secret behind a hidden painting as well as trying to find herself a date for Christmas. After a few false starts in both areas we see her start to uncover the truths that she needs to find but in doing so will she lose her heart successfully or have it trampled on again? You’ll have to read this lovely, fascinating book to find out!
I really enjoyed the breadth of characters in this story and the stories around them as well as the main story arc of the book as a whole which kept me dipping in and out as often as I could, just needing to know what had and would happen with them all. This is a lovely festive romance without too much festive iconography but some very lovely touches!

Set in winter in Denmark you can feel the chill of the weather reflected in the frosty feelings of the main characters Darcy and Max that eventually melt in the full realisation of their feelings. As characters they are deeply involved in the mystery surrounding a secret painting that Darcy is sent to research. Her findings could blow a well established foundation apart . The story unfolds at Christmas but the underlying story lies in the story behind the painting and the possible repercussions once the truth is revealed. A Christmas tale with substance

As usual in my reviews, I will not rehash the plot - there are already plenty of reviews like that out there!

I've read lots of Karen Swan's books, so was delighted to be invited to read this.

I love a Christmas story - I've even read some during a heatwave - and this book can be enjoyed at any time of the year as although Christmas is involved, it isn't the main focus.

I loved the setting - Copenhagen - a place I've never visited, but felt I knew as it was well described here.

There's a good cast of main characters - Darcy, Max and Freya - plus an interesting supporting cast - all felt believable and were well written.

The storyline has multiple threads - the main one set in the academic world of art history, and the mystery behind a recently uncovered painting. Running alongside is the Darcy:Max thread, which I won't divulge the details of here (no spoilers!), but will simply say that I was pleased with the outcome.

A definite "must read" for fans of Karen Swan. I look forward to reading more of her work!

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

Book Review: All I Want For Christmas

I just finished reading All I Want For Christmas by Karen Swan, and it was the perfect blend of romance, intrigue, and holiday cheer. The story follows Darcy Cotterell, a woman nursing a broken heart after discovering her boyfriend's infidelity. With Christmas fast approaching, she’s determined to focus on her PhD studies in Copenhagen rather than wallow in heartbreak.

What I loved most about this book is how Darcy is thrust into an unexpected adventure when a mysterious portrait surfaces beneath another masterpiece. The art-world mystery adds an engaging layer to the story, and I found myself as invested in her research as she was. The tension and excitement of uncovering the identity of the woman in the painting kept me turning the pages.

Enter Max Lorensen, her blind date, who also happens to be deeply embedded in the art scene. Their chemistry is electric, and I appreciated the way their professional relationship develops alongside the romantic tension. The push-and-pull dynamic was expertly crafted, making their interactions all the more compelling.

Swan’s writing captures the essence of Copenhagen beautifully, with vivid descriptions that made me feel like I was wandering the city alongside Darcy. The holiday atmosphere added an extra layer of warmth and charm, making it a cozy read perfect for this time of year.

As Darcy navigates her feelings for Max while uncovering the painting's secrets, I found myself rooting for her happiness. The twists and turns in their relationship were both realistic and heartwarming, making for a satisfying read.

Overall, All I Want For Christmas is an enchanting holiday romance that left me with a smile on my face. It’s a delightful reminder that love can blossom in the most unexpected places. If you’re in the mood for a cozy winter romance, I highly recommend diving into this delightful story!