And another Christmassy book today? OK then… I’m really delighted to share my review of The Christmas Holiday by Phillipa Ashley. Published on 10th November by Avon, it’s now available as an ebook on major platforms (and just 99p for kindle at the moment, a limited time deal), in paperback, and as an audiobook. The e-copy I read was my own, purchased (and pre-ordered) from Amazon for my kindle.
It’s shameful confession time again – I’ve never read one of Phillipa’s books before (I know, I know…). You only have to look at her Amazon page to see just how many books have passed me by – and I’ve enjoyed hearing her speak at so many bookish events, vowing every time that I’ll read her next, but… anyway, I was particularly determined to get there this time (and so, so glad I did!)!
She’s planned the perfect Christmas. But fate might have other ideas…
Krystle didn’t have a normal childhood and longed for warm family Christmases with presents under the tree. Now she makes sure everyone else has the perfect Christmas she never had, bringing beautiful decorations to cheer as many people as possible.
With her festive business booming, she decides to celebrate by renting a secluded house in the Lakes, with a plan to make this the ultimate yuletide getaway.
But fate immediately throws a spanner in the works in the form of a broken-down car, a flooded river and Max; a man who despises Christmas.
Krystle becomes determined to show Max the joys of the holiday. She won’t take no for an answer.
Can she melt Max’s Grinch-like heart? And can he show her that life doesn’t need to go to plan to take you somewhere magical…
Let Sunday Times bestseller Phillipa Ashley whisk you away to the Lakes this Christmas, with a story full of unexpected romance, second chances, snowflakes and starlight!
My heart went out to young Krystle at the beginning of this book – a really difficult childhood only made easier by her aunt’s loving care, and the gorgeous sight while on holiday in the Lakes, seen through a window, of a room decorated for Christmas, complete with roaring fire and presents under the tree. It ignited her love for everything Christmas-related – now her year-round and particularly successful career.
Her relationship though has hit a bit of a rocky patch, and when she sees the very same house is available for rental, it looks like the opportunity to plan the perfect Christmas break and to get life back onto an even keel. Things certainly don’t start well, and perhaps her relationship really has gone beyond saving – but the early drama results in Max crossing her path, her early overtures of friendship rather rebuffed (he’s a man who, for the best of reasons, prefers his own company and to keep his secrets), but warming up nicely as she becomes increasingly part of the Lakes community.
This really is just the loveliest story, gloriously Christmassy and quite beautifully told – the perfect setting too, and that community feel that I always love so much. My fondness for Krys only grew as the story built – and Max’s story is desperately sad, my heart really breaking for him over everything he’s been through and the immense effort needed to restart his life. But the story’s a particularly uplifting one, filled with love and warmth – as their relationship starts to develop (and I was willing them on every step of the way), they both become increasingly involved in the work of the local Mountain Rescue Team, with plenty of dramatic moments along the way.
And, alongside all that, Krys has plenty of opportunities to show why she’s known in the industry as Mrs Christmas – calling in every favour she’s owed to give the whole community a Christmas to remember. There are so many really special moments in this book – and not all of them involving reindeer, star-covered night skies (real or recreated), or Santa’s grotto – and it was a book that totally engaged me at every level, but especially at an emotional one.
It’s really just the loveliest read – if it’s not on your list, do add it straight away – and I’m absolutely kicking myself that I’ve never read one of Phillipa Ashley’s books before. I bet she’s great at summer too – I can’t wait to find out. One of my very favourite Christmas reads this year, and I recommend it really highly.
About the author
Phillipa Ashley is a Sunday Times best selling author of heart-warming romantic fiction.
After studying English at Oxford University, she worked as a copywriter and journalist before writing her debut novel, Decent Exposure.
It won the Romantic Novelists Association New Writers Award and was filmed as a Lifetime TV movie starring Kristin Chenoweth and Josh Hopkins.
Her novels have sold almost a million copies and been translated into many languages. She is also an Audible number 1 best-seller.
Phillipa lives in an English village with her husband, has a grown-up daughter and loves nothing better than walking the Lakeland hills and swimming in Cornish coves.
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website
I loved this one too. You are right that Phillipa writes brilliant summer books too but I think this is my new personal favourite. For now anyway!
Wasn’t it just gorgeous? I’ve also just finished reading the book you wrote such a lovely review of today (my review will be up next week) – the Christmas books I’ve read this year have been so fantastic, and I think I’d find it impossible to name a favourite…
This is my Christmas book of the year. I went early with that decision but haven’t regretted it. It made me feel very warm and festive x
I just can’t pick one Christmas book of the year, I’ve enjoyed so many this year – but this one would certainly be up there! x