Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor: A Novella

By Roseanna M. White

Book Overview

The Nutcracker and Edwardian-era England combine to weave a magical tale of love and friendship at Christmastime.

As the beloved stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, Lady Mariah Lyons cherishes her home at Plumford Manor, but her idyllic world will be threatened when the estate passes to Cyril Lightbourne, a childhood friend she hasn't seen or heard from in years. Once, Mariah dreamed their friendship would kindle into something more, but that was before she heard Cyril was courting the cruelhearted Lady Pearl. Now Mariah is willing to welcome him as a friend and pray he will be the heir her stepfather needs, but she'll keep her heart locked safely away from anyone with such poor taste.

Cyril Lightbourne has long avoided returning to Plumford Manor, yet he reluctantly arrives in time for Christmas. When his friendship with Lady Mariah reignites, he finds himself caught between his affection for her and her family's misunderstanding of his attachment to Lady Pearl. Then, more trouble arrives in the form of a Danish lord on a mission to win Mariah's hand by Christmas. Will the magic of the holiday season help lead to the discovery of true love, or will duty to country leave all longing for what could have been?

"So many delightful layers to this tale, along with intriguing characters and beautiful descriptions. ... It really puts you in the mood for Christmas."--Melody Carlson, author of The Christmas Tree Farm and A Royal Christmas

• Format: Audio CD
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0F4WT9SGP
• ISBN13: 9798228003385
• Release Date: October 2024
• Publisher: Recorded Books

Customer Reviews

fun Edwardian Christmas romance

It’s a fun Edwardian Christmas romance with witty banter, endearing characters, and great holiday cheer, centered around the true meaning of Christmas. Mariah was such an easy heroine to love - brimming with joy, laughter, warmth, compassion, and bright outlook. Cyril was a charming, down-to-earth, and likable fellow who had been misguided for too long and only ever wanted a place to belong. Their childhood friendship blossoming into something more was delightful to see. The innovative toy maker was a wonderful secondary character and I enjoyed all the baking involved. The theme of forgiveness was intricately woven into the characters’ backstories and went hand in hand with celebrating the birth of the One who is forgiveness. I was a bit disappointed in the lack of a mystery in the plot, which has been the author’s usual style. Since I don’t enjoy love triangles, I wasn’t a fan of both Cyril and Soren chasing Mariah but the ending was full of grace, self-realization, and faith. The story near the end felt a little rushed, especially regarding Mariah’s older sister Louise and brother Fred. If you enjoy Christmas novels, this one may hit the spot with great English traditions and warmth of a small village. I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers via Interviews and Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

Step Back In Time Christmas Celebration

Impressive Christmas novella that shares the magic of the season with elements from the Nutcracker to give it that whimsical feel. I love all the feel good moments that leave you wishing you could be part of this village of close knit people. I enjoyed the romance that develops and grows but even more I loved the joy this family finds. Mariah and Cyril relationship has its ups and downs but their love of life, love of family, and love of others is heart touching. The descriptive words have my mouth watering for Sugarplums and wanting to visit Sugar Plum Manor to see all the festive decorations. An inspiring story that you will place on your keeper shelf to read each year to bring joy to your heart during the Holy Christmas season. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.