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Dear Christmas
What would you do if you received a Christmas card from someone you’ve never met?
When Cordelia Hobday receives a surprise Christmas card from a stranger—the funny, kind, and interesting Lee Weston—she decides to write him back.
But there are rules to this Christmas letter They’ll never meet.They’ll never call.They’ll never email.They’ll save a year’s worth of wishes and secrets, hopes and dreams, and share them every Christmas in one Dear Christmas letter. They’ll be friends for life.And the most important rule of all? They will never, ever, ever fall in love.
Ten years of Christmases. Ten years of letters. One Christmas wish…
This is a Soulmates in Romeo Christmas Novel.
When Cordelia Hobday receives a surprise Christmas card from a stranger—the funny, kind, and interesting Lee Weston—she decides to write him back.
But there are rules to this Christmas letter They’ll never meet.They’ll never call.They’ll never email.They’ll save a year’s worth of wishes and secrets, hopes and dreams, and share them every Christmas in one Dear Christmas letter. They’ll be friends for life.And the most important rule of all? They will never, ever, ever fall in love.
Ten years of Christmases. Ten years of letters. One Christmas wish…
This is a Soulmates in Romeo Christmas Novel.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2023
About the author
Sarah Ready
24 books1,212 followersAuthor Sarah Ready writes contemporary romance and romantic comedy.
Her books have been described as “euphoric”, “heartwarming” and “laugh out loud”. Her debut novel The Fall in Love Checklist was hailed as “the unicorn read of 2020”. She loves to write fast-paced, emotionally compelling romances about quirky, smart women and the men who love them.
Her works include Josh and Gemma Make a Baby, Josh and Gemma the Second Time Around, French Holiday and romcoms in the Soul Mates in Romeo series. Her debut novel The Fall in Love Checklist was hailed as “the unicorn read of 2020”. She lives in the Caribbean with her family and water-loving pup.
Find more books and interesting tidbits at www.sarahready.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 29, 2023
Lee and Cordelia don’t know each other, but they write each other a Christmas letter every year. Because they agreed to never call, never send a picture, and to never meet, both feel free to be completely honest and open in their Christmas letters. Their correspondence spans over ten years and while starting off as strangers, their friendship grows over the years.
I love books in epistle form. There is something about the way people communicate through letters. Lee and Cordelia both had their unique voices and I could hear them while reading their letters.
And I truly, deeply, madly fell in love with Lee’s character. He was so lost and alone without a family. Him trying to find his way in life, searching for a place to call home…Ugh. I felt for him.
Cordelia was more privileged in life, had her own share of problems like anyone else growing up, but her character had less going on - except for a serious heart condition, but still it took a bit longer to get to know her.
Dear Christmas had its moments, and it managed to tug my heartstrings throughout the book. I so wished I could give Lee a motherly hug! And I so, so wished him well and a calm and happy life. The author did such a great job with his character. I could totally feel how Lee held on to the letters to feel anchored in life. He was all alone, lost in the world and through these letters he had a life line.
There were, however, many critical moments that kept these youngsters apart - and it depends on your mood whether you’d accept that as Faith working overtime to create the greatest love story of all time or just another plot twist that could have been prevented had they used contemporary communication devices 😉 let’s just say there were no shortages of Christmas miracles throughout the book. I also think I would’ve been okay had Lee and Cordelia remained friends, but that’s not the Christmas spirit, I guess.
Dear Christmas is a warm and lovely read that made me google what a yule chocolate log is. It looks yum!
I love books in epistle form. There is something about the way people communicate through letters. Lee and Cordelia both had their unique voices and I could hear them while reading their letters.
And I truly, deeply, madly fell in love with Lee’s character. He was so lost and alone without a family. Him trying to find his way in life, searching for a place to call home…Ugh. I felt for him.
Cordelia was more privileged in life, had her own share of problems like anyone else growing up, but her character had less going on - except for a serious heart condition, but still it took a bit longer to get to know her.
Dear Christmas had its moments, and it managed to tug my heartstrings throughout the book. I so wished I could give Lee a motherly hug! And I so, so wished him well and a calm and happy life. The author did such a great job with his character. I could totally feel how Lee held on to the letters to feel anchored in life. He was all alone, lost in the world and through these letters he had a life line.
There were, however, many critical moments that kept these youngsters apart - and it depends on your mood whether you’d accept that as Faith working overtime to create the greatest love story of all time or just another plot twist that could have been prevented had they used contemporary communication devices 😉 let’s just say there were no shortages of Christmas miracles throughout the book. I also think I would’ve been okay had Lee and Cordelia remained friends, but that’s not the Christmas spirit, I guess.
Dear Christmas is a warm and lovely read that made me google what a yule chocolate log is. It looks yum!
December 16, 2023
Dear Christmas takes a character from Scrooging Christmas and gives them their own book, but this book couldn't be more different.
Dear Christmas is an emotional and sometimes heartbreaking story. At the same time it's magical, hopeful and beautiful.
I've been a fan of Sarah Ready for a while and she has amazing range in her writing. Dear Christmas takes it to a new level. Dear Christmas is an epistolary story, letters between Lee and Cordelia, two very different people. Their voices come through loud and clear and through these letters you really get to know them.
This is an unconventional love story about fate, love and finding your home. Just beautiful ❤️
Dear Christmas is an emotional and sometimes heartbreaking story. At the same time it's magical, hopeful and beautiful.
I've been a fan of Sarah Ready for a while and she has amazing range in her writing. Dear Christmas takes it to a new level. Dear Christmas is an epistolary story, letters between Lee and Cordelia, two very different people. Their voices come through loud and clear and through these letters you really get to know them.
This is an unconventional love story about fate, love and finding your home. Just beautiful ❤️
December 3, 2023
This unconventional Christmas love story between two people from very different walks of life is now officially my favourite Christmas story ever! I don’t even know if I have the right words to describe how beautiful it truly is. Between the tragedies and missed opportunities, Cordelia and Lee yearn for the same thing - to be loved and accepted by someone. Told through mostly letters once a year at Christmas, this story will tug on your heartstrings as you fly through the pages of this magical story.
Story Highlights
-contemporary romance
-quick read
-communication through letters
-strangers to friends to lovers
-very unique and original
-heartwarming
-unconventional love story
-emotional and heartbreaking
-christmas magic
-adventurous
Story Highlights
-contemporary romance
-quick read
-communication through letters
-strangers to friends to lovers
-very unique and original
-heartwarming
-unconventional love story
-emotional and heartbreaking
-christmas magic
-adventurous
November 15, 2023
This gifted wordsmith is one I've been with since the beginning, and after more than a dozen books she continues to surprise me and delight my romantic heart. This time she gives us a fresh premise and unique format of letters between two strangers who meet each other through their written words when they’re just fourteen years old.
We return to the love capital, Romeo, NY, which is where Cordelia Hobday lives and Lee Weston happens to be passing through. Although it's never made clear who “the lady" is, I suspect it’s our matchmaking Miss Erma who suggests that Lee write Cordelia a Christmas letter to cheer her up.
This results in Lee and Cordelia exchanging Christmas letters once a year over the span of a decade. These two are such opposites, and yet they connect through the written word. Somehow it's easier to write things than to say them, and being open, honest, and vulnerable works better with pencil and paper than it ever could face to face.
Now, it may seem that a story through letters might be less than compelling, but not with Lee and Cordelia. I’m bursting to share so many details but won’t because of spoilers. But I will tell you, this road to forever is as sweetly and poignantly touching as it is devastatingly heartbreaking. There's so much that happens over ten years, so many life changes, but the one constant in each of their lives is the other.
Since their story is told largely through letters, there’s a lot of talk about words – how sometimes they’re not necessary when silence does the speaking, how they can be precious and cherished by another, and how, often, they're inadequate. This is where I find myself trying to explain just how unique and special this story is. If you’ve read other romances that are epistolary or have long-distance relationships, let me assure you, they’re nothing like this one.
Cordelia and Lee are a study in contrasts – her, a colorful thread in the community tapestry with a large, loving family of concerned hovering and constant companionship; and him, a solitary vagabond with no foundation, no family, and no home. Yet each is equally important to the other, their relationship running the gamut from sweet innocence, to heartbreak to despair to fruition and finally, to forever.
This is my favorite kind of romance – one that takes me on an epic adventure, an acutely sentimental journey, and one that leaves its indelible mark on my soul. If you read only one book this year, make it this one. Although set during the holidays, it's profound wisdom and sagacious insights will keep the magic of Christmas alive in your heart year-round. One of my top five all-time reads, you absolutely won’t want to miss this one!
We return to the love capital, Romeo, NY, which is where Cordelia Hobday lives and Lee Weston happens to be passing through. Although it's never made clear who “the lady" is, I suspect it’s our matchmaking Miss Erma who suggests that Lee write Cordelia a Christmas letter to cheer her up.
This results in Lee and Cordelia exchanging Christmas letters once a year over the span of a decade. These two are such opposites, and yet they connect through the written word. Somehow it's easier to write things than to say them, and being open, honest, and vulnerable works better with pencil and paper than it ever could face to face.
Now, it may seem that a story through letters might be less than compelling, but not with Lee and Cordelia. I’m bursting to share so many details but won’t because of spoilers. But I will tell you, this road to forever is as sweetly and poignantly touching as it is devastatingly heartbreaking. There's so much that happens over ten years, so many life changes, but the one constant in each of their lives is the other.
Since their story is told largely through letters, there’s a lot of talk about words – how sometimes they’re not necessary when silence does the speaking, how they can be precious and cherished by another, and how, often, they're inadequate. This is where I find myself trying to explain just how unique and special this story is. If you’ve read other romances that are epistolary or have long-distance relationships, let me assure you, they’re nothing like this one.
Cordelia and Lee are a study in contrasts – her, a colorful thread in the community tapestry with a large, loving family of concerned hovering and constant companionship; and him, a solitary vagabond with no foundation, no family, and no home. Yet each is equally important to the other, their relationship running the gamut from sweet innocence, to heartbreak to despair to fruition and finally, to forever.
This is my favorite kind of romance – one that takes me on an epic adventure, an acutely sentimental journey, and one that leaves its indelible mark on my soul. If you read only one book this year, make it this one. Although set during the holidays, it's profound wisdom and sagacious insights will keep the magic of Christmas alive in your heart year-round. One of my top five all-time reads, you absolutely won’t want to miss this one!
November 22, 2023
Cordelia is recovering from heart surgery when she receives a letter from Lee. He is the same age as her but they have vastly different backgrounds. In fact he’s only writing the letter to her because he was given money to do so. By she finds him interesting and decides to write back.
But there are rules to this letter exchange -
they’ll never meet, or call or email. They’ll only write at Christmas time, saving a year’s worth of wishes, truth, secrets, hopes and dreams. Will these two ever meet?
The story of Cordelia and Lee takes place over ten years, as they mainly connect through written correspondence. Their lives become interesting as they meet people and discover the world.
To be honest, I struggled to connect with the story at first but I persisted and I found it to be a wonderful and emotional journey to love. The near misses. The untold truths. The story delivered an emotional ride that I wasn’t expecting and it was lovely.
4 stars
But there are rules to this letter exchange -
they’ll never meet, or call or email. They’ll only write at Christmas time, saving a year’s worth of wishes, truth, secrets, hopes and dreams. Will these two ever meet?
The story of Cordelia and Lee takes place over ten years, as they mainly connect through written correspondence. Their lives become interesting as they meet people and discover the world.
To be honest, I struggled to connect with the story at first but I persisted and I found it to be a wonderful and emotional journey to love. The near misses. The untold truths. The story delivered an emotional ride that I wasn’t expecting and it was lovely.
4 stars
December 16, 2023
*Paperback
3.5/5
First and foremost I ADORE Sarah Ready. I also liked the idea of this one being told in a letter format but I think it might’ve been better as a novella.
I never really fully connected with the characters, I liked them well enough but I had a hard time keeping interest. My interest the story ebbed and flowed throughout the book. Was a little repetitive / slow for my liking and I felt it threw the flow off a little for me.
This was a story of found family and was very sweet. The book was good, I just wasn’t wowed to the extent I usually am with SR. She is one of my fav authors so obviously I can’t wait to read her next one and see what awesome stuff she has up her sleeve.
As always, I recommend checking it out.
3.5/5
First and foremost I ADORE Sarah Ready. I also liked the idea of this one being told in a letter format but I think it might’ve been better as a novella.
I never really fully connected with the characters, I liked them well enough but I had a hard time keeping interest. My interest the story ebbed and flowed throughout the book. Was a little repetitive / slow for my liking and I felt it threw the flow off a little for me.
This was a story of found family and was very sweet. The book was good, I just wasn’t wowed to the extent I usually am with SR. She is one of my fav authors so obviously I can’t wait to read her next one and see what awesome stuff she has up her sleeve.
As always, I recommend checking it out.
November 22, 2023
Sarah Ready has quickly become one of my favorite authors with her gift for writing heart-warming romances, each with a unique premise. Dear Christmas is an epistolary love story that covers ten years of letters, starting at age 14, between Cordelia and Lee, and is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. Give yourself a gift for the holidays and buy this book!
November 8, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dear Christmas by Sarah Ready is such a sweet Christmas story! It's so emotional, so deep in feelings!
Both main characters are so strong and so connected in a level that not everyone could!
This story will go over 10 year period and will be told from Lee and Cordelia's POV.
This book made me smile, made my heart ache, made me feel sorry and wanting to cuddle Lee and of course there is always a gasp out loud moment! But all in all, pure joy! This is a book about Christmas magic and never ending hope!
Lee and Cordelia are so different! Lee comes from fostercare and do not know love and care. Cordelia comes from loving family and will always have people who care about her.
When Cordelia receives Christmas card from Lee she decides to write it back and magical tradition is built! They have rules and they are happy to play by them but sometimes you just must follow your gut instinct!
If you love a good love building book where respect and attention to each other dominates rather that ripping off clothes situations - this book is for you!
#12daysofchristmas
#mybookreviewfreedomchristmaschallange
Dear Christmas by Sarah Ready is such a sweet Christmas story! It's so emotional, so deep in feelings!
Both main characters are so strong and so connected in a level that not everyone could!
This story will go over 10 year period and will be told from Lee and Cordelia's POV.
This book made me smile, made my heart ache, made me feel sorry and wanting to cuddle Lee and of course there is always a gasp out loud moment! But all in all, pure joy! This is a book about Christmas magic and never ending hope!
Lee and Cordelia are so different! Lee comes from fostercare and do not know love and care. Cordelia comes from loving family and will always have people who care about her.
When Cordelia receives Christmas card from Lee she decides to write it back and magical tradition is built! They have rules and they are happy to play by them but sometimes you just must follow your gut instinct!
If you love a good love building book where respect and attention to each other dominates rather that ripping off clothes situations - this book is for you!
#12daysofchristmas
#mybookreviewfreedomchristmaschallange
February 23, 2024
4.5🌟
Sarah what are you doing to me! This book was absolutely beautiful, heartbreaking and wonderful. Ive just finished it and ive got so many emotions going through me right now. This story is based on Lee and Cordelias interactions through letters and it was beautifully unique and unlike anything else I've read before. The emotions those 2 put down on paper between each other was so gut wrenching at times. Sarah you really are a clever lady to have woven this story so beautifully and seamlessly. Gah I just can't put into words right now how much I loved it and how utterly sad and heartbroken I am that it's over. Its the kind of story I will treasure and it will stay with me for a long time 💖
Sarah what are you doing to me! This book was absolutely beautiful, heartbreaking and wonderful. Ive just finished it and ive got so many emotions going through me right now. This story is based on Lee and Cordelias interactions through letters and it was beautifully unique and unlike anything else I've read before. The emotions those 2 put down on paper between each other was so gut wrenching at times. Sarah you really are a clever lady to have woven this story so beautifully and seamlessly. Gah I just can't put into words right now how much I loved it and how utterly sad and heartbroken I am that it's over. Its the kind of story I will treasure and it will stay with me for a long time 💖
December 25, 2023
do you want your heart to ache and then get ripped out of your chest but put back together slowly, tenderly, with a little holiday magic weaved in between?
if so, you need this book.
if so, you need this book.
November 22, 2023
This is the must read book this Christmas, even if you don’t usually read Christmas themed books, you will want to read this one. It is a stunning and unusual story told in letters written between Cordelia ‘Corey’ Hobday and Lee Weston over a ten year period. I have loved Sarah Ready’s Soulmates in Romeo series and this is one of her best. A romantic but heartbreaking tale which will have you grabbing for the tissues for both happy and sad reasons. I shouted “Oh no!” at my kindle numerous times as the author broke my heart, then cheered “Oh yes!” as she put the pieces back together.
Miss Erma is right again and Romeo is where the magic begins!!
The story starts ten years ago with Lee selling cheap wooden ornaments at the Romeo Christmas market. A lady offers him ten dollars if he would write a Christmas card to Cordelia to cheer her up after heart surgery. She also tells him Cordelia was one of a kind so he could tell her anything and she’d be his friend forever. Lee writes his first Christmas card to Cordelia and encloses one of his ornaments. He has no idea who she is or how old, but the lure of having someone who might care about him starts their communication.
Cordelia ‘Corey’ Hobday is a tiny slip of a girl who has been through a lot in her life. She has a large family who believe in fully celebrating Christmas but they also worry about her due to her heart problems. She loves the chance of having someone she can confide in. They agree to send a Christmas card every year and admit all the things they’d never tell anyone else or themselves. They set rules to only write the letters and never meet so they stay strangers but be there for each other no matter what happens.
They describe everything so well to each other you will feel that you are there with them. They quickly become friends and a deep connection between them builds. He has never had a Christmas full of joy and laughter so she tells him all about her chaotic ones with her big family. He has had a traumatic childhood and her letters make him feel not so alone in the world. She becomes the one constant thing in his life, and his hope when the darkness overwhelms him.
‘I’d wanted to find my way home. But I think I’ve gone off course.”
Their letters provide a solace to each other as they keep up to date with what has happened to them that year. Sometimes it has been a good year and others not so great. There are surprises along the way, events that shape them and ones that change their lives forever. They send gifts and a few times write extra letters. There are a few years when the letters aren’t so regular and a few times they break the rules. Will they ever find their way to one another or does fate have something else lined up for them? Is Lee ever going to get his dreams fulfilled and not lose another person he loves?
If you have read Scrooging Christmas then you might remember the heartbreaking story Gabe told Natalie about his family. This book tells the other side to that story and although it is heartrending, it is hugely about hope and love. The author has created something unique and it is beautifully written. The thought and detail gone into the twists and turns of this couple’s journey to their HEA will stay with you long after you’ve finished it. Don’t forget to go to Sarah’s website and download the Bonus Epilogue because it has a fantastic letter to conclude this story.
Miss Erma is right again and Romeo is where the magic begins!!
The story starts ten years ago with Lee selling cheap wooden ornaments at the Romeo Christmas market. A lady offers him ten dollars if he would write a Christmas card to Cordelia to cheer her up after heart surgery. She also tells him Cordelia was one of a kind so he could tell her anything and she’d be his friend forever. Lee writes his first Christmas card to Cordelia and encloses one of his ornaments. He has no idea who she is or how old, but the lure of having someone who might care about him starts their communication.
Cordelia ‘Corey’ Hobday is a tiny slip of a girl who has been through a lot in her life. She has a large family who believe in fully celebrating Christmas but they also worry about her due to her heart problems. She loves the chance of having someone she can confide in. They agree to send a Christmas card every year and admit all the things they’d never tell anyone else or themselves. They set rules to only write the letters and never meet so they stay strangers but be there for each other no matter what happens.
They describe everything so well to each other you will feel that you are there with them. They quickly become friends and a deep connection between them builds. He has never had a Christmas full of joy and laughter so she tells him all about her chaotic ones with her big family. He has had a traumatic childhood and her letters make him feel not so alone in the world. She becomes the one constant thing in his life, and his hope when the darkness overwhelms him.
‘I’d wanted to find my way home. But I think I’ve gone off course.”
Their letters provide a solace to each other as they keep up to date with what has happened to them that year. Sometimes it has been a good year and others not so great. There are surprises along the way, events that shape them and ones that change their lives forever. They send gifts and a few times write extra letters. There are a few years when the letters aren’t so regular and a few times they break the rules. Will they ever find their way to one another or does fate have something else lined up for them? Is Lee ever going to get his dreams fulfilled and not lose another person he loves?
If you have read Scrooging Christmas then you might remember the heartbreaking story Gabe told Natalie about his family. This book tells the other side to that story and although it is heartrending, it is hugely about hope and love. The author has created something unique and it is beautifully written. The thought and detail gone into the twists and turns of this couple’s journey to their HEA will stay with you long after you’ve finished it. Don’t forget to go to Sarah’s website and download the Bonus Epilogue because it has a fantastic letter to conclude this story.
December 24, 2023
This story is told primarily through the letters that Lee and Cordelia write to each other over a period of ten years. Those sections are written in first person from each character's perspective. Sprinkled within the letters, there are also occasional sections of what is happening to the characters written from a third person/dual POV. Though they spend most of this book separated from each other physically, they are together in spirit from the beginning. Their HEA is hard-won and exquisite.
The writing in this book is truly beautiful! There are so many beautiful quotes that are the kind of things I want to print out and use to guide my life choices. Each character's letters have a different style and tone, allowing me to feel like I really got to know them as individuals. As they each live the events of their lives in the ten years they write to each other, they both go through a lot. There are moments when they are so close to finding happiness, only to have it not quite happen-or even be ripped away. As they grow from teenagers to adults (who have lived through so much more than their years would warrant) they mature, develop direction, and find true love with each other (finally).
I don't remember the last time a book generated this much emotion within me. Parts of this story were heart-breaking. They touched my soul. I literally cried: that RARELY happens. Other parts were full of laughter, they joy of living life, and the love of friendship. There are a couple open door scenes in this book, but the story and their love is driven by the characters and the undeniable connection they feel for each other. This book is going to sit with me for a long time. I had planned to read a couple more holiday romances this season. After finishing this one, I knew that I could not do that for a while. The comparison would be a disservice to the next planned books, which I would normally believe to be excellent. What's a girl to do when a book generates this much feelings, emotions, and fullness of heart? For me, I have to go to a completely opposite place. So my holiday TBR is getting pushed out a bit. Maybe I will be ready to read them by February.
This was 217th read this year. It is also one of my top 10 reads off the year. In fact, I think I might make this one an annual holiday reread. Five stars are not nearly enough for this book. If you read only one holiday romance, read this book. You won't regret it.
#penpal #oppositesattract #friendstolovers #holiday
The writing in this book is truly beautiful! There are so many beautiful quotes that are the kind of things I want to print out and use to guide my life choices. Each character's letters have a different style and tone, allowing me to feel like I really got to know them as individuals. As they each live the events of their lives in the ten years they write to each other, they both go through a lot. There are moments when they are so close to finding happiness, only to have it not quite happen-or even be ripped away. As they grow from teenagers to adults (who have lived through so much more than their years would warrant) they mature, develop direction, and find true love with each other (finally).
I don't remember the last time a book generated this much emotion within me. Parts of this story were heart-breaking. They touched my soul. I literally cried: that RARELY happens. Other parts were full of laughter, they joy of living life, and the love of friendship. There are a couple open door scenes in this book, but the story and their love is driven by the characters and the undeniable connection they feel for each other. This book is going to sit with me for a long time. I had planned to read a couple more holiday romances this season. After finishing this one, I knew that I could not do that for a while. The comparison would be a disservice to the next planned books, which I would normally believe to be excellent. What's a girl to do when a book generates this much feelings, emotions, and fullness of heart? For me, I have to go to a completely opposite place. So my holiday TBR is getting pushed out a bit. Maybe I will be ready to read them by February.
This was 217th read this year. It is also one of my top 10 reads off the year. In fact, I think I might make this one an annual holiday reread. Five stars are not nearly enough for this book. If you read only one holiday romance, read this book. You won't regret it.
#penpal #oppositesattract #friendstolovers #holiday
November 11, 2026
Dear Christmas by Sarah Ready is a sweet, cozy holiday romance that explores how two people can develop a meaningful connection over time, even when life keeps them physically apart. This is my fourth book by Ready, and I continue to enjoy her writing style and the way she creates stories that are both charming and emotionally engaging.
One of the aspects I particularly enjoyed was the way the relationship develops through letters exchanged over many years. There is something lovely about watching two people gradually get to know one another through their words, sharing thoughts, experiences, and pieces of their lives as time passes. Their connection grows in a way that feels nostalgic and romantic, offering a different kind of relationship development from the more immediate romances we often encounter in the genre.
That said, some elements of the story were a little clichéd and, at times, rather unrealistic. Certain developments required me to suspend my disbelief, and the story occasionally leaned heavily into familiar romantic tropes. However, I didn’t find this particularly detrimental to my overall enjoyment. Sometimes a holiday romance is meant to offer a little escapism rather than a completely realistic portrayal of relationships, and this book certainly delivers on that front.
What I appreciated most was the sweetness of the central relationship and the sense of warmth that carries the story. The letters provide a charming foundation for the romance, allowing the characters’ connection to evolve over the years and giving the story a gentle, almost nostalgic quality.
Overall, Dear Christmas is a cozy, feel-good holiday romance with plenty of sweetness and a lovely premise. Although some of the plot developments were predictable or stretched believability, I enjoyed the journey and the gradual development of the couple’s relationship. As my fourth book by Sarah Ready, it has certainly reinforced my enjoyment of her writing. Readers looking for a romantic Christmas escape with a touch of fantasy and plenty of heart will likely find this an enjoyable seasonal read.
November 23, 2023
I just finished Dear Christmas by Sarah Ready and thought it was the cutest and sweetest love story…I LOVED it!!
Dear Christmas is a love story told over 10 years through love letters that takes place in Romeo, NY. Cordelia “Corey” Hobday receives a Christmas card from Lee Weston, who were both 14 years old and she responds to him. Those letters started a friendship that grew with them and turned into such a beautiful love story.
One day while selling wooden ornaments at a Christmas market, Lee meets Mrs. Erma. She offers him some money, if he would send a Christmas card to Cordelia who had just gone through heart surgery to cheer her up, he agrees. He sends her a Christmas card and in the envelope is one of his wooden ornaments and she responds. They quickly form a bond and become friends. They agree to send each other card and to tell each other everything that’s been going on in their lives and things they’d never tell anyone else. They created rules for these letter exchanges: they will never meet, they will never call, and they will never email.
This book is unlike anything I’ve ever read before and I enjoyed every minute of it. I don’t typically read holiday books, but I received this as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. This book is so unique and it’s made my favorites list of 2023. If you read any books for the holidays make it this one and I promise that you will fall in love with it!
Dear Christmas is a love story told over 10 years through love letters that takes place in Romeo, NY. Cordelia “Corey” Hobday receives a Christmas card from Lee Weston, who were both 14 years old and she responds to him. Those letters started a friendship that grew with them and turned into such a beautiful love story.
One day while selling wooden ornaments at a Christmas market, Lee meets Mrs. Erma. She offers him some money, if he would send a Christmas card to Cordelia who had just gone through heart surgery to cheer her up, he agrees. He sends her a Christmas card and in the envelope is one of his wooden ornaments and she responds. They quickly form a bond and become friends. They agree to send each other card and to tell each other everything that’s been going on in their lives and things they’d never tell anyone else. They created rules for these letter exchanges: they will never meet, they will never call, and they will never email.
This book is unlike anything I’ve ever read before and I enjoyed every minute of it. I don’t typically read holiday books, but I received this as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. This book is so unique and it’s made my favorites list of 2023. If you read any books for the holidays make it this one and I promise that you will fall in love with it!
November 24, 2023
Lee and Cordelia start sending each other Christmas cards with a letter inside for ten years. It all started when they were fourteen years old, Lee was offered ten dollars if he sent the letter, and Cordelia was about to have a heart operation. It was uncertain she would make it. This exchange started their annual Christmas exchange and we get to read their letters as they form this strong bond of friendship, then love.
In a way, both were lonely, even while surrounded by people. Their connection gave them that companionship that Cordelia’s invasion of relatives during Christmas at her house, and Lee’s two friends in whose house he lived in Alaska, didn’t fulfill.
I felt all the longing and yearning for someone close as they share their life and their feelings. I was humbled by the level of caring they had for each other. My throat had a knot most of the time because I felt they were soulmates and yet, they were so far away from each other. It was a torturous road and I felt every tear, every disappointment. This story kept me glued to the pages and even a little desperate to learn what happens next. Only this author has the capacity to make me cry so much as I read a book, she really twisted my heart.
And through it all, there’s the hope and the positivity, as Lee and Cordelia face life and all of its attributes. They so much deserved to have a happily ever after! Beautiful story!
In a way, both were lonely, even while surrounded by people. Their connection gave them that companionship that Cordelia’s invasion of relatives during Christmas at her house, and Lee’s two friends in whose house he lived in Alaska, didn’t fulfill.
I felt all the longing and yearning for someone close as they share their life and their feelings. I was humbled by the level of caring they had for each other. My throat had a knot most of the time because I felt they were soulmates and yet, they were so far away from each other. It was a torturous road and I felt every tear, every disappointment. This story kept me glued to the pages and even a little desperate to learn what happens next. Only this author has the capacity to make me cry so much as I read a book, she really twisted my heart.
And through it all, there’s the hope and the positivity, as Lee and Cordelia face life and all of its attributes. They so much deserved to have a happily ever after! Beautiful story!
December 12, 2023
5/5, All The Stars!
I should have known Sarah Ready’s newest release would be my fifth and probably last infinity star rated book this year! Absolutely loved it! So emotional, heartwarming and heartbreaking. Beautifully written. Quick read as I read it in less than 2 days. I’ve been a bit disappointed lately that the books that I’ve read labeled as “Christmas reads” have very little Christmas in them. But this book definitely made up for it and definitely had all the wonderful Christmas vibes! Fell in love with the characters, the story, and just everything!
Dear Christmas is a Christmas romance book that is told in mainly letter format from two strangers Cordelia and Lee, who start writing letters to each other when they are just 14 years old. They have a quick bond and continue to write letters to each other over the next 10 years. They tell each other their deep secrets while bringing light and hope to each other. There are tragedies and missed opportunities along the way. As a warning, a couple of plot points occur with tropes that could be red flags to some readers, but I entirely enjoyed them.
Very much recommend this one.
I should have known Sarah Ready’s newest release would be my fifth and probably last infinity star rated book this year! Absolutely loved it! So emotional, heartwarming and heartbreaking. Beautifully written. Quick read as I read it in less than 2 days. I’ve been a bit disappointed lately that the books that I’ve read labeled as “Christmas reads” have very little Christmas in them. But this book definitely made up for it and definitely had all the wonderful Christmas vibes! Fell in love with the characters, the story, and just everything!
Dear Christmas is a Christmas romance book that is told in mainly letter format from two strangers Cordelia and Lee, who start writing letters to each other when they are just 14 years old. They have a quick bond and continue to write letters to each other over the next 10 years. They tell each other their deep secrets while bringing light and hope to each other. There are tragedies and missed opportunities along the way. As a warning, a couple of plot points occur with tropes that could be red flags to some readers, but I entirely enjoyed them.
Very much recommend this one.
November 21, 2023
This book is amazingly, heartwarming and one of my favorites from Sarah. She writes unique stories with fascinating characters that take you on amazing adventures.
This communication between the two main characters is through letters….I’ve never read a story like this before. It will grip your attention from the first word until the last.
Although they have never met Cornelia and Lee’s journey through their letters will give you all the feels and take you through many emotions. Since the story takes place over a 10 year period, we watch them grow, mature and persevere through many challenges. They are one another’s confidants, cheerleaders and sounding board.
I will say that the end of the book had me holding my breath…so amazing and beautiful. Sarah has a gift with her words and storytelling. This is a beautiful story that will get you in the Christmas Spirit and remember to always keep hope in your heart.
This communication between the two main characters is through letters….I’ve never read a story like this before. It will grip your attention from the first word until the last.
Although they have never met Cornelia and Lee’s journey through their letters will give you all the feels and take you through many emotions. Since the story takes place over a 10 year period, we watch them grow, mature and persevere through many challenges. They are one another’s confidants, cheerleaders and sounding board.
I will say that the end of the book had me holding my breath…so amazing and beautiful. Sarah has a gift with her words and storytelling. This is a beautiful story that will get you in the Christmas Spirit and remember to always keep hope in your heart.
November 21, 2023
Sarah Ready is quickly zooming up to the top of my favorite author list. Her last two have gotten to me emotionally on such a basic level. I find my heart trying to pull forward out of my chest with the yearning that I feel for things to turn out the way I want. I have a conversation with myself: “She wouldn’t really do that would she? It will turn out okay won’t it?” I really haven’t been invested in stories to this degree for a long time. Ready tugs on all of my emotions.
This story is told mostly in the form of letters and Christmas cards being exchanged between two strangers over several years. They don’t know each other or anything about each other before they start writing back and forth. They come from very different lives, but they both want the same things—acceptance and to be loved...truly loved.
If you only read one Christmas story this year, it should be this one.
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
This story is told mostly in the form of letters and Christmas cards being exchanged between two strangers over several years. They don’t know each other or anything about each other before they start writing back and forth. They come from very different lives, but they both want the same things—acceptance and to be loved...truly loved.
If you only read one Christmas story this year, it should be this one.
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
December 1, 2023
4.5 stars
When Cordelia receives a surprise Christmas card from a stranger—the funny, kind, and interesting Lee—she decides to write him back. But there are rules; they'll never meet, call, or email. They’ll save a year’s worth of wishes and secrets, hopes, and dreams, and share them every Christmas in one letter. The most important rule of all? They will never, ever, ever fall in love.
This book was heartbreaking and heartwarming in all the ways possible. I love stories that have letter aspects to it but this certainly was one of kind.
Mostly written in the form of letters, this follows Cordelia & Lee's journey from when they were teens to adults. The plot has got an interesting "You've Got Mail" vibes to it & a magical New York style romance is depicted.
There were so many emotional, surprising moments that blended well into the story. Go for this book with an open heart & not knowing much about it, and you'll have a time of your life.
When Cordelia receives a surprise Christmas card from a stranger—the funny, kind, and interesting Lee—she decides to write him back. But there are rules; they'll never meet, call, or email. They’ll save a year’s worth of wishes and secrets, hopes, and dreams, and share them every Christmas in one letter. The most important rule of all? They will never, ever, ever fall in love.
This book was heartbreaking and heartwarming in all the ways possible. I love stories that have letter aspects to it but this certainly was one of kind.
Mostly written in the form of letters, this follows Cordelia & Lee's journey from when they were teens to adults. The plot has got an interesting "You've Got Mail" vibes to it & a magical New York style romance is depicted.
There were so many emotional, surprising moments that blended well into the story. Go for this book with an open heart & not knowing much about it, and you'll have a time of your life.
November 22, 2023
😮💨😮💨😮💨
This book is so freaking gut wrenching, deep feeling, sweet and devastatingly romantic.
Sarah just know how to write those oh so beautiful stories full of lots and lots of feelings.
I truly loved this book so much I nearly cry about a hundred times, I felt so much for them and that bittersweet ending was everything.
I can't say no more than I highly recommend this book so so much.
---------------
😮💨😮💨😮💨
Este libro es tan desgarrador, tan profundo, dulce y devastadoramente romántico.
Sarah simplemente sabe cómo escribir esas historias tan hermosas llenas de muchísimos sentimientos.
Realmente amé tanto este libro que casi lloro unas cien veces, sentí mucho por ellos y ese final agridulce lo fue todo.
No puedo decir más que recomiendo muchísimo este libro.
This book is so freaking gut wrenching, deep feeling, sweet and devastatingly romantic.
Sarah just know how to write those oh so beautiful stories full of lots and lots of feelings.
I truly loved this book so much I nearly cry about a hundred times, I felt so much for them and that bittersweet ending was everything.
I can't say no more than I highly recommend this book so so much.
---------------
😮💨😮💨😮💨
Este libro es tan desgarrador, tan profundo, dulce y devastadoramente romántico.
Sarah simplemente sabe cómo escribir esas historias tan hermosas llenas de muchísimos sentimientos.
Realmente amé tanto este libro que casi lloro unas cien veces, sentí mucho por ellos y ese final agridulce lo fue todo.
No puedo decir más que recomiendo muchísimo este libro.
December 30, 2023
Dear Christmas, by Sarah Ready, tells the story of two teenagers who begin writing to each other at Christmas to tell each other all the truths they don’t feel that they can tell anyone else. The arrangement was that they would only write once per year and that they would never meet. They started writing when they were fifteen years old and they followed the rules until they didn’t. I could believe this book! I am being intentionally vague so that I don’t give away the story. The very beginning of the book is nothing but the letters that Cordelia and Lee exchanged, but the descriptive passages allow the reader (both the letter and book readers) to feel as if he/she was there. As the book continues, there are some passages where events are occurring on the page, but the majority of the storytelling came solely from the letters these two people exchanged. As a reader, I couldn’t help but root for this couple, who initially seem very mismatched. They shared a pretty intense connection for people who had never met and only corresponded annually. I wanted so badly for them to meet, and was disappointed at their near “misses.” But the events that prevented them from connecting made the final ending all the sweeter. This is a perfect Christmas story that fills the reader with warmth and happiness and reaffirms my love for this author’s work. I definitely recommend this book for readers of contemporary romance. It is a must read holiday story. I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reader an advanced complementary copy of this book.
November 25, 2023
A new-to-me author, Sarah Ready, moves readers through this captivating and unique story using the exchange of Christmas letters between two young strangers. Over the span of ten years, the letters become a lifeline between Cordelia and Lee. With a different vibe, this story brings the magic of Christmas alive throughout the pages. What a wonderful holiday book, so beautifully written! I think it will stand the test of time and remain a favorite holiday message for years to come.
I'm not going to share much more -- each reader needs to savor every word without any spoilers.
Just like the perfect Christmas gift, this one turned out to be a truly special and wonderful surprise! Make this a December to remember and read this amazing and heartfelt holiday treat!
December 7, 2023
Torturous and drawn out but crystalline in clarity
Writing to en-trance, but used to break hearts.
Hearts, broken, and then mended. Possibly the calling card of this author?
how does a Christmas book turn into a story both more dear than the Little Women romance but more painfully broken than The Cruel Prince?
What are you doing to us, Sarah Ready?
Ultimately, this story sings with scents sights and sounds.
It rings a Christmas bell so long and deep that I will be brooding over the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune this couple endured before their HEA.
Even though I loved it and hated it in equal measure, still, 5 undeniable stars 🌟 .
Because.
She wrote so well.
So, you were warned.
Writing to en-trance, but used to break hearts.
Hearts, broken, and then mended. Possibly the calling card of this author?
how does a Christmas book turn into a story both more dear than the Little Women romance but more painfully broken than The Cruel Prince?
What are you doing to us, Sarah Ready?
Ultimately, this story sings with scents sights and sounds.
It rings a Christmas bell so long and deep that I will be brooding over the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune this couple endured before their HEA.
Even though I loved it and hated it in equal measure, still, 5 undeniable stars 🌟 .
Because.
She wrote so well.
So, you were warned.
November 21, 2023
When I received this book for review, I had three other books going. I have been behind on my reading this year due to starting a new job. I decided to wait until I had finished my hardback and my audiobook before reading. I opened the book last night and didn't put it down until I was finished. It was so good. I fell in love with Cordelia and Lee. Their timing was never good. I knew that eventually, they would find their way to one another, but their battles were hard fought. It put me in the mood to read more Christmas books.
December 5, 2023
Cordelia and Lee become once a year penpals- every Christmas- when they are in their early teens. Over the next ten years, they become friends and the friendship becomes deeper and more real. Sarah Ready makes you feel for this couple and all that they go through. Mostly told in their letters and briefly, in prose, this is a really wonderful novel that makes you see the wonders of Christmas and love.
December 23, 2023
Wow, I kind of feel like I have been chewed up and spat out! This book was simply amazing, all the feels, all the emotions and a simply beautiful story. I think this story has topped my list for the best Christmas read ever. A total newbie to Sarah Ready's books but after this.... Well I will be working my way through the back list. Truly beautiful story and thank you Krista for making me read it!
December 24, 2023
I could not put this book down it was so wonderful. Breathtaking, beautifully written & overly emotional. Cordelia & Lee are meant to be together & it is a long road for them to be together. Almost the entire book is written in letter format with mini chapters dispersed throughout the story. I think all I really want to do here highly, highly recommend reading this book. If I write more in this review I feel like I will give all of the story away. I was swept so deeply into this story that I needed time to digest before opening another. Sarah Ready writes so beautifully & her stories are so creative. Again, I highly recommend picking up this book and giving it a read.
November 20, 2023
I received this as an arc from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was such a wonderful Christmas romance. It was a really well written story. I loved the letters back and forth, it created a different feeling in the story and I was all for it. Cordelia and Lee shared a unique bond both in writing and as Chris and Corey. I was completely blown away by the story.
This was such a wonderful Christmas romance. It was a really well written story. I loved the letters back and forth, it created a different feeling in the story and I was all for it. Cordelia and Lee shared a unique bond both in writing and as Chris and Corey. I was completely blown away by the story.
November 24, 2023
What a beautifully romantic love story and I'm so glad I gave this one a chance. I had my doubts about a relationship unfolding largely through letters but Sarah Ready's writing was exquisite and sentimental, and my heart ached and broke for these two during their ten-year journey together. Absolutely stunning and I loved all of it.
November 25, 2023
Merry Christmas equals Love
This story…..it made me happy and it made me sad, but above all, it made me feel. In this day and age, Christmas has become so “all about the gifts” that this story was a wonderful reminder that Christmas is the season of love and family, and my heart grew just a bit bigger.
This story…..it made me happy and it made me sad, but above all, it made me feel. In this day and age, Christmas has become so “all about the gifts” that this story was a wonderful reminder that Christmas is the season of love and family, and my heart grew just a bit bigger.
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