Winter Wonderland: A festive romance novella

by Luci Beach

Alice doesn’t date—everyone in Star Bay knows that. She and her eight-year-old daughter have been hurt by small-town gossip before, and Alice is determined it will never happen again.

Then Noel moves to town and starts working with her at the local primary school. And, okay, Alice finds him objectively gorgeous, as well as a huge help with the Winter Wonderland fundraiser she’s organising. But any growing attraction between them has to be kept under wraps.

Nobody can know Alice’s secrets. And she certainly can’t let herself fall for Noel...

This is the third festive novella set in the fictional English seaside town of Star Bay.

107 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2023

About the author

Luci Beach is the author of romantic novels and novellas. When she isn't writing, reading or spending time with her family, she works as a travel copywriter, a UK/US English linguist and an editor of extremely cute picture books.

Reviews

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love both characters, but Noel exceeded my expectations in his attentiveness to all the aspects of a romantic relationship, patient, kind and considerate. Alice is a bit more hesitate...wonder why 🙂. I don't think I've read any books by this author and now know I've been missing out, this is Book 3 but it's definitely a stand-alone, love that I didn't feel like I'd missed some key aspects of the series. This story flows very well and is engaging and entertaining as this couple works out the kinks of their instant attraction along side their uncertainty of being in a serious relationship, they have common ground and some festive magic. Can't wait to read more from this author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bernadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and quick read with relatable characters!

The characters were well developed with background stories that were interesting and rang true to life.
Alice, a single mom, in a small community, determined not to be the object of talk or speculation. Noel, a handsome, available man with a history of short romances. Odds are not in their favor of making a go of it, but it might be interesting to try.

I have not read any of the previous novellas and that did not take away my enjoyment or understanding. This series would be fun if it was published as one book. I recommend it as an escape from the real world!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mel Mars · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did enjoy reading about Alice and her family. Her background professional activities were also interesting. I have to admit, I usually don't always like stories with kids as I always struggle to find them and the way they talk in books unrealistic (it can be even worse in films or tv shows). I was glad that wasn't the case here.

Overall, I really enjoyed it, and will have a look at the other books in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again this novella was the perfect read to start the new year. I’ve loved all my visits to Star Bay but I think this one was my favourite. It was great to check in with everyone again and also meet the new guy Noah. Swoon!

Alice went on a journey and it was an absolute pleasure to be brought along on it.

I am so thrilled that more Star Bay books are coming and I for one can’t wait to read them.

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those dry English novellas that it might take a bit longer for you to warm up to. You’ll hit an ‘a-ha’ moment, then the storyline will make sense and the characters will really start to gel. The HEA is truly amazing and you’ll be glad you stuck it out! Give it a read—you’ll be glad you did. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was so happy I stuck with it to the end!) ❤️

[KirstyK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter Wonderland does take place mostly in Autumn which I though was a tiny bit strange considering the title. Nevertheless it was a very cute romance. A quick read, perfect for a rainy afternoon (or even better a snowy one). The characters were likeable for the most part but Alice, the main character, was a bit annoying at times. I enjoyed the setting in Star Bay, a charming small town.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Suze82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

for your own
Living in a small town has it´s perks but gossip is one of the worst things to be a target of, but is it a reason to live your life according to other´s rules? I was happy for Alice when she met Noel and with his help found the strength to stand up for herself and her daughter.

[R0adTr1pJunk1e · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Cozy: the 3rd instalment on the Star Bay series, and it fills in all the gaps. Super cute fall story line that ends in a winter wonderland. Noel’s patience with single mom Alice is so heartwarming.

[Louise Bookmac82 Mackin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice heartwarming easy Christmas read that left me feeling very festive.
I love all of Luci Beach's books.

[Tamara Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun 🤩 and romantic Christmas quick read, loved it!