Tis the Season for Secrets

Village of Yule #2

by Kate Callaghan

Gifted an old family chest, aspiring editor Juliet Frost stumbles upon closely guarded family secrets… and her tranquil holiday season transforms into a whimsical circus of revelations. For starters, how is she supposed to process the fact that she is the outcome of a forbidden love affair – let alone that she has connections to some kind of magical Christmas village called Yule? To complicate matters, the mysterious Will Duncan, whom she never thought she’d see again after a night of passion, reappears with the answers she seeks about her past. It swiftly becomes clear that he has plenty of secrets of his own. Is their chance meeting fate, or the result of a carefully laid plot? Juliet will have to battle her heart and her head to discover who she is… and where she truly belongs.

Tropes & Themes
One Night Stand
Winter Wonderland
Family Secrets
Forced Proximity
Holiday Romance

'Tis The Season of Secrets is the second book in the interconnected series, Village of Yule. While Juliet and Will's story can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, it is recommended to read The Naughty Or Nice Clause first to avoid spoilers. Readers! Please this is an adult low fantasy romance with mature content and not suitable for those under 18. Guaranteed HEA.

Genres: Christmas, Holiday, Romance, Fantasy, Romantasy, Adult, Fiction

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2024

About the author

Kate Callaghan is an Irish author who writes adult fantasy, romantic suspense, and feel-good Christmas romance. She’s the creator of the Hellish Fairytale series, blending dark magic and intrigue, as well as festive romcoms like The Naughty or Nice Clause. Whether she’s spinning tales of dangerous love or cozy holiday magic, you’ll find her in a Dublin café with an iced coffee, plotting her next twist.

Mailing List https://forms.gle/mBcib2vHhBaf5XRe9
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katecallagh...
Tiktok 🍄 tiktok.com/@katecallaghanwriter

Reviews

[Anna (annareadit) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My rating: (4.5) ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Spice level: (2) 🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
- one night stand
- winter wonderland
- family secrets
- found family
- forced proximity
- forbidden love
- holiday romance
- bodyguard & editor
- dual POV

I really enjoyed the book; it’s the kind of Christmas story I was hoping for when I opened it. The story is infused with holiday spirit, mysteries, and a touch of magic. I haven’t read the previous book, but I assure you, I will fix that. This is a unique story that I haven’t encountered in other books before.

This story is about Juliet Frost, who one day discovers that her family history is shrouded in secrets, and the key to those secrets is the charming Will Duncan. The book is a blend of the story of "Romeo and Juliet" and Christmas story from Netflix at their finest. This is exactly the kind of story you want to read on Christmas Eve.

I recommend this for everyone who loves movies in the spirit of "The Princess Switch," "The Knight Before Christmas," and "The Grinch."

Thank you to NetGalley and Kate Callaghan for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Bozena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started the Christmas season this year with a book by Kate Callaghan.
I love her last Christmas story, The Naughty or Nice Clause.

This is the second book from the
magical Christmas village called Yule and once again a wonderful story.

It is a wonderful rollercoaster of exciting emotions and dramatic events.
I love this beautiful, heartwarming and exciting story.
It is certainly Kate's best book yet.
Yes, I wrote the same thing about the last book, but that doesn't matter, I love her books.

This is a special kind of Christmas story that gives you all the answers to the questions of the Klaus family and the North Pole if they weren't answered in the first book in the series.

For anyone who has read the first book of Yule: This book is even more action-packed, much naughtier 😜 and hotter 🔥 than the first one.
I have to say, I haven't read such well-written erotic scenes in a long time. Damn... 🥵😉 I need more...🫶🏻

I love the story and I love how the characters interact with each other.
Our heroine is a lonely girl, but she makes the most of her life.
She is a girl who doesn't mess around.

I love her relationship with her best friend.
The girls are smart enough to know when to fight and when to give in.
I love that she can still stand her ground despite the cruel relationship with her family.

This book has it all.
I laughed, cried and was happy for the couples.
Yes, I found more than one couple that I am a fan of 😂

This romantic, gripping and action-packed book is my recommendation for all romance lovers.

✨What can you expect:✨
😉One Night Stand
❄️Winter Wonderland
🔑Family Secrets
❤️Forced Proximity
🎄Holiday Romance
🔔Bodyguard X Editor

[Mira · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded to 4⭐
One day, shortly before Christmas, the heroine receives a chest from her late grandmother. She discovers that her mother lives in a magical Christmas village and is waiting for her there. Along the way, she meets Will, who falls in love with her and helps her uncover the secrets of her family’s past.
This book is so atmospheric! The magical village was described so well – mountains, snow, reindeer, sledding. The characters even take part in a snowman-building contest. I would like to live there myself!❄
Reading this felt like stepping into an adult fairy tale, and I honestly think this story would make a wonderful Christmas movie.
I liked the characters, their relationships and jokes, although I sometimes wished the plot would move a bit faster. It was funny how Juliet kept running away from Will, and he kept searching for her🤭 I felt sorry for Juliet when reading about her childhood, and I’d love to know more about her relationship with her father in the future. Maybe we’ll get more on that in the next book. I hope it will be about Margo and Harvey.
Tis' the Season for Secrets is the second book in the Village of Yule series, but it can be read as a standalone.

Tropes:
✓ one night stand
✓ holiday romance
✓ Winter Wonderland
✓ family secrets
✓ forced proximity
✓ dual POV
✓ bodyguard x editor

Thank you to NetGalley and Kate Callaghan (IBPA) for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[between.inked.sheets · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐

This was such a charming little Christmas read! It's perfect for a cozy night and a nice cup of hot chocolate☕

Juliet and Will were adorable and the story had me hooked from the moment Juliet recieved her chest. There was mystery, laughter, family moments and tears! It's a sweet feel-good story.

The reason for 4 stars; As much as I loved Juliet and Will, their romance was insta-lovey and I felt like there was certain depth to their relationship missing. We didn't get to see much of their "normal" conversation/moments that would lead to falling in love. They were either having sex or there was something going on with the chest/banishment/Yule/Juliet's disappearing acts.

Nonetheless, I liked the book very much and will definitely be checking out Mason and Lyla's story. And I reaaally hope we get Margot and Harvey's story ☺️

Thank you to author Kate Callaghan and NetGalley for the arc of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Fiona Tewson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book after reading about the Yule Village from NetGalley. It helps to read The Naughty or Nice Clause as this sets the scene and introduces certain characters. It has more adult themes than the first, but is still a romance story at its heart.

Juliet Frost is trying to get promotion in the publishing firm she works for. To this end, she has been tasked with getting the manuscript from a new author, to be on her bosses desk at 8am Sunday morning. Her flat mate persuades her to attend a party, which is being hosted by the author. Here she bumps into Will and her whole life changes. She and Will spend the night together and she runs out on him first thing in the morning. This seems to be a recurring habit of Juliet's, even when she finds herself in Yule.

Kate Callagham has written another page turner, a great read to while away a cold evening, sat infront of a real fire, drinkng hot chocolate.

I enjoyed this book and will look out for more by the same author.

[Lina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a cutesy little romance with a touch of winter magic.

The main characters were enjoyable and had enough depth for them to be interesting. The romance did work for me although at times i felt it was a bit rushed, but that might also be due to the insta-love/ one night stand nature of the story. I will say i think they had good chemistry. As for the spice, this felt weirdly incorporated into the plot since at the beginning we get a very rushed scene and then almost the whole rest of the book it is more of a closed door romance. Which is fine, but it felt a little inconsistent to me.

I also liked that there were plenty of other side characters to get interested in besides the main couple. Friends, family, roommates,… it was a pretty nice cast of characters that popped up and were relevant throughout the plot. The writing was charming and made for a fast read.

As for the world building, since this has some very slight magical element with the enchanting town of Yule, i thought it was very easily understandable and fit nicely into the story. Towards the end the politics of Yule take over the plot a little bit but then the ending gets resolved rather quickly. I maybe would have liked some more closure regarding some plot lines that did hold genuine tension.

If you want a little romance set around the holidays that holds some charm and a sprinkle of magic, this is a good pick.

Thank you NetGalley for this eARC

[shereadswith_coffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

“‘Tis the Season for Secrets” was a cross between “It’s a Wonderful Life”, “The Santa Clause” and “Fifty First Dates”. That being said, you can relate to my 5 star rating! Who doesn’t need a little magic and “believing” during the holiday season?

Just when Juliet thinks her life is status quo, Will Duncan (a guardian of the Christmas Village called Yule) enters her life! Will’s job? To protect those on the “outside” from exposing Yule and all its existence. In the meantime he falls for Juliet and once she discovers the families legacy chest delivered to her about her secret past and connection to Yule the adventure unravels.

I loved the character connection and the magic of make believe. This was the perfect book for the Christmas season but honestly any time of year. What could be more magical than a secret Christmas village, a guardian, falling in love and getting the answers to questions you’ve dreamed about your entire life? A clever plot with such realism I couldn’t put it down.

This is the second book in a series but I read it as a stand alone and had no regrets! I want to go back and read lThe Naughty or Nice Clause” now.
Highly recommend this novel! It simply fulfilled my Christmas spirit and I can’t wait to visit “Yule” again soon!

Thanks to @katecallaghan and @netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Stefanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved being brought back to the village of Yule! Kate has an amazing way of writing that makes you feel like you've been transported into the book. The village of Yule is the perfect setting for a Christmas book and I was so happy to return for a second time.

I will say that I definitely preferred The Naughty or Nice Clause to this one. I was so excited to read this one but I felt like it didn't quite captivate me as much as the other books I've read by the author. I think for me the main characters lacked a bit of chemistry, I don't know, I just struggled to feel the connection between the two of them.

Regardless, I still had a good time reading it and I will forever recommend reading Kate Callaghan's books as I think she's a fantastic author!

A huge thank you to NetGalley and Kate Callaghan for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Come visit the city of Yule for a Christmas you’ll never forget.

My return to Yule for this interconnected standalone sequel was amazing. I loved that, unlike some sequels, it didn’t just repeat the first books storyline.

When I tell you that it is a full 180 flip from the cute slow burn that is the first book, I loved it. Feel like a Kate gave the people what they want, some more spice and more drama.

As always I won’t give away the plot too much. The whole concept that people from Yule has a guardian when they go to the outside world really drew me in and I LOVE the dynamic between Juliet and Will.

How Kate wrote the characters we know and love from the first book into this as background characters was so well done.

You definitely don’t need to read the first however before this one as the first could be read as a prequel if you want to know more about the characters.

I will say I wish we had more in the ending but then again as it’s duel POV how are they to know what goes on outside their bubble.

Thank you to Kate Callaghan and her newsletter for this copy, I have also reviewed on NetGalley.

This book comes out 24th November 2024 and is currently available on NetGalley and Kindle Unlimited

[Misty Phelan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this beautifully crafted novel, we follow the journey of 26-year-old Juliet Frost, a publishing professional whose life takes a turn when she receives a chest containing a letter from her deceased grandmother that reveals a deep family secret. This discovery, along with a chance encounter with Will Duncan, ignites Juliet’s quest to uncover the truth about her birth mother and her family's origins.

Filled with whimsy and romance, this story is a delightful holiday read. The plot is intricately woven, and the vivid world-building immerses you in the setting—making you feel the chill of Yule. The character development is exceptional, bringing the story to life in a way that Kate achieves flawlessly.

Having never read the author’s previous works, this book left me eager for more, a rarity in my reading experience. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys romance, fantasy, or simply a cozy, whimsical Christmas tale.

A special thank you to NetGalley and author Kate Callaghan (IBPA) for the advanced reader copy in exchange for honest feedback.

Rating: 4.6/5 rounded to 5.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a cute holiday read. It was an easy light read. It took me a few days to finish due to life, but I could have easily finished it in one day.

Juliet doesn't know what the villager of Yule exists until Will walks into her life. With the chest, letters, and help from Will, she finds out so much about herself.

I would have liked to hear more about the banishment. It was part of Juliet's family history, so I feel she deserved to know the whole story.

I also wanted to get more information about her father and the deadline. That information was given, and we are told that it was taken care of by Will. I would have liked for one last conversation with her dealing with her dad.

I wish an epilogue would have been added. I wanted to know what she decided to do. Did she stay or go back to her normal life? I guess I was looking for more closure.

I was given this ARC in exchange for my honest review from NetGalley and Kate Callaghan.

[zasou.reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Juliet finally got the promotion she was has been working so hard for, but Will and the Guardians of Yule have other plans for her...
This one night stand, forced proximity, Christmas, loe fantasy romance is book 2 in the Village of Yule series. I have absolutely loved other books by this author, and although this one was not bad at all, it didn't live up to my expectations. Now, don't get me wrong, this book is a really cute holiday romance, perfect to read by the fire/Christmas tree lights, enough to make me yearn December, but the pacing felt a touch off and I wanted more from the characters. Absolutely loved the found family aspect of it all.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[The Sewist's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐
0.5 🌶️
Tropes: Holiday romance, found family (ish), forbidden romance, one night stand, forced proximity, Christmas magic
Dual POV 1st person

Tis the Season for Secrets is the second book in the Village of Yule series. It’s technically a standalone, and the author includes info from the previous book at the beginning of this one to explain a little bit about how the town works. Personally though I think it would be helpful to read the first book before this one. I didn’t and while I was still able to follow the story, I think there was a lot of world building from the first book that would’ve been helpful to know for this one. It’s not a huge issue, though, and doesn’t take away from my enjoyment.
That said, I liked this a lot. It’s kinda like a cheesy Hallmark movie in book form, and this is the first time I’ve read a book like this. There’s a lot of heavy Christmas “lore” in the world building, so it was a unique and fun experience. There were several times that Juliet’s reaction to things were confusing and not logical (to the point that I found it frustrating) but this is essentially fantasy romance so I guess it’s par for the course.
However, I do wish Juliet had a bigger backbone, and while the story did get the point about shitty families, I think it took her too long to get there. I also wish there had been more from Will’s perspective. The majority of the story was from Juliet’s POV.

[Hannah Nowak · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do love this little town of Yule and the world created in this series. It is literally such a perfect Christmas setting. My problem with this one was the writing - I got really confused who was who at times (especially when Juliet's dad was sometimes "dad" but then in the next sentence Frost? I think maybe the grandpa was being referred to sometimes, but either way, I definitely got confused who they were talking about). And there was no resolution at the end with what happened to the Frost family? I loved the characters though and it was still a delightful read.

[Ally Doby (Schleicher) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two of this interconnected standalone series, told in third person POV and leaves you with a HEA. While this can be read as a standalone and enjoyed, I suggest reading book one first. There are a handful of characters, along with the characters from book one, that make multiple appearances. While it is written well enough that you won’t feel like you missed something without reading book one first, you will get a better appreciation and experience with this book after reading book one.

My heart went out to Juliet for the life she was dealt when it came to her parents, but I was happy that she did have people who genuinely cared for her. I loved that she was able to become close with Lyla, Mason and the rest of the Klaus family and villagers. I was also happy to see her be able to work on her relationship with her mother. I liked Will and the chemistry between them. I do wish we would’ve gotten more background on him and some more interactions with his family though. I also would’ve liked to find out what happened/if anything happened between Julie, her mother, her father and his threats. I also would’ve liked to find out if Julie was able to stay in touch with her sister.

Regardless of those few things, I enjoyed this book and I’m curious to see if there will be more with this series. I would definitely like to read more about Mason’s little brother. I received an advanced readers copy. These thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Trina 🌻 · Rating 3 out of 5]

A holiday romance set in a magical Christmas village called Yule. Juliet and Will had an instant attraction and great chemistry. I enjoyed the found family aspect also. A cozy and cute read.

I received a copy from NetGalley for my honest opinion.

[Taisha Casimir · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you to the author kate callaghan (@katecallaghanwriter) for providing me with an arc for an honest review

i really enjoyed entering the magical world of Yule. Learning about this quaint winter wonderland was fascinating and really added to the cozy, festive atmosphere of the book.

Although fall just started, reading helped put me in the christmas spirit. I am all ready to start decorating, and listen to holiday music. Like seriously where's my hot chocolate? 😋Kate Callaghan did an fascinate job woving the spirit within the story. It makes for a perfect read to help readers get in the holiday spirit.🎄

One element of the book I really enjoyed was the adorable chemistry between Juliet and Will. Their connection was so heartwarming—it’s the kind of relationship that will have you kicking your legs and giggling. 🥰🥹

This book will also pull at your heartstrings, especially with the found family trope. Juliet’s strained relationship with her father really hit home for me. It was heartbreaking to see how she was treated by his family, and I found myself wanting to tell her it wasn’t her fault.

Tis the Season for Secrets is my first book by Kate Callaghan, and I can confidently say it won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to checking out more of her work! 🥰

4 stars


𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
one night stand
forced proximity
forbidden love
found family
holiday romance

𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 4


𝗽𝘂𝗯 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: november 24, 2024

[germie_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can someone take me to Yule already?

As a lover of Christmas—the most wonderful time of the year—I can’t help but get excited when a story captures the holiday spirit so well. Coming from the Philippines, where the Christmas season starts in September and lasts until the Feast of the Three Kings, this season has always been extra special to me.

Reading “‘Tis the Season for Secrets” felt like another trip back to the festive magic of Yule, this time through the eyes of Juliet and Will.

Juliet’s world turns upside down when she discovers the truth about her family after receiving a chest from her grandmother. Banished from Yule for generations, she had no idea about her heritage until now. As if that wasn’t enough to handle, her life becomes even more complicated when she meets Will, a guardian from Yule, and they find themselves prematurely returning to the magical town. The tension escalates as Juliet uncovers the mystery behind her family's banishment while trying to protect Will, the man she’s falling for, from the same fate.

I loved how “‘Tis the Season for Secrets” perfectly followed “The Naughty or Nice Clause”. Both stories strike the right balance between romance, tension, and witty banter, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. Will Duncan is another great addition to my list of favorite book boyfriends—steady, protective, and completely swoon-worthy. Juliet, with her longing for belonging and a place to call home, brings such warmth to the story.

Catching up with the characters from the first book, like Mason, Lyla, Kevin, and Mrs. Klaus, was a delight. Plus, Juliet’s best friend, Margot, and her potential romance with Will’s friend, Harvey, promises a future storyline that could be just as enchanting. And let's face it—Mason’s friends certainly seem to know how to land themselves on the naughty list!

Kate Callaghan has once again woven a heartwarming tale about love, family, and finding one’s true home. I’m beyond grateful to have had early access to this gem, and I can't wait for more happily-ever-afters from her.

“‘Tis the Season for Secrets” is a must-read for anyone who loves holiday romances, magical towns, family secrets, and classic tropes like One Night Stand and Forced Proximity. Highly recommended!

[Linsy Gusey · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

Another sweet holiday romance from Kate Callaghan! I feel so lucky I stumbled across one of her books a couple of years ago. They are so well written, and there's constant movement in the storyline. After reading the Naughty or Nice Clause, I knew this one would be great. There may even be a few scenes where those characters are seen, but the books can be read independently.

Will and Juliet have an instant connection, but I wouldn't call it instant love. Will seems like a stereotypical young businessman when Juliet first meets him, but the more they see each other, she finds he's a complex person with a history she never could've fathomed. Will is supposed to just be doing a favor for someone, but he can't help but feel an overwhelming need to be with Juliet as soon as he takes this on. They're brought together in an odd way, and this makes their bond stronger quicker as they trust in each other.

[Luna Gerrits · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ooh this second book in the series (which i had to read immediately after the first one of course) is soo good! The first one was fun, but this one definitely hits all the right spots. The characters are good and likeable, the plot is so good, i love the added friendship aspect and some characters from book 1 returning. They also had some real chemistry, which was really nice.

Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to get to visit Yule again. This time it was even better! This was a fantastic sequel that far surpassed the first book. I enjoyed the first book, but I loved this one. I'm so glad that Kate Callaghan was willing to take us back to the fantastic world she built with another heartwarming story. I sure hope there is a third book in the works and that we are able to spend even more time in the village of Yule.
The love story and hopeful found family made this book so much more. I loved getting to know more of the backstory of the Village and more founding characters. After reading this, I really want my own bell so that I can visit any time I want. There are some books that you can't help but blaze through and others that you linger in for as long as possible because you know once you read that last sentence you will no longer be in the magical world that was surrounding you. This book was one I savored to the last drop. This is a wonderful addition to your Christmas TBR. Spice 2/5

Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up. I preferred this to its predecessor The Naughty or Nice Clause, possibly because the world was already established and this develops it further - I do recommend reading the first in the series before this one though, to get the most out of it. Juliet is the scapegoat of her wealthy family and struggling to land a promotion at work, when she receives a posthumous gift from her grandmother that turns everything she thinks she knows on its head. From there the plot zips along, only slightly unevenly - the highlight is the instant chemistry between Juliet and Will, and it’s nice to see characters from the previous book making an appearance. It did feel like everything with Juliet’s family wasn’t completely resolved, but still the book builds to a very satisfying and festive conclusion.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Sorina · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Everyone worth having comes with its challenges, but I’d give up everything I have just to spend my days with you.”

This is the second book in the interconnected series, Village of Yule and it is the story of Juliet and Will.
I have to admit that I liked this one more than The Naughty or Nice Clause, which should be read first to avoid spoilers.

What you can expect:
One Night Stand
Winter Wonderland
Family Secrets
Forced Proximity
Holiday Romance
Bodyguard and Editor
Dual POV
Forbidden relationship
Found family

I feel like this book had a fast pace, was emotional and spicy.

Will fell in love instantly and did all he could to protect Juliet and show her she is important. Even if there is some drama, they manage to develop their relationship nicely.

The ending made me very happy.

Thank you Netgalley and the author for the e-book in exchange for an honest review.

I hope there will be another book in the series.

[Trinity · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars

In this New Adult holiday fantasy, ’Tis the Season for Secrets,
Kate Callaghan weaves a tale that’s more than just festive—it’s an enchanting journey from New York to the magical, snow-clad world of Yule, a hidden North Pole town full of secrets, romance, and holiday cheer.

🎄The Setup: Juliet Frost has worked tirelessly as an assistant at Harley and Rowe Publishing for five years, holding out hope for a long-deserved promotion to editor. She’s isolated within her family, gossiped about and shunned for being the illegitimate Frost. Everything changes when she receives a mysterious chest from her Nana, containing a golden bell charm—a key to her family’s hidden past.

🎅🏼The Romance: Enter Will Duncan, a British guardian from Yule and CEO of Duncan Recruiting, whose job is to help former Yule citizens blend into the outside world. Will knows Juliet’s past better than she does, but it’s his sense of duty—and instant attraction—that brings him to her aid. Their relationship kicks off with a not-so-sweet meet-cute, tangled by secrets and a web of family expectations. As Juliet delves into her parents’ past with Will’s help, she’s torn between family loyalty and her undeniable attraction to the man sent to protect her. Their chemistry burns through the forced proximity trope and blends beautifully with forbidden romance, making every interaction feel thrilling and charged with tension.

🎁The World-Building: Callaghan’s depiction of Yule as a hidden, small magical town brimming with intrigue is richly layered. The story takes us through the charming yet dangerous streets of Yule, where secrets run deep, family drama abounds, and Juliet discovers a found family that could finally give her the acceptance she’s been missing.

❗️Content Warnings: The book does address themes of sexual harassment, toxic family dynamics, and parental abandonment, all handled sensitively through Callaghan’s third-person, dual POV narration, offering a balanced view into Juliet’s and Will’s worlds and their battles.

If you’re looking for a holiday romance that’s packed with heartfelt moments, fantasy, and a dash of suspense, ’Tis the Season for Secrets will keep you enchanted until the very last page. Curl up with a cozy blanket and let Juliet and Will’s magical journey to Yule sweep you away. 🎄✨

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

‘Tis the Season for Secrets is the second book in the Village of Yule series. I enjoyed the fact that this book focused on a new couple, Juliet and Will, but still brought in Lyla and Mason from the first book. Juliet is part of the affluent Frost family, but has a troubled relationship with her family. She is working to get a promotion at her publishing firm, but soon finds out there are secrets from her family’s past, that will change her life.

I felt like the pacing in this book worked much better than the pacing from the first book. It’s a bit longer, so the story didn’t feel rushed and we got to spend more time learning about the new characters, while seeing some favorite characters from the first book.

It was also fun to find out more history behind the town of Yule. I liked the addition of the Guardians, who are there to help the citizens of Yule adjust to living on the “Outside”. The banishment of the Frost family was a fun way to connect Juliet to Yule, and I felt bad for her, because she was affected by the actions of her parents and the decisions of the Council, when she was never directly involved in the possible exposure of Yule.

Juliet and Will made for a great couple. Will falls first, and Juliet finds that her one night stand turns out to be a lot more than she bargained for. I really liked that Callaghan gave us some good background information on Will, so his character has a great backstory, too.

I did wish that we could have seen Juliet in her new job, at the end of the story. So much of the first part of the book focuses on her job and promotion, so it would have been nice to come full circle, and see her enjoying her new position in the YA department.

‘Tis the Season for Secrets is a cute, cozy holiday read and I would definitely recommend it if you love magical realism, family secrets, dual POV, forced proximity and small town holiday romance.

Thank you to CallaghanWriter (IBPA) and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy of ‘Tis the Season for Secrets, in return for my honest review.

[Amanda McGee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I begin, I would like to thank Kate Callaghan for allowing me to read her upcoming book, Tis the Season, which is part of her Village of Yule series and will be available on Amazon on October 24th, 2024.

Given an old family chest, Juliet Frost encounters deeply hidden family secrets, including that she was the result of a forbidden affair and has connections to a magical village called Yule. She also didn’t think she would see Will Duncan after they spent a night together, who also has a lot of answers to her questions and his own secrets. How much of her discovery of her heritage and encounters with him are orchestrated versus real? Can Juliet use her newfound knowledge to determine what she wants and who she wants to be?

This book was very charming. You have Juliet, a beautiful, kind, hardworking young woman that hopes to be an editor where she currently works and is devoted to her chosen family. You have Will Duncan, a kind, intelligent, protective, handsome young man that wants what he believes is best for his home and Juliet. I liked learning more about the history of Yule and Juliet’s family as I progressed deeper into the story, and the chemistry between Will and Juliet was well written. I loved how sweet and protective Will and Juliet were to each other. It was interesting to see the toll that a few people’s decisions made that not only affected how they interacted with others, but also their children and societies as well. It was great seeing familiar faces from Callaghan’s first book in this series, The Naughty or Nice Clause. Overall, if you like great chosen family dynamics, Christmas, village and/or family secrets, complex characters, and forbidden bodyguard x editor sweet romance with quite a bit of spice, then I would highly recommend this book. Here’s the link for more information: Amazon.com: Tis The Season For Secrets: Village of Yule #2 (Interconnected Christmas Series) eBook : Callaghan, Kate: Kindle Store

[Caylee Guy · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5/5 stars

eARC provided by NetGalley

I had a lot of high hopes for this book. The description made me think that this book was going to be more developed then the first one! It was also going to go more into the part of the first book that I liked which was the world building. Unfortunately this story did not really explain anything more about Yule. I was left with a lot of questions after finishing this book. I feel like the reasoning for a lot of things was just "that is how it is". Which I did not like at all. The romance was better developed and made more sense in this book then it did in the first one. It was very insta-obsessed/lust. Which is fine and their development was good. My biggest issues was the story felt pretty repetitive with "I can not do that again" and then she would do it again. The pacing was also very off in this story. The beginning was really fast having to do with her trying to get a promotion. Then all the sudden we left that behind and brough it up one more time at the end. When it was such a big thing at the beginning. Seeing the characters from the first book some how was my favorite part. They were much better developed in this book. Something that also very much annoyed me in this book was for most of it they kept saying to the MFC "I can not tell you. You have to figure it out on your own/from the chest." Why, like that made no sense to me cause if we would have actually told her what was going on and why they were doing things the way they were we could have avoid so much of the unnecessary slow parts in the story. A lot of things just felt out of place and the amount of times she would go out on her own without a coat in the goddamn north pole drove me crazy. This one I would recommend to someone who wants a quick Christmas read but does not care about world building or getting answer. If you are just here for the romance this one was better so if that's what you are looking for this is a quick Christmas read.

[Sixella MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews #86: “Tis the Season for Secrets” by Kate Callaghan

Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.

All her life, Juliet Frost believed that her mother abandoned her and the rest of the Frost family when she was just a baby. Everything she thought she knew is flipped upside down, however, when a mysterious gift transports her to a magical small town hidden in a winter wonderland. Here, she discovers that her one-night stand, Will Duncan, is connected to the town and knows the true secrets of her past. Can she trust this man to pull off the Christmas miracle of reuniting her with her mother? And can she also afford to trust him with her heart when everything feels like it’s at stake?

From the author of “Ms. Perfectly Fine” and “Potions and Proposals”, Kate Callaghan’s second installment in the “Village of Yule” series delivers both holiday spice and winter wonderland hijinks! The world-building, societal structure of the town of Yule, and its lore are immersive, offering readers an ingenious, reimagined take on Santa’s Workshop and the North Pole! Callaghan also provides powerful commentary on learning from the mistakes and sacrifices of generational trauma in order to forge a path that builds your own destiny and creates meaningful connections and memories. Juliet and Will’s chemistry drives the narrative home, as Juliet seeks to understand the past mistakes and divisions within her family in order to form a peaceful settlement between the rival families and shape her own future. Meanwhile, Will serves as the loving emotional support she needs to heal from her family trauma. Ready to be swept back into the magical world of Yule? Don’t miss this book when it hits online and in-store shelves on October 24, 2024!

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 3.9/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Tropes to Expect: Holiday Romance Narrative, Forbidden Romance, North Pole Narrative, Rival Families, Family Secrets, Self-Discovery, Self Healing, Pining, He Falls First, Insta-Love/Insta Lust, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Fake Dating, Found Family, and Christmas Magic Hijinx.
Trigger Warnings: Major Family Conflict, Discussions of Separation Anxiety, Generational Divide, Generational Trauma, and Relationship Existentialism/Anxiety.

[Brandi Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Juliet Frost, aspiring editor, was gifted a family chest and accidentally stumbled upon some of her family's most closely kept secrets, turning her holidays upside down. At the same time, she happens upon Will, a previous one night stand and he re-enters her life with answers to questions that she desperately seeks. Is Will re-entering her life by chance or a carefully laid plot? Juliet will have to trust her heart in this fun holiday romance to discover where she truly belongs!

I truly enjoyed this super fun spicy holiday romance! I loved the town of Yule in the North Pole, it almost felt like entering into a snow-globe village that was picture perfect. This book started out spicy and with a bang. The novel was told in a dual POV from both Juliet and Will's perspectives, which I liked. I also found that this book was more than just a romance and also focused on friendship and found family. This book was cute and charming and I always love a good holiday romance. I would definitely recommend this book if you're a romance lover looking for a sweet and spicy magical holiday romance!

This book will be released November 24th 2024!

Thank you to Callaghanwriter publishing and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Evelyn (S'more Books Please) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author/publisher for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Juliet Frost has never felt like she belonged, and this Christmas, she will discover why. Her one-night stand, Will, seems to know too much about her and continues to find opportunities to run into her. Is it really just a coincidence that the two met the same night a messenger delivered a mysterious chest from Juliet's deceased grandmother? When Juliet accidentally teleports herself and Will to Yule, a secret Christmas village in the North Pole, everything comes to a head. What has Will been hiding and why? As Juliet discovers much more of her family history than she ever thought possible, she also learns one night with Will won't be enough.

This was a cozy Christmas romance with the right amount of fantasy and spice to make it a really fun read! I enjoyed learning about the world of Yule and following the mystery of Juliet's heritage. I always enjoy a fresh take on the Santa/Christmas magic storyline and the author certainly delivered. I wish I could visit Yule in real life because it sounds fantastic. Juliet and Will's romance starts off steamy and doesn't slow down. I loved these two together. This is a great book to add to your Christmas reads this season.