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The Secret Bookshop #1
The Secret Christmas Bookshop
In a beautiful seaside village, where enormous blue skies and golden sand dunes stretch into forever, somebody is opening an unexpected gift…
When an anonymous parcel turns up at the shop where Sophie works, she’s surprised to find a beautifully bound classic novel, one that eerily seems to chime with her own story.
Enigmatic Harry lives in a crumbling manor house, spending solitary days patching up leaks in the roof. The subject of unwelcome gossip in the village since his return from London, he prefers to keep to himself.
As Christmas draws near and the gifting season arrives, Sophie attempts to get to the bottom of her mysterious parcel. Finding herself being drawn into Harry’s orbit, they are both about to learn that good stories can take on a life of their own …
When an anonymous parcel turns up at the shop where Sophie works, she’s surprised to find a beautifully bound classic novel, one that eerily seems to chime with her own story.
Enigmatic Harry lives in a crumbling manor house, spending solitary days patching up leaks in the roof. The subject of unwelcome gossip in the village since his return from London, he prefers to keep to himself.
As Christmas draws near and the gifting season arrives, Sophie attempts to get to the bottom of her mysterious parcel. Finding herself being drawn into Harry’s orbit, they are both about to learn that good stories can take on a life of their own …
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2024
431 people are currently reading
1815 people want to read
About the author
Cressida McLaughlin
61 books691 followersI grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
December 10, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up because it's Christmas
Unsure how to rate this book, because I was enjoying it - until the obligatory third act breakup showed its ugly mug.
I mean... This is easily one of the worst breakup reasons I've ever come across in terms of contrived and "Because the author said so!" on a scale that was beyond me. It was almost up there with the absolute worst reason for a breakup I've come across, so far.
(It's this one, if you're curious.)
In this particular book, I was having a pretty pleasant time. I found it a bit bothersome that the author had picked an oak to be the center of the male main character's worries, because... Sure. 400 years is old, even for an oak, but ... It's still an oak. One of the sturdiest trees on the planet! Any other tree and I wouldn't have minded so much. An elm? Fine. Whatever. But a bloody oak...? *sigh*
It was an obvious made-up issue of the character's own invention that was holding him back (because the author said so). A plot device.
I was actually waiting for the oak to fall over due to the storm, but ... Nah. The oak was never really mentioned again once the Ridiculous Breakup™ kicked off at the 85% mark.
Which is also where I started kicking off.
(My comments as the stupid drama unfolded will stand as evidence.) I was immensely frustrated by such obvious self-sabotage - because if you pick up a book from this genre, you know it's going to work out. It always does! That infernal speed-bump where the couple has to find some (hopefully at least remotely credible) reason to break up for 5 minuets can drive me to insanity.
And, yes, this book almost did just that: Drove me insane.
I don't want a side-dish of stupidity and frustration with my cosy, Christmas themed romances! What is this shit!? Please put a trigger warning on this kind of content, to save me from spending time on it! 🤣🤣🤣💀💀💀
Honestly! It only makes me angry - and it diminished my entire opinion of the book as a whole.
I was so into it - even the goat with the sweaters, no matter how absurd - but then Sophie throws an emotional hissy fit and becomes mortally wounded because Harry "lied" (technically, he withheld information, which he of course had very human reasons for doing) about having a crafting hobby and not telling her about something she never downright asked him about either.
I just ... can't with this level of "You need therapy!" in my cosy books. No. Just no. GTFO.
All side-characters chip in after the fact and try to tell Sophie why she's a bloody moron. Does she realise she is? Nah.
Eventually she changes her mind though. Of course she does. And Harry takes her back - just like that! Because he's such a nice guy he even lets his goat run around indoors. I mean ... Gimme a barfbag and a shot of insulin before I go into a diabetic coma and drown in my own vomit!
I was more provoked by the last 15% of the books than I liked the first 85%. That is ... so not good.
I don't want to give this book 2 stars. Most of it was better than that! But that twist made me soooo angry! 😩
#Not how I want to get into the Christmas spirit, dammit! 😝😝😝
Unsure how to rate this book, because I was enjoying it - until the obligatory third act breakup showed its ugly mug.
I mean... This is easily one of the worst breakup reasons I've ever come across in terms of contrived and "Because the author said so!" on a scale that was beyond me. It was almost up there with the absolute worst reason for a breakup I've come across, so far.
(It's this one, if you're curious.)
In this particular book, I was having a pretty pleasant time. I found it a bit bothersome that the author had picked an oak to be the center of the male main character's worries, because... Sure. 400 years is old, even for an oak, but ... It's still an oak. One of the sturdiest trees on the planet! Any other tree and I wouldn't have minded so much. An elm? Fine. Whatever. But a bloody oak...? *sigh*
It was an obvious made-up issue of the character's own invention that was holding him back (because the author said so). A plot device.
I was actually waiting for the oak to fall over due to the storm, but ... Nah. The oak was never really mentioned again once the Ridiculous Breakup™ kicked off at the 85% mark.
Which is also where I started kicking off.
(My comments as the stupid drama unfolded will stand as evidence.) I was immensely frustrated by such obvious self-sabotage - because if you pick up a book from this genre, you know it's going to work out. It always does! That infernal speed-bump where the couple has to find some (hopefully at least remotely credible) reason to break up for 5 minuets can drive me to insanity.
And, yes, this book almost did just that: Drove me insane.
I don't want a side-dish of stupidity and frustration with my cosy, Christmas themed romances! What is this shit!? Please put a trigger warning on this kind of content, to save me from spending time on it! 🤣🤣🤣💀💀💀
Honestly! It only makes me angry - and it diminished my entire opinion of the book as a whole.
I was so into it - even the goat with the sweaters, no matter how absurd - but then Sophie throws an emotional hissy fit and becomes mortally wounded because Harry "lied" (technically, he withheld information, which he of course had very human reasons for doing) about having a crafting hobby and not telling her about something she never downright asked him about either.
I just ... can't with this level of "You need therapy!" in my cosy books. No. Just no. GTFO.
All side-characters chip in after the fact and try to tell Sophie why she's a bloody moron. Does she realise she is? Nah.
Eventually she changes her mind though. Of course she does. And Harry takes her back - just like that! Because he's such a nice guy he even lets his goat run around indoors. I mean ... Gimme a barfbag and a shot of insulin before I go into a diabetic coma and drown in my own vomit!
I was more provoked by the last 15% of the books than I liked the first 85%. That is ... so not good.
I don't want to give this book 2 stars. Most of it was better than that! But that twist made me soooo angry! 😩
#Not how I want to get into the Christmas spirit, dammit! 😝😝😝
October 27, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Secret Christmas Bookshop, by Cressida McLaughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed other books, by Cressida, and this was a good one too. Sophie finds a beautiful book, and wonders who left it for her. Sophie is in a new place for the Christmas holiday, everyone is so welcoming and cheerful. This seems like such a great town. I really enjoyed reading about Sophie and Harry.
January 5, 2025
Books and Christmas are some of my favourite things so I was really looking forward to reading The Secret Christmas Bookshop and it certainly doesn't disappoint.
Sweet, charming, sprinkled with humour and dusted with Christmas magic, it's a beautiful story of finding yourself, finding where you belong and allowing yourself to be brave and to live the life to the fullest.
I loved it and hope that there'll be more books in The Secret Bookshop series soon.
Sweet, charming, sprinkled with humour and dusted with Christmas magic, it's a beautiful story of finding yourself, finding where you belong and allowing yourself to be brave and to live the life to the fullest.
I loved it and hope that there'll be more books in The Secret Bookshop series soon.
November 17, 2024
I enjoyed books from Cressida’s Cornish Cream Tea series so it was inevitable that I would jump at the chance to read another of hers that contains a bookshop during the Christmas period! This is a light and enjoyable read with a little romance and mystery set in a quaint English village.
‘I’m seizing the moment,’ Harry said. ‘Not waiting for things to be perfect, but making the most of right now. Someone taught me that recently.’
There is a wonderful cast of characters from this small village that come together to prepare for Christmas. It is fun, however, Cressida delves a little deeper into themes of finding a home and the importance of family and community. I love how the gifted copy of Jane Eyre that Sophie mysteriously receives and reads, reflects both Jane and Sophie’s story with the latter drawing inspiration from this classic.
‘I’m going to take chances and be braver. I’m going to live, rather than exist.’
So make yourself a nice cuppa and settle in for all the festive community feels! This is a tale about finding out where you belong in a beautiful village by the sea.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘I’m seizing the moment,’ Harry said. ‘Not waiting for things to be perfect, but making the most of right now. Someone taught me that recently.’
There is a wonderful cast of characters from this small village that come together to prepare for Christmas. It is fun, however, Cressida delves a little deeper into themes of finding a home and the importance of family and community. I love how the gifted copy of Jane Eyre that Sophie mysteriously receives and reads, reflects both Jane and Sophie’s story with the latter drawing inspiration from this classic.
‘I’m going to take chances and be braver. I’m going to live, rather than exist.’
So make yourself a nice cuppa and settle in for all the festive community feels! This is a tale about finding out where you belong in a beautiful village by the sea.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
September 29, 2024
Another lovely read from Cressida. This one centered around a small village where people helped each other and came together to get ready for Christmas. I throughly enjoyed this latest one and look forward to the next one. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
December 28, 2025
3.5 stars
This would’ve been a 4 star read if not for the super unnecessary third act breakup
This would’ve been a 4 star read if not for the super unnecessary third act breakup
September 26, 2024
This was a lovely wintery read set in the run up to Christmas in Mistingham which will leave you wanting to get wrapped up warm, cuddled in front of a fire with a blanket, a book and a plate of seaside fish and chips!
I was really looking forward to this book and it didn’t disappoint, Sophie is such a lovely character that you can’t help but warm to her and want to see her find happiness - even if I did set my eyes on Dexter first… (here’s hoping for a sequel with Dexter and Lucy as the main characters…) But Harry has just that right level of broody, grumpy and reclusiveness that makes you want to know more about the guy behind the rumours.
I really liked seeing Sophie and Harry getting to know each other as it felt like they discovered more about themselves as well. We unwrapped more layers with every chapter and I just wanted to keep on reading to see if anything would develop…
This was a lovely book that has made me excited for some crisp winter walks, cheese toasties, Christmas lights and all the festive feelings that Christmas brings - it may only be September but I feel like I’m well and truly ready to embrace the season!!!
I was really looking forward to this book and it didn’t disappoint, Sophie is such a lovely character that you can’t help but warm to her and want to see her find happiness - even if I did set my eyes on Dexter first… (here’s hoping for a sequel with Dexter and Lucy as the main characters…) But Harry has just that right level of broody, grumpy and reclusiveness that makes you want to know more about the guy behind the rumours.
I really liked seeing Sophie and Harry getting to know each other as it felt like they discovered more about themselves as well. We unwrapped more layers with every chapter and I just wanted to keep on reading to see if anything would develop…
This was a lovely book that has made me excited for some crisp winter walks, cheese toasties, Christmas lights and all the festive feelings that Christmas brings - it may only be September but I feel like I’m well and truly ready to embrace the season!!!
December 8, 2025
A fantastic festive offering from McLaughlin that definitely got me in the mood for my own Christmas! There was so much on offer in this book and I cannot wait for the next one in the series. I really hope the writer intends on returning to Mistingham village time and time again.
At first I thought McLaughlin would take readers away from the Norfolk coast when we meet protagonist Sophie, who is planning to up sticks and move down to Cornwall in the New Year. After all, considering so many of this writer’s books take place there, I was expecting a bit of a repeat. (Note, I don’t tend to read the blurbs of books from writers I love, in order to keep the plot that extra more surprising and special.) So, when Sophie doesn’t move a muscle and the story firmly takes root in Mistingham, I knew I was in for something special.
After receiving an early Christmas present in the form of her favourite novel, Jane Eyre, Sophie is determined to find out who in Mistingham is behind this anonymous gift that seems to know so much about Sophie and her intentions. This sees Sophie volunteering to help organise the annual Christmas festival, with the aim of learning more about the people in her local community and discovering the person behind this secret Christmas bookshop. Except, when she is landed working with the grumpy and reclusive Harry, she finds that her quest is put on the back burner. Particularly when Sophie starts to realise that she enjoys working with the moody Harry and often encounters his delightful pet goat.
Felix was a brilliant addition to the novel. I loved him! For a goat, he certainly has plenty of adventures and the love that Harry has for this goat was, well, swoon-worthy. The more we get to know Harry, the more likeable he is and I could understand why Sophie felt conflicted about whether she was truly going to leave Norfolk in the New Year. Felix’s escapades adds a certain charm to the story which layers on top of the charm of Mistingham, where the grape vine runs faster than the broadband line. Despite being a close community, Sophie sees this as a negative part of staying put and I enjoyed seeing the writer develop her character. She is just as vulnerable as Harry and even Jazz, but it takes a lot of Sophie’s strength to overcome her deep-rooted feelings.
A festive romance that yes, falls apart near the end and that had me howling in dismay. I loved the repeated references to Jane Eyre throughout the novel, making this story seem equally timeless. McLaughlin has created a novel that features so many warming elements that I felt bereft and in the cold when it was finished. Highly recommended to get your tinsel tingling.
With thanks to Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
At first I thought McLaughlin would take readers away from the Norfolk coast when we meet protagonist Sophie, who is planning to up sticks and move down to Cornwall in the New Year. After all, considering so many of this writer’s books take place there, I was expecting a bit of a repeat. (Note, I don’t tend to read the blurbs of books from writers I love, in order to keep the plot that extra more surprising and special.) So, when Sophie doesn’t move a muscle and the story firmly takes root in Mistingham, I knew I was in for something special.
After receiving an early Christmas present in the form of her favourite novel, Jane Eyre, Sophie is determined to find out who in Mistingham is behind this anonymous gift that seems to know so much about Sophie and her intentions. This sees Sophie volunteering to help organise the annual Christmas festival, with the aim of learning more about the people in her local community and discovering the person behind this secret Christmas bookshop. Except, when she is landed working with the grumpy and reclusive Harry, she finds that her quest is put on the back burner. Particularly when Sophie starts to realise that she enjoys working with the moody Harry and often encounters his delightful pet goat.
Felix was a brilliant addition to the novel. I loved him! For a goat, he certainly has plenty of adventures and the love that Harry has for this goat was, well, swoon-worthy. The more we get to know Harry, the more likeable he is and I could understand why Sophie felt conflicted about whether she was truly going to leave Norfolk in the New Year. Felix’s escapades adds a certain charm to the story which layers on top of the charm of Mistingham, where the grape vine runs faster than the broadband line. Despite being a close community, Sophie sees this as a negative part of staying put and I enjoyed seeing the writer develop her character. She is just as vulnerable as Harry and even Jazz, but it takes a lot of Sophie’s strength to overcome her deep-rooted feelings.
A festive romance that yes, falls apart near the end and that had me howling in dismay. I loved the repeated references to Jane Eyre throughout the novel, making this story seem equally timeless. McLaughlin has created a novel that features so many warming elements that I felt bereft and in the cold when it was finished. Highly recommended to get your tinsel tingling.
With thanks to Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2025
You know those books that make you feel so lucky to have read them? This is exactly one of those. It’s a cozy, heartwarming romance set in a small town during Christmas, and it’s everything I didn’t know I needed.
The town vibes are immaculate—festive, tight-knit, and so full of life. Everyone knows everyone, and it just makes you wish you could pack up and move there. The story? Absolute perfection. A grumpy MC meets a shy one, both dealing with their own insecurities, and yet, somehow, they just click. It’s the kind of romance that feels like fate stepping in and saying, “This is where you belong.”
And OMG, can we talk about Felix (the goat!) and the dogs? They totally stole the show. There’s zero spice, but the vibes? 100%. This book made me feel so happy for the characters but also kinda lonely because WHY am I not living in that town too?
If you’re into cozy, Christmassy, small-town romances with all the feels, you need this book in your life.
The town vibes are immaculate—festive, tight-knit, and so full of life. Everyone knows everyone, and it just makes you wish you could pack up and move there. The story? Absolute perfection. A grumpy MC meets a shy one, both dealing with their own insecurities, and yet, somehow, they just click. It’s the kind of romance that feels like fate stepping in and saying, “This is where you belong.”
And OMG, can we talk about Felix (the goat!) and the dogs? They totally stole the show. There’s zero spice, but the vibes? 100%. This book made me feel so happy for the characters but also kinda lonely because WHY am I not living in that town too?
If you’re into cozy, Christmassy, small-town romances with all the feels, you need this book in your life.
December 27, 2024
Absolutely loved this. The setting, the brooding hero, the story behind the bookshop as well as the subplots. The festival. Could picture Mistingham oh so clearly. Now to get the rest of Cressida’s back catalogue!
November 21, 2025
Browsing in the charity shop there was a display of Christmas themed romance books. Having never read a romance book in my entire life, I chose this one at random purely as it mentioned a bookshop! Obviously I am in no position to judge how this stands in relation to other books in the genre, but to be honest, I just found it increasingly frustrating as it seemed incredibly drawn out and with a bit of box ticking when it came to diversity/ the issue of homelessness/ foster care etc. That being said I did quite like the MMC pre-soppy infatuation with the FMC, and Felix the goat totally carried the book for me. He's a legend.
November 28, 2024
I honestly loved this book from the first page
For me it is the epitome of the perfect Christmas read, and I didn't want to put it down.
Likeable characters, a good storyline and a pet goat 🐐 - nothing not to like.
Would highly recommend.
For me it is the epitome of the perfect Christmas read, and I didn't want to put it down.
Likeable characters, a good storyline and a pet goat 🐐 - nothing not to like.
Would highly recommend.
October 25, 2024
4.5 stars
This is a perfect Christmas romance read filled with the love of all things books and reading.
The community described by Cress McLaughlin sounded wonderful- the closeness of the characters, the descriptions of the traditions followed year on year and the support provided to Sophie as she tried to make it her home made this such an entertaining read.
The idea of a mystery book received as a gift ticked all the boxes for me - I love a personally picked book as a gift and to receive one so beautifully presented would have been just wonderful.
Sophie’s notebooks sounded magical - I’ve a bit of an obsession with all things stationery and may have a little ( *I mean a large) collection of notebooks myself !
This is a perfect Christmas romance read filled with the love of all things books and reading.
The community described by Cress McLaughlin sounded wonderful- the closeness of the characters, the descriptions of the traditions followed year on year and the support provided to Sophie as she tried to make it her home made this such an entertaining read.
The idea of a mystery book received as a gift ticked all the boxes for me - I love a personally picked book as a gift and to receive one so beautifully presented would have been just wonderful.
Sophie’s notebooks sounded magical - I’ve a bit of an obsession with all things stationery and may have a little ( *I mean a large) collection of notebooks myself !
December 16, 2024
It's coming up to Christmas in a cute small town and Sophie is thinking it's about time she upped and left before she gets any more attached to the locals when she receives a beautifully bound book from The Secret BookShop, which changes everything.
Sophie grew up in foster care and doesn't like to stay anywhere too long or get too close to anyone, but im a bid to find out where the book came from she is thrown together with grumpy Harry to organise a local festival.
This was a lovely story of found family, community and festive wishes. Loved Harry as the grumpy MC especially as he had a cute pet goat.
The romance was slightly spicier than this authors usual writing, but I'm certainly not against that!
Sophie grew up in foster care and doesn't like to stay anywhere too long or get too close to anyone, but im a bid to find out where the book came from she is thrown together with grumpy Harry to organise a local festival.
This was a lovely story of found family, community and festive wishes. Loved Harry as the grumpy MC especially as he had a cute pet goat.
The romance was slightly spicier than this authors usual writing, but I'm certainly not against that!
December 29, 2025
I read this book in a single, happy, lazy day, curled up on the sofa with a cuppa and the Christmas lights twinkling around me.
Good seasonal escapism. Totally predictable. Beautiful cosy setting. Great inclusion of cute pets for comedic value.
Good seasonal escapism. Totally predictable. Beautiful cosy setting. Great inclusion of cute pets for comedic value.
November 26, 2024
Cressida McLaughlin does it again, with another feel good Christmas novel filled with friendship, humour and mystery. I just loved the different characters and relationships in this book from Sophie and Fiona's friendship to Jazz's storyline to the mischievous goat, Felix. The storyline ultimately revolves around Sophie and Harry and their blossoming relationship. When the mysterious Harry and newbie in town, Sophie are unexpectedly volunteered to organise the village Christmas festival they both learn thing about each other and themselves that make them rethink the path they are on.
This was such a lovely, warm Christmas story which has really got me in the Christmas spirit. I loved the strand following Sophies investigation into who sent the mysterious package of a special edition Jane Eyre and how it correlated to her nomadic tendency.
The characters are very well written and I thoroughly enjoyed following the characters through their journeys. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christmas contemporary romance.
I received a free copy of The Secret Christmas Bookshop, by Cressida McLaughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a lovely, warm Christmas story which has really got me in the Christmas spirit. I loved the strand following Sophies investigation into who sent the mysterious package of a special edition Jane Eyre and how it correlated to her nomadic tendency.
The characters are very well written and I thoroughly enjoyed following the characters through their journeys. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Christmas contemporary romance.
I received a free copy of The Secret Christmas Bookshop, by Cressida McLaughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2024
The addition of a hilarious goat pushes it up to 4 stars 🐐
October 8, 2024
I loved this author's Cornish Cream Tea series, and this one looked just as delightful. We head to the beautiful seaside village of Mistingham on the Norfolk coast where we meet Sophie. Sophie is a fairly relative newcomer to the village, but is a likeable character who has had a difficult background. She has been welcomed into the community and sells her notebooks which she makes herself. When she receives a mystery present of an old bound book, she sets out to track down who sent it. We also get to meet Harry, the local "Lord of the Manor", who has returned to the village to renovate his late father's manor house. Harry, whilst initially is brooding, grumpy and unfriendly, is a character who grows on you as the storyline moves on.
The story of arranging the village Christmas fete was lovely and I enjoyed all the organising and arranging, especially as Sophie and Harry were tasked to do this all together. It's obvious both of the main characters have flaws and have experienced things in their lives which affect them to this day, but they still work together well as characters and it was fun watching their interaction together and with all the other villagers! The storyline moved along well, and it was wonderfully festive as it moved nearer into the Christmas season. I loved the location and could imagine myself amongst them all!
Whilst, it didn't grab me as quickly as some of her other books have, it pulled me into the storyline slowly, building up the relationships between both the characters and the reader. By the middle of Sophie and Harry's story I was won over and I enjoyed it right through to the end. The storyline had lovely themes of friendships, community and of course, Christmas! The star of the book though had to be Felix the jumper wearing goat who I could easily have taken home! This is a perfect story for this time of year!
The story of arranging the village Christmas fete was lovely and I enjoyed all the organising and arranging, especially as Sophie and Harry were tasked to do this all together. It's obvious both of the main characters have flaws and have experienced things in their lives which affect them to this day, but they still work together well as characters and it was fun watching their interaction together and with all the other villagers! The storyline moved along well, and it was wonderfully festive as it moved nearer into the Christmas season. I loved the location and could imagine myself amongst them all!
Whilst, it didn't grab me as quickly as some of her other books have, it pulled me into the storyline slowly, building up the relationships between both the characters and the reader. By the middle of Sophie and Harry's story I was won over and I enjoyed it right through to the end. The storyline had lovely themes of friendships, community and of course, Christmas! The star of the book though had to be Felix the jumper wearing goat who I could easily have taken home! This is a perfect story for this time of year!
December 6, 2025
I was really enjoying this cozy Christmasy book until the breakup at the end which felt so contrived as did the solving of it. It was almost like the author wasn’t sure how to create a problem (which I was convinced it will be the oak breaking in the storm). Still, 3 stars because Christmas. And Felix. Darkness and Terror. Please don’t take your dogs around fireworks. Could’ve done without the fireworks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2024
A perfect Christmas romance! My first Cressida McLaughlin read and I will certainly be picking up more
October 14, 2025
This Christmas romance novel started off really well, and I was fully invested in the story—especially with the promise of a "secret" hinted at in the title. I thought it was going to get intense, and that kept me turning the pages. The animals were an adorable touch, and they definitely added to the charm and coziness of the setting. The location, the title, the characters and storyline would be a winner for me!
However, I really struggled with the main character’s reason for breaking up with the man she clearly loves. It just didn’t make sense to me, and honestly, it felt petty. I couldn’t wrap my head around it, and it left me feeling frustrated. If she can walk away so easily over something like that, maybe he is better off without her. And the mystery of the "secret bookshop" was even more disappointing!
However, I really struggled with the main character’s reason for breaking up with the man she clearly loves. It just didn’t make sense to me, and honestly, it felt petty. I couldn’t wrap my head around it, and it left me feeling frustrated. If she can walk away so easily over something like that, maybe he is better off without her. And the mystery of the "secret bookshop" was even more disappointing!
December 4, 2024
This was super cute and just the right thing I was looking for after a couple of Romantasy books that didn’t live up to the hype for me.
It gave all the cute Christmassy feels without being to over the top and I loved the two main characters.
It gave all the cute Christmassy feels without being to over the top and I loved the two main characters.
December 13, 2025
The Secret Christmas Bookshop by Cressida McLaughlin
This is a cute, cosy Christmas romance, but with a bit more depth than I expected, which I appreciated. Alongside the festive setting and predictable romance, the book makes room for more difficult topics, especially around belonging, loss, and the fear of putting down roots.
The main character has grown up in foster care and carries that experience with her into adulthood. She moves from place to place, usually staying for a year before leaving again, always afraid that forming real attachments will only end in pain. I liked this aspect of her character a lot. It gives emotional weight to her choices and explains why commitment feels so threatening to her, even when she wants it. This part of the story felt thoughtful and grounded, and it added real texture to what could otherwise have been a very standard holiday romance.
There is also a secondary storyline involving a homeless character who is constantly on the move. I liked that the book tried to include this topic and acknowledged that helping someone with a past like that is not simple. At the same time, this was the weaker part for me, as things ultimately felt a bit too easy and neatly resolved. The intention was good, and it did add depth, but the execution did not always fully convince me.
The romance itself is very predictable, but that is exactly what you expect from a Christmas romance and not something I would criticise here. You want to feel safe knowing things will work out in the end. What worked less well for me were the conflicts based on small misunderstandings or mistakes that were blown far out of proportion, only to be solved very quickly afterwards. The emotional weight felt uneven there.
The setting is a strong point. The Christmas events, lights, food, and the close knit village atmosphere all work well. Everyone is involved in everyone else’s lives, but in a warm, supportive way rather than an annoying one. It really feels like a community where people look out for each other. A particular highlight for me was the focus on bookbinding and making notebooks, which added a lovely, tactile detail and made the bookshop setting feel more meaningful.
Overall, this is a comforting Christmas read that goes a little deeper than expected, mixing festive romance with themes of home, healing, and learning to stay. A good choice for quiet winter evenings when you want warmth, community, and a story that believes in second chances.
This is a cute, cosy Christmas romance, but with a bit more depth than I expected, which I appreciated. Alongside the festive setting and predictable romance, the book makes room for more difficult topics, especially around belonging, loss, and the fear of putting down roots.
The main character has grown up in foster care and carries that experience with her into adulthood. She moves from place to place, usually staying for a year before leaving again, always afraid that forming real attachments will only end in pain. I liked this aspect of her character a lot. It gives emotional weight to her choices and explains why commitment feels so threatening to her, even when she wants it. This part of the story felt thoughtful and grounded, and it added real texture to what could otherwise have been a very standard holiday romance.
There is also a secondary storyline involving a homeless character who is constantly on the move. I liked that the book tried to include this topic and acknowledged that helping someone with a past like that is not simple. At the same time, this was the weaker part for me, as things ultimately felt a bit too easy and neatly resolved. The intention was good, and it did add depth, but the execution did not always fully convince me.
The romance itself is very predictable, but that is exactly what you expect from a Christmas romance and not something I would criticise here. You want to feel safe knowing things will work out in the end. What worked less well for me were the conflicts based on small misunderstandings or mistakes that were blown far out of proportion, only to be solved very quickly afterwards. The emotional weight felt uneven there.
The setting is a strong point. The Christmas events, lights, food, and the close knit village atmosphere all work well. Everyone is involved in everyone else’s lives, but in a warm, supportive way rather than an annoying one. It really feels like a community where people look out for each other. A particular highlight for me was the focus on bookbinding and making notebooks, which added a lovely, tactile detail and made the bookshop setting feel more meaningful.
Overall, this is a comforting Christmas read that goes a little deeper than expected, mixing festive romance with themes of home, healing, and learning to stay. A good choice for quiet winter evenings when you want warmth, community, and a story that believes in second chances.
December 30, 2024
“The Secret Christmas Bookshop” by @cressmclaughlin
“Be the change you wish to see in the world” - famous quote by Gandhi
Having said so I picked this book among the lists of other #christmas books I had picked up for this year-mine being a year filled with pain/lost love/unwanted/sickness/heartache/loneliness & so on.
Christmas books filled with decorations/snowflakes/carnivals/cosy comfy setting background has always been my favourite kind of books. I always look forward to Christmas season but one with #actualsnow & a love partner to share the season with. This year too had been a let down with me being all alone during this wonderful time of the year 🎄with no ❄️ & a broken heart 💔 yet again.
So hence I picked up this beautiful book with a lovely cover which gave me well the vibes of being in a fictional world of #snow with interesting characters- not the usual kind of love romance story which you would normally find in other romantic books well this one was completely different.
With Christmas 🎄/ carnivals/ winter delicacies / snowflakes/ bookshops / a secret hidden bookshop set around small town village with a magnificent manor where the male lead grumpy character wrong judged by the village public resides & a simple woman with her love for books/creativity/ handmade products & her helpful nature who brings out the best in everyone actually because of her ability to feel emotions & be empathetic towards all these loving bubbly characters revolving around in this beautiful village setting environment with other friendly diverse characters working in small bakeries/bookshops/little tiny stalls & a sense of humanity towards each other.
Best part of the book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend if you are a hopeless romantic loner in their mid thirties looking for a snowy small town Christmas read ��
#christmasdecor #christmastime #christmas #winter #wintercabin #wintercarnival #bookstagram #booksta #winterbooks #readerlife #readers #instagram #loneliness #lonewomen #loners #alone #heartbroken #heartache #unwanted #nopartner #single #onlyreadingalone #yearendingalone #yearendingsingle #santaclaus🎅 #nopresentsforchristmas #noboyfriend #tear
“Be the change you wish to see in the world” - famous quote by Gandhi
Having said so I picked this book among the lists of other #christmas books I had picked up for this year-mine being a year filled with pain/lost love/unwanted/sickness/heartache/loneliness & so on.
Christmas books filled with decorations/snowflakes/carnivals/cosy comfy setting background has always been my favourite kind of books. I always look forward to Christmas season but one with #actualsnow & a love partner to share the season with. This year too had been a let down with me being all alone during this wonderful time of the year 🎄with no ❄️ & a broken heart 💔 yet again.
So hence I picked up this beautiful book with a lovely cover which gave me well the vibes of being in a fictional world of #snow with interesting characters- not the usual kind of love romance story which you would normally find in other romantic books well this one was completely different.
With Christmas 🎄/ carnivals/ winter delicacies / snowflakes/ bookshops / a secret hidden bookshop set around small town village with a magnificent manor where the male lead grumpy character wrong judged by the village public resides & a simple woman with her love for books/creativity/ handmade products & her helpful nature who brings out the best in everyone actually because of her ability to feel emotions & be empathetic towards all these loving bubbly characters revolving around in this beautiful village setting environment with other friendly diverse characters working in small bakeries/bookshops/little tiny stalls & a sense of humanity towards each other.
Best part of the book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend if you are a hopeless romantic loner in their mid thirties looking for a snowy small town Christmas read ��
#christmasdecor #christmastime #christmas #winter #wintercabin #wintercarnival #bookstagram #booksta #winterbooks #readerlife #readers #instagram #loneliness #lonewomen #loners #alone #heartbroken #heartache #unwanted #nopartner #single #onlyreadingalone #yearendingalone #yearendingsingle #santaclaus🎅 #nopresentsforchristmas #noboyfriend #tear
December 26, 2024
I picked this one up because it was cheap and had some reviews with people saying that the romance wasn't the best part of the story, and that the focus on the community was the real strength. I do think that the author has done a really good job of capturing the sense of a small community that is a bit run-down, but still very close-knit - including the downside of how judgemental people can be when they think they know the ins and outs of everyone else's business.
Felix the goat is a delight, and I loved Clifton the dog enough that it was disappointing that the author seemed to treat him as an afterthought once the romance heated up.
I liked a lot of things about the lead character, Sophie, but her fixation on what happened to end one short-term relationship seemed a bit odd for someone in their late 30s to be honest; I think that her character would have made more sense if she had been in her late 20s instead.
I don't really have a lot of thoughts about the love interest, Harry, as Sophie gets to know him only quite briefly over a couple of months... but then seems to flip flop about major life decisions over their blossoming relationship. He seems like a nice enough fellow in a stereotypical way... and I won't criticise him for being a bit too good to be true (this is a romance book after all) whilst also being clueless and self-sabotaging.
Ultimately this one just dragged on a bit too long, and got a tad ridiculous. I was disappointed that Sophie's decisions hinged on her relationship with a man she really still barely knew, rather than every other aspect of the life she obviously wanted to choose for herself.
That being said, I really fell in love with Mistingham and the supporting cast... clearly there will be a subsequent book with another romance, and I will probably pick that one up.
Felix the goat is a delight, and I loved Clifton the dog enough that it was disappointing that the author seemed to treat him as an afterthought once the romance heated up.
I liked a lot of things about the lead character, Sophie, but her fixation on what happened to end one short-term relationship seemed a bit odd for someone in their late 30s to be honest; I think that her character would have made more sense if she had been in her late 20s instead.
I don't really have a lot of thoughts about the love interest, Harry, as Sophie gets to know him only quite briefly over a couple of months... but then seems to flip flop about major life decisions over their blossoming relationship. He seems like a nice enough fellow in a stereotypical way... and I won't criticise him for being a bit too good to be true (this is a romance book after all) whilst also being clueless and self-sabotaging.
Ultimately this one just dragged on a bit too long, and got a tad ridiculous. I was disappointed that Sophie's decisions hinged on her relationship with a man she really still barely knew, rather than every other aspect of the life she obviously wanted to choose for herself.
That being said, I really fell in love with Mistingham and the supporting cast... clearly there will be a subsequent book with another romance, and I will probably pick that one up.
November 28, 2024
Thank you for the ARC, Netgalley!
The main charachter, Sophie, has been hurt in many ways in life, before finding her place in Mistingham.
As the end of the year nears, she volunteers to work on the big christmas festival, as a way to discover who secretly gifted her a beautiful copy of Jane Eyre. In doing so, she finds more than she could have possibly hoped for, which makes her doubt if her plan to move on to the next place by the end of the year actually is what she wants.
This book has everything you'd look for in a christmas romance, it is set in a quaint village, that is filled with quirky characters!
It is super cute, and makes you feel all the feelings you'd want to feel.
Above all, it is filled with the warmth and love you want to feel in the winter period!
The main charachter, Sophie, has been hurt in many ways in life, before finding her place in Mistingham.
As the end of the year nears, she volunteers to work on the big christmas festival, as a way to discover who secretly gifted her a beautiful copy of Jane Eyre. In doing so, she finds more than she could have possibly hoped for, which makes her doubt if her plan to move on to the next place by the end of the year actually is what she wants.
This book has everything you'd look for in a christmas romance, it is set in a quaint village, that is filled with quirky characters!
It is super cute, and makes you feel all the feelings you'd want to feel.
Above all, it is filled with the warmth and love you want to feel in the winter period!
December 17, 2025
I enjoyed this lovely Christmas romance. I love a small-town situation, especially at the seaside and it was in England to top it off. I was also very happy that the main characters were older, Sophie was 37 and I think Harry was 42. Very refreshing from people barely out of their teens or early 20's. The relationships between all the town characters are wonderful, how they look out for each other. I also love a good handsome recluse trope. LOL. My only issue was the obligatory 3rd act break up. I found Sophie’s reasoning so trivial and dumb, it made no sense to me, but apparently there must be a breakup and make up.
Favorite character….. Felix the goat!!
Favorite character….. Felix the goat!!
December 29, 2024
Christmas Cheer, Found Friendships, and Felix the Goat 🎄🐐
If you’re dreaming of a cosy escape this winter, The Secret Bookshop by Cressida McLaughlin is the perfect companion. Set in the charming seaside village of Mistingham, nestled in wintry Norfolk, this story whisked me away to a world of frosty mornings ❄️☃️, crashing waves 🌊, and a tight-knit community filled with warmth, love, and just a touch of eccentricity. (There’s even a mischievous goat, because why not? 🐐)
This was my first book by Cressida McLaughlin, and it definitely won’t be my last. Her writing is so vivid that I could almost feel the chill of the sea air 🌬️ and hear the waves rolling in. It’s a story full of festive spirit 🎅✨, with themes of trust, belonging, and finding your place in the world woven beautifully throughout. The friendships and found family moments were especially heartwarming – the kind that leave a little glow in your chest long after you’ve closed the book. ❤️
Oh, and the mystery! Let’s just say it kept me guessing in the best way possible. 🕵️♀️
Mistingham is the kind of place you’ll want to revisit – and I’m already planning my trip back next Christmas. 🎁🎄 So, if you’re after a heartwarming winter read that feels like a hug in book form, this one deserves a spot on your shelf (preferably near the mince pies 🥧 and a lovely of tea ☕).
If you’re dreaming of a cosy escape this winter, The Secret Bookshop by Cressida McLaughlin is the perfect companion. Set in the charming seaside village of Mistingham, nestled in wintry Norfolk, this story whisked me away to a world of frosty mornings ❄️☃️, crashing waves 🌊, and a tight-knit community filled with warmth, love, and just a touch of eccentricity. (There’s even a mischievous goat, because why not? 🐐)
This was my first book by Cressida McLaughlin, and it definitely won’t be my last. Her writing is so vivid that I could almost feel the chill of the sea air 🌬️ and hear the waves rolling in. It’s a story full of festive spirit 🎅✨, with themes of trust, belonging, and finding your place in the world woven beautifully throughout. The friendships and found family moments were especially heartwarming – the kind that leave a little glow in your chest long after you’ve closed the book. ❤️
Oh, and the mystery! Let’s just say it kept me guessing in the best way possible. 🕵️♀️
Mistingham is the kind of place you’ll want to revisit – and I’m already planning my trip back next Christmas. 🎁🎄 So, if you’re after a heartwarming winter read that feels like a hug in book form, this one deserves a spot on your shelf (preferably near the mince pies 🥧 and a lovely of tea ☕).
December 14, 2024
Perfect.Christmas.Romance. I've finally found what I was looking for! So, I live in a seaside town in the East of England....this takes place in a seaside village in the East of England. For me its winning already but I just adored Harry and Sophie... and all the characters really. Great festive theme, linked to books - what's not to love - and with plenty of cuteness. Thank you Cressida McLaughlin!
December 31, 2024
I’ve actually got like 30 pages left but its 11:56 on new years eve and new book new me. So I’m finishing this tonight but by them it will be logged as 1st January which i don’t want as i don’t want a xmas book in January 😭😭 therefore I’m logging it early so i can start my Goodreads for 2025 with a new book
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