The Secret Mistletoe Promise

by Cressida McLaughlin

Genres: Christmas, Chick Lit

368 pages, Paperback

Published December 2, 2025

About the author

I 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.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, The Secret Mistletoe Promise, by Cressida McLaughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Imogen called off her wedding, she decides to get away for Christmas. I thought this was a nice read, I do think Imogen jumped into another relationship to fast though.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want a wonderful way to get you in the Christmas mood? Then look no further! Head on over to Mistingham village in Norfolk with Cressida McLaughlin and you won’t be disappointed. In fact, I dare you: read this and it will be impossible to not feel Christmassy!

I loved being able to return to Mistingham and see familiar faces, although the winning character had to be Felix, of course. I’m so pleased McLaughlin continued to use this character as a central element to the story. Felix had a lot to answer for in the previous book and this one is no different. It was so entertaining to see how the residents of the village all come together regarding Felix’s welfare and this time, it helps bring our protagonists together.

We meet Imogen as she is hot-footing it from her wedding day, leaving her fiancé, her family and the whole congregation behind her. Even in her full wedding regalia, nothing is going to stop Imogen from marrying as she realises this is not going to be the recipe to happiness. Instead, she heads to the back of beyond and stays with her grandmother, Birdie, who has become estranged from Imogen’s mother. It’s a time to rest, recuperate and figure out what she should do next.

Except Imogen hadn’t quite banked on meeting Dexter, the familiar face from the first book and who runs the bakery. Over time, Imogen and Dexter develop quite a friendship and I, like the rest of Mistingham, delighted in seeing how close they become. Of course, this isn’t without its challenges as Imogen knows she cannot leave her old life hanging in limbo and Dexter has a young daughter.

Not only are readers treated to Imogen, Felix and the pending Christmas celebrations, the secret bookshop strikes again and I loved the magic behind this. There is no denying the magic in books and McLaughlin really captures the essence with her use of Austen’s Northanger Abbey. Combined with the abundance of mistletoe around the village, there is undeniable love in the air – also helped by the pending nuptials of Sophie from the first book.

It’s a very entertaining and heart-warming narrative featuring Christmas, Christmas productions, snow and everything festive in between. I loved it so much that I actually tried to slow down my reading of the book because I just didn’t want it to end. So perfect for December, McLaughlin has created another successful piece of festive fiction and I really hope it’s not the last we see of Mistingham and its residents.

With thanks to Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rea Cobb · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first festive read of 2025 was a no brainer for me as I am a HUGE fan of Cressida McLaughlin and with her new release The Secret Mistletoe Promise set in Mistingham which is the same cosy seaside town her previous book was set in I was ready to be re-united with the community I fell in love with including the troublesome Jumper wearing goat Felix!

This time we arrive in the town alongside a new character Imogen who is a runaway bride who has come to hide out with her grandmother but there this community welcomed her with open arms and rather than hiding away we watch as Imogen begins to flourish as she helps the locals with goat hunting, decoration making as well as taking part in Christmas festivities. There is a sparkling gentle romance fizzing through the pages and new friendships made making this the perfect foundation for a winter romance which I adored. Dexter was a character who I loved from the previous book and I was so pleased that Cressida featured him in this book so heavily as I was hoping for a happy ever after for him.

If you haven't read The Secret Christmas Bookshop yet you can read this one as a stand alone however that was a wonderful read where we really start to get to know the characters and where the antics of Felix the naughty goat will have you chuckling away so treat yourself to both this Christmas.

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this Christmassy book. It was so relaxing and such an easy read. Set in Norfolk in a quaint little village where everyone is lovely and willing to help everyone. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Fictionatnight · Rating 4 out of 5]

Runaway bride Imogen’s retreat to her grandmother’s cottage in Mistingham kicks off a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, community, and second chances. I loved reconnecting with familiar family characters (including Felix the goat). The author continues to shine at crafting wonderful, memorable characters and a village setting that feels like home. A delightfully cosy, feel-good story full of festive sparkle.

[Nicola Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have another contender for favourite Christmas book! I know I’m always safe with Cressida as her books always deliver. I also have a special place in my heart for Christmas books because I love the cosy, festive vibes and they always kick start my excitement for Christmas.

I loved getting to know the new characters and reunited with some familiar ones from the series (this by no way means you need to have read the previous as this one pretty much works as a standalone if this is your intro to her books). They’re so entertaining and reading a few chapters a day with my coffee was one of my favourite moments of the morning.

Filled with Christmas cheer, romance, close tight knit community vibes and festivity - it’s the most perfect Christmas read.

Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.

[Ellie (bookmadbarlow) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely festive read and second in a loosely connected series set is Missingham.
Imogen runs away from her wedding and ends up staying with her nan in a small village. She is rescued by Lucy, the daughter of Dexter and they start to spend time with each other.
This one had all the things I love in a festive read, community, friendship, festive cheer, oh, and had the added bonus of a pet goat.

[Jennifer Bibby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adored this - one of my favourite books of 2025

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another gorgeous Christmas in Mistingham. I look forward to next year's visit there.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed my return to mistlingham. Really lovely story about making a life that makes you happy regardless of what it looks like to others.

[Noemi Proietti · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do love a good Christmas romance and Cressida McLaughlin knows how to write a wonderful one (I am a huge fan!). The Secret Mistletoe Promise brings us back to Mistingham, the seaside village on the Norfolk coast where the author’s previous Christmas novel, The Secret Christmas Bookshop, was also set and I was delighted to see characters whose stories kept me already entertained and see what they were up to.

The Secret Mistletoe Promise features a runaway bride, a lovely and charming hero and his adorable daughter, a goat on the loose that keeps everyone on their toes, a Christmas show, new friends and strong community connections, new beginnings and promises made under the mistletoe. The runaway bride is Imogen who, after realising that she can’t go ahead with her wedding ceremony right when she is about to walk down the aisle, she leaves everything and everyone behind and boards a train to the only person who never judged or tried to change her: her grandmother Birdie. Arriving in the beautiful Mistingham wearing a wedding dress and with a suitcase full of clothes suitable for a honeymoon in Mauritius, the first person she meets is 10-year-old Lucy and her dog, Artichoke, quickly followed by Lucy’s handsome father, Dexter, the local baker. As Imogen tries to figure out what she wants to do with her life, whether to return to her unhappy life in London or start to finally put herself first, she will also have to face her growing feelings not only for Dexter, but also for the community who has welcomed her in the village.

The Secret Mistletoe Promise is a fantastic heartwarming, festive, and romantic Christmas read. I love Cressida McLaughlin’s writing style and she always creates likable and engaging characters and beautiful stories that keep me immersed from start to finish.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been fabulous being back in Mistingham, and amongst some familiar faces from the previous book set here. But rest assured it is definitely a standalone novel, and our main characters are completely new.

In fact Imogen is a runaway bride on Halloween, and is escaping to her grandmother's cottage in Mistingham for refuge. Bridie unfortunately wasn't attending the wedding due to a family rift with her daughter, which the more you hear about Imogen's parents, the more its understandable.

Before she has even reached her gran's house, Lucy and Aubergine come across her, and then Lucy insists on running to get her dad, Dexter to come to the rescue in the form a lift!

I adored Dexter from that first meeting, he is the beating heart of the village, everyone absolutely adores him, and its also rather clear that there is something between him and Imogen, even if she isn't quite ready to admit any feelings. After all she is coming to terms with jilting her fiancée at the alter!

I really enjoyed how Imogen was getting stuck into village life, and how she starts to get to know everyone. And is even integral to locating Felix a few times (a rather mischievous pet goat!).

Such a gorgeously festive story, sprinkled with mistletoe, snow, a chance at a brand new life, romance, and a whole lot more. I adored every word of it, and couldn't get enough of the story. I really hope there will be another book in this series next Christmas, as they are just so lovely.

Thank you to HarperCollins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Dannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Mistletoe Promise - Cressida McLaughlin 💙💜✨️

The excitement I felt the moment I started reading the first page of this book, knowing how much I would love it was second to none.

I have loved Cressida's books for what feels like a long time now, and I am never disappointed.

The Secret Mistletoe Promise is a beautiful story about Imogen, the runaway bride and her escape to her Grandmothers home in the beautiful village, Mistingham.

Being back in Mistingham gave me such warm, comfortable familiarity. It is filled with friendship, togetherness, unique shops, a beach, delicious food, a particularly mischievous goat called Felix (I adore him!), love and community.

I really connected with Imogen's character from beginning to end. Her courage, passion and journey in self discovery made me want all of the happiness for her.

The main male character Dexter is a heart throb. Genuine, sweet, protective and so much more, it only took me a few chapters to fall in love with him.

Lucy, Dexters daughter has the sweetest soul and taught me a few things in this book.

It was lovely to read more about Sophie and Harry and their life together after reading The Secret Christmas Bookshop last year and the other characters popping up again made me feel like I was a part of their community.

I feel I could keep writing and writing about this book and all of the reasons why I loved it so much but I cannot give it the justice it deserves!

A stunning, romantic Christmas story that I cannot recommend enough 💜💙✨️

[Tea Leaves and Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cressida has done it again - reading The Secret Mistletoe Promise felt like coming home, an ability that she has which is not always easy to achieve or experience from a book. The characters, the setting, the romance, the underlying storyline, everything seamlessly blended to make this a book that I couldn't put down. The chemistry between, well, more than one couple in the book, was spot on. It was great to revisit characters and discover new ones too.

And now… the goat! 🎄🐐 Fans of Cressida's previous Christmas novel will be delighted to see Felix the goat making a spirited reappearance. True to his lovable and mischievous nature, Felix adds moments of comic relief and village‑wide adventure, even becoming a part of a few pivotal scenes that bring everyone together. Many of our book club members have singled out Felix as one of the most memorable and affection‑inducing characters in the series, and I have to agree! Whether he’s wandering about, creating chaos, or simply stealing hearts in his own goat‑ish way - he's the perfect addition and his jumper collection is to be admired.

The sense of community really finished the book off nicely, so if you're looking for a warm-hearted Christmas read, with lots of banter, a bit of romance and a few soft twists and turns, this is definitely the book for you. A five star read highly recommended!

[Katie Awdas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light hearted, easy and very enjoyable read! The first book I have read by Cressida McLaughlin and I'm now looking for more of her work.

Not being a lover of Christmas myself I am always wary of books that are gushing about the festive period but this was nicely balanced. With mince pies just coming out now in the shops it has given me cravings for one!

The storyline was a bit far fetched in places but sometimes we all need a bit of that to get away from the stresses of everyday life! Being someone who reads before bed this was the perfect read to get a smile and switch off!

The characters in Norfolk were all lovely; the type of people you wanted as your neighbour! The London crew were all just looking number one and any way to better themselves even if others suffered.

I would highly recommend this book and thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an Arc copy.

[Hannah Symonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogen has a lot going on, she has runaway from her wedding and decides the only place she will find comfort is to go to her gran's. But the locals are intrigued as to why she has returned after so many years. One of the locals is the local baker and he is rather dashing and handsome, but Imogen does not know where her head is at as she stays there longer and longer she is beginning to realise that her old life is definitely not what she wanted. But can she make her life here and be happy? I loved the characters and how the locals all come together. You feel part of the community reading this. I loved the way the story unfolded, I love the way Cressida writes it was full of pure magic and happiness. I now need to read more comforting tales by Cressida. Loved it.

[Susanne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this. It was great to be back in Mistingham again and reunited with Felix the goat! This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone as it’s all about a new couple, Imogen and Dexter.

Right from the start this drew me in with Imogen trying to blend in on a train in her wedding dress. This book had all the feels, the way Imogen takes the time to really think about what she wants and carefully examines her past and realises she wants something for her. Her new friendship with Lucy, Dexters daughter, was really sweet, letting her feel her emotions about her mum. Dexter is amazing, I’m lusting after bakers now 🤣 and he’s great with Imogen, showing her support right from the start with their mistletoe promise. The whole village was great and so welcoming.

[Angela Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the secret bookshop series and it was great to catch up with the characters from the first book and also meet some new ones.

Imogen jilts her fiancé at the alter and runs away to stay with her beloved grandmother in her idyllic cottage.

She soon starts to heal and realise her priorities in life while making lots of beautiful connections along the way.

A romantic Christmas read with some loveable characters and plenty of festive cheer.

Thanks to NetGalley, Cressida McLaughlin and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

[WhatFrizRead · Rating 3 out of 5]

Imogen has run away from her wedding and found herself with her Gran in Mistingham, a picturesque village on the Norfolk coast. Quickly swept up into the busy comings and goings of the town, Imogen has a lot to learn and realise about both herself and her loved ones.

A quite light-hearted festive read, despite the abandoned wedding, this is the second in the Secret Bookshop series -although it does work as a standalone read- and it was nice to revisit some characters. The characters in the story are largely quite endearing and it's a nice, escapist sort of read.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second in the Secret Bookshop series, but can be read standalone.
It was great to be back in Mistingham as the story of Imogen and Dexter unfolds. Imogen is back there visiting her gran, after many years away, an escape from everything that is wrong with her life.
It's a story of love, community, friendship and trust, learning that it's never too late to start again.
Having read the first book, it was great to catch up with some old characters too, especially Felix the goat!!
A magical festive read, that I simply could not put down.

[Emily West · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful book that sets the perfect Christmas scene. I loved revisiting the North Norfolk coast and all of the characters that live in Mistingham. At times it felt a bit twee but that’s all part of the charm. I really liked the character of Dexter and Imogen and cannot wait for the next installment in this series. A great book to curl up with on a drizzly inter day, especially if you have a hot chocolate by your side.

[Jenny Indigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogen has a sudden realisation that she just can't marry her fiancé so runs away to the only place she will feel safe and hopefully no one else will find her, the north Norfolk village of Mistingham. Her grandmother has a cottage there and welcomes Imogen with understanding and hugs. Imogen knows she can't hide forever but it's difficult trying to please everyone and not to neglect yourself. Full of Christmasy sparkle and joy a pleasure to read.

[Clairelettersandmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Mistletoe Promise is a warm, cosy festive read with all the charm you’d expect from Cressida McLaughlin. The setting feels wonderfully atmospheric, and the characters especially the leads are easy to root for as their story unfolds. It blends romance, seasonal magic, and a touch of mystery in a way that feels comforting rather than predictable. Perfect for curling up with on a winter evening, it’s a light, heartwarming escape that left me smiling.

[Sarah Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I have made a start on reading Christmas themed books. I have read quite a few books by Cressida McLaughlin and have always enjoyed them. The Secret Mistletoe Promise is a lovely romantic story. I loved the setting, the Christmas aspects, the characters and the plotline. So ok, you can see what is going to happen a mile away but it did not stop my enjoyment of the book. Sometimes it is nice to read a book with a happy ending.

[Amanda Waldron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rounded up from 4.5. Same rating as the first in the series as I have enjoyed this just as much. Expanding on the lives of some of the original people in the village, with one new major character joining. It was really nice getting to know others better and learning more about their backgrounds. I really do like Cressida’s reading style and her choice of characters. This is another lovely, romantic feel good book.

[Ros Carling · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect feel good book. You have an escaped bride, a fabulous grandmother , new and old characters , a lovely romance and I could go on. Loved the relationship between Felix the goat and Artichoke the dog. As for for Dexter the baker . He sounded handsome as well as magic in the kitchen. Cressida McLaughlin can not write a bad book. Read it

[Margaret · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cosy Christmas story reuniting us with characters we met in the first book of the secret Bookshop series. A little predictable but enjoyable with Birdie and Felix the errant jumper wearing goat top of my list of characters

[Rachel Stansel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet story about a runaway bride becoming part of her grandma's village community. Lovely story about being true to yourself.

Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's great to be back in Mistingham but it's also a perfect standalone book. A lovely Christmas novel with all the Christmas feel good factors but beautifully written with lovely characters, a great storyline and even a village goat with his own WhatsApp page! Perfect

[Avril Mcauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started this book I didn’t realise it was a follow on from last years Christmas book. I absolutely loved it. Full of love and romance with a sprinkling of Christmas and snow..
Hope we can go back to Mistingham next Christmas to catch up again.