A Merry Little Lie

by Sarah Morgan

This Christmas, the Balfour family will have more secrets to unwrap than presents…

Becky is stranded at the airport, so when she bumps into her brother’s best friend, Will, and he suggests they drive home together, Becky reluctantly agrees. For the first time, Becky is dreading Christmas, and only Will knows why. Can she trust him to keep her secret?

Her twin sister, Rosie, married Declan after a whirlwind romance, and now the cracks are starting to appear. Rosie and Declan have agreed to hide their problems from her family, but Rosie’s insecurities are growing. Will this Christmas bring them closer or drive them apart?

Hayley can’t wait for her first Balfour family Christmas with Jamie. The Balfour Christmas traditions sound wonderful, but she’s worried about her place in this close-knit family. Will there be room for her too? And how will they react to the secret she and Jamie have been keeping?

Despite everyone’s best intentions, all the chaos and confusion could derail their normally happy holidays. Can they tell each other the truth in time to enjoy a perfect family Christmas?

Perfect for fans The Book Club Hotel by Sarah MorganStrong, hardworking womenComplex family relationshipsChristmas Hallmark moviesRebecca Serle and Meghan Quinn

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Holiday, Fiction, Contemporary, Audiobook, Contemporary Romance

Audible Audio

First published October 7, 2025

About the author

About Sarah

USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.

Look out for Sarah's latest novel - All Together for Christmas (UK title)/ A Merry Little Lie (US/Canadian title)

Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com





Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four women come together for the holidays, each dealing with their own complex relationships and worries that can possibly ruin the most wonderful time of the year. There’s Becky, who is logically minded and doesn’t show her emotions to anyone, who has a secret that has been hindering her from wanting to be with family, and the only one who knows it is her brother’s best friend, Will, with whom she is stuck to travel with when she’s stranded at the airport due to the weather. There’s Rosie, Becky’s twin sister, who married Declan after a whirlwind romance. She likes to wear her heart on her sleeve, while her husband likes to keep his feelings to himself. So when cracks begin to show in their marriage, Rosie’s insecurities and fears bombard her, keeping her wondering if spending Christmas with her family will save them or ruin them. Then, there is Jenny, mother to Becky, Rosie, and Jamie, who is bringing his girlfriend and a special announcement. Jenny frantically decorates the house and arranges everything to a T to make everything magical. If only her newly retired husband would help out, but his abnormal, melancholic mood is souring her efforts. And there is Hayley, Jamie’s girlfriend, who is beyond scared about meeting his family for the first time, especially with the stress of revealing their special announcement. Since she never had the family Jamie had, Hayley tries to say and do the right things to make a good impression. Will his family still accept her after the bomb they are going to drop on them?

I went into this not expecting to love it as much as I did. It kinda reminds me of a Hallmark movie, but not as cheesy or, ew, sickly sweet. The atmosphere and vibe of having a family get-together for the holidays felt so familiar and comfortable, like putting on a favorite hoodie or getting a warm bear hug. My family is quite big (seven in total, geez 😬), so when we’d invite my mom’s side of the family for Christmas, ooh boy, the house was packed and so chaotic. 😅 Dogs barking, people talking, my Tios falling asleep on the couch, kids laughing and stuffing their mouths with tamales and cookies, and Christmas movies playing in the background. It was such a wonderful time, and I will never forget the memories I made during those years as a kid. And this book brought to mind those magical times, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. 💖

Yes, there was drama, tension, and, uh-oh, lack of communication in the story, but it didn’t last for long, and it seemed to fit and make sense because in a family, there are always misunderstandings and arguments. But as long as they are resolved, everything is fine. And the sibling banter was everything that I needed. I loved the relationships they all had with one another, and I felt like Hayley, as she stood by and watched, wanting to be a part of it. It has been a while since I've laughed out loud while reading a book, but this story summoned the mirth stowed away in my cold heart. 😂

I mean, it was perfect. There was romance, fairy lights, and a wonderful ending that made me feel so joyous and ready for Christmas. And that cover? Um, excuse me? That right there is the cherry on top. ☺😍

I highly recommend this sweet, Christmas book if you love stories about strong, hardworking women, complex family relationships, and some holiday cheer. 🎄✨❤

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.

❗Content Warnings❗
Swearing: Would you be surprised if I said that I don’t remember? 😅
Spice: A little. (🌶🌶/5)

[Dee · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 "meh" stars, rounded up for the season. I've enjoyed a lot of Sarah Morgan's holiday stories before but this was a big miss for me. This tale of a large family with three adult siblings & their partners and parents all together for the holidays should have worked but I disliked so many of them and felt they were just whiny & self-centered brats. And I just hated how the parents, new retirees, were portrayed as befuddled boomers!! Also predictable AF - I skimmed a bit in the middle - missed nothing & the ending was exactly what I expected. Now I'm just gonna "nope" myself outta here!

[Nina (ninjasbooks) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Can’t say I felt warm towards the characters: there was the dramatic Becky who struggled with her emotions: she blurts out how she is so embarrassed that she can die, after making her own predicament even worse. I didn’t like Rosie too much either, following her emotions so much that she didn’t think things through at all. They were very obviously diametrically different characters for twins, and I am not too fond of black and white categorizations.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love is complicated. Especially for twin sisters where there's a question over which sibling a man might love. Toss in interesting family dynamics and the holidays, and you're to have drama-filled festivities. Very much enjoyed this holiday novel... and while I am not quite ready for Christmas, this put me in a jolly mood. Good writing. Quality dialog. Memorable characters. Found myself rooting for various couples to find their way to each other in the end, but also for the truth to come out. Everyone needs a reality check to sometimes accept the path they should take.

[Jonetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

the setup…
It’s Christmas time and Jenny & Martin Balfour prepare to host their children for the holiday. Daughter Becky is not looking forward to going this year as it will be the first time seeing her twin sister Rosie and her husband Declan since their wedding. When she’s stranded at the airport, her brother’s best friend Will who’s also there offers to drive them both. Rosie and Declan have hit a rough patch and she’s worried that they won’t be able to hide it. And, they’re all preparing for the surprise their brother Jamie has in store as he’s bringing his new girlfriend Hayley and they suspect it’s an engagement announcement. Meanwhile, Jenny is worried about Martin who isn’t handling his recent retirement well. They are all trying to keep these issues secret…merry little lies indeed.

the heart of the story…
Jenny, Rosie, Becky and Hayley provide the narratives and I loved getting their unique perspectives not only about their own issues but of the others. They initially do put their best faces forward but the inevitable cracks eventually appear in dramatic form. Jenny is the most wonderful matriarch, managing it all adeptly while keeping her own worries in check.

the narration…
Henrietta Meire does a fabulous job with voice distinctions and storytelling. She did the writing justice.

the bottom line…
I look forward each year to Morgan’s Christmas stories as they always feature families so authentically during one of the most stressful (and wonderful) holidays. The Balfour family may have a lot going on but their affection and care for each other shines through and is the foundation for this lovely seasonal story. I loved every minute of it.

Posted on Blue Mood Café

(Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)

[Bethany (Beautifully Bookish Bethany) · Rating 5 out of 5]

God I love a Sarah Morgan holiday novel! She always delivers on family drama, romance, keen insight into the struggles of different stages of life and relationships, and a heartfelt message all wrapped up with the Christmas spirit. A Merry Little Little Lie is exactly that - adult siblings with their own issues coming home for Christmas where mom is spiraling and dad is struggling to adjust to retirement. There's a brother with a surprise announcement, the sister who was secretly in love with her twin's husband but has to spend the night at a hotel with her hot childhood friend, (and yes, there is only one bed), and the sister with early marriage troubles and insecurity. It's messy and funny and really charming. I thoroughly enjoyed it! The audio narration is done well and fits this very British family during the holidays.

[Meagan (Meagansbookclub) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable but also forgettable. Way too many storylines and characters to follow.

[Brandi Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Merry Little Lie was the perfect example of what a cozy Christmas novel should be and was exactly what I've come to expect when I read a book by the wonderful Sarah Morgan!

The story revolves around a big family Christmas and how each family member has something to hide, leading to a much more complicated holiday than the family expected.

Sarah Morgan's holiday fiction novels aren't strictly romance and focus on family drama as well. Each character has flaws that make them easy to relate to and understand. I found the characters to be well-developed, and each one added something special to the story. I liked how the book showed the importance of good communication and honesty.

There is more than one romance in this book, and I enjoyed reading about them all. Each couple was different and unique, and I loved getting to know them all. All of the couples were lovable, and it made it easy to root for them and hope that they were successful in resolving their issues. I will say that I enjoyed Becky and Will's parts in the book the most and that the forced proximity brought heat to the story.

This book was easily enjoyable, and I enjoyed the cozy setting and big family Christmas. A Merry Little Lie is definitely a great book to add to your holiday TBR!

This book is available for purchase now!

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[✨️ Jessica's Bookshelf ✨️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big lover of Christmas books. I could read them year round.

If you've read a Sarah Morgan Christmas book in the past then you'll enjoy this one just as much. If not, you're in for a treat.

This is a multi pov story from that's equal parts Christmas chaos, romance, and family drama that will strap you in a big hug.

A big thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

Publication Date October 7, 2025

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Balfour’s Christmases are full of love and chaos, but this year it’s a little more fraught as each member seems to be dealing with a crisis.

Twins Becky and Rosie have been distant since Rosie’s wedding. Becky’s been trying to give her sister space to settle into her new marriage while Rosie is wondering if she should’ve taken more time getting to know her husband before they married.

Their brother Jamie is bringing his new girlfriend, Hayley, home and he’s got a big announcement. Hayley, who’s never been part of a proper family, is worried about fitting in. My heart broke at hearing her history!

Jennifer, the Balfour’s matriarch, thought her husband’s retirement would be a good thing, but he’s having trouble settling in and she doesn’t know what to do about it.

The story is told through the perspective of Becky, Rosie, Hayley and Jennifer each dealing with their own trouble and insecurity. I loved each and every character and found their dilemmas relatable. The Balfour’s were an imperfect, loveable multi-generational family ready to give support and understanding. There’s a touch of romance woven in too: best friends falling for each other, fake-dating, and a marriage-in-crisis finding their way back to love. I rooted for all of them!

A Merry Little Lie was touching and lovely, filling my heart with joy!

I alternately read and listened to A Merry Little Lie and can recommend either version. Henrietta Meire’s narration was a joy to experience. She seamlessly alternated between characters, giving each one a unique voice and personality.

I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let’s face it: Sarah Morgan could write anything and I would probably love it. Hugely immersive, Morgan perfectly captures a family Christmas where three generations come together with plenty of surprises along the way.

Like so many of her books, Morgan follows several central characters and I loved how this gave such different insights to the Balfour family Christmas. Becky is travelling up to the family home, dreading seeing everyone again; her twin sister, also en route, believes that her marriage is crumbling; Hayley, a new girlfriend, is apprehensive about the awkwardness of meeting an entire family all in one go; Jenny, the matriarch, worries about what this year will bring and how to ensure everyone has a lovely Christmas. The women are all approaching the festive season with trepidation and I enjoyed seeing their experiences from such contrasting angles.

There was so much to this story that I think I experienced a rainbow of emotions. I could really empathise with Jenny’s worries as, despite being a mother to adult children, these concerns never go away. Her children might be independent and living their own lives, but she can spot when things aren’t exactly how they are being portrayed. I warmed to Jenny as we learn of her experience of empty nest syndrome and adapting to a very empty house. Not only that, with her husband recently retired, he is also struggling to adjust and this adds to Jenny’s concerns.

But the book is definitely not all doom and gloom. I found Jenny’s mother to be incredibly entertaining, as well as the meddling and speculating happening with Becky. The Christmas preparations were the usual indulgence and I loved the descriptions of Jenny’s house after she had taken it up a level with the decorations. She is desperate to ensure Hayley has a Christmas to remember and I thought this simply reflected Jenny’s selfless and caring nature towards everyone. Morgan’s descriptions of this family was very heart-warming and it felt like I was a part of this Christmas, helping out in the kitchen and sharing the banter.

A cosy Christmas story, this is perfect for those December nights and will inevitably get you in the mood for your own festive celebrations. It was a pleasure to read and I was so sad when I had finished it, feeling that I had left the Balfour family and was out in the cold. The characters all brought so much to the story that I was a little jealous that Hayley got to be a part of it.

All in all, in my eyes, Sarah Morgan cannot do anything wrong and this is just another example of it.

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

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars. A feel-good Christmas tale told in four POV’s by one family of women who are homeward bound to celebrate the holidays, each arriving with their own emotional baggage. “A Merry Little Lie” is about each woman coming to terms in their romantic relationships, and with each other - all within this festive holiday setting. There’s a slow buildup in the first half with the telling of each women’s struggles that you can’t help but feel and root for. With themes of family drama, hidden secrets and a sprinkle of romance, this spun into a tantalizing tale of forgiveness and hope. Of how through each character’s personal growth they find their happily-ever-after’s. A great story, really enjoyed. Skip the audio for the print version. ❥ 🎧 Pub. 10/7/25

Thanks to Harlequin Audio for the ALC. All opinions are my own.

[Ink_Drinker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah Morgan’s A Merry Little Lie is a sparkling holiday romance that unwraps the complicated beauty of family, love, and truth at Christmastime.

Centered on the Balfour family’s festive gathering, the story weaves together three heartfelt journeys: Becky, who hides a secret while rediscovering her connection with her brother’s best friend; Rosie, whose whirlwind marriage faces its first real test; and Hayley, eager to belong yet uncertain of her place in family traditions.

With laughter and just enough drama, Morgan captures the essence of imperfect holidays where secrets can weigh heavy, but honesty and love bring the greatest gifts of all. It’s a cozy, emotionally rich tale that reminds us that Christmas magic isn’t about perfection, but about choosing connection, vulnerability, and joy.

🎧Henrietta Meire's (@thatbritishactress) narration highlights the distinct personalities of the Balfour family, shifting seamlessly between Becky’s vulnerability, Rosie’s determination, and Hayley’s eagerness. Her pacing is smooth and engaging, making the audiobook feel cozy and immersive. Perfect for a festive listen.

[Brenda]

I’d give this a 1⭐️rating if that didn’t make it then show up in my read list.

I stopped reading this book at 15%. So many characters and no one is happy! There is just too much negativity and I found the character, Becky, to be just ridiculous. Plus the writing is making a retired couple in their 60’s out to be unknowledgeable about social media and using a cell phone. I’m so tired of this premise being used. It does not apply as much as it used to. Even people in their 80s are very aware of how to use “modern day technology”.
Unfortunately a DNF for me 😔

[Kelly Meyers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow to start, but enjoyed the book

[Justine S · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a tale following the POVs of four women as they get together for Christmas. It’s a mix of family drama and a little romance that all works out in the end. Everyone was so anxious and whiney for most of the book that I did not find this a pleasant read. Without an ALC, I probably would have DNF’d it.

I think fans of neatly tied up endings and Sarah Morgan’s other books will enjoy this one, but it wasn’t for me. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

✅When I first started this book, the scene at the airport really drew me in.
I enjoy a good holiday romance. This one is full of secrets.
The family drama aspect was very intense at times.
I enjoyed the humor throughout the story.
What a journey we are taken on with reading A Merry Little Lie!

[Bookworman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

3.5 stars. An enjoyable story about family relationships, life transitions, love, and a whole lot of Christmas decorations!

Sarah Morgan has written a wonderful Christmassy story with an ensemble cast of likeable characters. If you loved her books about the O'Neil family, I think you'll really enjoy this book as well.

No profanity and several R-rated bedroom scenes.

[Marie Girulat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to express my gratitude to @sarahmorganwrites @harlequinbooks and @htp_hive #hiveinfluencer for the #gifted book and accompanying audiobook.

The Balfour family is reuniting for Christmas, but each sibling harbors a secret that weighs heavily on their hearts. As they prepare to celebrate, we delve into their insecurities and unvoiced fears, uncovering the complexities of their relationships. This family grapples with communication, and when they finally begin to open up, the story transforms into a poignant and heartwarming journey.

Told from the unique perspectives of the four Balfour women, this narrative beautifully illustrates their evolution as they confront their anxieties and unite in the spirit of Christmas.

The narrator masterfully brings each character to life, illuminating their vulnerabilities and the profound connections that bind them.

If you cherish touching Christmas tales, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on October 7, 2025!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love family drama meets festive charm, this one’s for you! Following the Balfour family in the days leading up to Christmas, A Merry Little Lie weaves together the stories of four women—Jenny, the matriarch, her twin daughters Rosie and Becky, and Hayley, the new girlfriend of Jenny’s son Jamie. Each is dealing with secrets, change, and a bit of chaos under one snowy roof.

Sarah Morgan always nails cozy, heartwarming holiday reads, and this one is no exception. Expect emotional moments, messy family dynamics, and that perfect blend of laughter, love, and Christmas spirit. A warm, feel good festive read that belongs on every holiday TBR.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhh, I’m so in love with this story. It’s so heartwarming. I love the different POV from a mom and her 2 daughters and from someone new that can potentially be a new member of the family- and can I please keep Will? I need one of him for me.

[Catbytheseareads ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hallmark Christmas in England.
This is a sweet yet emotional story about family and all of it's drama
during the Christmas Holiday. The stresses of the season have everyone
on edge and not quite thinking straight. Miscommunication or lack there of
has everyone going in all different directions and once all the drama dies down,
it ends with the cozy HEA you'd expect.
3.5 stars rounded up

[Judith van Wijk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great Christmas book by Sarah Morgan. Sure, most of the characters are being dramatic and have an overactive imagination, but at least they are aware of this.

[Lexi]

DNF @ 24%

I wanted a cute funny family romcom (like Kate Stewart’s “The Plight Before Christmas”) and got whatever melodrama this was. So. No thanks. I have this playing while making pies for Thanksgiving tomorrow and it’s so dramatic and boring I’m pausing to find something else to listen to.

[Cameryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️I found myself skimming a lot of this book. It felt very christmasy and cozy but the idea of two people fake dating for two days then getting engaged was very unrealistic

[Kelly Earls · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four star sweet little Christmas romance. Loved the narrators of these characters. Meddling family, friends to lovers, new marriage struggles, and aging parents. This one has a little bit of everything and perfect for getting you ready for the holiday season. Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the early audible arc.

[Christina Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was a cute book 📖. I would recommend it. I gave it 4 stars.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars 4/5
There were some points where the story felt like it dragged on but I enjoyed the Christmas feel of love coming together. Morgan really did show how the Christmas season is for everyone, no matter if you hate or love it. This book is about 4 women who come together in the same household and each of their own issue. You fall in love with Becky's quiet nature, Rosie's bold remarks, Jenny's funny reaction to everything that is happening, and Hayley's journey to finding where she belongs in this family.


Beautiful book! Thank you for letting me an ARC reader NetGalley and Sarah Morgan!

[Dawn Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars
This books was filled with too much angst from too many directions for me. I picked this thinking it would be a cute small-town, family, feel-good hallmark type of holiday story. Instead there was about four story arcs with nothing but angst and that was too much for me. I might have enjoyed it more if the author had focused on one couple instead of four. It also might have helped if the author did more showing than telling with this story.

The narration was ok but the way she voiced some of the FMCs with that high pitched whinny voice was grated and didn’t help. She did do the characters justice though based on the way they were written.

Overall, I think many will find this story enjoyable. It just wasn’t for me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC. I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is cute but a little unrealistic at times. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the family aspects of this story. It was sweet and reminded me of a Hallmark Christmas movie.

My biggest qualm with the book was that it started to get repetitive and wordy. I found that it made the story drag in some parts, mostly at the beginning before the family is together. Then the book really started to pick up and I was having a great time.

I loved the Christmas aspect of this book! It was cozy and full of heart. This honestly sounds like my dream house for Christmas! I ended up really enjoying the characters, but the grandmother is by far the best!

Overall, this book is sweet and packed with family drama. It’s a nice cozy read for the holidays.

***Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing and Canary Street Press for a e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.