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A Christmas Houseguest
A heart-warming forced proximity romance novella to cosy up with this festive season.
In this snow-kissed Regency romance, when a snowstorm stops their mailcoach, Rosie offers a fellow passenger sanctuary at her farm. War-weary from the navy, Andy will find his Christmas angel hard to leave…
In this snow-kissed Regency romance, when a snowstorm stops their mailcoach, Rosie offers a fellow passenger sanctuary at her farm. War-weary from the navy, Andy will find his Christmas angel hard to leave…
Audible Audio
Published November 25, 2025
4 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Carla Kelly
138 books802 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Although Carla Kelly is well known among her readers as a writer of Regency romance, her main interest (and first writing success) is Western American fiction—more specifically, writing about America's Indian Wars. Although she had sold some of her work before, it was not until Carla began work in the National Park Service as a ranger/historian at Fort Laramie National Historic Site did she get serious about her writing career. (Or as she would be the first to admit, as serious as it gets.)
Carla wrote a series of what she now refers to as the "Fort Laramie stories," which are tales of the men, women and children of the Indian Wars era in Western history. Two of her stories, A Season for Heroes and Kathleen Flaherty's Long Winter, earned her Spur Awards from the Western Writers of America. She was the second woman to earn two Spurs from WWA (which, as everyone knows, is all you need to ride a horse). Her entire Indian Wars collection was published in 2003 as Here's to the Ladies: Stories of the Frontier Army. It remains her favorite work.
The mother of five children, Carla has always allowed her kids to earn their keep by appearing in her Regencies, most notably Marian's Christmas Wish, which is peopled by all kinds of relatives. Grown now, the Kelly kids are scattered here and there across the U.S. They continue to provide feedback, furnish fodder for stories and make frantic phone calls home during the holidays for recipes. (Carla Kelly is some cook.)
Carla's husband, Martin, is Director of Theatre at Valley City State University, in Valley City, North Dakota. Carla is currently overworked as a staff writer at the local daily newspaper. She also writes a weekly, award-winning column, "Prairie Lite."
Carla only started writing Regencies because of her interest in the Napoleonic Wars, which figures in many of her Regency novels and short stories. She specializes in writing about warfare at sea, and about the ordinary people of the British Isles who were, let's face it, far more numerous than lords and ladies.
Hobbies? She likes to crochet afghans, and read British crime fiction and history, principally military history. She's never happier than talking about the fur trade or Indian Wars with Park Service cronies. Her most recent gig with the National Park Service was at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site on the Montana/North Dakota border.
Here's another side to this somewhat prosaic woman: She recently edited the fur trade journal of Swiss artist Rudolf F. Kurz (the 1851-1852 portion), and is gratified now and then to be asked to speak on scholarly subjects. She has also worked for the State Historical Society of North Dakota as a contract researcher. This has taken her to glamorous drudgery in several national archives and military history repositories. Gray archives boxes and old documents make her salivate.
Her mantra for writing comes from the subject of her thesis, Robert Utley, that dean of Indian Wars history. He told her the secret to writing is "to put your ass in the chair and keep it there until you're done." He's right, of course.
Her three favorite fictional works have remained constant through the years, although their rankings tend to shift: War and Peace, The Lawrenceville Stories, and A Town Like Alice. Favorite historical works are One Vast Winter Count, On the Border with Mackenzie and Crossing the Line. Favorite crime fiction authors are Michael Connelly, John Harvey and Peter Robinson.
And that's all she can think of that would interest anyone. Carla Kelly is quite ordinary, except when she is sometimes prevailed upon to sing a scurrilous song about lumberjacks, or warble "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" in Latin. Then you m
Although Carla Kelly is well known among her readers as a writer of Regency romance, her main interest (and first writing success) is Western American fiction—more specifically, writing about America's Indian Wars. Although she had sold some of her work before, it was not until Carla began work in the National Park Service as a ranger/historian at Fort Laramie National Historic Site did she get serious about her writing career. (Or as she would be the first to admit, as serious as it gets.)
Carla wrote a series of what she now refers to as the "Fort Laramie stories," which are tales of the men, women and children of the Indian Wars era in Western history. Two of her stories, A Season for Heroes and Kathleen Flaherty's Long Winter, earned her Spur Awards from the Western Writers of America. She was the second woman to earn two Spurs from WWA (which, as everyone knows, is all you need to ride a horse). Her entire Indian Wars collection was published in 2003 as Here's to the Ladies: Stories of the Frontier Army. It remains her favorite work.
The mother of five children, Carla has always allowed her kids to earn their keep by appearing in her Regencies, most notably Marian's Christmas Wish, which is peopled by all kinds of relatives. Grown now, the Kelly kids are scattered here and there across the U.S. They continue to provide feedback, furnish fodder for stories and make frantic phone calls home during the holidays for recipes. (Carla Kelly is some cook.)
Carla's husband, Martin, is Director of Theatre at Valley City State University, in Valley City, North Dakota. Carla is currently overworked as a staff writer at the local daily newspaper. She also writes a weekly, award-winning column, "Prairie Lite."
Carla only started writing Regencies because of her interest in the Napoleonic Wars, which figures in many of her Regency novels and short stories. She specializes in writing about warfare at sea, and about the ordinary people of the British Isles who were, let's face it, far more numerous than lords and ladies.
Hobbies? She likes to crochet afghans, and read British crime fiction and history, principally military history. She's never happier than talking about the fur trade or Indian Wars with Park Service cronies. Her most recent gig with the National Park Service was at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site on the Montana/North Dakota border.
Here's another side to this somewhat prosaic woman: She recently edited the fur trade journal of Swiss artist Rudolf F. Kurz (the 1851-1852 portion), and is gratified now and then to be asked to speak on scholarly subjects. She has also worked for the State Historical Society of North Dakota as a contract researcher. This has taken her to glamorous drudgery in several national archives and military history repositories. Gray archives boxes and old documents make her salivate.
Her mantra for writing comes from the subject of her thesis, Robert Utley, that dean of Indian Wars history. He told her the secret to writing is "to put your ass in the chair and keep it there until you're done." He's right, of course.
Her three favorite fictional works have remained constant through the years, although their rankings tend to shift: War and Peace, The Lawrenceville Stories, and A Town Like Alice. Favorite historical works are One Vast Winter Count, On the Border with Mackenzie and Crossing the Line. Favorite crime fiction authors are Michael Connelly, John Harvey and Peter Robinson.
And that's all she can think of that would interest anyone. Carla Kelly is quite ordinary, except when she is sometimes prevailed upon to sing a scurrilous song about lumberjacks, or warble "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" in Latin. Then you m
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 24, 2025
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋 (For kisses)
Sex Scene Length: 0 sex scenes
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): only kisses
Humor: A touch, though I found this story fairly somber
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? slow to medium
When mains are first on page together: chapter 3 of 16
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever for the mains
Epilogue: Yes, not very far in the future
Format: listened to an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in audiobook form
Why I chose this book: I’ve been wanting to try Carla Kelly and saw the audiobook on NetGalley
Mains: Andrew Hatfield and Rosie Hart – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is fine alone.
Basic plot:
Andrew finds a safe, warm place to recuperate as a house guest with Rosie and her family after a snow storm stops his holiday travel.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency romance – 1812
- England setting
- holiday romance
- close proximity – he stays with her family over the holidays
- she nurses him back to health
- sailor hero – he is in the Navy
- shorter page count
- low steam reads – only kisses on page
Ages:
- heroine is 27, didn’t catch hero
First line:
An orphan of many years, sailing master Andrew Hatfield, Royal Navy, never expected much mail.
My thoughts:
Carla Kelly has been on my to try list for awhile – I’m glad I got to give her a read because I did really enjoy her writing style. I knew she was lighter on the steam side, so I thought a holiday novella length would be the perfect place to give her a try.
There was a lot of sweetness about this story. The holiday vibes and family shenanigans and the recovery of the hero are all very heartwarming. The tone of the book was more somber I think than I was expecting though. There’s a lot of remembrance of war and recovery for the hero. I did enjoy their slow fall for each other with the circumstances and the character depth was very well done.
This was my first listen to Helen Keeley and I enjoyed her narration! Would totally listen to again.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋 (For kisses)
Sex Scene Length: 0 sex scenes
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): only kisses
Humor: A touch, though I found this story fairly somber
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? slow to medium
When mains are first on page together: chapter 3 of 16
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever for the mains
Epilogue: Yes, not very far in the future
Format: listened to an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in audiobook form
Why I chose this book: I’ve been wanting to try Carla Kelly and saw the audiobook on NetGalley
Mains: Andrew Hatfield and Rosie Hart – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is fine alone.
Basic plot:
Andrew finds a safe, warm place to recuperate as a house guest with Rosie and her family after a snow storm stops his holiday travel.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency romance – 1812
- England setting
- holiday romance
- close proximity – he stays with her family over the holidays
- she nurses him back to health
- sailor hero – he is in the Navy
- shorter page count
- low steam reads – only kisses on page
Ages:
- heroine is 27, didn’t catch hero
First line:
An orphan of many years, sailing master Andrew Hatfield, Royal Navy, never expected much mail.
My thoughts:
Carla Kelly has been on my to try list for awhile – I’m glad I got to give her a read because I did really enjoy her writing style. I knew she was lighter on the steam side, so I thought a holiday novella length would be the perfect place to give her a try.
There was a lot of sweetness about this story. The holiday vibes and family shenanigans and the recovery of the hero are all very heartwarming. The tone of the book was more somber I think than I was expecting though. There’s a lot of remembrance of war and recovery for the hero. I did enjoy their slow fall for each other with the circumstances and the character depth was very well done.
This was my first listen to Helen Keeley and I enjoyed her narration! Would totally listen to again.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
December 4, 2025
Super charming regency Christmas novella, full of feel good moments and holiday cheer/miracles. Andrew is a sailing master (like head non-commissioned officer maybe?) recovering from two years in a prison, from which he escaped. He's almost fit for service and waiting for his next assignment. With nothing else to do at Christmas, he checks himself out of the hospital to Romance Reasons deliver an old misdirected letter to the widow of one of his colleagues. On the mail coach he low-key has a panic attack when they are stranded, and nice Rosie takes care of him, and invites him home since there's No Room At The Inn.
What follows is just a lovely few days (spoiler, not too few to fall in love based on a "mistletoe" kiss and an inside joke about holding hands!) of him recovering at her house, and them righting some societal wrongs for Christmas. It was super pleasant to listen to, and before you can ask any questions about the immediacy of their chaste instalove or the quick "maybe I'll sail back here in a year or two" to "hea handled" pipeline, its over. Just what we are looking for in a novella.
What follows is just a lovely few days (spoiler, not too few to fall in love based on a "mistletoe" kiss and an inside joke about holding hands!) of him recovering at her house, and them righting some societal wrongs for Christmas. It was super pleasant to listen to, and before you can ask any questions about the immediacy of their chaste instalove or the quick "maybe I'll sail back here in a year or two" to "hea handled" pipeline, its over. Just what we are looking for in a novella.
November 9, 2025
1811, England.
Sailing Master Andrew Hatfield is essentially property of the Royal Navy. He's convalescing in a hospital after being held prisoner by the French for two years and a daring escape climbing down the walls with his men and swimming towards the blockade. He's close to being cleared for duty, and is waiting his next orders, and in the meantime has no plans for Christmas. He decides to find his former sailing master's widow. On the road, he meets a spinster named Rose, who invites him to her family home for the holidays.
This has all the required charm of a Christmas novella: the opening of a house to a guest in need of care, a rescue from the poorhouse, and the tentative foundation of a romance caring for an ailing sailor. You get to see how the middle and lower classes celebrate Christmas during the regency era: a time for celebration and hope, but with work always in sight. I enjoyed this a lot, and think out of the now four Christmas novellas I've read by Carla Kelly this season, it's the one I liked the most.
Sailing Master Andrew Hatfield is essentially property of the Royal Navy. He's convalescing in a hospital after being held prisoner by the French for two years and a daring escape climbing down the walls with his men and swimming towards the blockade. He's close to being cleared for duty, and is waiting his next orders, and in the meantime has no plans for Christmas. He decides to find his former sailing master's widow. On the road, he meets a spinster named Rose, who invites him to her family home for the holidays.
This has all the required charm of a Christmas novella: the opening of a house to a guest in need of care, a rescue from the poorhouse, and the tentative foundation of a romance caring for an ailing sailor. You get to see how the middle and lower classes celebrate Christmas during the regency era: a time for celebration and hope, but with work always in sight. I enjoyed this a lot, and think out of the now four Christmas novellas I've read by Carla Kelly this season, it's the one I liked the most.
December 9, 2025
Honestly, this just wasn’t for me. I landed on a 3⭐️ rating knowing it’s not my typical genre, and I really only picked it up by mistake. The good news is the audiobook is barely over three hours, so it went by quickly… but that’s also where the problems start.
Novellas are tricky—they don’t give you much room to build a fully fleshed-out plot the way a full-length novel does. Some authors thrive in that condensed format and still manage to deliver a story that feels whole. This was not one of those cases.
I constantly felt like I was missing key information. I couldn’t connect with any of the characters, and if I hadn’t been listening to the audiobook, I would’ve DNF’d. It just wasn’t engaging.
Narrator Helen Keeley did a perfectly fine job with the performance, but even her delivery couldn’t smooth out the clunky prose. I went in hoping for a short, sweet romance to nudge me into the Christmas spirit, but instead I was left wanting much more than this novella could offer.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Harlequin Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
Novellas are tricky—they don’t give you much room to build a fully fleshed-out plot the way a full-length novel does. Some authors thrive in that condensed format and still manage to deliver a story that feels whole. This was not one of those cases.
I constantly felt like I was missing key information. I couldn’t connect with any of the characters, and if I hadn’t been listening to the audiobook, I would’ve DNF’d. It just wasn’t engaging.
Narrator Helen Keeley did a perfectly fine job with the performance, but even her delivery couldn’t smooth out the clunky prose. I went in hoping for a short, sweet romance to nudge me into the Christmas spirit, but instead I was left wanting much more than this novella could offer.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Harlequin Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
November 15, 2025
This book was an okay read for me, and I was really thankful to have the ARC audiobook to listen to. The story moves a little slowly, but the regency romance has that sweet, cozy feeling you’d expect from a Hallmark style movie. It’s charming in its own way, even if it didn’t fully click with me personally. The beginning was a lot better than the ending.
If you enjoy regency settings, couples brought together by war circumstances, and a feel-good holiday vibe, this might be a lovely fit for you. It’s easy to follow, quick to get through, and has a gentle romance that doesn’t ask too much of the reader.
If you enjoy regency settings, couples brought together by war circumstances, and a feel-good holiday vibe, this might be a lovely fit for you. It’s easy to follow, quick to get through, and has a gentle romance that doesn’t ask too much of the reader.
November 27, 2025
The book was incredibly well written. The romance was utterly heartwarming. I absolutely adore the novella size. I found myself smiling, laughing, and crying. The story was profoundly inspiring. It reminded me of the vital importance of lending a helping hand to others. I also deeply appreciate being reminded of the debt of gratitude we owe to those brave individuals who fought in battles. This was a truly fantastic Christmas story.
The narrator did an outstanding job.
I received a complimentary audio copy of this book. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
The narrator did an outstanding job.
I received a complimentary audio copy of this book. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
November 16, 2025
SIX STARS!!!!!!
Master Andrew Hadfield has just been granted leave. He's finally free after languishing for two years in a French prison and a brief recovery in an English hospital. His first order of business: find the widow of a fellow crewman. He quickly discovers that the events of everyday life are enough to bring back horrific memories of the war. Thank goodness for Rose Harte, who quickly comes to his aid. What follows is a stirring and emotional tale of the ways we can care for and love the people in the sphere of our influence. Andy and Rosie quietly, and beautifully, fall in love with each other. The problem? The Navy will be calling him back to war at any moment!
THIS NOVELLA. OMG. Perfection!!! We have a romance filled with tender moments, emotional strength, and gripping dialogue. The way our main characters held space for one another and nurtured each other was SO compelling. Their blossoming relationship would have been enough on its own, but the author decides to add an endearing cast of characters, all of whom find unique Christmas miracles. I cried from the author's note at the beginning to the epilogue. (I mean, I didn't cry the WHOLE time, but my husband did kind of wonder what was wrong with me...due to frequent boohooing and my shouting "IT'S SO GOOD!".)
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook, and the narrator was terrific. You can also find this short story in an anthology entitled "Snowbound Regency Christmas". If the other stories are half as good as this one, I'm reading every last one!! This story is under 100 pages and under three hours long, so if you have time, I truly hope you'll set aside an afternoon to devour this story!!
Trigger warnings: PTSD, people and children living in sad conditions in a workhouse, losing one's job, descriptions of battle, war, and cruelty/death in prison by forced drowning
I'd like to thank Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Master Andrew Hadfield has just been granted leave. He's finally free after languishing for two years in a French prison and a brief recovery in an English hospital. His first order of business: find the widow of a fellow crewman. He quickly discovers that the events of everyday life are enough to bring back horrific memories of the war. Thank goodness for Rose Harte, who quickly comes to his aid. What follows is a stirring and emotional tale of the ways we can care for and love the people in the sphere of our influence. Andy and Rosie quietly, and beautifully, fall in love with each other. The problem? The Navy will be calling him back to war at any moment!
THIS NOVELLA. OMG. Perfection!!! We have a romance filled with tender moments, emotional strength, and gripping dialogue. The way our main characters held space for one another and nurtured each other was SO compelling. Their blossoming relationship would have been enough on its own, but the author decides to add an endearing cast of characters, all of whom find unique Christmas miracles. I cried from the author's note at the beginning to the epilogue. (I mean, I didn't cry the WHOLE time, but my husband did kind of wonder what was wrong with me...due to frequent boohooing and my shouting "IT'S SO GOOD!".)
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook, and the narrator was terrific. You can also find this short story in an anthology entitled "Snowbound Regency Christmas". If the other stories are half as good as this one, I'm reading every last one!! This story is under 100 pages and under three hours long, so if you have time, I truly hope you'll set aside an afternoon to devour this story!!
Trigger warnings: PTSD, people and children living in sad conditions in a workhouse, losing one's job, descriptions of battle, war, and cruelty/death in prison by forced drowning
I'd like to thank Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 11, 2025
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
I really enjoyed this historical holiday novella. I'll be frank and mention that there is a fair amount of hero worship and military admiration in the story, beginning with the author's note that precedes the book. I think that's par for the course in romances with a military hero, especially one actively in service. With this being set in the Regency era, the Napoleonic Wars are ever present in the background social-political context. Likewise, the war is also an integral part of the MMC's character, with XX being a former prisoner of war, recovering physically, suffering from PTSD, and waiting to be called back into service. The romance is soft and very much a slow burn. If you like hurt/comfort and caretaking trope, this novella will definitely appeal. I really liked that the FMC, XX, was very practical, community oriented, and independent. So much of the story revolves around hunger - for sustenance, for care, for affection, and for connection. That subtle undercurrent of yearning was delightful. Emotional and character driven, this is a closed door romance full of heart, longing glances, and holiday spirit.
The narration is very well done. Helen Keeley brings an air of earnestness with their reading of the book, which I enjoyed.
I really enjoyed this historical holiday novella. I'll be frank and mention that there is a fair amount of hero worship and military admiration in the story, beginning with the author's note that precedes the book. I think that's par for the course in romances with a military hero, especially one actively in service. With this being set in the Regency era, the Napoleonic Wars are ever present in the background social-political context. Likewise, the war is also an integral part of the MMC's character, with XX being a former prisoner of war, recovering physically, suffering from PTSD, and waiting to be called back into service. The romance is soft and very much a slow burn. If you like hurt/comfort and caretaking trope, this novella will definitely appeal. I really liked that the FMC, XX, was very practical, community oriented, and independent. So much of the story revolves around hunger - for sustenance, for care, for affection, and for connection. That subtle undercurrent of yearning was delightful. Emotional and character driven, this is a closed door romance full of heart, longing glances, and holiday spirit.
The narration is very well done. Helen Keeley brings an air of earnestness with their reading of the book, which I enjoyed.
December 2, 2025
A true hurt/comfort romance for the holiday season, Carla Kelly's A Christmas Houseguest is an historical novella set during the Napoleonic Wars. British naval officer Andrew escaped a French prison and tells his tales.
Carla Kelly does a lovely job setting the stage. Travel around England at this time, POW memories, and just quite, country life in rural England. Really lovely.
The audio version of A Christmas Houseguest is nicely performed by Helen Keeley.
If you're looking to read this novella, you'll need to search for Snowbound Regency Christmas, this story is one of the three available there.
an audiobook copy of A Christmas Houseguest was provided by Harlequin Audio, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Carla Kelly does a lovely job setting the stage. Travel around England at this time, POW memories, and just quite, country life in rural England. Really lovely.
The audio version of A Christmas Houseguest is nicely performed by Helen Keeley.
If you're looking to read this novella, you'll need to search for Snowbound Regency Christmas, this story is one of the three available there.
an audiobook copy of A Christmas Houseguest was provided by Harlequin Audio, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
November 14, 2025
Sweet novella that gives us a peak at what the British Navy life was like during the French war with Napoleon and a quick little love story between two strangers who quickly become enthralled with one another. The thing with 19th century stories is that there isn't a lot of interaction between men and women and so they made the most of it to quickly determine if they were a match for each other. This didn't leave us with a lot of angst or longing. We find them connecting quickly as a matter of urgency due to the nature of our MMC being called back to service. This left me "wanting" for a little more. I suppose if it hadn't been a short story, that's what we would have gotten but for a novella, it got to the point quickly. Very likable characters and the narration was done very well.
November 24, 2025
Former POW Andy is finally released from the hospital following his horrific ordeal in a French prison. Expecting to spend Christmas at an inn waiting for his next orders, he's dismayed to find there is no room at the inn! Luckily, he is invited to stay at the farm of Rosie's father, a woman he met on the mail coach.
The romance unfolds slowly and sweetly as Andy grapples with PTSD from his time as a POW. One thing I enjoy about Carla Kelly's romances is she does not sugar coat the realities British Navy men endured during the Napoleonic Wars. I always feel like I learn a little more about that time period in each of her novels/novellas.
The narrator did a wonderful job with the narration. I highly recommend listening to the audiobook for a quick listen set during the holidays with the magic and hope of Christmas even in the darkest of wartimes.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the review copy.
The romance unfolds slowly and sweetly as Andy grapples with PTSD from his time as a POW. One thing I enjoy about Carla Kelly's romances is she does not sugar coat the realities British Navy men endured during the Napoleonic Wars. I always feel like I learn a little more about that time period in each of her novels/novellas.
The narrator did a wonderful job with the narration. I highly recommend listening to the audiobook for a quick listen set during the holidays with the magic and hope of Christmas even in the darkest of wartimes.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the review copy.
November 30, 2025
First time reading this author. Andy and Rosie meet while traveling around Christmastime. He’s a former prisoner-of-war and she is visiting her family uncertain of what she wants out of her life. The novel provides a bit of an insight on what British Navy life was like during the French war with Napoleon and a quick little love story between two strangers who quickly become enthralled with one another. The romance unfolds slowly and sweetly as Andy grapples with PTSD from his time as a POW. The book was a bit slow for me but the story was nice. Many thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley
November 13, 2025
💕 A quick, light-spice, insta live romance. I received as an arc audio copy from NetGalley
Things I liked about the audio book
✅ narrator (and different character voices)
✅ cozy winter love story
✅ the couple worked together to help others
✅ the characters appreciated each other.
The narrator was easy to listen to.
An adorable regency era love story. It set the stage just enough to bring the story to life and picture the winter scenes. 🥲
It’s a good one to check out if you’re looking for a quick wholesome palate cleanser. 💕💕
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Things I liked about the audio book
✅ narrator (and different character voices)
✅ cozy winter love story
✅ the couple worked together to help others
✅ the characters appreciated each other.
The narrator was easy to listen to.
An adorable regency era love story. It set the stage just enough to bring the story to life and picture the winter scenes. 🥲
It’s a good one to check out if you’re looking for a quick wholesome palate cleanser. 💕💕
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
November 25, 2025
4+ stars
This is a wonderful, sweet, regency-era novella.
Andy and Rosie meet while traveling around Christmastime. He’s a former prisoner-of-war and she is visiting her family uncertain of what she wants out of her life.
My biggest complaint is that I wish this book was more of a full-length book than a novella. Andy and Rosie are delightful, and the supporting characters are great too. I would have loved to spend more time with everyone!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for this advanced audiobook.
This is a wonderful, sweet, regency-era novella.
Andy and Rosie meet while traveling around Christmastime. He’s a former prisoner-of-war and she is visiting her family uncertain of what she wants out of her life.
My biggest complaint is that I wish this book was more of a full-length book than a novella. Andy and Rosie are delightful, and the supporting characters are great too. I would have loved to spend more time with everyone!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for this advanced audiobook.
December 2, 2025
This is a short and sweet holiday read, very much in that Hallmark-esque story lane. It was okay. I didn’t feel like there was a whole lot going on. The pacing is slow, there’s some instalove, but I didn’t feel like the characters had much chemistry.
I listened to it on my road trip home after visiting family for Thanksgiving, and it did give me a nice little appetizer to kick off the Christmas season. So even though the story didn’t excite me, the vibes were still there.
Thank you to NetGalley, Carla Kelly, and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
I listened to it on my road trip home after visiting family for Thanksgiving, and it did give me a nice little appetizer to kick off the Christmas season. So even though the story didn’t excite me, the vibes were still there.
Thank you to NetGalley, Carla Kelly, and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
November 14, 2025
This holiday regency novella was so sweet and adorable. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced audio copy. The author, publisher, and narrator hit this one out of the park and was enjoyable to listen to.
Rosie is a very kind and thoughtful woman who comes to the aid of Master Andrew Hadfield while he is on leave. Their journey to both delivering kindness and to their love was tender and emotional. A truly heart-warming Christmas read.
Rosie is a very kind and thoughtful woman who comes to the aid of Master Andrew Hadfield while he is on leave. Their journey to both delivering kindness and to their love was tender and emotional. A truly heart-warming Christmas read.
December 1, 2025
A snowstorm forces Rosie and a war-weary naval officer, Andy, into close quarters at her farm, where they discover a connection neither expected. I loved this heartwarming Regency holiday novella. The characters and romance are well-developed given the shorter length. It’s a fun, feel-good story. I enjoyed the audiobook narration.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 11, 2025
A Christmas Houseguest by Carla Kelly, narrated by Helen Keeley. Enjoy this sweet Christmas Romance novella. Quick Christmas read just in time for the holiday season. Story set in England 1811. Thank you to #NetGalley and #Harlequin Audio for this Arc. This is my honest review. Releases Nov 25, 2025
November 25, 2025
A Christmas novels with a historical vibe. Caring for a solider in need of nursing that developed into a romance. It’s a quick read and if you like the historical period Christmas vibe you’ll probably enjoy it. Just didn’t really hold my attention. Thank you Net Galley for the advanced copy of this audiobook.
December 9, 2025
A Christmas Houseguest
By Carla Kelly ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narrated by Helen Keeley
Thank you to Carla Kelly, Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for allowing me access to a review copy of this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A recent Royal Navy P.O.W., Andy, who had escaped The French decided he would take a trip into the country to check on the wife of his deceased mentor. In the process he ends up on a stranded coach with a couple of ladies. Rosie and her sister come to his rescue, and he ends up as a guest at their father’s farm. Here, he starts to recover, and she helps him find the lady he was looking for.
This was a sweet historical romance book. The main character had survived a lot, and needed a healing story. My biggest problem was the quickness of the tale. Everything moved so fast. Then it ended with everything tied in a neat little bow. That being said, it was a great little holiday romance.
By Carla Kelly ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narrated by Helen Keeley
Thank you to Carla Kelly, Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for allowing me access to a review copy of this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A recent Royal Navy P.O.W., Andy, who had escaped The French decided he would take a trip into the country to check on the wife of his deceased mentor. In the process he ends up on a stranded coach with a couple of ladies. Rosie and her sister come to his rescue, and he ends up as a guest at their father’s farm. Here, he starts to recover, and she helps him find the lady he was looking for.
This was a sweet historical romance book. The main character had survived a lot, and needed a healing story. My biggest problem was the quickness of the tale. Everything moved so fast. Then it ended with everything tied in a neat little bow. That being said, it was a great little holiday romance.
November 19, 2025
This historical holiday novella was about a Navy soldier on Christmas leave and tells about his struggles that he’s endured. It’s a cozy love story and It’s very fast pace but I really enjoyed the read. The narrators done a great job as well.
November 20, 2025
This was a cozy historical fiction Christmas book. This was a very short book so it would be perfect for a short road trip during the holidays. This was a bit slow, but overall good. The narrator was great. Thanks for choosing me for the ARC!
November 10, 2025
This was a short but sweet Christmas love story. It was a love at first sight, military romance that leaves you with those warm and toasty feelings.
did-not-finish
November 24, 2025DNF @ 12%
Not a fan of the narration.
Not a fan of the narration.
December 12, 2025
Oh how I love this author! Her writing is real and delightful! Loved it!!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this book!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this book!
December 24, 2025
I listened to this one on audio. This was a 3.5 and rounded it to 4. It was an ok book. Nothing too exciting or going on. The characters are nice.
December 8, 2025
A Christmas Houseguest is a short and sweet Christmas novella that takes place during the Regency era. Andrew is a British naval officer on his way to deliver a letter and ends up stranded in bad weather. Rosie comes to his rescue and the rest is history! This is the perfect Christmas romance when you're short on time but want that holiday feel. I will be looking for more books by Carla Kelly in the future!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own,
Publication date: 25 November 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own,
Publication date: 25 November 2025
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