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Holiday Romance #3
Escape to the Northern Lights
High-powered lawyer Sara Pearson thought she had life figured out – until her whirlwind marriage ends in divorce, her dream promotion slips away and a burnout diagnosis forces her to take a break.
Desperate for a reset, she books a four-week retreat in Norway, imagining a luxurious escape. Instead, she finds herself in the rugged wilderness of Firefly Forest, knee-deep in reindeer droppings and stuck with a grumpy but infuriatingly attractive outdoorsman, Henrik Nilsen.
What starts as a nightmare turns into a journey of self-discovery as Sara swaps designer heels for bare feet, legal briefs for tree-hugging, and fleeting flings for something far deeper.
Packed with humour, romance and a love affair with nature, Escape to the Northern Lights is a story of transformation, second chances and finding home in the most unexpected places.
Desperate for a reset, she books a four-week retreat in Norway, imagining a luxurious escape. Instead, she finds herself in the rugged wilderness of Firefly Forest, knee-deep in reindeer droppings and stuck with a grumpy but infuriatingly attractive outdoorsman, Henrik Nilsen.
What starts as a nightmare turns into a journey of self-discovery as Sara swaps designer heels for bare feet, legal briefs for tree-hugging, and fleeting flings for something far deeper.
Packed with humour, romance and a love affair with nature, Escape to the Northern Lights is a story of transformation, second chances and finding home in the most unexpected places.
352 pages, Paperback
Published January 27, 2026
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285 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
February 7, 2026
*Priorities*
This is the third and final book in the Holiday Romance series. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, mainly because it offered a realistic take on life.
We meet Sara, a defence barrister going through a divorce and a workaholic. When she’s up for promotion, it doesn’t happen. The company is restructuring, leaving her deflated. She continues working until she literally burns herself out at work!
This forces her to take a break, but her panic attacks and racing heart make her realise she needs to make changes. After a few glasses of wine, she books a four-week retreat, imagining the spa and luxury. However, where she ends up is nothing like that. Faced with patchy internet, she reluctantly tries to relax. She’s actually booked the wrong location, lol.
She’s determined to rebook for the luxury one, but a snowstorm delays that plan. The more she resists, the more she starts to relax for the first time in her career.
Over time, her broken heart begins to heal thanks to a handsome outdoor Viking-like man named Henrik, who’s part of the family running the retreat.
Things take a turn when her ex-husband to be shows up, causing a huge spanner in the works. However, when she realises his intentions, she must dig deep and use her legal brain to figure things out as it affects the retreat.
On her return home, she reflects on her life and what truly matters. Will she find a way to make her life more fulfilling, and does Henrik play a role in her plans?
This is the third and final book in the Holiday Romance series. I thoroughly enjoyed this one, mainly because it offered a realistic take on life.
We meet Sara, a defence barrister going through a divorce and a workaholic. When she’s up for promotion, it doesn’t happen. The company is restructuring, leaving her deflated. She continues working until she literally burns herself out at work!
This forces her to take a break, but her panic attacks and racing heart make her realise she needs to make changes. After a few glasses of wine, she books a four-week retreat, imagining the spa and luxury. However, where she ends up is nothing like that. Faced with patchy internet, she reluctantly tries to relax. She’s actually booked the wrong location, lol.
She’s determined to rebook for the luxury one, but a snowstorm delays that plan. The more she resists, the more she starts to relax for the first time in her career.
Over time, her broken heart begins to heal thanks to a handsome outdoor Viking-like man named Henrik, who’s part of the family running the retreat.
Things take a turn when her ex-husband to be shows up, causing a huge spanner in the works. However, when she realises his intentions, she must dig deep and use her legal brain to figure things out as it affects the retreat.
On her return home, she reflects on her life and what truly matters. Will she find a way to make her life more fulfilling, and does Henrik play a role in her plans?
September 4, 2025
I received a free copy of, Escape to the Northern Lights, by Carrie Walker, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Sara needs some self care, to put herself first, so she decides to go to Norway for a month. I think everyone needs a recharge now ans then, but not everyone can go to Norway for a month to recharge. This was a nice read.
November 15, 2025
Das war einfach nur cute und wholesome. Ich hab jetzt auch Bock auf ein vegan-no-wifi-retreat in Norwegen.
Sara wäre in einer romcom glaube nicht die most likeable Prota gewesen, aber durch ihren inneren Monolog bin ich recht schnell mit ihr warm geworden. Henrik war ganz sweet, ein kleines Etwas ✨ hat mir dennoch für die perfekte Dynamik zwischen den Beiden gefehlt.
Großer Pluspunkt fürs Ende und dass es kein großes Drama gab.
Sara wäre in einer romcom glaube nicht die most likeable Prota gewesen, aber durch ihren inneren Monolog bin ich recht schnell mit ihr warm geworden. Henrik war ganz sweet, ein kleines Etwas ✨ hat mir dennoch für die perfekte Dynamik zwischen den Beiden gefehlt.
Großer Pluspunkt fürs Ende und dass es kein großes Drama gab.
November 20, 2025
no tension, no passion, no longing, no character development, no real conversation, NO ACTUAL ROMANCE
January 1, 2026
Escape to the Northern Lights was a delightful story that made me want to pack my bags and head to Firefly Forest. Sara Lee is a criminal defense lawyer who is on the path to partner when the firm announces that they won't be adding a partner that year. She has a panic attack and ends up in the hospital. The doctor tells her she needs to take time off. Her firm forces her to take a leave for over a month. She books a month stay at a spa and resort for some pampering. She accidentally booked a rugged Norwegian retreat that is no technology, vegan food, silent meals and some unexpected activities. She is ready to leave after one day, but a storm closes the airport, and forces her to stay for a week. She gradually comes to appreciate the reset in her life, and begins to fall for Henrik Nilson, the son of the owner. As she and Henrik become closer, she finds he enjoys the tranquil atmosphere, and then her ex shows up. Why is he there?
This was an enjoyable escape to the wilderness in Norway. The only way to get to Firefly Forest is by boat. I loved the descriptions of the cabins, the forest, the mountain and more. The different experiences sounded amazing, although I might be a bit too old and out of shape for the Norwegian skiing. I did the fire/ice thing at a spa, but it was just a hot tub to cold pool, not sauna to snow like in the story, and don't talk to me about walking over coals. I enjoyed getting to know both Sara and Henrik. Both worked high profile jobs that caused burnout, and Firefly Forest helped them find their equilibrium. The romance storyline was well done. It wasn't insta-love, but there was instant attraction. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. There is an older octogenarian, and two couples that share in many of the experiences. Themes of new beginnings, family, transformation, friendship, and romance are all there, but so are greed and development of land. Although I read this as part of my Christmas reading, it is not a Christmas story, it is however a story set in winter. This is the 3rd book in Carrie Walker's Holiday series, but it is a standalone story.
This was an enjoyable escape to the wilderness in Norway. The only way to get to Firefly Forest is by boat. I loved the descriptions of the cabins, the forest, the mountain and more. The different experiences sounded amazing, although I might be a bit too old and out of shape for the Norwegian skiing. I did the fire/ice thing at a spa, but it was just a hot tub to cold pool, not sauna to snow like in the story, and don't talk to me about walking over coals. I enjoyed getting to know both Sara and Henrik. Both worked high profile jobs that caused burnout, and Firefly Forest helped them find their equilibrium. The romance storyline was well done. It wasn't insta-love, but there was instant attraction. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. There is an older octogenarian, and two couples that share in many of the experiences. Themes of new beginnings, family, transformation, friendship, and romance are all there, but so are greed and development of land. Although I read this as part of my Christmas reading, it is not a Christmas story, it is however a story set in winter. This is the 3rd book in Carrie Walker's Holiday series, but it is a standalone story.
October 21, 2025
Sara is a busy lawyer, all set for a big promotion, but then life takes a turn she doesn’t expect. While dealing with a divorce, the promotion doesn’t happen and she is left totally burnt out.
With leave due to her and more time on top to get better she heads off for what she believes is a luxury spa retreat. Needless to say things are quite what she anticipated!
This is a nice read with lots of scene setting in this beautiful, natural environment. Think snow, tranquility, peace, everything you need to get your mental health back on track. I must admit I just couldn’t really gel with Sara, I’m not sure why and lovely Henrik just seems too good to be real.
This story is quite a slow burn, but really does consider what busy jobs, stress and anxiety does to a person and how striping that all back can make a difference.
The romance angle suddenly comes upon you, perhaps because we are told the story from Sara’s perspective and don’t know what Henrik is feeling. Sara’s soon to be ex husband throws confusion into the story, but not in the way you may expect.
Over all a nice read, I loved the previous books from this author, but this one just left me wanting a little more. Although the scene was so well set and described, I think it just lacked some chemistry between the characters and I didn’t find myself reaching for it. After a slow start, I really did enjoy the last 20% or so, feeling a lot more for the main character during this part.
January 19, 2026
Well, that’s probably the only way I’m going to travel to Norway this year!
The main character, Sara, is in a high-pressure job in London and dealing with an almost ex-husband when she accidentally books herself onto the wrong retreat - not a posh spa getaway, but a vegan meditation retreat in a snowy forest. Naturally, she falls in love with one of the owners and his family. Before her HEA, though, she makes so many questionable choices that I found myself wanting to scream at her in frustration.
It was charming, but that subjective annoyance got in the way of me fully enjoying this bookish getaway.
Overall, if you want to experience snowy, beautiful Norway through the pages of a book, you could give this one a go, just be prepared to go on "a journey" with Sara while she figures her life out.
3/5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
The main character, Sara, is in a high-pressure job in London and dealing with an almost ex-husband when she accidentally books herself onto the wrong retreat - not a posh spa getaway, but a vegan meditation retreat in a snowy forest. Naturally, she falls in love with one of the owners and his family. Before her HEA, though, she makes so many questionable choices that I found myself wanting to scream at her in frustration.
It was charming, but that subjective annoyance got in the way of me fully enjoying this bookish getaway.
Overall, if you want to experience snowy, beautiful Norway through the pages of a book, you could give this one a go, just be prepared to go on "a journey" with Sara while she figures her life out.
3/5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 10, 2025
Escape to the Northern Lights by Carrie Walker is a warm, uplifting story about Sara, a burned-out lawyer who accidentally books herself into a rugged wilderness retreat in northern Norway instead of the luxury spa she expected. What begins as a disaster quickly becomes a transformative escape.
Walker’s descriptions of the retreat are vivid and charming - from crisp forest air with rustic cabins to endless night skies and the glow of the northern lights. The setting feels restorative, almost magical, and perfectly mirrors Sara’s emotional healing. Her growing connection with the gentle, outdoorsy Henrik adds heart and humour, turning the wilderness into a place of unexpected comfort and possibility.
Short, cosy, and full of atmosphere, this is a delightful read for anyone who loves romance, self-discovery, and the soothing pull of nature. It will make you want to take a trip to Norway - or at least armchair travel there ❄️
Walker’s descriptions of the retreat are vivid and charming - from crisp forest air with rustic cabins to endless night skies and the glow of the northern lights. The setting feels restorative, almost magical, and perfectly mirrors Sara’s emotional healing. Her growing connection with the gentle, outdoorsy Henrik adds heart and humour, turning the wilderness into a place of unexpected comfort and possibility.
Short, cosy, and full of atmosphere, this is a delightful read for anyone who loves romance, self-discovery, and the soothing pull of nature. It will make you want to take a trip to Norway - or at least armchair travel there ❄️
January 22, 2026
I have to admit the cover of this book was what initially drew me in - it looks so beautiful with the colours of the Northern Lights. The story follows the life of a busy high powered lawyer, Sara. When her marriage falls apart and her anticipated promotion is taken away from her, Sara books herself onto a luxurious celebrity spa retreat in Norway (which was recommended to her by a friend). However her friend has got it wrong and Sara finds herself at Firefly Forest, a back to nature wellness retreat where building fires, vegan dining, no alcohol and tree hugging is on the agenda!
I did love this book! I didn't like Sara initially, especially when she first gets to Firefly Forest. She came across as rude and uptight, despite it all being her mistake with the wrong booking. Henrik, one of the owners, takes her all in his stride though and it's fun to watch their relationship develop as the story moves on. I'm not sure it would have been my kind of thing either, so I can sort of see where Sara was coming from initially. But as I read more, parts of the retreat did win me over! It seemed the perfect place for Sara to regather her thoughts and perhaps we could all learn the lesson of some time away from social media and the hustle and bustle of day to day life.
This was a great read and not only was it full of love, life and laughter, but the location and it's scenery was described spectacularly!! I would love to visit there myself! Would definitely recommend this book!
I did love this book! I didn't like Sara initially, especially when she first gets to Firefly Forest. She came across as rude and uptight, despite it all being her mistake with the wrong booking. Henrik, one of the owners, takes her all in his stride though and it's fun to watch their relationship develop as the story moves on. I'm not sure it would have been my kind of thing either, so I can sort of see where Sara was coming from initially. But as I read more, parts of the retreat did win me over! It seemed the perfect place for Sara to regather her thoughts and perhaps we could all learn the lesson of some time away from social media and the hustle and bustle of day to day life.
This was a great read and not only was it full of love, life and laughter, but the location and it's scenery was described spectacularly!! I would love to visit there myself! Would definitely recommend this book!
August 13, 2025
This was such a heartwarming read. I couldn't put it down and I read it in one sitting. It's the perfect book to escape with over the festive season. The story was cute and easy to follow and had a good cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2025
Refreshing to have a brit as the main character and I enjoyed some of the humour but at times I felt like Sara would never take anything seriously, including Henrik. I didn't feel the chemistry between them at all.
January 11, 2026
Sara is burnt out (I felt her pain). She’s worked far too hard to get that elusive partnership at the legal firm she’s at. But she collapses and is signed off sick. Still not over the breakdown of her marriage she books a spa break to Norway on the recommendation of a bestie. But it’s not what she expects and all fun and games ensue!
I’m not the biggest snow and cold weather fan so reading about Sara’s antics in Firefly Forest curled up in my fleecy comfy made me feel all warm and cosy. Getting fresh bread every day sounded like heaven however I don’t know if I’d fancy a full month of pure veggie food myself – I do love a good steak or chicken curry!
As Sara accepted her fate of staying at Firefly Forest given to her by Mother Nature, I really enjoyed going along beside her as she gradually accepted matters and embraced the activities put on, including the tree hugging.
I love Carrie Walker’s books. This is the third I’ve read from her keyboard and each one I’ve loved. She gives a nod to characters in her gorgeous world (which I love) but not so much that you’d know you missed anything. Each story is standalone but faintly interlinked.
Escape To The Northern Lights was a joy to read. Despite the chilly backdrop, the characters were very lovable, well most of them – there was one I just wanted to drop in an icy lake and leave there! Walker gave the story the right level of ambience to make me feel the chill of the Scandinavian woodland without leaving my toasty comfy!
I’m not the biggest snow and cold weather fan so reading about Sara’s antics in Firefly Forest curled up in my fleecy comfy made me feel all warm and cosy. Getting fresh bread every day sounded like heaven however I don’t know if I’d fancy a full month of pure veggie food myself – I do love a good steak or chicken curry!
As Sara accepted her fate of staying at Firefly Forest given to her by Mother Nature, I really enjoyed going along beside her as she gradually accepted matters and embraced the activities put on, including the tree hugging.
I love Carrie Walker’s books. This is the third I’ve read from her keyboard and each one I’ve loved. She gives a nod to characters in her gorgeous world (which I love) but not so much that you’d know you missed anything. Each story is standalone but faintly interlinked.
Escape To The Northern Lights was a joy to read. Despite the chilly backdrop, the characters were very lovable, well most of them – there was one I just wanted to drop in an icy lake and leave there! Walker gave the story the right level of ambience to make me feel the chill of the Scandinavian woodland without leaving my toasty comfy!
December 10, 2025
Loved the feel good read ♥️
December 28, 2025
Leuk en cute maar ook een beetje inhoudsloos en waarom zoent ze opeens haar domme ex?
October 22, 2025
A healthy dose of romcom ✅
A cute but steamy will-they/won’t-they romance ✅
A beautiful Northern Lights backdrop ✅
A hunky Norseman leading man ✅
A high-flying lawyer in need of a break ✅
A snowy, lodge-filled Norwegian forest ✅
A self-sufficient holiday spa retreat ✅
A heartwarming story of lasting generational commitment ✅
I don’t know about an Escape to the Northern Lights, but I definitely escaped somewhere — and I truly wish I was still there! I’m not a die-hard romcom reader, but every so often one comes along that completely transports me to another world. This book ticked so many boxes. I was invested in the richly developed characters from the first page and I loved the feel-good story of a woman rediscovering herself after burning out in the demanding world of law. When Sara realised she’d been booked into the wrong resort, fully expecting a five-star, relaxing and pampering experience, it was a joy to watch her discover that the workshops actually involved, tree-hugging, ice-cold swims and walking over hot coals - among other unusual, back-to-basics meditations. I have to admit, Sara’s encounter with the laughter workshop even had me giggling too. With a vegan, alcohol and technology free break from reality, Sara soon begins to realise there could well be more to being alive than money, high-powered jobs and city life.
I loved the brooding romance that ran deliciously hot on a few occasions, while still leaving plenty to the imagination.
Carrie Walker is a superb writer, and I’ll certainly be following her avidly in the future. I’d love to see a sequel to “Escape to the Northern Lights” - only because I’m missing Henrik and the Firefly Forest Retreat so much! I’d happily recommend this book to anyone who loves a cosy, escapist romance - and it’s the easiest five-star rating from me.
#EscapeToTheNorthernLights - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A cute but steamy will-they/won’t-they romance ✅
A beautiful Northern Lights backdrop ✅
A hunky Norseman leading man ✅
A high-flying lawyer in need of a break ✅
A snowy, lodge-filled Norwegian forest ✅
A self-sufficient holiday spa retreat ✅
A heartwarming story of lasting generational commitment ✅
I don’t know about an Escape to the Northern Lights, but I definitely escaped somewhere — and I truly wish I was still there! I’m not a die-hard romcom reader, but every so often one comes along that completely transports me to another world. This book ticked so many boxes. I was invested in the richly developed characters from the first page and I loved the feel-good story of a woman rediscovering herself after burning out in the demanding world of law. When Sara realised she’d been booked into the wrong resort, fully expecting a five-star, relaxing and pampering experience, it was a joy to watch her discover that the workshops actually involved, tree-hugging, ice-cold swims and walking over hot coals - among other unusual, back-to-basics meditations. I have to admit, Sara’s encounter with the laughter workshop even had me giggling too. With a vegan, alcohol and technology free break from reality, Sara soon begins to realise there could well be more to being alive than money, high-powered jobs and city life.
I loved the brooding romance that ran deliciously hot on a few occasions, while still leaving plenty to the imagination.
Carrie Walker is a superb writer, and I’ll certainly be following her avidly in the future. I’d love to see a sequel to “Escape to the Northern Lights” - only because I’m missing Henrik and the Firefly Forest Retreat so much! I’d happily recommend this book to anyone who loves a cosy, escapist romance - and it’s the easiest five-star rating from me.
#EscapeToTheNorthernLights - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 13, 2025
Newly divorced and snubbed for a promotion at her law firm, Sara is beyond stressed. Inspired by doctor's orders and mandatory time off work, she spontaneously books a 4-week retreat in Norway, expecting a pampering, luxurious spa experience. Hoo boy. Firefly forest... is anything but. But the owners of the woodsy retreat are passionately persistent; the Nilsen brothers and their father make it easy somehow for Sara to try everything they throw her way - from silent lunches to laugh workshops, to treehugging, gardening and more. And it doesn't hurt that one of the brothers, Henrik, dazzles her with his kind spirit andd his good looks.
Escape to the Northern Lights is set in Norway, near Bergen (which, I must nitpick, is written as though it's a small "everybody knows everybody" town, when it's actually a 300k population city - Firefly is set outside of it though). The setting is what drew me to give this book a go: Norway is a special place to me because I did quite a bit of mental healing there myself. One of my favorite places to stay there was in a small (I'm talking... well... a few meters by a few meters) wooden cabin in nature, overlooking a fjord: to me, that's the epitome of luxury. So the idea of a high-powered lawyer having to learn that lesson - that a pair of Jimmy Choo's ain't got nothing on a pair of good, huggable trees - just immediately made me think this book would be a good fit for me. I wanted to read about Sara's journey to find common ground, in a way. And to be reminded of what Norway brought me.
Not going to lie. It takes a gooooood long while to warm up to Sara. She's kind of a brat for a huge part of the book! But the author, Carrie Walker, is fully aware of that. Other characters call Sara out on her attitude a bunch of times. I think that's refreshing - to have a character we're frustrated with, one that may be a little bit harder to root for initially - but one who's at least self-aware enough to make changes. A character arc that's focused on self-discovery would not have been as interesting or as satisfying had the character in question been immediately likeable, unmaterialistic, open-minded. So as much as I sometimes felt like wringing Sara's neck, I did like that Walker wrote her the way she did and I liked how Sara does give everything a fair go. She rolls with it, begins to open up to both her new surroundings and the people in it, and discovers what matters in the process - and the reader is inspired to learn some valuable life lessons here, too. Sara's progression is lovely.
The love interest, Henrik, initially sounds like he's too good to be true. (Save from that one moment where he plays the fiddle all Tamlin-like. Please, no.) A rugged, free-spirited, kind-hearted Scandinavian god type stud... what would he see in a woman like Sara? But Walker turns him around a little by giving him a wholly unexpected finance bro background (which lingers just a wee bit enough to make him... someone attainable). Love that! So this man's already been through a journey of his own, and because his probably sees his former self in her, he's not deterred in the slightest by her initial crappy attitude.
Rather than being an instantaneous match, it kind of feels like they're working towards compatibility while Sara's on this retreat. Henrik takes the lead and opens up to Sara in many ways, and doesn't wait too long to do so; he pulls her out of her shell (and feels secure enough to come out of his own) and the romance is really comforting. Definitely one of the sweeter romance stories I've read in a while. There are some memorable scenes between them, of small intimacy, of thoughtful connection, of playfulness, that altogether have a bigger impact on their love story than their steamy scenes do (although those are obviously nice, too). I soaked up these moments.
But perhaps this isn't just a love story between a man and a woman... but between a woman and Norway, too. Not only does Sara fall in love with Henrik on this retreat: she falls in love with a place and a lifestyle, and that's what makes this book truly shine. I can relate to this re: my own experiences staying in Norway. But more than that, Firefly Forest sounds like a place I'd want to visit. Idyllic yet so simple. A place to unwind, to just be. Just be. A lot of what Sara experiences has an authentic ring to it which I can't really explain. I guess... reading about Firefly, and the experiences they offer - that alone is relaxing. Imagine doing these things for yourself. Sign me up. I think what makes it successful, is that the author lets us embrace the simplicity of this life along with Sara, rather than make a mockery of it. Yes, they hug trees - but it's not made fun of. It's an emotional exercise. The silent lunches may sound silly as a concept, but then Sara explains how she's very consciously sitting down to taste her food and being in the moment, and it again just makes sense. Rather than use it as an attempt to score comedy points, Walker seems to believe in her own setting. Escape to the Northern Lights still has plenty of humor without sacrificing the integrity of this kind of retreat.
The Nilsen family and their history definitely are a huge part of why the retreat is a safe haven. The loss of the family matriarch, Audhilda, impacted them enormously, and I liked that Walker made sure her presence is still everywhere, inspiring a lot of what Tore and his sons do with the retreat. The Nilsen family is very warm - if you have them, you HAVE them. Just enough of a found family trope for Sara to get to have.
There is a prick ex subplot which I don't like because Mark is like a gnat that won't go leave your wine alone, and I wanted to just swat him away from Sara's personal growth and the romance's progression. He is in the way of the good stuff! But his annoying presence shows us how much better off Sara is without this guy and of course it helps Sara see what really matters to her now. So there's a point to him. But I think Walker wrote him almost too well. I hate Mark, I hate what he represents (...also the point, yeah yeah), I hate him for Sara, I hate him for myself. Go away, Mark, "faen ta deg".
Thank you NetGalley and Aria & Aries for generously providing me with a copy of this book; all opinions expressed are honest, voluntary and 100% my own.
Escape to the Northern Lights is set in Norway, near Bergen (which, I must nitpick, is written as though it's a small "everybody knows everybody" town, when it's actually a 300k population city - Firefly is set outside of it though). The setting is what drew me to give this book a go: Norway is a special place to me because I did quite a bit of mental healing there myself. One of my favorite places to stay there was in a small (I'm talking... well... a few meters by a few meters) wooden cabin in nature, overlooking a fjord: to me, that's the epitome of luxury. So the idea of a high-powered lawyer having to learn that lesson - that a pair of Jimmy Choo's ain't got nothing on a pair of good, huggable trees - just immediately made me think this book would be a good fit for me. I wanted to read about Sara's journey to find common ground, in a way. And to be reminded of what Norway brought me.
Not going to lie. It takes a gooooood long while to warm up to Sara. She's kind of a brat for a huge part of the book! But the author, Carrie Walker, is fully aware of that. Other characters call Sara out on her attitude a bunch of times. I think that's refreshing - to have a character we're frustrated with, one that may be a little bit harder to root for initially - but one who's at least self-aware enough to make changes. A character arc that's focused on self-discovery would not have been as interesting or as satisfying had the character in question been immediately likeable, unmaterialistic, open-minded. So as much as I sometimes felt like wringing Sara's neck, I did like that Walker wrote her the way she did and I liked how Sara does give everything a fair go. She rolls with it, begins to open up to both her new surroundings and the people in it, and discovers what matters in the process - and the reader is inspired to learn some valuable life lessons here, too. Sara's progression is lovely.
The love interest, Henrik, initially sounds like he's too good to be true. (Save from that one moment where he plays the fiddle all Tamlin-like. Please, no.) A rugged, free-spirited, kind-hearted Scandinavian god type stud... what would he see in a woman like Sara? But Walker turns him around a little by giving him a wholly unexpected finance bro background (which lingers just a wee bit enough to make him... someone attainable). Love that! So this man's already been through a journey of his own, and because his probably sees his former self in her, he's not deterred in the slightest by her initial crappy attitude.
Rather than being an instantaneous match, it kind of feels like they're working towards compatibility while Sara's on this retreat. Henrik takes the lead and opens up to Sara in many ways, and doesn't wait too long to do so; he pulls her out of her shell (and feels secure enough to come out of his own) and the romance is really comforting. Definitely one of the sweeter romance stories I've read in a while. There are some memorable scenes between them, of small intimacy, of thoughtful connection, of playfulness, that altogether have a bigger impact on their love story than their steamy scenes do (although those are obviously nice, too). I soaked up these moments.
But perhaps this isn't just a love story between a man and a woman... but between a woman and Norway, too. Not only does Sara fall in love with Henrik on this retreat: she falls in love with a place and a lifestyle, and that's what makes this book truly shine. I can relate to this re: my own experiences staying in Norway. But more than that, Firefly Forest sounds like a place I'd want to visit. Idyllic yet so simple. A place to unwind, to just be. Just be. A lot of what Sara experiences has an authentic ring to it which I can't really explain. I guess... reading about Firefly, and the experiences they offer - that alone is relaxing. Imagine doing these things for yourself. Sign me up. I think what makes it successful, is that the author lets us embrace the simplicity of this life along with Sara, rather than make a mockery of it. Yes, they hug trees - but it's not made fun of. It's an emotional exercise. The silent lunches may sound silly as a concept, but then Sara explains how she's very consciously sitting down to taste her food and being in the moment, and it again just makes sense. Rather than use it as an attempt to score comedy points, Walker seems to believe in her own setting. Escape to the Northern Lights still has plenty of humor without sacrificing the integrity of this kind of retreat.
The Nilsen family and their history definitely are a huge part of why the retreat is a safe haven. The loss of the family matriarch, Audhilda, impacted them enormously, and I liked that Walker made sure her presence is still everywhere, inspiring a lot of what Tore and his sons do with the retreat. The Nilsen family is very warm - if you have them, you HAVE them. Just enough of a found family trope for Sara to get to have.
There is a prick ex subplot which I don't like because Mark is like a gnat that won't go leave your wine alone, and I wanted to just swat him away from Sara's personal growth and the romance's progression. He is in the way of the good stuff! But his annoying presence shows us how much better off Sara is without this guy and of course it helps Sara see what really matters to her now. So there's a point to him. But I think Walker wrote him almost too well. I hate Mark, I hate what he represents (...also the point, yeah yeah), I hate him for Sara, I hate him for myself. Go away, Mark, "faen ta deg".
Thank you NetGalley and Aria & Aries for generously providing me with a copy of this book; all opinions expressed are honest, voluntary and 100% my own.
November 19, 2025
Escape to the Northern Lights is a cosy and feel-good story about slowing down, reconnecting with yourself and finding love in unexpected places, all set against the beautiful landscapes of Norway.
Sara is a lawyer from London who is burned out after a messy divorce and losing a promotion she worked hard for. Needing a break, she books what she believes is a luxurious four-week spa retreat in Norway, only to arrive and discover she has accidentally signed up for a no wi-fi, all vegan, off the grid wellness retreat at Firefly Forest. What begins as her worst nightmare slowly turns into something much more meaningful.
It took me a while to warm up to Sara. She can be spoiled and resistant to anything outside her comfort zone, but that also makes her transformation satisfying. As the story develops, she slowly begins to appreciate the quiet, the nature that surrounds her and the peace it brings, and she develops a genuine connection to herself and a sense of presence that her old life never allowed. I liked how the story shifts from Sara wanting to escape Firefly Forest to an emotional journey of self discovery, reminding us that sometimes the things we resist most are the ones we truly need.
Henrik is a calm, grounded and kind hearted Norwegian (and a tree hugger, which I found adorable) who contrasts Sara in the best way. I liked how he takes the lead and opens up to her early, gently pulling Sara out of her shell while also allowing himself to step out of his own. Their romance is built from small moments, playfulness, shared vulnerability and a slow trust that grows naturally as they spend time together. I just wished we had seen more of these moments on the page, which made it harder for me to fully feel their romantic connection, especially since the attraction was there from the beginning. Maybe the timeline was the issue, since it jumps from days to weeks, and we miss out on a lot of Sara’s development as well as her interactions with Henrik, his family and the other guests. Even with these small issues, I found their romance sweet and genuinely comforting.
The rest of the Nilsen family also add an extra layer of coziness to the story. Their kindness, humour, warmth and close bond create a strong sense of community that makes Firefly Forest feel like a place where people can genuinely heal. The soft found family element works beautifully here. However, I think the atmosphere is where this book truly shines. The snowy forests, wooden cabins and peaceful Norwegian landscapes are described in such a calm and inviting way that it is easy to sink into the setting, even for someone who lives here like myself. I still have not seen the Northern Lights in their full potential, but maybe one day.
Overall, Escape to the Northern Lights is an atmospheric and lovely wintery escape romance about letting go of control, slowing down and rediscovering what matters. It is not perfect, but it gives us a small taste of how comforting the hygge life can be. I give it 3.75 stars, rounded to 4.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Sara is a lawyer from London who is burned out after a messy divorce and losing a promotion she worked hard for. Needing a break, she books what she believes is a luxurious four-week spa retreat in Norway, only to arrive and discover she has accidentally signed up for a no wi-fi, all vegan, off the grid wellness retreat at Firefly Forest. What begins as her worst nightmare slowly turns into something much more meaningful.
It took me a while to warm up to Sara. She can be spoiled and resistant to anything outside her comfort zone, but that also makes her transformation satisfying. As the story develops, she slowly begins to appreciate the quiet, the nature that surrounds her and the peace it brings, and she develops a genuine connection to herself and a sense of presence that her old life never allowed. I liked how the story shifts from Sara wanting to escape Firefly Forest to an emotional journey of self discovery, reminding us that sometimes the things we resist most are the ones we truly need.
Henrik is a calm, grounded and kind hearted Norwegian (and a tree hugger, which I found adorable) who contrasts Sara in the best way. I liked how he takes the lead and opens up to her early, gently pulling Sara out of her shell while also allowing himself to step out of his own. Their romance is built from small moments, playfulness, shared vulnerability and a slow trust that grows naturally as they spend time together. I just wished we had seen more of these moments on the page, which made it harder for me to fully feel their romantic connection, especially since the attraction was there from the beginning. Maybe the timeline was the issue, since it jumps from days to weeks, and we miss out on a lot of Sara’s development as well as her interactions with Henrik, his family and the other guests. Even with these small issues, I found their romance sweet and genuinely comforting.
The rest of the Nilsen family also add an extra layer of coziness to the story. Their kindness, humour, warmth and close bond create a strong sense of community that makes Firefly Forest feel like a place where people can genuinely heal. The soft found family element works beautifully here. However, I think the atmosphere is where this book truly shines. The snowy forests, wooden cabins and peaceful Norwegian landscapes are described in such a calm and inviting way that it is easy to sink into the setting, even for someone who lives here like myself. I still have not seen the Northern Lights in their full potential, but maybe one day.
Overall, Escape to the Northern Lights is an atmospheric and lovely wintery escape romance about letting go of control, slowing down and rediscovering what matters. It is not perfect, but it gives us a small taste of how comforting the hygge life can be. I give it 3.75 stars, rounded to 4.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
November 30, 2025
High-powered lawyer, Sara, hasn't had a good year. Her husband has left her, she's missed out on the partnership she's been working towards, and she is having panic attacks. After a particularly bad attack that causes her to faint at work, Sara is ordered to take time off and rest, something she is very unhappy about. But her friends convince her this is a great opportunity to recharge, so she books a month at Firefly Forest, an exclusive retreat in Norway that she's told actress Emma Stone visited. Sara can't wait for massages, spa treatments, good food and lots to drink. But when she arrives, Sara discovers that Firefly Forest isn't what she thought it was. Instead of the luxury retreat, she has arrived at a nature retreat where alcohol and technology are banned, everyone eats Vegan, and their ‘treatments’ are far from conventional. Sara needs to get out of here. Fast!
Slowly, Sara sees that there are good things about Firefly and begins to not only enjoy the retreat, but realises that their holistic approach is helping her find herself. Then there's Henrik, the hunky man who is one third of the trio in charge of the retreat, with whom she has an undeniable chemistry. Could what started out as a nightmare holiday turn into the journey of self-discovery she needed all along.
I love a heartwarming, witty and uplifting read, and this had all of that and more. Carrie Walker delivered a light-hearted, funny, escapist read full of gorgeous imagery, charismatic characters and important life lessons. And while this is a romcom, there's also a lot of tension in the story as we are kept guessing if Henrik and Sara will give into their feelings and if Sara will let go and enjoy the retreat. There's also some pretty big drama that I'll not spoil for potential readers. It's a slice of wintery heaven, and I enjoyed every moment.
Sara was a great protagonist who was likeable but definitely needed to chill out. I'll admit, I enjoyed watching her freak out when Firefly Forest wasn't what she thought she'd booked, but it was great to see her slowly embrace it and learn from the experience. The chemistry between her and Henrik was sizzling. He was a total dreamboat and it was easy to see how she'd fall for him just from his personality alone. I was screaming at her in my mind to give in to what she wanted.
Travelling through books is one of my favourite aspects of reading, and with this book Walker transported me to the snowy vistas of Norway and allowed me to experience its delights without having to leave my house or freeze in the snow. I'd definitely be the girl sitting by the fire with a hot chocolate instead of hiking up a piste!
An entertaining and hilarious winter romance, this is the perfect read this season.
Slowly, Sara sees that there are good things about Firefly and begins to not only enjoy the retreat, but realises that their holistic approach is helping her find herself. Then there's Henrik, the hunky man who is one third of the trio in charge of the retreat, with whom she has an undeniable chemistry. Could what started out as a nightmare holiday turn into the journey of self-discovery she needed all along.
I love a heartwarming, witty and uplifting read, and this had all of that and more. Carrie Walker delivered a light-hearted, funny, escapist read full of gorgeous imagery, charismatic characters and important life lessons. And while this is a romcom, there's also a lot of tension in the story as we are kept guessing if Henrik and Sara will give into their feelings and if Sara will let go and enjoy the retreat. There's also some pretty big drama that I'll not spoil for potential readers. It's a slice of wintery heaven, and I enjoyed every moment.
Sara was a great protagonist who was likeable but definitely needed to chill out. I'll admit, I enjoyed watching her freak out when Firefly Forest wasn't what she thought she'd booked, but it was great to see her slowly embrace it and learn from the experience. The chemistry between her and Henrik was sizzling. He was a total dreamboat and it was easy to see how she'd fall for him just from his personality alone. I was screaming at her in my mind to give in to what she wanted.
Travelling through books is one of my favourite aspects of reading, and with this book Walker transported me to the snowy vistas of Norway and allowed me to experience its delights without having to leave my house or freeze in the snow. I'd definitely be the girl sitting by the fire with a hot chocolate instead of hiking up a piste!
An entertaining and hilarious winter romance, this is the perfect read this season.
October 26, 2025
Escape to the Northern Lights is a cozy romance told from the perspective of Sara Pearson. Sara is a 32 year old lawyer from London who is currently going through a divorce and fighting to be made partner at her firm. After experiencing some health issues due to stress and overworking, she books what she thinks is an 5-Star, all-inclusive, spa retreat in Norway. When Sara arrives, however, she finds she had mistakenly booked a month long stay at an off-the-grid cabin retreat with no internet, an all vegan menu, and no spa.
I like the idea of this story of learning to take a step back and evaluate what is truly important in your life (and maybe find some love along the way). However, this lacked in the execution.
Sara is our sole narrator, so we see the story through her perspective. I found there was too much inner monologging and not enough actual meaningful on page conversation, especially with Henrik who is our love interest. There are discussions of them having had conversations, but we don’t get to see them, which I found frustrating. As a result, I never felt truly connected to either character and found they were lacking any real romantic chemistry.
It felt like for the first half of the book Sara was in the dark as to everything that was happening to and around her at the retreat. Why did everyone else seem to know that skiing the “Nordic way” meant literally climbing the mountain first and then skiing down? And then they were frustrated with her lack of understanding. She is a lawyer, so I assume she isn’t an absolute idiot, so how is she always so clueless?
There is a smattering of side characters here between Henrik’s family, a few other retreat guests, and Sara’s ex. But they felt like filler and not as integral part of the story. A lot of being told Sara is making connections and not a lot of showing.
The plot and timeline start by going day by day through her time at the retreat. Then it starts jumping entire weeks at random. It just felt jarring and choppy. We missed out on a lot of Sara’s development personally as well as her relationship with Henrik, his family, and the other guests. This felt like a big contrast from the cozy and relaxed feel of the start of her stay.
When her ex, Mark, shows up, the whole focus of the story strays too far away from Sara’s transformation to a weird legal land ownership debate. It was out of place and unnecessary.
At the end of the day, I just didn’t buy into Sara’s transformation and that it wasn’t just and effect of her having been on a month long vacation.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I like the idea of this story of learning to take a step back and evaluate what is truly important in your life (and maybe find some love along the way). However, this lacked in the execution.
Sara is our sole narrator, so we see the story through her perspective. I found there was too much inner monologging and not enough actual meaningful on page conversation, especially with Henrik who is our love interest. There are discussions of them having had conversations, but we don’t get to see them, which I found frustrating. As a result, I never felt truly connected to either character and found they were lacking any real romantic chemistry.
It felt like for the first half of the book Sara was in the dark as to everything that was happening to and around her at the retreat. Why did everyone else seem to know that skiing the “Nordic way” meant literally climbing the mountain first and then skiing down? And then they were frustrated with her lack of understanding. She is a lawyer, so I assume she isn’t an absolute idiot, so how is she always so clueless?
There is a smattering of side characters here between Henrik’s family, a few other retreat guests, and Sara’s ex. But they felt like filler and not as integral part of the story. A lot of being told Sara is making connections and not a lot of showing.
The plot and timeline start by going day by day through her time at the retreat. Then it starts jumping entire weeks at random. It just felt jarring and choppy. We missed out on a lot of Sara’s development personally as well as her relationship with Henrik, his family, and the other guests. This felt like a big contrast from the cozy and relaxed feel of the start of her stay.
When her ex, Mark, shows up, the whole focus of the story strays too far away from Sara’s transformation to a weird legal land ownership debate. It was out of place and unnecessary.
At the end of the day, I just didn’t buy into Sara’s transformation and that it wasn’t just and effect of her having been on a month long vacation.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2025
Barrister Sara Pearson thought her life was on track, until her marriage ended in divorce, and the promotion she was sure would happen failed to materialise. Stressed like she has never been before, panic attacks lead to her being signed off work for some rest and recuperation. Reluctantly, she books herself into a wellness resort in Firefly Forest, Norway, having heard stars like Emma Stone flock there.
But when Sara arrives, she realises this is not the luxurious celebrity haunt she thought it was. Instead, she is stuck in the snowy wilderness, very much off-grid, with nowhere to show off her Jimmy Choos. She plans to leave as soon as the weather allows, but gradually the complete change in tempo makes her begin to see things differently - especially in the company of annoying, but ruggedly handsome, retreat guide Henrik Nilsen...
Welcome to Carrie Walker's delightful third rom-com in the Escapes series, where we meet barrister Sara - and reconnect with some familiar faces too. Sara is used to life in the fast lane, but personal and professional troubles are taking their toll. When Firefly Forest proves to be another disasterous turn, Sara is fed up, but her mistaken booking proves to be just the medicine she needs.
Walker brings the natural beauty of rural Norway alive, and it was a joy to revel in the simple pleasures Sara discovers through being thrown into the deep end of a very different sort of life. Sara feels her body and spirit transform in this magical place - filled with surprising characters, who she finds she can help too, when her conniving ex-husband intrudes into her haven. Weaving throughout, there is the lovely suspense of a delicious romance between Sara and Henrik that hits the heartwarming soft spot to perfection!
Absolutely enchanting. I loved it! 💙
But when Sara arrives, she realises this is not the luxurious celebrity haunt she thought it was. Instead, she is stuck in the snowy wilderness, very much off-grid, with nowhere to show off her Jimmy Choos. She plans to leave as soon as the weather allows, but gradually the complete change in tempo makes her begin to see things differently - especially in the company of annoying, but ruggedly handsome, retreat guide Henrik Nilsen...
Welcome to Carrie Walker's delightful third rom-com in the Escapes series, where we meet barrister Sara - and reconnect with some familiar faces too. Sara is used to life in the fast lane, but personal and professional troubles are taking their toll. When Firefly Forest proves to be another disasterous turn, Sara is fed up, but her mistaken booking proves to be just the medicine she needs.
Walker brings the natural beauty of rural Norway alive, and it was a joy to revel in the simple pleasures Sara discovers through being thrown into the deep end of a very different sort of life. Sara feels her body and spirit transform in this magical place - filled with surprising characters, who she finds she can help too, when her conniving ex-husband intrudes into her haven. Weaving throughout, there is the lovely suspense of a delicious romance between Sara and Henrik that hits the heartwarming soft spot to perfection!
Absolutely enchanting. I loved it! 💙
December 24, 2025
Thank you Aria and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! I am grateful for the opportunity to have read this book!
Escape to the Northern Lights was wonderfully written plot with life lessons that really resonated with me. The themes of experiencing something difficult (sometimes life changing), managing the stress of life, and pushing boundaries to try new things felt very fresh in this romance. I know it is listed as a "Holiday Romance", but I didn't feel like the that was necessarily accurate based on the timing of this book, though the setting might have leaned more towards a wintery holiday vibe. I still enjoyed reading it during this Holiday Season, nonetheless. The setting was absolutely stunning, and to think about a small retreat in Norway, made me really want to stop and slow down in life.
It was also very refreshing to read more of a closed door romance, I feel like many romances lately are open door (which is great!), but sometimes the plot and themes of the book make that romantic setting sometimes feel out of place or forced in moments where just normal activities are happening. Because it was closed door, it felt very true to that "Hallmark Romance".
My only critical feedback would be that the main male character, Henrik, was mentioned more in this story that our female character, to the point where I can't even remember her name without looking at the book description. Sara, her name is Sara. It could be that the name just didn't stand out so I missed it a lot, or it really was hardly mentioned even in some of the dialogue. Not a huge deal, but definitely something I noticed.
On a last note, the book cover is absolutely STUNNING! It really makes you want to get cozy this winter and pick this book up. I will always judge a book by its cover!
Escape to the Northern Lights was wonderfully written plot with life lessons that really resonated with me. The themes of experiencing something difficult (sometimes life changing), managing the stress of life, and pushing boundaries to try new things felt very fresh in this romance. I know it is listed as a "Holiday Romance", but I didn't feel like the that was necessarily accurate based on the timing of this book, though the setting might have leaned more towards a wintery holiday vibe. I still enjoyed reading it during this Holiday Season, nonetheless. The setting was absolutely stunning, and to think about a small retreat in Norway, made me really want to stop and slow down in life.
It was also very refreshing to read more of a closed door romance, I feel like many romances lately are open door (which is great!), but sometimes the plot and themes of the book make that romantic setting sometimes feel out of place or forced in moments where just normal activities are happening. Because it was closed door, it felt very true to that "Hallmark Romance".
My only critical feedback would be that the main male character, Henrik, was mentioned more in this story that our female character, to the point where I can't even remember her name without looking at the book description. Sara, her name is Sara. It could be that the name just didn't stand out so I missed it a lot, or it really was hardly mentioned even in some of the dialogue. Not a huge deal, but definitely something I noticed.
On a last note, the book cover is absolutely STUNNING! It really makes you want to get cozy this winter and pick this book up. I will always judge a book by its cover!
October 25, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, for the ARC! This was such a cute, cosy, feel-good escape that perfectly blends a journey of self-discovery with a sweet romance set against a spectacular backdrop.
Sara is a workaholic lawyer, burned out after a messy divorce and reeling from losing out on a dream promotion. Desperate for a break, she books what she believes is a luxurious four-week spa retreat in Norway, only to find herself in the rugged wilderness of Firefly Forest, at a rustic, vegan, no-wifi wellness centre. And yet… there’s this very attractive man, Henrik. 😏
I love how the story shifts from Sara wanting to escape the booking to becoming an emotional journey of self-discovery, as she swaps her designer heels for hiking boots LOL! I laughed, but at the same time I loved how this book reminded me that in life, there are so many valuable things right in front of us that we often overlook. Sara learns the importance of nature, peace, and genuine connection over her high-pressure career.
If you’re like me, a recent graduate, planning your next steps, or thinking about what changes to make in 2026, this is such a good book to read this winter.
It’s a fantastic ‘find yourself’ romance, where the external love story beautifully complements the inner transformation. I found this book so special, mainly because of the smooth writing style and the stunning setting, the Norwegian forest, the northern lights, and those snow-covered trees… just perfect!
The cover is absolutely gorgeous too, it just screams, “Pick me up and take me home!” I really loved this book! ❄️
Sara is a workaholic lawyer, burned out after a messy divorce and reeling from losing out on a dream promotion. Desperate for a break, she books what she believes is a luxurious four-week spa retreat in Norway, only to find herself in the rugged wilderness of Firefly Forest, at a rustic, vegan, no-wifi wellness centre. And yet… there’s this very attractive man, Henrik. 😏
I love how the story shifts from Sara wanting to escape the booking to becoming an emotional journey of self-discovery, as she swaps her designer heels for hiking boots LOL! I laughed, but at the same time I loved how this book reminded me that in life, there are so many valuable things right in front of us that we often overlook. Sara learns the importance of nature, peace, and genuine connection over her high-pressure career.
If you’re like me, a recent graduate, planning your next steps, or thinking about what changes to make in 2026, this is such a good book to read this winter.
It’s a fantastic ‘find yourself’ romance, where the external love story beautifully complements the inner transformation. I found this book so special, mainly because of the smooth writing style and the stunning setting, the Norwegian forest, the northern lights, and those snow-covered trees… just perfect!
The cover is absolutely gorgeous too, it just screams, “Pick me up and take me home!” I really loved this book! ❄️
November 5, 2025
I love a romance set in Scandinavia, partly because they have amazing landscapes and when authors write them well you can almost step into the setting and partly because who doesn't want a tall rugged Viking as a love interest. And in this book we got both, and both were brilliantly written by Carrie Walker which made me fall in love with both Bergen and Henrik. The descriptions of the retreat have just made me want to go a retreat like it,i genuinely cant think of a better way to spend a month than as Sara did, in a beautiful Nordic landscape with no wifi so i can just read! Aside from that this has been a really lovely read, i fell in love with Henrik from the first time we were introduced to him (admittedly i have a soft spot for Vikings) and watching him and Sara's interactions brought a smile to my face. Sara is a very relatable MC, i think everyone struggles with running close to burn out these days, our jobs expect so much in the amount of hours we work and a lot of people cant keep that balance. I love that not only did Sara manage to find herself under all that stress but in the process she found that work life balance that we all crave I could barely put this book down and sped through it because i found our MC's easy to engage with and the writing style just flowed beautifully. This has been a fantastic addition to my run up to Christmas reads and i may even be adding into my December rereads because it just made me smile so much.
I'm defiantly going to get some more books by Carrie Walker, I've so enjoyed her writing style and i cant wait to read more of it.
I'm defiantly going to get some more books by Carrie Walker, I've so enjoyed her writing style and i cant wait to read more of it.
January 25, 2026
A charming and cozy romance that is sure to warm you up this winter.
I adore cozy romances, especially as we head into winter. There is just something about their charming and heartfelt stories that has me grabbing a cozy blanket and a warm cuppa tea. I loved, loved this story from beginning to end. It’s got this winter-y, Hygge vibe and is so easy to fall into. It’s just one of those books that you can read and just enjoy the ride. I loved being able to escape to Norway. Carrie did a great job of bringing the setting to life with lush, vivid descriptions. Our heroine, Sara, is burned out and needs a break from life. But of course, things don’t go as planned, and instead of a relaxing spa vacation, she finds herself out in the middle of nowhere, and there are no modern conveniences.
I really do enjoy a good fish-out-of-water trope, and getting to watch as Sara tries to adjust to her new surroundings was so much fun. The Firefly Forest community is a perfect small-town community. They were quirky, fun, and just the right group of people to help Sara get through her tough times. The romance between Sara and Henrick is slow-burning perfection. I really enjoyed Sara and Henrick’s chemistry and devoured their interactions. I found myself craving more and more of their exchanges, so I wasn’t putting this book down.
Escape to the Northern Lights is the perfect book to snuggle up with this winter.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
I adore cozy romances, especially as we head into winter. There is just something about their charming and heartfelt stories that has me grabbing a cozy blanket and a warm cuppa tea. I loved, loved this story from beginning to end. It’s got this winter-y, Hygge vibe and is so easy to fall into. It’s just one of those books that you can read and just enjoy the ride. I loved being able to escape to Norway. Carrie did a great job of bringing the setting to life with lush, vivid descriptions. Our heroine, Sara, is burned out and needs a break from life. But of course, things don’t go as planned, and instead of a relaxing spa vacation, she finds herself out in the middle of nowhere, and there are no modern conveniences.
I really do enjoy a good fish-out-of-water trope, and getting to watch as Sara tries to adjust to her new surroundings was so much fun. The Firefly Forest community is a perfect small-town community. They were quirky, fun, and just the right group of people to help Sara get through her tough times. The romance between Sara and Henrick is slow-burning perfection. I really enjoyed Sara and Henrick’s chemistry and devoured their interactions. I found myself craving more and more of their exchanges, so I wasn’t putting this book down.
Escape to the Northern Lights is the perfect book to snuggle up with this winter.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
October 31, 2025
What a fabulous advert for the wilds of Norway, and for retreats in forest, with outdoor activities, no wifi and really a return to nature and to destress. The Norwegian tourist board I feel would be rather happy with this book and it certainly has made my inner wilderness fan want to travel and experience some of this for myself.
Sara books a retreat at Firefly Forest, convinced it was meant to be a luxury resort with every mod con etc... but she messes up the booking and ends up at Firefly in Norway instead, and then can't easily change plans due to extreme weather warnings.
Left with no option, she attempts to take part in the various activities and slowly you can see a transformation in Sara, and her willingness to be open to some new experiences. From tree-hugging, to thermal springs to huskies, there is something for everyone, and it sounds like a fabulous break.
Admittedly the really rugged Henrik might have had something to do with Sara's new feelings towards everything.
There is just so much to love in this story, and I was enjoying every single word of it. It was a pleasure to read, and I was hooked on it. I am just really enjoying every book I've read so far from this author and already curious to see what fabulous location her next story will be set in. Bring on more armchair travel and escapism!
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Sara books a retreat at Firefly Forest, convinced it was meant to be a luxury resort with every mod con etc... but she messes up the booking and ends up at Firefly in Norway instead, and then can't easily change plans due to extreme weather warnings.
Left with no option, she attempts to take part in the various activities and slowly you can see a transformation in Sara, and her willingness to be open to some new experiences. From tree-hugging, to thermal springs to huskies, there is something for everyone, and it sounds like a fabulous break.
Admittedly the really rugged Henrik might have had something to do with Sara's new feelings towards everything.
There is just so much to love in this story, and I was enjoying every single word of it. It was a pleasure to read, and I was hooked on it. I am just really enjoying every book I've read so far from this author and already curious to see what fabulous location her next story will be set in. Bring on more armchair travel and escapism!
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 23, 2025
I love Carrie’s books and Escape to the Northern Lights is no exception to this. Carrie writes lovely, heartwarming romantic novels set in absolutely gorgeous places that we would all like to escape to .
Sara’s character will make you laugh as well as resonating with her life and not having the right work life balance - if any that invariably leads to the nightmare scenario she finds herself in.
As is the case with all of Carrie’s books there is the inevitable hunk of a guy which, let’s face it, none of us are going to complain about . The setting is stunning and to me sounds absolutely idyllic. I can think of nothing better than being stuck in a cosy log cabin ( preferably with lots and lots of books to read!!!!!!) with lots of lovely food being made for you and the added possibility of the Northern Lights.
Anyways I digress, back to the book which I read on a cold wet day with a stash of hot chocolate. The narrative , as always with Carrie, moves at a really good pace which keeps you turning the pages wanting to find out what happens to Sara as she uses her enforced holiday to try and find what she wants out of life and allows nature to instil its healing powers on her. All Sara’s acquaintances add a different element into the mix ensuring that all the aspects that we expect in a good RomCom are covered.
This is the perfect book to pack for an escape break , or when you just want to curl up and leave all the trials and tribulations behind for a while.
Sara’s character will make you laugh as well as resonating with her life and not having the right work life balance - if any that invariably leads to the nightmare scenario she finds herself in.
As is the case with all of Carrie’s books there is the inevitable hunk of a guy which, let’s face it, none of us are going to complain about . The setting is stunning and to me sounds absolutely idyllic. I can think of nothing better than being stuck in a cosy log cabin ( preferably with lots and lots of books to read!!!!!!) with lots of lovely food being made for you and the added possibility of the Northern Lights.
Anyways I digress, back to the book which I read on a cold wet day with a stash of hot chocolate. The narrative , as always with Carrie, moves at a really good pace which keeps you turning the pages wanting to find out what happens to Sara as she uses her enforced holiday to try and find what she wants out of life and allows nature to instil its healing powers on her. All Sara’s acquaintances add a different element into the mix ensuring that all the aspects that we expect in a good RomCom are covered.
This is the perfect book to pack for an escape break , or when you just want to curl up and leave all the trials and tribulations behind for a while.
September 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and Carrie Walker for the ARC of Escape to the Northern Lights in a form of an e-book.
We follow Sara, our main character who is a London based lawyer, as she is forced to take some time off work due to burn-out and stress (work and personal). During a drinking session with her friends, it’s decided that Sara needs a trip to a luxury spa in Sweden, but she ends up booking a very different kind of retreat in Norway instead by mistake. The Firefly Forest retreat is run by the Nilsen family, Tore and his two sons Henrik and Jonas. Will they manage to convince Sara to give this retreat a try? You will have to read the book to find out 😉
I enjoyed how descriptive author was when it comes to the scenery, and it makes you want to pack your bags and book yourself on this kind of retreat. This book gives us a small taste of what the hygge life looks like.
I didn’t enjoy the storyline as much and I quite often felt like either I missed something or there is sudden jump in the events, which made it a little bit confusing. The main character development is really good as we watch Sara realising there is more to life than the rat race.
This contemporary romance is perfect if you need a light read, and don’t mind the storyline having some convenient turns to make everything work.
We follow Sara, our main character who is a London based lawyer, as she is forced to take some time off work due to burn-out and stress (work and personal). During a drinking session with her friends, it’s decided that Sara needs a trip to a luxury spa in Sweden, but she ends up booking a very different kind of retreat in Norway instead by mistake. The Firefly Forest retreat is run by the Nilsen family, Tore and his two sons Henrik and Jonas. Will they manage to convince Sara to give this retreat a try? You will have to read the book to find out 😉
I enjoyed how descriptive author was when it comes to the scenery, and it makes you want to pack your bags and book yourself on this kind of retreat. This book gives us a small taste of what the hygge life looks like.
I didn’t enjoy the storyline as much and I quite often felt like either I missed something or there is sudden jump in the events, which made it a little bit confusing. The main character development is really good as we watch Sara realising there is more to life than the rat race.
This contemporary romance is perfect if you need a light read, and don’t mind the storyline having some convenient turns to make everything work.
November 4, 2025
I would like to thank Rachels Random Resources, Aria & Aries and Carrie Walker for the E ARC of this book.
Sara works so hard and is hoping for a promotion at work, she hardly has time for her friends let alone herself. When things at work don’t work out, her marriage dissolves and she is diagnosed with burnout, things have to change.
One of her friends mentions about a retreat she had heard of, that was famous for being the place celebrities go. Sara books herself four weeks at the Norwegian retreat. She imagines all the trappings of a luxury spa and is shocked and disappointed by the sparseness of it. Her cabin is cosy and very comfortable but all else in sparse, no or very little Wi-Fi.
To begin with she whines but gradually the retreat and the people who are also there begin to grow on her. Sara finds herself relaxing, making friends and experiencing a joy she has not had in years.
When the future of the retreat is in doubt can Sara use her skills as a lawyer to save a place she has grown to love?
I enjoyed this book. Sara was a good character and I enjoyed seeing her growth and development as the story progressed. I appreciated the descriptions of the retreat and the animals, it sounded a lovely place to go. Henrik was a fun character and his Dad brought a smile to my face.
Sara works so hard and is hoping for a promotion at work, she hardly has time for her friends let alone herself. When things at work don’t work out, her marriage dissolves and she is diagnosed with burnout, things have to change.
One of her friends mentions about a retreat she had heard of, that was famous for being the place celebrities go. Sara books herself four weeks at the Norwegian retreat. She imagines all the trappings of a luxury spa and is shocked and disappointed by the sparseness of it. Her cabin is cosy and very comfortable but all else in sparse, no or very little Wi-Fi.
To begin with she whines but gradually the retreat and the people who are also there begin to grow on her. Sara finds herself relaxing, making friends and experiencing a joy she has not had in years.
When the future of the retreat is in doubt can Sara use her skills as a lawyer to save a place she has grown to love?
I enjoyed this book. Sara was a good character and I enjoyed seeing her growth and development as the story progressed. I appreciated the descriptions of the retreat and the animals, it sounded a lovely place to go. Henrik was a fun character and his Dad brought a smile to my face.
December 1, 2025
A strong 3.75/5 stars.
Nearly gave this 4 stars because I'm someone who will rate books initially based on vibes and my overall enjoyment level, but after sitting with it for a bit and gaining a bit of distance since I finished this book, that's the rating I've settled on.
Desparate for a reset after a number of life-changing (shattering) events, Sara, a workaholic lawyer, is forced to take some time off of work. She books a month-long retreat to FireFly Forest in Norway, but upon arriving there sees this isn't the five-star vacay she had in mind. This was the perfect cosy winter comfort read, providing the reader with plenty of escapism - that rather than leaning away from the cold, leans into it, and the Nordic tradition of Hygge.
Though charming, the L.I. in this was a touch one-dimensional. Though we do learn about his background, it rarely seeems to come through in his actions (and when it does, it feels forced). He's just very perfect... too perfect.
And I couldn't write this review without mentioning that not everyone is privileged enough to have £4,000 to spend on a retreat at the drop of a hat when problems arise.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for this e-ARC!
Nearly gave this 4 stars because I'm someone who will rate books initially based on vibes and my overall enjoyment level, but after sitting with it for a bit and gaining a bit of distance since I finished this book, that's the rating I've settled on.
Desparate for a reset after a number of life-changing (shattering) events, Sara, a workaholic lawyer, is forced to take some time off of work. She books a month-long retreat to FireFly Forest in Norway, but upon arriving there sees this isn't the five-star vacay she had in mind. This was the perfect cosy winter comfort read, providing the reader with plenty of escapism - that rather than leaning away from the cold, leans into it, and the Nordic tradition of Hygge.
Though charming, the L.I. in this was a touch one-dimensional. Though we do learn about his background, it rarely seeems to come through in his actions (and when it does, it feels forced). He's just very perfect... too perfect.
And I couldn't write this review without mentioning that not everyone is privileged enough to have £4,000 to spend on a retreat at the drop of a hat when problems arise.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for this e-ARC!
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