Meet Me Under the Northern Lights

by Mandy Baggot

Can one kiss melt a cold, broken heart?

When career-focused Chloe Bellamy is sent to Iceland on a last-minute work trip, it’s her big chance to prove she deserves a seat at the top.

But there’s one problem, she may have embellished her CV a little… saying she speaks Icelandic when she doesn’t! And now, to add to her woes, she’s landed with no place to stay.

Gunnar Eriksson has a habit of saving people. First, when he rescued a young boy from a volcano and offered him a forever home. Then opening his door and welcoming in a spirited yet accident-prone Octogenarian. Now Gunnar has somehow tied himself to Chloe who needs all the help she can get but, for some reason, is reluctant to accept it.

Neither of them are looking for love, but under Iceland’s spell, and with a little extra help from those around them, something begins to shift. Could one kiss beneath the Northern Lights change everything?

This Christmas, escape to Iceland for festive feels, unexpected friendships and maybe even a chance at love.

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

346 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2025

About the author

Mandy Baggot is an international bestselling and award-winning romance writer represented by Tanera Simons of Greenstone Literary.

Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!

The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.

Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.

Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.

Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meet Me Under the Northern Lights
3.5🌟

[Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a feel good, slow burn romance. I loved all the holiday Christmas vibes in Iceland. I also enjoyed both characters' backstory, and each of their POV’s. It took me a bit to get into it, but I'm happy I stuck with it because it ended up being quite enjoyable. I'd definitely read more books by this author.

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

[SelkieReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book from this author, and I truly and genuinely enjoyed it. I enjoyed the camaraderie between the characters, and I absolutely loved that the author included infertility and the different ways of becoming a parent.
However, for those of us who have struggled with infertility, there might be some moments that are tough to read. But I will say it isn’t dove into so deeply that reading it might be dangerous to you.
I really enjoyed the sweetness of the MMC, you can tell that he is someone who cares deeply about others and is willing to sacrifice his goals in order to make those around him happy. He is all the green flags!
Our FMC starts off the book the complete opposite of the MMC, she is a doormat, she bends over backwards for everybody around her, never asks anything, keeps all of her emotions and thoughts to herself, and is really deeply hurt from people and events that occurred in the past.
She has got herself into quite the pickle due to claiming to speak Icelandic after she was sent to Iceland in order to put together an event.
Chaos ensues… or it would if it wasn’t for a tall blonde and handsome Icelandic man who happens to come with a crabby 80+ year-old woman who is going to give you her opinions regardless of if you ask or not and a hockey obsessed preteen boy.

The care and the found family in this book between the four main characters are amazing.
I don’t want to spoil too much but one of the side characters who, in the past has been completely and utterly oblivious to the pain, they cause others changes their outlook completely after being called out and the self reflection was so satisfying to read. It makes you wish everybody would react as well!!!!

[Karla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review 🤗

This really resonated with me a lot, and I didn't expect it! I was set on reading a light romcom, but I got so much more than that.  Don't get me wrong, there was also witty banter going on, some were actually pretty funny😂  It was kinda insta-lovey, but more of like there was instant chemistry.  Since our main boy is supposed to be an Iceland native, the way he uses his English is so endearing to me (I actually don't know any Icelanders and I really have no idea if his representation is accurate, because I know these people speak English very well) but he speaks in a very cute and nuanced way I feel like if I were Chloe I would fall in love with him, you know?  He's very well spoken, thoughtful, devoted, caring, just a walking green flag.  And as for Chloe, she's the character that I have empathized with the most.  I can't give much spoilers because it's not in the blurb, but as a mother, I relate to them both so much and some scenes actually made me tear up 😭

There was just this one particular scene in the middle that I wish that something different happened because I didn't really connect with it, and I think the story will still be great without it.  And some miscomms could've been avoided if the characters weren't constantly interrupting each other 😅 But overall, this was a great holiday read and I wouldn't mind reading her other books (all of which have amazing and beautiful covers by the way😍)

[Žana Janković · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful and emotionally rich story that unfolds at a gentle, slow-burn pace. The romance develops subtly, without relying on spice, allowing the focus to remain on character growth and emotional depth. The book strikes a wonderful balance between light humor and thoughtful exploration of serious themes, all while being enhanced by vivid descriptions of nature. A warm, meaningful read that lingers long after the final page❤️

[Susan Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

perfect holiday novel

This book was my last read of the year, and my last holiday novel—it appears that I saved the best for last. I was swept up in the lives of Chloe and Gunnar, and getting a front row seat to their love story was simply amazing. This is also a wonderful story about family, and about finding your home and your place in the world. This is just a beautiful story with endearing characters who tugged on all my heart strings.

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iceland is the new Mecca! So many people are traveling and visiting so there has to be a lot of attractive features.
Chloe lied on her resume that she was fluent in Icelandic language and it causes her no ends of torment, which was deserved.
I loved when Gunnar took her to see the aurora borealis and all the other grand spots his home had to offer.
My favorites were Hildur and Kat because I think they effectively stole just about every scene they were in and also the ones they weren’t!
Sometimes moving forward means letting go and living for the moment, even fire can melt the toughest ice!
Thanks Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advance copy.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chloe Bellamy is sent to Iceland on a last-minute work trip, it’s her big chance to prove she deserves a seat at the top. When she lands, she has nowhere to stay, but she runs into Gunnar Eriksson, who is able to find a rental place for her. Gunnar has a habit of saving people. He is the guardian of a young boy whose family all died in a volcano eruption, and has a sassy, opinionated octogenarian who was a friend of his mother, living with him. He is definitely a softie. Gunnar runs a tour business, so takes Chloe on many excursions and shows her things in Iceland others might not be aware of. They spend a lot of time with one another. When her boss contacts her to let her know that someone from the company she is planning the getaway for is going to come and meet her in Iceland, she panics. The person she is meeting with is happy that she will be able to converse in her native tongue, Icelandic. Chloe lied when she told her boss she could speak Icelandic. Will this mean that she won't get the partnership? Will she even have a job when all is said and done?

All I can say is that I now want to visit Iceland. This was not only a romance, but it was a love story and travelogue to Iceland. I really liked Gunnar. When he makes a promise and takes a chance on someone, he does everything he can to follow through. The characters in the story were all wonderful and I liked them all, but especially Hildur. She said what she thought and tried really hard to get Gunnar and Chloe together. They did have their problems and issues that they had to work through such as bullying, figuring out what they really want out of life, taking chances and making important decisions, but it was all integrated so well into the story. Of course this is a romance and it does have a happy ending. I did enjoy seeing Chloe grow a spine by the end of the book and finally stand up for herself. An enjoyable winter story.

[Ken Fredette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mandy Baggot delivered an exciting and heart warming story of two people who keep falling into each other at the Reykjavik airport. It's a story about a man who likes to help people out and it escalates into a romantic story. Gunnar Eriksson meets Chloe when they collide into each other and Chloe finds out that her boss has not made any plans for her to stay in Reykjavik. Gunnar saves the day and finds a rental place for her, he also gives her his number in case she needs help. Chloe decides to take a boat tour and see the northern lights, but Gunnar also has to work on the boat. You see the jest. Chloe and Gunnar meet often and the thing is that Chloe has a problem and so does Gunnar. Chloe was told she cannot have babies and Gunnar has a boy, not his, and his mothers friend. Things happen and Kat arrives in Reykjavik to mention Chloe's ex was now married and just had a little boy. Chloe was instantly mad that she could not have any children and Gunnar noticed the difference in her personality. She does an amazing job and they win the bid for the company holiday. I can't tell you all the things that they did but they did a lot. Do they end up together? Enjoy reading the story and see.

[Suzanne Ashby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I originally was supposed to go to Iceland the first week of January. I cancelled it, because my student loans are about to quadruple, and had to lock down finances for awhile. This was supposed to scratch that itch

Instead I'm bemoaning why I would ever do that, and considering the wisdom of building a raft to float there. I've fallen in love with the country, like I suspected I would if I traveled there

I also need a quiet Icelandic man who can tell I'm overthinking things and tell me it's ok to live gently.

So now I'm definitely going next year. This book may have been free with my credits but it's about to be a very expensive book with the plane tickets, hotel room, tours, food.........

[🌙henny✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this story. Gunnar is such a sweetie, the way he just does everything that needs to be done all the time without being asked, how caring and helpful he is to everyone. How he’d go to bat for anyone who needed him to. He’s huge, warm and dependable. I love him. I was a little bit disappointed because I didn’t realise it was a closed door romance but it was sweet and silly in places, and serious in others. I enjoyed it!!

[Tracey Dyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Free courtesy of Netgalley

Anyone who ever reads my reviews, knows that I love a book that can take me to the place it is set. When I finished this one I started looking how much it would cost me to go to Iceland 🙈

The book is from the viewpoint of two people, Chloe, who works for an events company. Her boss who is pregnant has sent her to Iceland, short notice, just before Christmas to do some research for a new client who wants to have an event in Iceland and Gunnar, who drives busses for a tour company.

Their lives are complicated but there is the will of the 'Huldufolk' that they meet and are in each others lives.

This book was really well written and all of the characters played their parts. I loved this book and I am hoping we get another to update us on their going on. This is a lovely Christmasy feel book and I strongly recommend it

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

I finished it but I struggled to get through it. I wanted to like it because I thought the title and concept were a cute idea but it just didn't feel well written.


I was given a Netgalley eARC for my honest review.

[Ann-Maree · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meet Me Under the Northern Lights
by Mandy Baggot

I have to admit, the beginning of this book was a bit of a slow burn for me, and I almost considered putting it down. However, I’m truly glad I persevered, as I ultimately found myself thoroughly enjoying the story. It did take some time for me to connect with the characters and their journey, but once I did, I was fully invested.

The story centres around Chloe Bellamy, a career-driven professional who sees her unexpected work trip to Iceland as the opportunity of a lifetime—a chance to prove her worth and secure a prominent position in her company. Unfortunately, her pregnant boss is unable to assist her directly and forgets to arrange a hotel for her stay. In her haste to impress her superiors, Chloe exaggerated her skills by adding a second language, Icelandic, to her CV—something she never thought would come back to haunt her.

Enter Gunnar Eriksson, a local tour guide with a heart of gold and a knack for rescuing those in need. He first made headlines for saving a young boy from a volcanic eruption and has since dedicated himself to helping others. When Chloe and Gunnar quite literally collide in the stunning landscapes of Iceland, he comes to her aid, offering his expertise and guidance. Throughout their time together, he introduces her to the breathtaking beauty of the country—from the majestic waterfalls to the serene geothermal spas—and shares stories that reveal his deep love for his homeland.

As Chloe navigates the challenges of her work assignment and her growing bond with Gunnar, she discovers not only the magic of the Northern Lights but also the importance of following her heart in both her personal and professional life. The story beautifully blends romance and adventure, weaving a tapestry of self-discovery against the ethereal backdrop of Iceland’s natural wonders.

[Chloe Janda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would like to thank the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC copy of the book through NetGalley.

Initially, I was drawn to the story as it seemed like an interesting winter or Christmas read. Christmas romances are some of my favourite releases of the year and so having this set in Iceland was exciting as it felt like a new twist on the genre.

The FMC, Chloe, was likeable and relatable because of how she had lied on her CV about speaking Icelandic which then came back to haunt her when she was sent on a work's trip. This had the potential to be a huge disaster were it not for Gunnar coming to save the day by finding her last minute accommodation in the city. After a couple of encounters, it was lovely to see their interest in each other grow. With some sparks on page, I was excited to see how their relationship progressed throughout the book.

Unfortunately, I DNF the book at 23% for personal reasons. As someone going through a fertility journey, it was difficult to read about, especially as it was an issue that was frequently mentioned to this point. Chloe's boss is heavily pregnant which causes some envy, Gunnar's colleague's wife has gone into labour which also causes negative emotions, as well as Chloe thinking about how herself and her ex had started their fertility journey, only for him to leave her because of this. For me, this is just a trigger that I was not able to move past and could not commit to reading any further.

I had no other issues with the book or its writing style to the point at which I stopped, it was simply something that has been a difficult experience for me. Other readers, however, I am sure could see past this and be able to enjoy the book.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was glorious, and I loved how it flowed. On this occasion, Mandy took us to Iceland, and I learned more about the country than a travel documentary could have managed. That said, I was already familiar with the Huldufólk – Icelandic Elves, from watching the Netflix film about the Eurovision song contest.

Chloe was a fabulous character, and I adored her dedication to her work and her passion for learning more about Iceland. The lie about her ability to speak Icelandic was an excellent twist that should never have been uncovered, but it indeed presented some terrific comedy opportunities. Chloe is hiding a sad secret that may cause her to unravel, but she’s determined to protect it at all costs.

Gunnar Eriksson provided the ideal book boyfriend vibes with a generous helping of Viking hotness that was not on Chloe’s bingo card. His calm nature drew Chloe into a space that gave her comfort and security. She was well aware that they had no future together, but she felt herself radiating towards him, and he was equally drawn.

There are some additional characters who added extra depth to the story: Chloe’s best friend, Gunnar’s elderly housemate, Hildur, and the son of his deceased friends, whom Gunnar is now responsible for. The whole story was beautifully told, and I really didn’t want it to end.

Mandy Baggot has a gift when it comes to comedic timing, and this was evident when reading about Chloe and Gunnar. Some of the best lines went to Hildur, and her delivery was perfect. In particular, I loved the idea of her taking a captive on the school roof!

I can highly recommend this trip to Iceland, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when the queen of the Greek romance, sets a book somewhere distinctly chillier? Well you find out in Meet Me Under The Northern Lights, as Mandy Baggot writes yet another truly enjoyable story.

All of her trademark touches are there, including a man that you can't help but fall for, and a her ability to describe a destination.

Wow I actually felt myself cooling off in the hot summer sun, while I was reading about Iceland and all the various trips that Chloe goes on, to work out how to plan an epic event. I loved the descriptions of the Northern Lights, the dog sledding and some of the places off the beaten track too.

This would be a brilliant advert for the Icelandic tourist board, as is definitely got me wanting to visit, even in the run up to Christmas. It's not overly a festive novel, more a book set in December, with a wintery setting, but we do learn about about some Icelandic traditions.

And Gunnar, omg, I love that man. His family might be a found family as such but it's 100$ his, and I loved their dynamics. Everything this man does I'm totally there for, he's easily my new book boyfriend.

This is a wonderful story, that I enjoyed every moment of. The chemistry between our leads is good, there are funny moments (especially with Chloe trying to cover up her lie about speaking fluent Icelandic), and its an all around enjoyable book.

Definitely one to be added to your wintery reads TBR this year.

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

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

My sincere thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read Meet Me Under the Northern Lights by Mandy Baggot. I give my unbiased opinion of it in the following review.

This story centers around Chloe. She works for an event planner, and her boss/friend sends her to Iceland at the last minute to work on a special project that could elevate their company to the next level. Her boss is pregnant and can't do anything other than give directions from afar. She also didn't get a place for Chloe to stay. Local tour guide Gunnar comes to her rescue after they literally collide into one another. He ends up helping her by showing her the best parts of Iceland. Both characters have interesting personal back stories that take us out of the travel aspect of the book and make it a more rounded story.

I loved all the places Gunnar and Chloe went in Iceland. If ever I were to travel, I'd love to see what was described in the book. The writing made it easy to imagine what they were seeing. I enjoyed both characters and that the book was written in dual points of view. Gunnar's voice as someone speaking English as a second language seemed very authentic. I loved his found family storyline. There were a few pop culture references as well as a description in jest of residents of nursing homes that bothered me. I consider those me things, and I wouldn't discourage readers from trying the book if they are interested in a nice romance taking place in a country we don't see featured as often as we should.

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chloe Bellamy es una talentosa organizadora de eventos que mintió en su currículum al afirmar que habla islandés y se ve enviada inesperadamente a Islandia para conseguir un contrato millonario con una importante empresa. El problema: no tiene dónde alojarse, no conoce el idioma y el frío no da tregua. Su salvación parece llegar en forma de Gunnar Eriksson, un atractivo y reservado conductor de autobuses que, pese a su brusquedad inicial, termina ayudándola más de lo esperado. Entre paisajes nevados, excursiones bajo la aurora boreal y situaciones tan caóticas como divertidas, Chloe descubrirá que a veces lo mejor de un viaje no es el destino… sino la persona con la que lo compartes.




_____


Los paisajes de Islandia, las anécdotas con personajes secundarios le dieron un extra y la química natural entre Chloe y Gunnar hacen que la lectura fluya con una mezcla perfecta de humor, ternura y momentos emotivos. La evolución de ambos, desde la desconfianza inicial hasta el apoyo mutuo, resulta muy satisfactoria y creíble.
Es una lástima que no tuviera epílogo, ya que me quedé con ganas de ver un poco más de su futuro juntos. Espero que en la versión publicada sí lo incluyan, porque la historia lo merece. Sin duda, una novela ideal para leer en época invernal, con una taza de chocolate caliente al lado.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meet Me Under The Northern Lights by Mandy Baggot

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Can one kiss melt a cold, broken heart?

When career-focused Chloe Bellamy is sent to Iceland on a last-minute work trip, it’s her big chance to prove she deserves a seat at the top.

But there’s one problem, she may have embellished her CV a little… saying she speaks Icelandic when she doesn’t! And now, to add to her woes, she’s landed with no place to stay.

Gunnar Eriksson has a habit of saving people. First, when he rescued a young boy from a volcano and offered him a forever home. Then opening his door and welcoming in a spirited yet accident-prone Octogenarian. Now Gunnar has somehow tied himself to Chloe who needs all the help she can get but, for some reason, is reluctant to accept it.

Neither of them are looking for love, but under Iceland’s spell, and with a little extra help from those around them, something begins to shift. Could one kiss beneath the Northern Lights change everything?

My Opinion

Meet Me Under The Northern Lights was a delightful novel. I have read a few books by Mandy Baggot and I am always excited when I see a new release. A lovely, heart-warming novel with some beautiful descriptions. Whilst the book is set around Christmas, it is not overly festive and so can be read at any time of year.

Rating 4/5

[Liralen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Chloe never thought falsely bolstering her CV with a command of Icelandic would come back to bite her—but come back to bite her it does when she is sent on a last-minute trip to (you guessed it) Iceland to do research for a client pitch. Naturally, romantic shenanigans ensue.

This is one where I saw an opportunity and I took it: I saw several "northern lights" books in short succession and decided that the only natural thing to do was read all of them and pretend I have a northern lights view in the sky. This is the second of those four books (I'm waiting on a library copy for the third, and the fourth doesn't publish until November).

What worked well for me here: Partly because Chloe is doing prep work for what amounts to a guided trip, she has a chance to do a lot of Iceland-specific things. She doesn't try hákarl, but that's probably just as well (neither Chloe nor I would handle that particularly well), and she's pretty game about all of the things she does try. Her backstory also has some interest—I would have preferred a few more specifics about her condition (I spent much of the book mildly concerned that it would end with a "surprise! This is fixed! The doctors were wrong!"), but the general details are something that I haven't seen a ton of in romance, so that was nice. And, of course, the emphasis on found families is great.

What didn't work so well for me: I didn't really believe the romance. Gunnar gives Chloe a pet name the first time they meet, and it translates—she looks this up early on—to "my sweetie," which, given the time frame, reads as more creepy than anything to me. Why not call her something a bit funnier that would feel cute/romantic later in the book? "Little elf" or something else that might tie into the Icelandic setting. He's also withholding some pretty big information from her for most of the book, and at some point I have to think his ex is right; it's not about the information itself but that he feels the need to hide it. In general, though, I'm not really a fan of withheld information as a conflict point, and here we have both Gunnar's family situation and Chloe's work situation to contend with. (The work situation just makes me a bit sad—a boss who sends you on a last, last-minute trip and can't be bothered to help out with what she knows will be a tricky hotel situation is not one you should be bending over backward to please...to say nothing of a boss who calls you in for a surprise, zero-warning, high-stakes video meeting with external clients. It's a romance novel, so everything eventually works out in Chloe's favor, but I ended up finding the way it works out even less believable than the romance.)

So overall: Fun but not the best fit for me as a reader—but then, I was just in it for Iceland! I expect this one will find its readers.

Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.

[Asia Macdonald · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meet Me Under the Northern Lights was a heartwarming escape to the snowy magic of Iceland. It was filled with festive charm, found family, and a romance that glows, just like the aurora lights! I have always had an obsession of sorts with seeing the northern lights one day so I loved this setting! Our FMC, Chloe Bellamy is a career-driven woman who finds herself in over her head after fibbing about her Icelandic fluency. Sent on a last-minute work trip, she lands in Reykjavik with no place to stay and no idea how to navigate the language or communicate with the locals. Enter our MMC, Gunnar Eriksson, a brooding yet gentle man. Their dynamic is sweet, romantic, and builds nicely. Like I said earlier, what really shines here is the setting. Mandy Baggot paints Iceland with vivid strokes from thermal spas to snowy landscapes and the short chapters make it a breezy, immersive read. Chloe’s personal journey, especially her vulnerability around motherhood and self-worth, adds depth to her character. The novel’s strength lies in its cozy atmosphere and the theme of unexpected connections. If you’re looking for a wintry romance with a dash of humour, and lots of connection, this book is for you! Thank you Mandy Baggot, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this charming and tropey winter romance novel, readers follow career-focused Chloe Bellamy as a last-minute work trip exposes a lie on her CV. Stuck in Iceland and woefully out of her depth, Chloe runs into Gunnar Eriksson, who has a history of rescuing people and bringing them into his life, but Chloe is reluctant to accept his help. Naturally, neither of them are looking for love, but circumstances and the magic of Iceland continue to bring them together, and they might be exactly what they each need in their lives. The characters’ alternating perspectives really allow their respective storylines to develop, and the chemistry between Chloe and Gunnar is well-written and realistic. The Icelandic settings are beautifully described and packed with whimsical detail, and readers will love how the setting contributes to the tropes and progression of the story. The emotional beats and romance tropes are prevalent yet charmingly written, and fans of the genre will love the wintery coziness of this new title from Mandy Baggot. Entertaining, romantic, and emotional, this book is well-written, packed with details, led by great characters, and absolutely immersive, and romance readers will love this book and the romance between Chloe and Gunnar.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Pam Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a festive romance this year, this one will press all the buttons. Set in Iceland, it shimmers with the snowy scenes and glitters like the Northern Sky. All the festive touches are there you can virtually taste the hot chocolate. Chloe has been sent unexpectedly to Iceland to research the area for a possible event her firm are hoping to put on. A workaholic, the last thing she is looking for is romance and she is nursing a heartbreak which led to the break-up with her partner which she is still broken hearted about.
Gunnar embodies all you'd expect of a strong Icelandic hero with kindness and sensitivity thrown in! Chloe realises that her vision for her pitch my not align with the environmental sensitivities which the locals live by and considers the impact of any of her ideas.
New and old friendships go side by side as Chloe realises that Gummar's life is complicated. There are some amusing moments, largely provided by Gunnar’s elderly friend, Hilda whose sharp eyes sum up situations and whose actions can be unpredictable. You are taken on a journey around Iceland as Chloe sets about looking for suitable sites and activities and all the beauty of Iceland is put centre stage.
In short: festive romance
Thanks to the publisher

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Iceland on a last minute dash
Only to meet someone with a crash!
Chloe is determined to prove her worth but even so
Though she claimed she can, speaking Icelandic is a huge NO!

Gunnar Ericksson is the main with whom she fell
A coach driver to whom her dilemma she'll tell.
He can't resist coming to her aid
And so new plans begin to be made.

He's a guardian to an orphaned boy he helped rescue
Then was joined by a feisty Octogenarian, too.
Together, these three create an incredible team
But maybe not everything is as it would first seem.

With surprises, revelations and more than one fall
Along with a boss who hopes to continuously call.
There's drama a plenty and secrets concealed
What will happen when they are revealed?

The people, the places are all brought vividly to life
Along with the problems, troubles and strife.
The only problem I'm left with now
Is how can I visit Iceland somehow?

I really enjoyed this gorgeous read
Where neither are looking for the romance they need.
Will distance force the two to part
Or will they dare to follow their heart?

For my copy of this lovely book I say a huge thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

[Laura-Elise Bishop · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the perfect winter read, set in stunning, myth and folklore rich Iceland, with the perfect slightly grumpy MMC, and a FMC who is flung very far out of her comfort zone, and into a literal winter wonderland.
I adored how real Chloe was. She was slightly broken but strong, capable yet vulnerable, and so kind.
Her friend Kat was utterly hilarious and I would definitely read a book all about her!
Gunnar was perfect. Kind, caring, and always putting everyone else first.
After falling (literally) into Gunnar's arms, he and Chloe keep finding themselves meeting during Chloe's time in Iceland, and she finds herself drawn to him, and to the beautiful, unfamiliar landscape of his home country.
Gunnar is protective of his found family, and very reluctant to let anyone in, yet he can't help how he feels about Chloe, but is he brave enough to open his heart to her?
A gorgeous book, with a beautiful end, and the perfect cosy romance, with a little spice, angst and a lot of chemistry!

[mrsljgibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review…

Can one kiss melt a cold, broken heart??

I absolutely loved the setting of this book in beautiful Iceland, it was beautifully written and wonderful escapism too. I definitely felt like i was there and i really enjoyed finding out all about the country.

I was pulled into this book right from the very first chapter and it did not let me go again until i had read every last page and devoured it all up!

All the characters were wonderful, from Chloe and Gunnar - who was particularly swoonworthy and i thoroughly enjoyed becoming involved in their story and my particular favourite was Hildur, she was such a lovely character and i loved her!

This book was a wonderful, cozy Christmas romance and was full of festive feels, unexpected friendships, it was heartwarming, humorous and romantic and i loved everything about it…..

[Myriam Bourassa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meet Me Under the Northern Lights was a good book. I had a fun time reading it, it was lighthearted while still touching tough issues such as loss of parents, infertility and life/work balance.
The characters were really loveable, you quickly get attached to them and they were well developed. I love seeing the growth process for Chloe and how Gunnar helped her through that. Their connection developed a bit fast for it to be feel realistic, but who really reads romance for realism? It still felt real and genuine for them.
I also love all the insight in the Icelandic culture. I love learning more about that and about the country in itself, it really made me wanna go there in the winter to experience all of that. I also feel like the dialogue was really beautifully written in a way you could see that English was not Gunnar’s first language.
It was a great read, nothing revolutionary, but I had fun and would recommend it.

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Clairelettersandmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt like a warm hug wrapped in Christmas lights and snow. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of charm from start to finish. Chloe is smart, driven, and delightfully out of her depth when she lands in Iceland without speaking the language, without a place to stay, and with a lot to prove.

Enter Gunnar: quiet, dependable, and unexpectedly tender. Their slow-growing connection, set against the magical Icelandic landscape, is both comforting and romantic. Add in a quirky supporting cast (including an octogenarian who completely steals the show), and you’ve got a story that’s as much about found family and second chances as it is about love.

Iceland practically glows off the page the Northern Lights, the wintry beauty, the feeling of escape. If you’re looking for a festive read that blends humor, heart, and healing, this one truly delivers. It’s the perfect comfort read with just the right spark.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mandy Baggot, I love your books !

I've always wanted to visit Iceland, and this novel is so full of beautiful sceneries... I loved it.

This is so much more than a romance novel. It's about family, what is a family, how you choose your own family and how your past influence who you become.

Gunnar is such a good guy, and Chloe is sweet and kind (probably too much).

Michelle is really unbearable, and even if it gets better at the end of the book, I can't believe she offered the partner position to Chloe with mostly remote work. More unbelievable that Chloe accepted it... but keep in mind that no opening for her was created during the book, letting us think she could just move to Iceland and work there.

Gunnar's family is super cute and strong, I really liked meeting them both.

Not really a Christmas romance but you feel the cold, the ice and fire :)

Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing an eARC in exchange for a honest review.