Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop

by Jessica Redland

Nestled amongst the comforting shelves of her beloved Bay Books, Lily Appleton finds the peace and quiet she needs. But with Christmas just around the corner, Lily has to find an extra pair of hands to help her share the bookish magic.

After selling his business, Lars Jóhannsson is feeling lost. A job at Bay Books would give him the space he needs to contemplate his next move, but returning would mean confronting a painful past he's been avoiding. He’s also fairly sure he’s the one person Lily would never want to see again.

Lily is torn. Lars could be the perfect fit for Bay Books, but he once rejected her friendship and the hurt still lingers. But working together, Lily discovers a vulnerability that Lars has kept hidden away, along with a few surprising secrets. And as the Christmas season sprinkles its magic, Lily discovers the warmth of renewed friendship and the joy of heartwarming traditions from Lars’s Icelandic roots.

Surrounded by the quiet magic of the season and the soft glow of festive lights, perhaps there’s even the possibility of finding a love as enchanting as the Northern Lights on a winter's night.

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Holiday, Contemporary, Fiction, Chick Lit, Adult

394 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

About the author

I was born in Teesside but now live in Scarborough on the stunning North Yorkshire Coast. My home inspired the creation of the fictional seaside town of Whitsborough Bay where I set many of my books although the Hedgehog Hollow series takes readers to a gorgeous new countryside setting in the Yorkshire Wolds.

I live with my husband, our teenage daughter and sprocker spaniel, Ella. I'm a self-confessed stationery addict with a ridiculously large collection of notepads who loves chocolate (although it doesn't love me), hedgehogs, 80s music, collectible teddy bears and lighthouses.

Other than a career detour into retail to set up and run my own teddy bear shop (the inspiration for novel Bear With Me), I've always worked in HR, specialising in resourcing, coaching and L&D. Writing always had to take a back seat to the day job until June 2020 when I left the world of HR to become a full-time author. I'm so very grateful to anyone who has bought or borrowed my books in whatever format, helping me fulfil a long-held dream of writing full-time. I still can't believe I get to spend every day chatting to my fictional friends and making stuff up.

Reviews

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

WINTER NIGHTS AT THE BAY BOOKSHOP by Jessica Redland is a wonderful Christmas holiday cozy romance which I highly recommend especially for all the booklovers out there. While this is a part of the author’s Whitsborough Bay series, it is easily read as a standalone book.

Lily Appleton loves books and runs the family bookshop, Bay Books, with her father. who is finally scheduled for knee replacement surgery. With the holiday fast approaching, Lily must find the perfect short-term replacement for the upcoming busy season.

Lars Johannsson feels lost. He sold his successful on-line education business. His grandmother decides to move in with her friends at the new retirement home while also selling her home which she shares with Lars. While out to lunch with a friend, they notice the sign for help wanted at the bookshop, and Lars’ friend encourages him to apply. But Lars and Lily have an unpleasant past and even though he would love the job, he is afraid Lily will reject him out of hand.

Lily knows Lars is perfect for the job and is willing to give him a try. As they work together, both discover hidden emotional hurts and vulnerabilities in the other. With their shared love of books and the magic of the season, can these two find the love they have been waiting for?

I loved Lily and Lars so much! The story perfectly paces the discovery of past misunderstandings and emotional heartaches from immediate family or past relationships and intertwines the difficult emotions with uplifting quotes from favorite books. I felt the difficulties and emotions both the H/h dealt with are believable and well written. Lily’s family and friends are great support for both. I found the Icelandic traditions for Book Flood on Christmas Eve and all the mythical characters introduced the twelve days before fascinating. This is a cozy romance so everything other than kissing is behind closed doors. I needed tissues for the last two chapters, but they were happy tears from a satisfied romantic heart.

I highly recommend this heartwarming and enchanting cozy holiday romance. You will want to curl up on a comfortable couch with a blanket and your favorite hot beverage as you disappear into this bookish holiday romance.

[Isabelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC - 3/5⭐️ perfect for getting into the holiday spirit 🎄☃️🩵 the setting was absolutely adorable, I loved the book store and the idea of all the different levels. It felt very whimsical to me.

Lily was such a sweet main character, but I kept picturing her to be much younger than she was (like early-mid 20s, rather than in her 30s). Her character just felt sort of immature to me. The whole grudge she held over what Lars did in school had me rolling my eyes, like come on 🙄 you really remember that years and years later?? I just thought it was dumb. …and that book from her childhood felt like her whole personality…

Some of the details in the writing and the plot just seemed like after thoughts and definitely could have been cut out in my opinion. That being said, the romance was cute and sweet but a little on the boring side. It just wasn’t as exciting as I was hoping it would be. I still enjoyed the wintery, Christmas vibes of the book though and think it’s a wonderful holiday read.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Jessica Redland, and Boldwood Books for the ARC 💚📚

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop, by Jessica Redland, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Lily needs help at the holidays for her busy book shop, Bay Books. Such a good story, I loved reading about Lily and Lars, and the Pixie. I also loved the mentions about Anne of Green Gables, one of my favorite books.

[linda hole · Rating 4 out of 5]

hallmark vibes through and theough. who can resist a romance taking in place in a bookshop? thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion

[Jade Bridge · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m going to be kind and say this simply wasn’t for me

[Cheryl Hanzidiakou · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful bookish Christmas read! Sure its sappy but I enjoyed every minute, and there’s oodles of Christmassy festive vibes.

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Redland never fails to deliver comfort and charm, and Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop is no exception. Stepping into this festive tale felt like curling up with a cosy blanket and catching up with old friends—familiar faces from the series returned with heart and humour, yet the story stands beautifully on its own. Set against the magical backdrop of a bookshop at Christmastime, it gently reminds us that sometimes the best gifts are the connections we rediscover.

Lily Appleton runs the Bay Bookshop with her father, but when he needs surgery, they’re forced to find a temporary replacement. The best applicant turns out to be Lars—Lily’s ex-classmate and once-close childhood friend. Their friendship fractured in high school when Lars, struggling with personal issues, cruelly pushed Lily away. Now, years later, he’s embarrassed, and she’s still hurt. But as they work side by side, old memories resurface and new ones begin to form. Through the quiet magic of the season and the warmth of Lars’s Icelandic traditions, Lily rediscovers the comfort of connection—and maybe even the chance to fall in love under the soft glow of festive lights, as enchanting as the Northern Lights on a winter’s night.

This story wrapped around me like a favourite scarf—soft, familiar, and quietly magical. I loved watching Lily and Lars navigate old hurts and new beginnings, all against the backdrop of twinkling lights and Icelandic traditions that added a unique, heartwarming touch. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes, the people we least expect can bring us back to ourselves. Perfect for curling up with on a winter’s night, this one left me smiling long after I turned the last page.

[ashlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautifully written, emotional story that I truly connected with. Lily is a strong and independent woman who’s been through so much: selling her tech company, stepping away from her grandmother’s home, and then putting her heart into running Bay Books. But when her father shows up, only to ask for money and then destroy the bookstore she built, I was devastated for her. That part especially hit close to home for me, as someone who’s experienced the same kind of heartbreak with a parent. It was a reminder that it’s okay to protect your peace, even when it means walking away.

Amid the heartbreak, there’s so much healing. Lars is a quietly charming and complex character, and I loved watching his relationship with Lily unfold. Their history, the tension, the gradual rebuilding of trust, it felt real and earned. I also loved the nods to his Icelandic roots and the gentle magic of the season, even if the Christmas vibe wasn’t super strong.

This book made me feel so much: grief, hope, love, healing. The characters were so well developed, and the emotional moments stayed with me long after I finished.

Highly recommend if you love cozy bookshops, second chances, and characters who feel like real people navigating real pain and joy.

Would I recommend this book to you? 1000% YES

Expected Release Date: 09/09/2025

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the early access. All thoughts in this review are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I look forward to a Jessica Redland book each year. Fortunately for us, she usually gives us 2 a year. We are lucky! Her latest book may be her best yet. I love a book about a bookstore. She told this story so well. I could imagine myself wandering around Bay Books exploring all of the books. The romance between Lars and Lily was so sweet. I often think when I’m reading one of her books how emotionally mature and healthy her characters are! I’m a mental health therapist and find the way her characters talk about their feelings and their self protective defenses is very emotionally intelligent. This book came at just the right time for me. The world is heavy. Redland’s books are a comfort. Light but also deeply moving. Chef’s kiss! Oh, I had to edit to say I especially appreciated all of the Anne of Green Gables references. We need Anne and Gilbert more than ever!

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first Christmas read of the year and this was a good one. Jessica always delivers a good story and this was set in and around a bookshop which made it all the more enjoyable. Throughout the book it referenced Anne of Green Gables which is a book I read recently and enjoyed. Another winner from Jessica. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Meg Huntington · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 🌟 If you love a bookstore, laughter and heartfelt joy then this book is for you! Great book for the holiday season.

[Carol Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books, Christmas, True Love & the Northern lights

Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop was exactly the read I needed at Christmas time this year. It checked all the boxes for an endearing, inspiring, festive, romantic & heartwarming holiday tale.
Merry Christmas to all the book lovers who celebrate!🎄

[Lesley A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank goodness for long travel days, couldn’t put this book down. Heart warming with tears and such a wonderful read 🥰

[Karen Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review
"Powerful things, those books. Adventures taken, friends made, secrets shared, lessons learned. Why would anyone ever want to live a life without books".

Whitsborough Bay you've held my heart for the longest time and it has been a pleasure to be back. I jumped straight into the pages and back with the wonderful characters I know and love.

Lily and Lars were the perfect addition to a wonderful Castle Street and each of their stories broke me and rebuilt me.

Another stunning book from Jessica and as always I'm excited to read whatever comes next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop takes readers back to Castle Street and I enjoyed my trip back. Lily Appleton is newly single and she finds the peace and quiet she needs in her Bay Books store. With Christmas coming, she has to hire help, but who? As she looks through the applications, she spies one from Lars Jóhannsson. She knows he would be a great fit, but he hurt her years earlier, and she isn't sure she can work with him. Lars recently sold his business and finds himself at loose ends. He would love to work at Bay Books while he figures out his next move. He has fond memories of the store as a child and teenager, but he's pretty sure Lily would never want to see him again, let alone work with him. With Christmas getting closer, Lily decides to give Lars the job, as he would be a great fit. Working together, Lily discovers that Lars has secrets, things he kept hidden and the more she gets to know him, the more she likes him. As they become friends, she learns about his Icelandic heritage and they decide to make use of it in a Christmas display and event. With a little Christmas Magic, and the Northern Lights shining, can they find love?

I love Jessica Redland's books. Her characters are so real, with flaws, secrets, and emotions that make me want to get to know them. Both Lily and Lars are in a spot with Lily needing an employee and Lars looking for a job. I liked that Lily was able to look past her hurt feelings from so long ago to give Lars a chance that pays off. The story being set in a bookshop made it even more enjoyable for me, and of course, I am always a sucker for a Christmas setting. I was aware of Jólabókaflóðið (Book Flood), but didn't know the origins of the tradition. I liked that they brought it to the store. There is always some drama in Jessica's books and it is Lily's family that brings it to this story. I liked that she grew a backbone and didn't give in to her father. If you enjoy Christmas stories, with some romance and family issues, then you need to pick up Winter Nights at the Bookshop.

[Iz Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, a proper romance with meaningful soul-searching, something I usually miss in this kind of story. I must say I absolutely loved it, and it moved me emotionally.

This is an amazing and heartfelt story of loss, love, and rediscovery—but above all, about family bonds and finding the right person.

Thank you to BoldwoodBooks and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

For more detailed review, visit my blog . You can also follow me on IG for more.

[Laura Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Out September 9th, 2025
Atmosphere That Wraps Around You Like a Wool Blanket Set in the picturesque town of Whitsborough Bay, the bookshop glows with twinkling lights and warm mugs of cocoa. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to cancel plans and read by candlelight. Now to the plot points:

- A Heroine Healing from Heartbreak Callie’s journey from emotional wreckage to rediscovery is raw, relatable, and deeply satisfying. She’s not just rebuilding her life—she’s reclaiming her joy, one book and one brave step at a time.
- Found Family & Bookish Bonds The Bay Bookshop isn’t just a store—it’s a sanctuary. The friendships forged here are tender, funny, and fiercely loyal. Think The Gilmore Girls meets The Bookish Life of Nina Hill.
- A Rescue Dog That Steals the Show Yes, there’s a dog. Yes, he’s adorable. And yes, he plays a key role in Callie’s healing. If you’re a sucker for four-legged sidekicks, prepare to swoon.
-Romance That’s Slow-Burn and Soulful No insta-love here. Just two people learning to trust again, with chemistry that simmers beneath snowy walks and heartfelt conversations.
-Mental Health Representation That Matters Redland doesn’t shy away from anxiety, grief, or trauma. She handles it with grace, honesty, and hope making this not just a cozy read, but a meaningful one.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for another banger!

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t think I could enjoy Jessica’s books anymore than I already do, but then she goes and proves me wrong! This book is an absolute delight, the characters, the setting, all of it.

When Lily needs to hire extra help to work in her book shop, an old acquaintance sends in his CV, however with some unresolved issues between them, will he be the addition she needs or someone who brings up difficulties from their pasts?

The characters are all loveable (well almost!), the depth at which they are developed is amazing. There is so much history for the characters as well as Lars’ family history, that you feel you know them inside and out. The attention to detail is wonderful, clearly the author has done her research, not just on traditions from other cultures but also in the running of the book shop.

This one is a real feel good read, yes there are some deep moments, with the discussion of loss and grief, but they are dealt with sensitively and with lots of care. The characters chemistry is wonderful, and I really enjoyed reading something where there wasn’t many miscommunications, and if there was one, it wasn’t drawn out but actually considered deeply from both sides.

I will admit I shed a few tears in a few places, Jessica really does know how to move people with her writing.

So what I’m saying is go and read it. If you have read Jessica’s books before, you are in for a treat, if you haven’t, it’s definitely time to start.

[Kerry Fielding · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book for a beautiful month

Usually, I am a psychological thriller/horror/post apocalyptic avid reader, but every now and then, and particularly in the month of December, I love to read what I lovingly term "fluffy books, and this one doesn't disappoint. I've read everything Jessica has ever produced when I need a break from the dark and the horrid, and I love them all, and at this particular time, I just needed a book to give me a bit of a lift and here it was, in my prime reading section which means I didn't have to pay for it. This book is a real uplifting Read and I loved everything about it, particularly the fact that it was all about books. A book is your best friend. Always there for you, you can pick it up whenever you need it, put it back, and it will still make you feel good when you need it to. Even contemplating going back and reading Anne of Green Gables, though I have to confess, I didn't like either Anne or Diana much. go and read this. It's brilliant.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this delightful festive book, Lily runs the bookshop with her father and her best friend, when she needs to hire a sort term cover whilst her father has surgery, the only suitable candidate is someone who was awful to her at school. Lars, is that person, his story has depth, loss, and a wonderful relationship with his grandmother, who is very enjoyable. Really enjoyed the story of how they both get over their pasts, the bookshop and the enthusiastic readers that keep it going and the Icelandic festive customs especially Jólabókaflóð (book flood).

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Avril Mcauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas is the best time of year for readers. Being back in Castle Street is the best place to be. Lily runs Bay Books with her dad and when he needs time off over Christmas to have an operation a position becomes available.
Lars sees the d and decides to apply. Lily and Lars have a complicated on off friendship from school and leads Lily to have to make a decision about what is best for the business.
Filled with romance and magical sparkle Jessica never fails to bring festive cheer back to Castle Street. It’s my favourite place to be.
Loved every frosty, peaceful, joyful page.

[Aditi Sinha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read every single one of Jessica Redland’s books, I was so excited when I saw we were going back to Whitsborough Bay.
This festive story follows Lily and her shop, Bay Books, and her family, friends and blast from the past, Lars.
A cost read that makes you want to cuddle up with a hot chocolate and blanket, I also loved Redland’s inclusion of Iceland and Icelandic culture and folklore.
A definite recommendation for all who love heartwarming, wholesome stories.

[Rebecca Fowkes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved reading Jessica Redland's new book Winter Night's at the Bay Bookshop. I loved Lily and Lars characters and I loved being back at Castle Street with the other characters.

This is a fantastic book to cosy up with, it's a heartwarming book. I've never read Anne of Green Gables before but I might have a look at it now. Definitely recommend reading this book, you won't be disappointed.

[Cindy P Huntington · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ A great read for book lovers. Loved the characters, the small town shops, the relationships within the town & naturally some heartache family drama & hilarious moments. Nice read for the holiday season.

[Rebecca Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect winter romance to snuggle up with!

This is my first experience of a Jessica Redland book, and I wasn't disappointed. It has a great storyline, with characters that you can easily connect with. Lily is the main character who runs a bookshop with her dad, but when her dad needs an operation, someone from her past ends up applying for the part-time position.

My favourite quote was:

"Powerful things, those books. Adventure taken, friendship made, secrets shared, lessons learned. Why would anyone live a life without books?"

Sums this book up!

Thank you at #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for this ARC. I loved it!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a predictable, soppy, holiday romance, but well written and fun for a day when I just wanted a quick, feel-good read.

[Kiera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a book lover there were so many themes of this book that I related to. Again, a lovely Christmas book with a gorgeous story form both perspectives

[Karen Frisby · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars for the bookshop at Christmas setting🎄

[Carole Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

All of my favorite things.... Christmas, bookshops, and a Hallmark-y love story! A feel good Christmas story!

[Erin Strik · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️