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So This Is Christmas
Discover the gorgeous new festive listen from Helen Rolfe, perfect for fans of Shari Low, Heidi Swain and Cathy Bramley
Escape to Vienna this Christmas. . .
Care assistant Sophie loves the holidays, and nothing makes her feel more festive than helping 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. In their Christmas letters, the women update each other on their lives – Bea’s in the quiet residential home in London, Greta’s in the heart of Vienna and the grand Wynter Hotel.
But everything changes when Bea passes away before Sophie’s had a chance to post this year’s letter. Devastated, Sophie struggles to imagine this Christmas without her dear friend. But then Sophie finds one last note from Bea – and this time, it’s not addressed to Greta. It’s to Sophie, telling her to go to Austria.
Which is how Sophie finds herself in Vienna at Christmas, with the snow falling, and an important delivery to make… But when Sophie reaches the Wynter Hotel, there are surprises in store, and before she returns to England, her life will have changed in ways she could never have imagined…
Escape to Vienna this Christmas. . .
Care assistant Sophie loves the holidays, and nothing makes her feel more festive than helping 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. In their Christmas letters, the women update each other on their lives – Bea’s in the quiet residential home in London, Greta’s in the heart of Vienna and the grand Wynter Hotel.
But everything changes when Bea passes away before Sophie’s had a chance to post this year’s letter. Devastated, Sophie struggles to imagine this Christmas without her dear friend. But then Sophie finds one last note from Bea – and this time, it’s not addressed to Greta. It’s to Sophie, telling her to go to Austria.
Which is how Sophie finds herself in Vienna at Christmas, with the snow falling, and an important delivery to make… But when Sophie reaches the Wynter Hotel, there are surprises in store, and before she returns to England, her life will have changed in ways she could never have imagined…
Audible Audio
Published August 24, 2025
2105 people are currently reading
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About the author
Helen Rolfe
69 books130 followersHelen Rolfe also writes as Helen J. Rolfe
Helen Rolfe writes contemporary women's fiction and enjoys weaving stories about family, friendship, secrets, and relationships. Characters often face challenges and must fight to overcome them, but above all, Helen's stories always have a happy ending.
Location is a big part of the adventure in Helen's books and she enjoys setting stories in different cities and countries around the world. So far, locations have included Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Connecticut, Bath and the Cotswolds. She also loves creating village settings or places with a small-town feel and a big sense of community.
Born and raised in the UK, Helen graduated from University with a business degree and began working in I.T. This job took her over to Australia where she eventually turned her attentions back to the career she'd dreamt of when she was fourteen. She studied writing and journalism and wrote articles for women's health and fitness magazines. Helen began writing fiction in 2011 and hasn't missed the I.T. world one little bit... in fact she may just have found her dream job!
To learn more about Helen, find her at:
www.helenjrolfe.com
https://www.facebook.com/helenjrolfew...
https://twitter.com/hjrolfe
https://www.instagram.com/helen_j_rolfe/
Helen Rolfe writes contemporary women's fiction and enjoys weaving stories about family, friendship, secrets, and relationships. Characters often face challenges and must fight to overcome them, but above all, Helen's stories always have a happy ending.
Location is a big part of the adventure in Helen's books and she enjoys setting stories in different cities and countries around the world. So far, locations have included Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Connecticut, Bath and the Cotswolds. She also loves creating village settings or places with a small-town feel and a big sense of community.
Born and raised in the UK, Helen graduated from University with a business degree and began working in I.T. This job took her over to Australia where she eventually turned her attentions back to the career she'd dreamt of when she was fourteen. She studied writing and journalism and wrote articles for women's health and fitness magazines. Helen began writing fiction in 2011 and hasn't missed the I.T. world one little bit... in fact she may just have found her dream job!
To learn more about Helen, find her at:
www.helenjrolfe.com
https://www.facebook.com/helenjrolfew...
https://twitter.com/hjrolfe
https://www.instagram.com/helen_j_rolfe/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
January 3, 2026
*Lasting Friendship*
This heartwarming read was filled with drama and has a satisfying conclusion.
We meet Sophie, a caring care assistant who loves her job and the people she looks after. While she shouldn’t have favourites, she develops a special bond with Bea, an 82-year-old woman.
Bea’s greatest joy is writing a Christmas letter to her long-time friend Greta, who’s moved back to Vienna. Greta’s failing eyesight, means that Sophie steps in to help to continue the tradition. This correspondence has spanned years, and Bea constantly asks Sophie to visit Vienna.
Sophie assists Bea in writing what ends up to be her final letter. She struggles to find the right words to let Greta know. But, she is eventually nudged from beyond to fulfil Bea’s last wish and visit Vienna.
Upon arriving in Vienna, Sophie meets Walter, Greta’s husband. She discovers a man who loved his wife and continued writing festive letters, concealing his own heartbreak.
We learn the reason behind Greta and Bea’s determination to get Sophie to Vienna. This revelation changes the lives of more than one person as two pasts collide.
This heartwarming read was filled with drama and has a satisfying conclusion.
We meet Sophie, a caring care assistant who loves her job and the people she looks after. While she shouldn’t have favourites, she develops a special bond with Bea, an 82-year-old woman.
Bea’s greatest joy is writing a Christmas letter to her long-time friend Greta, who’s moved back to Vienna. Greta’s failing eyesight, means that Sophie steps in to help to continue the tradition. This correspondence has spanned years, and Bea constantly asks Sophie to visit Vienna.
Sophie assists Bea in writing what ends up to be her final letter. She struggles to find the right words to let Greta know. But, she is eventually nudged from beyond to fulfil Bea’s last wish and visit Vienna.
Upon arriving in Vienna, Sophie meets Walter, Greta’s husband. She discovers a man who loved his wife and continued writing festive letters, concealing his own heartbreak.
We learn the reason behind Greta and Bea’s determination to get Sophie to Vienna. This revelation changes the lives of more than one person as two pasts collide.
December 30, 2025
cozy Vienna themed Christmas romance for adults is about all I have to say
Amazon Prime reading
Amazon Prime reading
October 25, 2025
Sophie works at a care home and for the most part, enjoys her job. She loves the holidays, and each year she helps 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. They have been writing Christmas letters to one another for years, keeping each other up to date on their lives. Bea is in London, and Greta lives in the heart of Vienna at the grand Wynter Hotel. When Bea passes away just before Christmas, Sophie's life changes. She is devastated at the loss of her friend, but Bea had a plan. She left a note for Sophie, telling her to go to Vienna and find Greta, and included the funds for her to do so. Sophie heads to Vienna, armed with Bea's final letter to her friend. It's Christmas time in Vienna and when Sophie arrives at the Wynter Hotel, learns that Bea's assumptions about Greta and her husband weren't quite accurate. There are surprises, new friends and just maybe some romance that will keep Sophie from returning to England.
So This Is Christmas is a romance, a story of friendship and found family. When Sophie arrives in Vienna she finds out that Greta has also passed away and Walter has written the last few letters. His son Nick and family friend Jennie work at the Wynter Hotel, which is not and never was owned by Walter and Greta. Jennie has a tragic past, and is now part of Walter's family. He and Greta saved her, so she is extremely protective of him. She is sure that Sophie is out for something and is going to watch over her. Nick, on the other hand, is entranced by Sophie, and they begin to feel something for each other. There is one character that adds villainy to the story, and was one that I "loved to hate". This is a sweet story about friendship, helping one another, found family, and some aspects of greed and selfishness. The Christmas setting gave it that Christmas Magic feel as all comes together at the end. The narration of the audiobook was nicely done by Karen Cass. I enjoyed listening to this one.
So This Is Christmas is a romance, a story of friendship and found family. When Sophie arrives in Vienna she finds out that Greta has also passed away and Walter has written the last few letters. His son Nick and family friend Jennie work at the Wynter Hotel, which is not and never was owned by Walter and Greta. Jennie has a tragic past, and is now part of Walter's family. He and Greta saved her, so she is extremely protective of him. She is sure that Sophie is out for something and is going to watch over her. Nick, on the other hand, is entranced by Sophie, and they begin to feel something for each other. There is one character that adds villainy to the story, and was one that I "loved to hate". This is a sweet story about friendship, helping one another, found family, and some aspects of greed and selfishness. The Christmas setting gave it that Christmas Magic feel as all comes together at the end. The narration of the audiobook was nicely done by Karen Cass. I enjoyed listening to this one.
September 4, 2025
✅ So This is Christmas is a magical and cozy Christmas romance. The perfect book to get you feeling the upcoming holiday vibes.
The friendship aspect was lovely. I loved the letter writing between Bea and Greta.
I do have to say, the story was a bit slow at times….maybe it was just me?
A beautiful story about how friendships can go on no matter what happens. We all deserve forgiveness in the end.
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
The friendship aspect was lovely. I loved the letter writing between Bea and Greta.
I do have to say, the story was a bit slow at times….maybe it was just me?
A beautiful story about how friendships can go on no matter what happens. We all deserve forgiveness in the end.
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
December 23, 2025
I wanted to read this after reading several glowing reviews. I'm afraid I didn't enjoy it as much as I'd hoped but most people seem to have loved it so don't let me put you off!
The positives: I really liked the setting of snowy Vienna at Christmas time. The romances were beautifully done and I liked the theme of enduring friendship.
The negatives: I felt that the connections between some of the characters were just too far-fetched to be believable. I also didn't really buy into several of the characters hopping on flights to and from Vienna several times at such a busy and no doubt expensive time of year!
The positives: I really liked the setting of snowy Vienna at Christmas time. The romances were beautifully done and I liked the theme of enduring friendship.
The negatives: I felt that the connections between some of the characters were just too far-fetched to be believable. I also didn't really buy into several of the characters hopping on flights to and from Vienna several times at such a busy and no doubt expensive time of year!
December 24, 2025
3.25 stars
August 26, 2025
What a beautifully written and heartwarming festive read set in Vienna at Christmas.
I loved the premise of this story with the two best friends writing to one another, especially at Christmas, across the decades. Bea and Greta came across as wonderful characters, along with Walter, Greta’s husband, despite their meddling.
The other main characters of Nick, Jennie and Sofie were really well written. I loved Jennie and Sofie's stories and my heart went out to them as they have both struggled. I was trying to work out why Bea and Greta were anxious to get them to meet.
I loved the couple of twists that came towards the end and hoped the outcome would be good for everyone.
The author's descriptions of the food, drink and places in Vienna sound wonderful, so much so it is now on my list of places to visit.
This is a book I would highly recommend.
I loved the premise of this story with the two best friends writing to one another, especially at Christmas, across the decades. Bea and Greta came across as wonderful characters, along with Walter, Greta’s husband, despite their meddling.
The other main characters of Nick, Jennie and Sofie were really well written. I loved Jennie and Sofie's stories and my heart went out to them as they have both struggled. I was trying to work out why Bea and Greta were anxious to get them to meet.
I loved the couple of twists that came towards the end and hoped the outcome would be good for everyone.
The author's descriptions of the food, drink and places in Vienna sound wonderful, so much so it is now on my list of places to visit.
This is a book I would highly recommend.
August 14, 2025
4.5★s
Bea and Greta had been best friends for a lifetime; both originally from Vienna, now Bea's home was in London while Greta's was in Vienna. The two friends sent letters to one another all the time, but the tradition of their Christmas letters never stopped. Bea, now in her eighties, resided in a care home with kind, compassionate and caring Sophie doing all she could for Bea. With her eyesight failing, Sophie wrote the latest Christmas letter with Bea dictating. The letter was finished, ready for Sophie to post, when Bea quietly passed away overnight. Sophie was shattered.
Greta & Walter lived their lives in Vienna, with their son Nick managing the Wynter hotel and Jennie working there as housekeeping manager. Jennie had a traumatic past which she told no one but her adopted family - Greta, Walter & Nick. With Christmas almost upon them, the decorations around Vienna lit up everyone's lives; the snow flurries making it cold but authentic. When a stranger knocked on Walter's door, and he recognised Sophie, he was shocked but delighted. What happened in the next few days changed lives in a big way...
So This is Christmas is my first read of Helen Rolfe's and I enjoyed it very much. Greta and Bea's close friendship was heartwarming; Sophie and Jennie's connection with the families pretty special. Set in both London and Vienna, I found it a beautiful read, moving, poignant and uplifting. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Boldwood Books for my digital ARC to read and review.
Bea and Greta had been best friends for a lifetime; both originally from Vienna, now Bea's home was in London while Greta's was in Vienna. The two friends sent letters to one another all the time, but the tradition of their Christmas letters never stopped. Bea, now in her eighties, resided in a care home with kind, compassionate and caring Sophie doing all she could for Bea. With her eyesight failing, Sophie wrote the latest Christmas letter with Bea dictating. The letter was finished, ready for Sophie to post, when Bea quietly passed away overnight. Sophie was shattered.
Greta & Walter lived their lives in Vienna, with their son Nick managing the Wynter hotel and Jennie working there as housekeeping manager. Jennie had a traumatic past which she told no one but her adopted family - Greta, Walter & Nick. With Christmas almost upon them, the decorations around Vienna lit up everyone's lives; the snow flurries making it cold but authentic. When a stranger knocked on Walter's door, and he recognised Sophie, he was shocked but delighted. What happened in the next few days changed lives in a big way...
So This is Christmas is my first read of Helen Rolfe's and I enjoyed it very much. Greta and Bea's close friendship was heartwarming; Sophie and Jennie's connection with the families pretty special. Set in both London and Vienna, I found it a beautiful read, moving, poignant and uplifting. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Boldwood Books for my digital ARC to read and review.
August 11, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley, Boldwood Books and Helen Rolfe for the E ARC of this book.
We meet Bea and Greta, two friends from Vienna who came to Britian. No matter where they were they would always wrote to each other especially at Christmas. This Christmas is no different to begin with, Bea writes her letter to Greta with the help of Sophie, the care assistant in the home in which she resides.
Sophie loves Christmas, especially helping Bea write her letter to Greta. Unfortunately a few days after they finish the letter Bea passes away and Sophie is devastated. She realises that she hasn’t posted the letter and when she receives a letter from Bea herself telling her to go to Vienna, she does just that and delivers the last letter in person.
We follow Sophie on her journey of discovery in Vienna, the people she meets, the places she sees and experiences Christmas like no other.
I loved this book, the characters were so well written. I loved both hearing about Bea and Greta, I liked that we got snippets of their letters to each other. Sophie was such a caring and lovely lady, you wanted the best for her. I could understand Jennie’s reaction to Sophie after all she had been through. The setting was delightful, Vienna is a beautiful city and seeing it through Sophies eyes was so good. Also the message of joy and hope was really delightful.
I think because I have always loved writing and receiving letters, this book was so for me. Vienna is also a city I would love to experience in the lead up to Christmas, this gave me a sense of the wonder and speciality of this city at this time.
We meet Bea and Greta, two friends from Vienna who came to Britian. No matter where they were they would always wrote to each other especially at Christmas. This Christmas is no different to begin with, Bea writes her letter to Greta with the help of Sophie, the care assistant in the home in which she resides.
Sophie loves Christmas, especially helping Bea write her letter to Greta. Unfortunately a few days after they finish the letter Bea passes away and Sophie is devastated. She realises that she hasn’t posted the letter and when she receives a letter from Bea herself telling her to go to Vienna, she does just that and delivers the last letter in person.
We follow Sophie on her journey of discovery in Vienna, the people she meets, the places she sees and experiences Christmas like no other.
I loved this book, the characters were so well written. I loved both hearing about Bea and Greta, I liked that we got snippets of their letters to each other. Sophie was such a caring and lovely lady, you wanted the best for her. I could understand Jennie’s reaction to Sophie after all she had been through. The setting was delightful, Vienna is a beautiful city and seeing it through Sophies eyes was so good. Also the message of joy and hope was really delightful.
I think because I have always loved writing and receiving letters, this book was so for me. Vienna is also a city I would love to experience in the lead up to Christmas, this gave me a sense of the wonder and speciality of this city at this time.
August 27, 2025
While Bea now resides in a nursing home in London, she still keeps in touch with close friend Greta who moved back to their home town of Vienna. They exchange letters – Bea now needs help to write them, but it’s one of the tasks Sophie enjoys helping her with. Their Christmas letters are always particularly special – but this year’s will be the last. Bea has died, in the run-up to Christmas, and Sophie hasn’t yet managed to send her letter – and she’s grieving, having been especially fond of the old lady. Finding herself unexpectedly jobless – the manager was always just looking for a reason – she remembers Bea’s insistence that she should visit Vienna, and decides to break the news to Greta in person.
A surprise awaits her there, but she’s drawn into the heart of Greta’s family – her husband Walter and her son Nick, and Jennie who has become as close to them as a daughter. Jennie hasn’t had the easiest of lives, but now works with Nick at the sumptuous Wynter Hotel: the couple helped her to have a fresh start (something they’ve often done for others), and she’s initially suspicious of Sophie, knowing that others have taken advantage of their kindness. And there are more surprises – and a few nasty shocks – to come, as the past begins to catch up with both Sophie and Jennie and a number of deeply buried secrets begin to emerge, including the reason why Bea and Greta were so determined that Sophie should visit Vienna.
I desperately don’t want to spoil the clever plotting of this book – coupled with the emotional story of found family, and a few major misunderstandings (and some unwelcome interference) along the way, I raced through it and loved every single moment. Every character is so real – both Sophie and Jennie very sympathetic, and I entirely adored the lovely Walter. And can there be anywhere lovelier to spend Christmas than Vienna? The setting is so perfectly drawn – the snowfall, the decorations, the food that meant so much to them all, the hotel wrapped in its red ribbon. There’s a gentle romance too – and it’s one I really enjoyed. And every emotional touch – and there are many – is so perfectly judged. I was often on the edge of tears – but there’s such warmth to the whole story that made it a really uplifting read.
The whole book honestly was an absolute delight – and the author’s writing has never been better. Yes, a festive read, and perhaps one to keep until you’re feeling just a little more Christmassy – but it’s a book I’d very much recommend you add to your reading list. I really loved it…
A surprise awaits her there, but she’s drawn into the heart of Greta’s family – her husband Walter and her son Nick, and Jennie who has become as close to them as a daughter. Jennie hasn’t had the easiest of lives, but now works with Nick at the sumptuous Wynter Hotel: the couple helped her to have a fresh start (something they’ve often done for others), and she’s initially suspicious of Sophie, knowing that others have taken advantage of their kindness. And there are more surprises – and a few nasty shocks – to come, as the past begins to catch up with both Sophie and Jennie and a number of deeply buried secrets begin to emerge, including the reason why Bea and Greta were so determined that Sophie should visit Vienna.
I desperately don’t want to spoil the clever plotting of this book – coupled with the emotional story of found family, and a few major misunderstandings (and some unwelcome interference) along the way, I raced through it and loved every single moment. Every character is so real – both Sophie and Jennie very sympathetic, and I entirely adored the lovely Walter. And can there be anywhere lovelier to spend Christmas than Vienna? The setting is so perfectly drawn – the snowfall, the decorations, the food that meant so much to them all, the hotel wrapped in its red ribbon. There’s a gentle romance too – and it’s one I really enjoyed. And every emotional touch – and there are many – is so perfectly judged. I was often on the edge of tears – but there’s such warmth to the whole story that made it a really uplifting read.
The whole book honestly was an absolute delight – and the author’s writing has never been better. Yes, a festive read, and perhaps one to keep until you’re feeling just a little more Christmassy – but it’s a book I’d very much recommend you add to your reading list. I really loved it…
November 26, 2025
I love a good Christmas story at this time of year and this was an absolutely lovely one. Really heart warming. A very easy read for those dark, cold nights, snuggled in front of the fire with a glass of wine. And chocolate, don't forget the chocolate!
**************************
Care assistant Sophie loves the holidays, and nothing makes her feel more festive than helping 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. In their Christmas letters, the women update each other on their lives – Bea’s in the quiet residential home in London, Greta’s in the heart of Vienna and the grand Wynter Hotel.
But everything changes when Bea passes away before Sophie’s had a chance to post this year’s letter. Devastated, Sophie struggles to imagine this Christmas without her dear friend. But then Sophie finds one last note from Bea – and this time, it’s not addressed to Greta. It’s to Sophie, telling her to go to Austria.
Which is how Sophie finds herself in Vienna at Christmas, with the snow falling, and an important delivery to make… But when Sophie reaches the Wynter Hotel, there are surprises in store, and before she returns to England, her life will have changed in ways she could never have imagined…
**************************
Care assistant Sophie loves the holidays, and nothing makes her feel more festive than helping 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. In their Christmas letters, the women update each other on their lives – Bea’s in the quiet residential home in London, Greta’s in the heart of Vienna and the grand Wynter Hotel.
But everything changes when Bea passes away before Sophie’s had a chance to post this year’s letter. Devastated, Sophie struggles to imagine this Christmas without her dear friend. But then Sophie finds one last note from Bea – and this time, it’s not addressed to Greta. It’s to Sophie, telling her to go to Austria.
Which is how Sophie finds herself in Vienna at Christmas, with the snow falling, and an important delivery to make… But when Sophie reaches the Wynter Hotel, there are surprises in store, and before she returns to England, her life will have changed in ways she could never have imagined…
November 27, 2025
So This is Christmas was a delightful read that truly warmed my heart. It’s the perfect story to cozy up with on a cold day, taking in the beautiful settings and connecting with the amazing characters.
In all honesty, it broke my heart several times, but I adored how the focus of the story revolves not around romance, but rather on friendship, human connection, kindness, and all forms of love. The characters felt incredibly real, the setting was enchanting, and it intensified my longing for the Christmas Markets in Vienna, a city that has been on my must-visit list for ages.
The only aspect I found a bit tedious was Jennie’s storyline, which felt slow at times, particularly her inner discussions about her boyfriend. However, I understand that this was essential to the plot.
The twist caught me off guard; while I sensed something unexpected might happen, I didn’t fully anticipate it.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I finished it in one sitting, completely mesmerized. I particularly loved Greta and Bea’s friendship, which made me miss my own best friend even more!
In all honesty, it broke my heart several times, but I adored how the focus of the story revolves not around romance, but rather on friendship, human connection, kindness, and all forms of love. The characters felt incredibly real, the setting was enchanting, and it intensified my longing for the Christmas Markets in Vienna, a city that has been on my must-visit list for ages.
The only aspect I found a bit tedious was Jennie’s storyline, which felt slow at times, particularly her inner discussions about her boyfriend. However, I understand that this was essential to the plot.
The twist caught me off guard; while I sensed something unexpected might happen, I didn’t fully anticipate it.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I finished it in one sitting, completely mesmerized. I particularly loved Greta and Bea’s friendship, which made me miss my own best friend even more!
August 23, 2025
It was a nice Christmas book and it’s bout 2 ladies
Blurb
Two old friends 🫂 One last letter 💌 A life-changing trip! ✨
Care assistant Sophie loves the holidays, and nothing makes her feel more festive than helping 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. In their Christmas letters, the women update each other on their lives – Bea’s in the quiet residential home in London, Greta’s in the heart of Vienna and the grand Wynter Hotel.
But everything changes when Bea passes away before Sophie’s had a chance to post this year’s letter. Devastated, Sophie struggles to imagine this Christmas without her dear friend. But then Sophie finds one last note from Bea – and this time, it’s not addressed to Greta. It’s to Sophie, telling her to go to Austria.
Which is how Sophie finds herself in Vienna at Christmas, with the snow falling, and an important delivery to make… But when Sophie reaches the Wynter Hotel, there are surprises in store, and before she returns to England, her life will have changed in ways she could never have imagined…
Blurb
Two old friends 🫂 One last letter 💌 A life-changing trip! ✨
Care assistant Sophie loves the holidays, and nothing makes her feel more festive than helping 82-year-old resident Bea keep in touch with her old friend Greta. In their Christmas letters, the women update each other on their lives – Bea’s in the quiet residential home in London, Greta’s in the heart of Vienna and the grand Wynter Hotel.
But everything changes when Bea passes away before Sophie’s had a chance to post this year’s letter. Devastated, Sophie struggles to imagine this Christmas without her dear friend. But then Sophie finds one last note from Bea – and this time, it’s not addressed to Greta. It’s to Sophie, telling her to go to Austria.
Which is how Sophie finds herself in Vienna at Christmas, with the snow falling, and an important delivery to make… But when Sophie reaches the Wynter Hotel, there are surprises in store, and before she returns to England, her life will have changed in ways she could never have imagined…
July 27, 2025
This book follows two POVs, Sophie and Jennie, both with pasta they wish to keep from those closest to them, both unknowingly connected in heartache and grief.
Life long friends Greta and Bea have an annual tradition of posting a festive letter to each other. Sophie, a care assistant, aids elderly Bea in writing what would become her final letter, prompting Sophie to head to Vienna to hand deliver this years letter.
This is a story of love, loss, grief and family that goes beyond blood. A heart-warming festive read that could being a tear to the eye.
Life long friends Greta and Bea have an annual tradition of posting a festive letter to each other. Sophie, a care assistant, aids elderly Bea in writing what would become her final letter, prompting Sophie to head to Vienna to hand deliver this years letter.
This is a story of love, loss, grief and family that goes beyond blood. A heart-warming festive read that could being a tear to the eye.
July 31, 2025
This was such a beautiful story! Bea and Greta, who grew up in Vienna together, maintain their friendship through time and distance by sending each other hand written letters. Sophie and Jennie, who have a connection they aren't aware of, and how they discover and deal with that connection when they do find out. Christmas in Vienna filled with Christmas markets, good food, friends and family. Touching, heart-warming and full of love and fogiveness. Wonderful!
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and Helen Rolfe for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and Helen Rolfe for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 18, 2025
This book has left me so emotional, my emotions were all over the place, lol. I love the unbreakable bond, family, friends, there is a mix of love and loss, and found family. I seriously enjoyed this one. Beware when reading this book, eyes might end up running uncontrollably. ADORED this book.
Thank you Netgalley and the Publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Thank you Netgalley and the Publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
December 17, 2025
Very enjoyable read for the holidays or winter season. Family relationships with a good dose of hurt entertwined with friendship relationships old and new. A few tears sprinkled with smiles but ultimately lessons learned on forgiveness and understanding of others reactions to life’s curveballs.
November 29, 2025
A lovely festive read, a great start to the season.
January 6, 2026
Oh I absolutely loved this book ❤️ such a beautiful story.
December 24, 2025
what a wonderful heartfelt story
December 17, 2025
I love a good Christmas story and this one fit the bill! Two women brought together by two very old friends who have corresponded across the years and miles.
The setting in Vienna was perfect and the relationships were explored well. My biggest criticism was Amber the care home manager! I really could not believe anyone no matter how vindictive would travel all the way to Austria to denounce someone on Christmas Day- wholly unbelievable and rather spoilt an otherwise nice story. Apart from that it was an enjoyable feel good story.
The setting in Vienna was perfect and the relationships were explored well. My biggest criticism was Amber the care home manager! I really could not believe anyone no matter how vindictive would travel all the way to Austria to denounce someone on Christmas Day- wholly unbelievable and rather spoilt an otherwise nice story. Apart from that it was an enjoyable feel good story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2025
Well that was quite the tearjerker! I lost count of the number of times I cried whilst reading this one! Some of it was a bit close to home for me which made it more emotional for me to read.
This was the fourth book I have read by this author and I have enjoyed them all.
The book is set between England and Vienna. Having been to Vienna it was lovely to read about some of the places I had visited. A Christmas visit is now on my bucket list!
When Bea dies in a care home, Sophie her carer and friend decides to travel to Vienna to tell Bea’s lifelong friend Greta Whyte the sad news in person.
In Vienna, the Whytes are reeling from a loss of their own but they are overjoyed that Sophie has made the trip to visit them.
Sophie has a connection with Jennie, a girl the Whytes took under their wing, which neither girl is aware of and which is going to deeply affect everyone.
Such an emotive read and so well written. My heart went out to both Sophie and Jennie and the trauma they had both faced in their lives and the severe guilt they still carried.
A really great read to add to your Christmas reading list.
This was the fourth book I have read by this author and I have enjoyed them all.
The book is set between England and Vienna. Having been to Vienna it was lovely to read about some of the places I had visited. A Christmas visit is now on my bucket list!
When Bea dies in a care home, Sophie her carer and friend decides to travel to Vienna to tell Bea’s lifelong friend Greta Whyte the sad news in person.
In Vienna, the Whytes are reeling from a loss of their own but they are overjoyed that Sophie has made the trip to visit them.
Sophie has a connection with Jennie, a girl the Whytes took under their wing, which neither girl is aware of and which is going to deeply affect everyone.
Such an emotive read and so well written. My heart went out to both Sophie and Jennie and the trauma they had both faced in their lives and the severe guilt they still carried.
A really great read to add to your Christmas reading list.
November 10, 2025
If you’ve ever ugly-cried into your advent calendar chocolate while whispering “I just want a little peace,” then So This Is Christmas by Helen Rolfe is here to emotionally body-slam you into the twinkling streets of Vienna and say, “Guess again, babe.”
I went into this thinking I was signing up for warm vibes, festive markets, and maybe a soft little romance under some mistletoe. What I got was a story so tender and so sneakily devastating that I actually had to go lie down and question why I’ve let so many elderly British women into my heart unchecked. Bea, I would have fought the care home administration for you. Greta, I would have learned cursive. Sophie? Sophie, sweet girl, I want to wrap you in a weighted blanket and feed you Linzer cookies until you stop flinching every time someone says “family.”
The basic setup sounds like the start of a Hallmark movie where everyone wears matching scarves. Sophie, a deeply kind but emotionally bruised care assistant, helps 82-year-old Bea write her annual Christmas letter to her lifelong friend Greta in Vienna. But then Bea dies (yep, dead right out the gate) and leaves behind not just a letter, but a mission. Cue Sophie hopping on a grief-fueled plane to Austria with more emotional baggage than checked luggage.
What unfolds is not so much a story about Christmas as it is a surgical dissection of found family, forgiveness, and the intergenerational trauma we all pretend we’ve unpacked just because we can recite our therapist’s out-of-office message. Sophie meets Walter, Greta’s husband, and then Jennie and Nick, the people Bea and Greta were lowkey trying to set her up with like two geriatric puppet masters. Except this plan comes with surprise secrets, emotional landmines, and one wildly punchable villain I would happily push into a vat of spoiled eggnog. (Amber. You know what you did.)
Jennie is a standout. Fiercely guarded and loyal to a fault, with a past that she guards like it’s nuclear launch codes. Watching her and Sophie circle each other like emotionally wounded cats stuck in the same shoebox is oddly cathartic. You know something big is coming, but when it drops? My whole body went cold. It's not a twist, it's an ambush. A character-driven, "oh NO THEY DIDN’T" emotional ambush.
The pacing is soft and slow, like it’s daring you to settle in and get cozy just so it can yank the rug out from under you with another grief gut-punch. And the setting? Absolutely weaponized holiday aesthetic. The descriptions of Vienna are so good I could smell the roasted chestnuts and hear Mariah Carey echoing off the cobblestones. Honestly, if this book didn’t make me want to flee to a snow-covered hotel in Europe and start over with a new identity, I don’t know what would.
Is there romance? Yeah. But it’s gentle and almost secondary to the emotional core, which is 100 percent about healing and second chances and finding family in the people who choose you. Especially when the people who should have loved you never really did. This isn’t a story where love solves everything. It’s a story where love starts the healing. Big difference.
Four stars, not because it wasn’t brilliant (it was), but because the emotional manipulation was so stealthy I felt tricked into feeling things when I was just trying to read about snow and twinkle lights. Respectfully, Ms. Rolfe, how dare you.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Ambushing Me With Feelings in a Christmas Market and Not Even Pretending to Be Sorry
I went into this thinking I was signing up for warm vibes, festive markets, and maybe a soft little romance under some mistletoe. What I got was a story so tender and so sneakily devastating that I actually had to go lie down and question why I’ve let so many elderly British women into my heart unchecked. Bea, I would have fought the care home administration for you. Greta, I would have learned cursive. Sophie? Sophie, sweet girl, I want to wrap you in a weighted blanket and feed you Linzer cookies until you stop flinching every time someone says “family.”
The basic setup sounds like the start of a Hallmark movie where everyone wears matching scarves. Sophie, a deeply kind but emotionally bruised care assistant, helps 82-year-old Bea write her annual Christmas letter to her lifelong friend Greta in Vienna. But then Bea dies (yep, dead right out the gate) and leaves behind not just a letter, but a mission. Cue Sophie hopping on a grief-fueled plane to Austria with more emotional baggage than checked luggage.
What unfolds is not so much a story about Christmas as it is a surgical dissection of found family, forgiveness, and the intergenerational trauma we all pretend we’ve unpacked just because we can recite our therapist’s out-of-office message. Sophie meets Walter, Greta’s husband, and then Jennie and Nick, the people Bea and Greta were lowkey trying to set her up with like two geriatric puppet masters. Except this plan comes with surprise secrets, emotional landmines, and one wildly punchable villain I would happily push into a vat of spoiled eggnog. (Amber. You know what you did.)
Jennie is a standout. Fiercely guarded and loyal to a fault, with a past that she guards like it’s nuclear launch codes. Watching her and Sophie circle each other like emotionally wounded cats stuck in the same shoebox is oddly cathartic. You know something big is coming, but when it drops? My whole body went cold. It's not a twist, it's an ambush. A character-driven, "oh NO THEY DIDN’T" emotional ambush.
The pacing is soft and slow, like it’s daring you to settle in and get cozy just so it can yank the rug out from under you with another grief gut-punch. And the setting? Absolutely weaponized holiday aesthetic. The descriptions of Vienna are so good I could smell the roasted chestnuts and hear Mariah Carey echoing off the cobblestones. Honestly, if this book didn’t make me want to flee to a snow-covered hotel in Europe and start over with a new identity, I don’t know what would.
Is there romance? Yeah. But it’s gentle and almost secondary to the emotional core, which is 100 percent about healing and second chances and finding family in the people who choose you. Especially when the people who should have loved you never really did. This isn’t a story where love solves everything. It’s a story where love starts the healing. Big difference.
Four stars, not because it wasn’t brilliant (it was), but because the emotional manipulation was so stealthy I felt tricked into feeling things when I was just trying to read about snow and twinkle lights. Respectfully, Ms. Rolfe, how dare you.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Ambushing Me With Feelings in a Christmas Market and Not Even Pretending to Be Sorry
August 26, 2025
So this is Christmas by Helen Rolfe is a wonderful, enjoyable, heartwarming story of love, loss, grief and family that goes beyond blood; a heart-warming festive read that could bring a tear to the eye.
Bea and Greta had been best friends for a lifetime; both originally from Vienna, now Bea's home was in London while Greta's was currently in Vienna. The two friends have an annual tradition of posting festive letters to each other, especially at Christmas. Bea, now in her eighties, resided in a care home with kind, compassionate, care assistant Sophie doing all she could for Bea. With her eyesight failing, Sophie wrote the latest Christmas letter with Bea dictating. The letter was finished, ready for Sophie to post, when Bea quietly passed away overnight. Sophie was shattered.
Sophie loves Christmas, especially helping Bea write her letter to Greta. Unfortunately a few days after they finish the letter Bea passes away and Sophie is devastated. She realizes that she hasn’t posted the letter, when she receives a letter from Bea herself telling her to go to Vienna, she does just that; delivering the last letter in person.
Greta and her husband, Walter, have spent their years together taking care of others: finding people in need of care and support, helping them find their feet. Their family circle includes their own son Nick and Jennie, who after being thrown out of her home, has become like a daughter to them. After retiring, Greta and Walter moved back to Vienna, with their Nick be the manager of the Wynter hotel and Jennie working there as housekeeping manager.
Greta and Bea spent several years trying to persuade Sophie to visit Vienna; appearing to have an ulterior motive. As the story moves on we discover their well meaning motives. We also find out unexpected aspects of Sophie and Jennie’s lives that link them. Secrets that have kept them hiding from the truth and preventing them from living life to the full.
I loved this festive read. The characters were delightful and the close feeling of family and true connection made for a really cozy read, with seasonal love and joy to match it. I was thoroughly absorbed in this take of found family and intergenerational friendships, despite the secrets and lies causing emotional turmoil that lurked between the pages.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#SoThisIsChristmas #Boldwood #NetGalley
Bea and Greta had been best friends for a lifetime; both originally from Vienna, now Bea's home was in London while Greta's was currently in Vienna. The two friends have an annual tradition of posting festive letters to each other, especially at Christmas. Bea, now in her eighties, resided in a care home with kind, compassionate, care assistant Sophie doing all she could for Bea. With her eyesight failing, Sophie wrote the latest Christmas letter with Bea dictating. The letter was finished, ready for Sophie to post, when Bea quietly passed away overnight. Sophie was shattered.
Sophie loves Christmas, especially helping Bea write her letter to Greta. Unfortunately a few days after they finish the letter Bea passes away and Sophie is devastated. She realizes that she hasn’t posted the letter, when she receives a letter from Bea herself telling her to go to Vienna, she does just that; delivering the last letter in person.
Greta and her husband, Walter, have spent their years together taking care of others: finding people in need of care and support, helping them find their feet. Their family circle includes their own son Nick and Jennie, who after being thrown out of her home, has become like a daughter to them. After retiring, Greta and Walter moved back to Vienna, with their Nick be the manager of the Wynter hotel and Jennie working there as housekeeping manager.
Greta and Bea spent several years trying to persuade Sophie to visit Vienna; appearing to have an ulterior motive. As the story moves on we discover their well meaning motives. We also find out unexpected aspects of Sophie and Jennie’s lives that link them. Secrets that have kept them hiding from the truth and preventing them from living life to the full.
I loved this festive read. The characters were delightful and the close feeling of family and true connection made for a really cozy read, with seasonal love and joy to match it. I was thoroughly absorbed in this take of found family and intergenerational friendships, despite the secrets and lies causing emotional turmoil that lurked between the pages.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#SoThisIsChristmas #Boldwood #NetGalley
August 17, 2025
So This Is Christmas is a heartwarming look at Christmas through the eyes of two firm friends living far apart who have continued their Christmas tradition of sending each other a letter every year for the past fifty years.
Greta and Bea have been friends for most of their adult lives, meeting in Vienna as young women and then through their married lives living close to each other in Britain, before Walter and Greta returned home to her beloved Vienna.
Now both elderly ladies, Sophie, a care assistant at Tapestry Lodge writes and posts Bea’s letters and reads Greta’s to her. They have all become firm friends over the past four years.
Sadly, Bea passes just before Christmas and Sophie discovers she has been left a bequest by Bea, with the instructions to visit Vienna at Christmas. After a series of disastrous events Sophie decides to go and spend the Christmas season in Vienna and explore all the many wonderful things she has been told about by Bea and Greta.
As Sophie relaxes into enjoying Vienna, meets up with the delightful Walter, Greta’s husband, their son Nick and adopted daughter Jennie she begins to feel that finally she has found a family who understand family; something she has always wanted but never had.
But things do not go according to plan as Sophie’s past is on a direct collision with Jennies and when it is revelled to them both in the most horrific manner, she is devastated, fleeing back England heartbroken and shattered.
Can life ever change for her is the question she asks herself as she mourns the loss of a new love, a budding family and faces a bleak future. She realises she has to decide as to how she wants to lead her life and once this is done, she feels considerably better.
But the season of good will and glad tidings is not finished with her as she finally has to accept that understanding is healing and the future is bright with the man you love and who loves you.
Greta and Bea have been friends for most of their adult lives, meeting in Vienna as young women and then through their married lives living close to each other in Britain, before Walter and Greta returned home to her beloved Vienna.
Now both elderly ladies, Sophie, a care assistant at Tapestry Lodge writes and posts Bea’s letters and reads Greta’s to her. They have all become firm friends over the past four years.
Sadly, Bea passes just before Christmas and Sophie discovers she has been left a bequest by Bea, with the instructions to visit Vienna at Christmas. After a series of disastrous events Sophie decides to go and spend the Christmas season in Vienna and explore all the many wonderful things she has been told about by Bea and Greta.
As Sophie relaxes into enjoying Vienna, meets up with the delightful Walter, Greta’s husband, their son Nick and adopted daughter Jennie she begins to feel that finally she has found a family who understand family; something she has always wanted but never had.
But things do not go according to plan as Sophie’s past is on a direct collision with Jennies and when it is revelled to them both in the most horrific manner, she is devastated, fleeing back England heartbroken and shattered.
Can life ever change for her is the question she asks herself as she mourns the loss of a new love, a budding family and faces a bleak future. She realises she has to decide as to how she wants to lead her life and once this is done, she feels considerably better.
But the season of good will and glad tidings is not finished with her as she finally has to accept that understanding is healing and the future is bright with the man you love and who loves you.
August 21, 2025
So This Is Christmas by Helen Rolfe, Sophie is a caretaker at the rest home where B lives and every Christmas she helps her write a letter to her best friend back in Austria. greta moved to England with her British husband Walter who she met in the Austria and it wasn’t long before be followed. It was before their move to England that they started the Christmas letters but for now Sophie is enjoying helping her patient keep in touch with her dear friends in Austria. she also helps be FaceTime with Greta and Walter and the two in Austria constantly tells Sophie to come for a visit something B is keen on the nurse doing as well. greta and Walter lived in England for years but since their son Nick in “adopted“ daughter Jesse moved to Austria they soon followed suit. unfortunately soon B passes away due to old age and her death and all that happens during it facilitate Sofies holiday in Austria and the fact that she’s going to deliver B’s last letter only urges her on to take the vacation. Sophie grew up in a cold home where Christmas was never celebrated so her trip this year will come with many surprises Love a family of her own and guilt that she’ll finally be ready to let go of but first she must deliver the letter to Greta and this becomes her first surprise. of course there’s way more to this story than what’s in my review just know this is the first book I have read that ever changed my attitude from semi depressed to super happy because this is such a hard warming book and I’ll be there are some who are sending that will read it and say they guess the whole plot but there’s something to be said for a good rider that writes a story even though you know how it’s going to end you still want to read it and see exactly how it does and that is this book. I really loved it I now want to go visit Austria during Christmas and stay at the winter hotel this was just such a great book. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #HelenRolfe, #SoThisIsChristmas,
August 22, 2025
Two friends.
One last letter.
A lifechanging trip.
The setup for this holiday read is quite a hook!🎣
The two friends are Greta and Bea. They have been exchanging Christmas letters since they met decades ago. Greta and her husband Walter live in Vienna. Bea is still in England in a retirement home. The letter Bea has written with the hope of carer Sophie is ready to be mailed. . . Sophie will find herself personally delivering it to Vienna -- at Christmastime. Wish I could stowaway I her suitcase.
To share four reasons for my rating, I will the four leading ladies in this book:
🧑🦳BEA KERN ~ Although a Vienna native, her retirement years are spent in England as a resident of the Tapestry Lodge. She and Greta have exchanged letters at Christmas (and other times of the year) for fifty years. Her beloved husband Anthony is deceased.
👱SOPHIE HANNAGAN ~ She works at Tapestry Lodge and has gotten to know Bea so well that she is helping her with her Christmas letter to Greta. There are secrets from Sophie's past that are coming around to haunt her decades later.
🧑🦳GRETA WYNTER ~ beloved wife of Walter and back in Vienna to live out her golden years. She has cooked up a plan to try and get Sophie to come visit. Bea is her co-conspirator. Why???
🧑🦱JENNIE CLARKE ~ has been unofficially adopted into Greta and Walter's family. She is working in Vienna as the head housekeeper at the prestigious Wynter Hotel. Her "brother" Will also works there and he is single, ladies!
Themes of forgiveness and family permeate this read. Unfortunately, their meaning for Christmas is rooted only in traditions and I was hoping for more. If you love holiday stories with big reveals and lovable characters, this is the book for you. Perfect for fans of Shari Low.
Happy Publication Day (August 24, 2025)! Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
One last letter.
A lifechanging trip.
The setup for this holiday read is quite a hook!🎣
The two friends are Greta and Bea. They have been exchanging Christmas letters since they met decades ago. Greta and her husband Walter live in Vienna. Bea is still in England in a retirement home. The letter Bea has written with the hope of carer Sophie is ready to be mailed. . . Sophie will find herself personally delivering it to Vienna -- at Christmastime. Wish I could stowaway I her suitcase.
To share four reasons for my rating, I will the four leading ladies in this book:
🧑🦳BEA KERN ~ Although a Vienna native, her retirement years are spent in England as a resident of the Tapestry Lodge. She and Greta have exchanged letters at Christmas (and other times of the year) for fifty years. Her beloved husband Anthony is deceased.
👱SOPHIE HANNAGAN ~ She works at Tapestry Lodge and has gotten to know Bea so well that she is helping her with her Christmas letter to Greta. There are secrets from Sophie's past that are coming around to haunt her decades later.
🧑🦳GRETA WYNTER ~ beloved wife of Walter and back in Vienna to live out her golden years. She has cooked up a plan to try and get Sophie to come visit. Bea is her co-conspirator. Why???
🧑🦱JENNIE CLARKE ~ has been unofficially adopted into Greta and Walter's family. She is working in Vienna as the head housekeeper at the prestigious Wynter Hotel. Her "brother" Will also works there and he is single, ladies!
Themes of forgiveness and family permeate this read. Unfortunately, their meaning for Christmas is rooted only in traditions and I was hoping for more. If you love holiday stories with big reveals and lovable characters, this is the book for you. Perfect for fans of Shari Low.
Happy Publication Day (August 24, 2025)! Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2025
“So This Is Christmas” a beautiful christmassy setting with seasonal love and joy to match it. I was so thoroughly absorbed in this take of found family and intergenerational friendships that I read the book in one day.
The story is about the yearly Christmas letter shared between old friends, Greta in Vienna the Bea in London.
Sophie cares deeply about Bea, one of the residents in the home she works in. She helps her to write and send letters to her oldest friend, the most important one being the Christmas letter. This year is different, this year Bea is no longer and Sophie needs to decide how to break it to Greta and her family. Should she send the letter with a covering note or should she visit Vienna for Christmas?
Greta and her husband have spent their years together taking care of others finding people in need of care and support and helping them find their feet. Their family circle includes their own son Nick and Jennie, who was thrown out of her home and has become like a daughter to them. Greta and Bea have spent several years trying to persuade Sophie to visit Vienna. They seem to have an ulterior motive.
As the story moves on we discover their well meaning motives. We also find out unexpected aspects of Sophie and Jennie’s lives that link them. Secrets that have kept them hiding from the truth and preventing them from living life to the full.
I loved this festive read. The characters were delightful and the close feeling of family and true connection made for a really cosy read, despite the secrets and lies causing emotional turmoil that lurked between the pages.
The story is about the yearly Christmas letter shared between old friends, Greta in Vienna the Bea in London.
Sophie cares deeply about Bea, one of the residents in the home she works in. She helps her to write and send letters to her oldest friend, the most important one being the Christmas letter. This year is different, this year Bea is no longer and Sophie needs to decide how to break it to Greta and her family. Should she send the letter with a covering note or should she visit Vienna for Christmas?
Greta and her husband have spent their years together taking care of others finding people in need of care and support and helping them find their feet. Their family circle includes their own son Nick and Jennie, who was thrown out of her home and has become like a daughter to them. Greta and Bea have spent several years trying to persuade Sophie to visit Vienna. They seem to have an ulterior motive.
As the story moves on we discover their well meaning motives. We also find out unexpected aspects of Sophie and Jennie’s lives that link them. Secrets that have kept them hiding from the truth and preventing them from living life to the full.
I loved this festive read. The characters were delightful and the close feeling of family and true connection made for a really cosy read, despite the secrets and lies causing emotional turmoil that lurked between the pages.
November 28, 2025
Bea and Greta have the most wonderful friendship that has spanned decades. Whilst they live in different countries and don’t see each other often, they have kept up with keeping in touch via letters, especially at Christmas. My heart broke when Bea dies, especially for Sophie who has looked after Bea since she arrived in the care home and the pair had grown close. Bea’s one wish was for Sophie to go to Vienna to experience the country for herself.
Vienna was a wonderful place to be transported to in this book. I’ve never been but it’s on my list of places I want to go to now. The setting was just magical and of course, being so close to Christmas when Sophie arrives gives you all the festive vibes. The small cast of characters were delightful. I loved getting to know them all more. The story mainly focuses on Sophie and Jennie of who both seem to be hiding something from their past. Walter definitely steals the limelight and I adored him.
So This is Christmas has everything I love in this genre and more. I started it on an evening and didn’t stop until I’d turned the last page. It was emotional, romantic, uplifting, I honestly felt my heart was fit to burst by the end. It really gives you the true meaning of not just Christmas but life itself with the importance of friendship, the family that you make for yourself and coming to terms with the past. Also not forgetting kindness and how the smallest act can mean so much to someone else. It’s a story that gives you a great big hug and leaves you feeling all warm and elated. Would give it a trillion stars if I could!
Vienna was a wonderful place to be transported to in this book. I’ve never been but it’s on my list of places I want to go to now. The setting was just magical and of course, being so close to Christmas when Sophie arrives gives you all the festive vibes. The small cast of characters were delightful. I loved getting to know them all more. The story mainly focuses on Sophie and Jennie of who both seem to be hiding something from their past. Walter definitely steals the limelight and I adored him.
So This is Christmas has everything I love in this genre and more. I started it on an evening and didn’t stop until I’d turned the last page. It was emotional, romantic, uplifting, I honestly felt my heart was fit to burst by the end. It really gives you the true meaning of not just Christmas but life itself with the importance of friendship, the family that you make for yourself and coming to terms with the past. Also not forgetting kindness and how the smallest act can mean so much to someone else. It’s a story that gives you a great big hug and leaves you feeling all warm and elated. Would give it a trillion stars if I could!
September 9, 2025
So This is Christmas
by Helen Rolfe
Perhaps I wasn’t in the right frame of mind when I picked up this book, but I found the story to unfold at a rather slow pace, which sometimes made it difficult for me to stay engaged. The narrative is set against the backdrop of picturesque Vienna and the familiar landscapes of the UK, weaving their charm throughout the tale.
At the outset, we meet Bea and Greta, two long-time friends whose bond transcends the years and miles that separate them. Their relationship thrives through heartfelt correspondence in the form of letters, showcasing the deep connection they maintain despite the physical distance. Alongside them is Sophie, a compassionate care assistant, who plays a vital role in helping Bea, a resident at the care facility, stay connected with Greta.
As Christmas approaches, the arrival of Bea’s annual holiday letter, filled with life updates and warmth, is a poignant reminder of their enduring friendship. However, the narrative takes a bittersweet turn when Bea passes away, leaving Sophie to navigate the challenges of the holiday season amidst her profound grief. In a touching twist, Sophie receives one last letter from Bea, this time addressed to her, which instils a sense of purpose and direction. It urges her to embark on a journey to Vienna, Austria, where Greta resides, intertwining their fates once more during the festive season.
by Helen Rolfe
Perhaps I wasn’t in the right frame of mind when I picked up this book, but I found the story to unfold at a rather slow pace, which sometimes made it difficult for me to stay engaged. The narrative is set against the backdrop of picturesque Vienna and the familiar landscapes of the UK, weaving their charm throughout the tale.
At the outset, we meet Bea and Greta, two long-time friends whose bond transcends the years and miles that separate them. Their relationship thrives through heartfelt correspondence in the form of letters, showcasing the deep connection they maintain despite the physical distance. Alongside them is Sophie, a compassionate care assistant, who plays a vital role in helping Bea, a resident at the care facility, stay connected with Greta.
As Christmas approaches, the arrival of Bea’s annual holiday letter, filled with life updates and warmth, is a poignant reminder of their enduring friendship. However, the narrative takes a bittersweet turn when Bea passes away, leaving Sophie to navigate the challenges of the holiday season amidst her profound grief. In a touching twist, Sophie receives one last letter from Bea, this time addressed to her, which instils a sense of purpose and direction. It urges her to embark on a journey to Vienna, Austria, where Greta resides, intertwining their fates once more during the festive season.
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