The Arctic Cruise

by Caroline James

Pack your bags for the adventure of a lifetime…From the #1 bestselling author of The Cruise, embark on an unforgettable journey and sail through Norway’s winter wonderlands to see the spectacular Northern Lights.

________

Will the Arctic wonderland work its magic this winter?

Joy never imagined stepping aboard a cruise ship without her husband, Tom. Now widowed, Joy wonders what her voyage on the Emerald Dream will hold – and as it glides through breathtaking Norwegian fjords, she longs to believe in happiness again. However, she carries a secret that could unravel her fragile hopes if it ever came to light…

Elsewhere on deck, as the sun dips below the horizon and the polar night sets in, Henry, a lifelong bachelor, is living his dream of seeing the Northern Lights. Having long since given up on love, he now dedicates himself to his passion for photography. But when he meets Joy, is it more than the aurora borealis that catches his eye?

As they embark on a snow-dusted adventure which takes them from bustling ports to reindeer-drawn sleigh rides, will Joy and Henry find the courage to embrace love again? Or will hidden truths sink the possibility of a new beginning?

A heartwarming, feel-good voyage of self-discovery, romance and second chances, perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan and Judy Leigh.

Genres: Romance, Womens Fiction, Adult, Contemporary

379 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2026

About the author

Caroline James is the celebrated author of later-life fiction, including THE CRUISE, the #1 best-seller that has captivated cruise ship passengers worldwide, and her eagerly anticipated follow-up novel, THE CRUISE CLUB, is out now.

Her new novel ATTICUS ARNOTT’S GREAT ADVENTURE is described as “A heartwarming and uplifting read where the characters shine from the page.”

Caroline’s vibrant storytelling stems from her colourful career. Before becoming a full-time writer, she carved out a fascinating path in the hospitality industry, owning a charming country house hotel and a lively pub. As a media agent, she worked closely with celebrity chefs, giving her an insider’s perspective on the glitz, glamour, and grit of the culinary world. When she finally turned her focus to writing, she discovered her true calling, penning best-selling novels that have garnered her legions of fans.

When she’s not writing in her cosy writing retreat, Caroline enjoys tranquil walks with Fred, her Westie, and refreshing swims in a local lake. As a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, the SoA, ARRA, and the Society of Women’s Writers & Journalists, Caroline is a champion of lifelong creativity.


Books by Caroline James:

Atticus Arnott's Great Adventure
The Cruise Club
The Cruise
The French Cookery School
The Spa Break
Boomerville at Ballymegille
The Best Boomerville Hotel
Hattie Goes to Hollywood
Jungle Rock
Coffee Tea the Caribbean & Me
Coffee Tea the Chef & Me
Coffee Rea the Gypsy & Me

Contact Caroline:

website: www.carolinejamesauthor.co.uk
Twitter: @carolinejames12
Facebook: Caroline James Author
Insta: Caroline JamesAuthor

Reviews for Caroline’s books:

"Caroline is a natural story-teller with a gift for humour in her writing." The Write Stuff, London Book Fair.

"A fabulous Story, it made me shriek with laughter and I loved every twist and turn." Valentina Harris, Author, Chef and International Cookery School Host.

"Caroline James has spun a tale that is enjoyable, funny, charming, believable and page-turning." Nigel May, TV Personality & Author

"A strong plot with likeable characters makes it a great read." Ebook of the week - The Sun:

"Caroline writes quite beautifully - great descriptions, vividly drawn characters, sparkling humour, a touch of real sadness - this book was the perfect escape."

"A thoroughly enjoyable read that takes you from the loneliness of single life in the wet UK through to the magic of the Caribbean. An indulgent feast of the best things in life - sun, rum, fun, love and laughter."

"Caroline James has served up a comedic masterpiece that proves retirement doesn't mean retreating—it means going full throttle with absolutely zero effs left to give."

Reviews

[Rosh · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a Nutshell: A contemporary fiction set on a cruise. Decent plot with multiple character POVs. Looks like a typical romance, but is more of a general fiction. The “romance” involves senior citizens, which isn't indicated by the cover or the blurb. Ensemble cast, but each character is slightly one-noted. Has some dark themes. Some of the writing choices didn’t work for me. But I grabbed it for the promised Arctic cruise, and that worked well. A good option for those who like ensemble stories with older characters.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Plot Preview:

Frequent cruiser Joy, 63, was supposed to go on an Arctic cruise with her husband Tom for their fortieth wedding anniversary. Now widowed for more than a year, Joy is convinced by their daughter to go on the cruise anyway.
Retired teacher Henry, 70, is a lifelong bachelor who wants to fulfill his dream of seeing the Northern Lights. This is his first time on a cruise and he isn't quite sure what to expect.
Leticia and Jim have come on the cruise as a gift to each other. With Jim’s terminal illness getting worse, they want one last happy holiday together.
There are some more passengers and some cruise employees in the story. As they journey along the Arctic, we get to see their personalities, their intimate secrets, their hopes and apprehensions, and their bond (or lack thereof) with their fellow travellers.
The story comes to us from the third-person perspectives of several characters, with the narration shifting across major and minor characters steadily.

Bookish Yays:
🚢 The Emerald Dream cruise in Norway. The author states at the start how she actually went on the cruise for a first-hand experience, and this shows in her writing. There are many interesting details of cruise travel and also facts about the Northern lights and the locations the cruise travels through.

🚢 A special Yay for including the cultural and environmental costs of cruising. Not many are aware of the carbon costs of cruises, which is much higher than typical “land” vacations.

🚢 Leticia and Jim as a pair. Great characters with a strong bond. I love the depiction of Jim's fears and frustrations because of his illness, and also how his disease isn’t the whole and sole of his character. Easily the best characters of the book.

🚢 Henry. The only other character I found mostly likeable. His fondness for his old neighbour Audrey is the best part of his persona.

🚢 The use of third-person POVs for the ensemble cast. Allows us a look at various passengers and crew members without the proceedings getting confusing. It is great how every character, major or minor, gets at least a small role to play in the overall plot.

🚢 The ending. Really good, with proper closure for every single character arc – not an easy thing to do with so many characters.


Bookish Okays:
🛳 Some of the information about the characters is kept hidden until a convenient time. I get why this is done but am not a huge fan of this approach. This is mainly why I couldn’t appreciate Joy’s arc better.

🛳 Those who are hoping for a strong romance track might be disappointed as most of the book isn't actually romance. This didn’t make much difference to me as I had picked it up more for the cruise than for lovey-dovey feels. That said, whatever minimal romance is there is sweet. Good for those who enjoy second-chance romances and older-character love stories.


Bookish Nays:
⛵ The characters are somewhat one-noted. I would have appreciated some more nuances to their individual personalities.

⛵ There are too many lines dedicated to physical attributes; even minor characters aren’t spared from this. Worse, almost every character is judgemental about others’ appearances either openly or secretly. (One character’s nose is supposedly “as elongated as the horse’s she competed on”, which is both weird and offensive to say.) Even the “good” characters indulge in such shallow remarks. Many statements border on body shaming, with the negative characters being short and fat or having hair issues while the positive characters could be tall and slim, looking “much younger than their age.” This was a big Nay for me and affected my overall experience.

⛵ One of the subplots involving a housekeeping staff member had shades of white-saviour mentality. I didn’t like this track at all.

⛵ The cover doesn’t match the lead pair at all, looking more like younger lovers than aged 60+. The blurb too doesn’t indicate that this is a older-characters book with an ensemble cast. I went into the book with wrong expectations because of this.


Overall, the book does fairly well if you keep the genre in mind. This isn't a romance but a contemporary fiction with multiple character arcs. Also, this isn’t entirely a light and jolly story; it has several emotional themes, a couple of which are somewhat dark. Do take heed of your headspace if you are sensitive about certain triggers.

I am not into older-character romances, nor do I prefer books where physical attributes become the main indicator of a character’s personality. As such, I as a reader wasn’t a good match for this book. However, I enjoyed its portrayal of a vacation aboard a cruise ship. Henry, Leticia and Jim also made the story heartwarming with their presence.

Recommended to readers of contemporary fiction who appreciate stories with older characters and emotional themes (and who can ignore the outmoded comments on anatomical attributes.)

3.25 stars.


My thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Avon Books UK, and author Caroline James for a complimentary copy of 'The Arctic Cruise' via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story. Not too festive but, a cozy, funny read about people embarking on a cruise to Norway for Christmas. Thus was a delight to read and I throughly enjoyed it. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Anne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve never been on a cruise, this wonderful book will give you a very real taste of what the experience might be like. As I’ve recently returned from one, I really felt like I was back on board again as I accompanied Joy on her first solo cruise experience. Sharing her fears at the hotel before embarkation, I can remember my first time and feeling exactly the same – and it’s even more daunting for Joy as it was a cruise she’d been expecting to take with her husband to celebrate their anniversary. She’s always been someone who’s rather faded into the background – and she does have secrets that she’d rather not share – but it was a sheer joy to see her blossoming as she began to enjoy her trip and every new experience.

And her transformation has a lot to do with her fellow passengers. Despite her own problems, the wonderfully flamboyant (and very kind) Leticia takes her under her wing – and she certainly knows how to enjoy herself. And then there’s Henry, a lovely man and another solo traveller, with whom there’s a bit of a spark – but he does keep mentioning Audrey left at home, so perhaps he’s not quite as unattached as he might be. And, of course, you can’t choose all your dinner companions when you’re on a table for six – but they were particularly unlucky with Kenneth and Barbara, a couple of rather obnoxious social climbers who make their mealtimes (and some of their shore trips) considerably less comfortable. But the other thing that brings Joy down at times is the regular telephone contact with her daughter – having encouraged her to go and enjoy herself, she’s coldly disapproving of everything she does.

Life on board is so perfectly captured – ok, so some elements may be a teeny bit exaggerated, but that just made sharing it all that much more enjoyable (and often extremely funny). There are so many great characters – both crew and passengers – and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment I spent in their company. And I do think every cruise ship might just have its Lady Eleanor, living on board in the owners’ suite – Barbara, of course, would be willing to do just about anything to be invited to one of her soirees. As for the shore trips – every single one was so wonderfully described, while always moving the story on and further developing the relationships between the characters.

The whole story certainly has its emotional moments, some of them unexpected, but the balance is absolutely right – there were certainly plenty of tears of laughter too. And those relationships between the older characters were so very well handled – the married couples behind their closed cabin doors, the many new friendships, and the tentative romance I so hoped would find a way. And, of course, the book was a particularly special treat for someone like me, of similar age to the main characters and having recently discovered the joy of cruising for myself. Just wonderful… a total delight from beginning to end.

[Leona · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Arctic Cruise is another great book that Caroline James has written based on cruises and the characters on them. I have never been on a cruise but reading this book actually gave me all the feelings that I was actually there with all the characters cruising through the Norwegian Fjiords. The descriptions of all the places felt so real and I could actually feel the cold seeping through me as I progressed through the book. The characters were fabulous with one or two being a bit of a pain at times but also had me laughing out loud at some of their antics. There were also some emotional moments that brought a lump to my throat. I was sorry when this cruise came to an end and can’t wait to find out where the author will take us on the next one.

[bookloversclub2023 · Rating 4 out of 5]

- Another fabulous cruise by Caroline that takes you around the Arctic this time. What a fabulous treat. Again, an easy read with likeable characters- (well
Most were!), all with their own stories interwoven. I have to admit though Henry was my favourite, I was just drawn to him and his kindness.

The book entertains right from the start and it was a joy reading all the excursions and activities that took place on the Emerald Dream. It was an enjoyable read, I love Caroline’s writing style and devoured the book.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC in return for my honest review.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve cruised a few times to Norway although I’ve never been lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, a phenomenon that retired bachelor Henry is hoping to see.

Although the book description only refers to Joy and Henry, they are not the only ones involved in the story and the cast of characters sailing on The Emerald Dream are as interesting (and annoying) as they are diverse. Widow Joy has mixed feelings about being on the cruise but has been persuaded to go by her rather bossy daughter. Clearly there is something about her past that she is keeping quiet about which prevents her from being fully open with new friends. Henry is sailing for both him and his octogenarian potty mouthed neighbour who is now unable to travel. Jim and ex nurse Leticia are a lovely couple and have their own story which will pull at the heartstrings and then there is Kenneth and Barbara – the least said about them the better, although they did provide some amusement with their social climbing antics and Kenneth’s toupee which had a life of its own!

I love stories featuring older characters and it was so easy to get drawn into this one. Ultimately its uplifting but peppered with poignant emotional moments as well as some great humour. The cruise ship aspect was authentic too with certain members of the crew being a part of the story. Set against some stunning locations our characters share adventures, friendship and possibly some romance too. I loved it and will definitely be sailing on the next Caroline James cruise.

[Vivien Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous mix of interwoven characters setting sail to the Arctic at Christmas. Each has their own story to tell, some sad, some poignant, some finding new friendships or romance. I particularly loved Filipino housekeeper Jennifer and her attempts to woo passenger 'Mr Henry' and, despite him trying to avoid falling into her clutches, the wonderful way he repays her, And who couldn't be amused by the awful Montgomery Joneses, chatting up the captain, battling with wayward toupees and taking social climbing to its peak? This is a warm and witty book in which no one character takes centre stage, and I found myself rooting for them all to get exactly what they deserved!

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a good book this was to read. Nothing complicated, just a great storyline with characters that you easily get into.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully Christmassy Arctic cruise is the focus for this gorgeous heartwarming read which had me glued until I read the very last page in floods of tears. But in a good way!

Being a fan of cruising, I was very keen to read this when the blog tour invitation came through, as a northern lights cruise is high on my list. Perhaps Caroline should be getting a commission from Fred Olsen Cruises for all the cruises which are guaranteed to be booked after reading this novel!

What a mix of colourful characters we get to know on this cruise. From retired sole travellers Joy and Henry who may or may not get together, depending on his feelings for his neighbour back at home, to the obnoxious but hilarious Barbara and Kenneth, to Lady Eleanor, an 89 year old rich widow, and plenty more interesting characters, there is not a dull moment on this cruise!

I felt I was sitting at their dinner table observing their chats and going on the fabulous trips to some wonderful sounding places for which Caroline has drawn inspiration from places she visited on her own Arctic cruise before writing her book.

Strangers placed together on a dinner table soon become friends for life. Well at least some of them do. Over the course of the cruise, we find out the secrets behind the smiles.

My favourite character was Jennifer, the lady who cleaned ‘Mr Henry’s’ cabin. Some people just ignore cleaners but Henry, gentleman that he is, took the time to speak to her ​and make her feel appreciated, and she developed quite a soft spot for him. I knew there would be a story for Jennifer and I was delighted at how it played out.

I absolutely loved this book which took me away on an unforgettable cruise, and I’m looking forward to the next one, as well as planning to read Caroline’s earlier cruise books. Perhaps I’ll save them until my next cruise ….

Huge thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the blog tour.

[Jessica’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The Arctic Cruise
Author: Caroline James
Pages: 379
Publisher: Avon
Format: Digital | Ebook
Release Date: January 2026

💭 My Thoughts 💭

I was originally pulled to this story by the title as I love the northern lights and anything set in the arctic circle. I was really lucky to visit Iceland in March 2020 just before lockdown hit and it was a wonderful experience that will live with me forever.

Caroline’s book was heartwarming, funny and vividly written. I honestly feel like I have travelled on the Emerald Dream along with my new friends. Joy, Henry, Leticia and Jim. I even feel Barbara and Kenny would have annoyed me but i wouldn’t be able to get enough of watching their antics. I loved the dynamics of the group who all got through together with the table plan on the cruise. I’ve never been on a cruise as I don’t do well travelling on the water but maybe one day as it sounds so fun. I think I would love the freedom of visiting all the different destinations and taking part in the excursions. I adored reading about the reindeer excursions it sounded so beautiful. One excursion that stood out to me and was described perfectly was the Ice bar as I have done this myself in Iceland.

All the characters stood out and I enjoyed the growth of everyone but Joy and Henry were my favourites. I loved their chemistry and I really hope they pop up again in another book as I would love to know they lived out their lives. To be honest all the cruise buddies I would love to meet again.

If you’re looking for an adventure around Norway with a great bunch of people. That’s well written and tackles strong subjects in a wonderful way then this is the book for you.

Quote: ‘The best part of any voyage isn’t the destination; it’s the company you keep on the the journey’

Jessica’s Bookshelf Rating 🚢🚢🚢🚢🚢

✨✨ Thankyou so much to @rachelsrandomresources @carolinejamesauthor @avonbooks for my copy of the book through @netgalley in exchange for my honest review ✨✨

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A later-in-life, women's fiction romance

My Review: The Arctic Cruise by Caroline James is a "heartwarming, feel-good voyage of self-discovery, romance and second chances." It was released on 1/15/26.

About the Book: "...an unforgettable journey and sail through Norway’s winter wonderlands to see the spectacular Northern Lights."

In My Own Words: A widow goes solo on an adventure and returns a changed woman. A man sets sail and finds a treasure he was not even looking for. A couple go on a final hurrah and make beautiful memories along the way. A young woman finds an ally where she least expects it. A group of friends find each other.

My Final Say: This lovely story unfolded in such a memorable way. It was quiet and unassuming, but it made a big impact. I loved that it was original, it was cozy, it was humorous, and it was heartwarming. Most of the characters were endearing. In the end, I would say that this charming novel was about life, loss, discovery, growth, and the freedom to love and live out loud.

Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📚
Other: This would be amazing as an audiobook. I cannot wait to hear the characters voiced and brought to life.

Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Avon Books UK | Avon), and to NetGalley. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity that was given to review a digital ARC this work of fiction. It was quite an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more from this writer.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Arctic cruise has long been on my bucket list (and it will likely stay there awhile as it’s too far to do for a seven-day vacation) so this book was perfect to help me live vicariously. The details on the locations were plentiful, not just an afterthought, and gave you a real sense of what it might be like to visit. And then there were the wonderful characters that were on this adventure together, each with their own unique story that helped put the whole cruise in perspective. I loved getting to know all of them and spending time with them on this cruise. Highly recommended!

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the review copy.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Arctic Cruise was a story of friendship, new beginnings, love and travel. Joy, Henry, Letitia, and Jim are all aboard the Emerald Dream to take a Christmas cruise to Norway. Each had different reasons for the trip. Joy's husband Tom had booked the cruise for their anniversary before he died and her daughter Susan convinced her to go. Henry was retired and has become an amateur photographer. He never married and has no family, so his elderly neighbor and friend, Audrey, convinced him to take the trip to see the Northern Lights. Letitia and Jim are dealing with Jim's health concerns and want to travel as much as they can before he eventually passes. They are all seated at the same table for meals along with an obnoxious couple, Barbara and Kenneth. With friendships developing, tours and activities both on the ship and in Norway, The Arctic Cruise was all they imagined and maybe a bit more.

I really enjoyed this story and all the characters, with the exception of Barbara and Kenneth. I enjoy books with characters that are older, and this one fit the bill. It was almost a senior's cruise, with a lot of colourful secondary characters. As the story progressed, we learn that Joy is keeping a lot of secrets. She seems like an unassuming retired school teacher, but there is so much more to her than that. I thought I knew some of what she was hiding and I was right, but not to full extent. Letitia and Jim were amazing characters. They had been through a lot in life, but had more to come. Letitia was bright and flamboyant in a subdued way (if that makes sense), caring, likable and easy to talk to. I enjoyed seeing her friendship with Joy grow. Henry was fun. He was awkward around women, but kind and didn't even realize that he drew people to him. His constant talk about Audrey definitely sent the wrong message. With the Northern Lights making a few appearances, mountains, fjords, churches, and visits to a Sami reindeer farm, I enjoyed hearing about things to do and places to see in Norway. I would love to do a Norwegian cruise, but after reading this book, probably not at Christmas. I didn't expect the festive Christmas activities, but certainly enjoyed reading about them. I recommend this one to those who enjoy armchair travel, stories of true love, friendship, some humor and just a touch of romance.

[Ashley Cohoon · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5 stars)

Some books feel like a getaway, and The Arctic Cruise truly earns that title. From the moment the ship sets sail, this story wraps you up in icy landscapes, cozy shipboard moments, and the quiet emotional shifts that happen when people are removed from their everyday lives and placed somewhere extraordinary.

Set aboard an Arctic cruise through Norway, the novel follows a small ensemble of passengers- most notably Joy, a widow bravely taking the trip she once planned with her husband, and Henry, a gentle, slightly awkward first-time cruiser chasing a lifelong dream of seeing the Northern Lights. Around them are fellow travelers and crew members, each carrying their own baggage, secrets, and hopes. What unfolds isn’t a sweeping romance so much as a thoughtful, character-driven look at connection, grief, companionship, and the unexpected ways people show up for one another.

What really shines here is the sense of place. The Arctic setting feels vivid and immersive, you can practically feel the cold air, picture the fjords, and sense the quiet awe of chasing the Northern Lights. It’s clear the author knows this world well, and that authenticity makes the cruise experience feel rich and lived-in rather than gimmicky.

I also loved the focus on older characters. Their relationships, romantic or otherwise, are tender, complicated, and refreshingly grounded. There’s humor woven throughout, moments that made me smile, and others that landed with a soft emotional punch. Some storylines are heavier than expected, but they’re handled with care and balance, never tipping the book into being overwhelming.

While a few characters lean toward familiar archetypes and the romance is more subtle than front-and-center, those things didn’t detract much for me. If anything, the ensemble nature of the story made the cruise feel more real- like overhearing snippets of many lives unfolding side by side.

Overall, The Arctic Cruise is warm, heartfelt, and quietly moving. It’s less about dramatic twists and more about personal growth, shared moments, and the healing power of stepping outside your comfort zone. If you enjoy contemporary fiction with emotional depth, strong sense of setting, and stories that celebrate connection at any stage of life, this one is absolutely worth the trip.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK | Avon for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I believe I may have said before Caroline James and Cruising is a great combination. And Caroline James and Christmas is a great combination. And I've always wanted to cruise at Christmas so this was clearly the sort of book I was always going to love.

And love it I definitely did!

Absolutely wonderful to be back on board the Emerald Dream, and with some vaguely familiar faces from previous books back, and a whole raft of new guests, this was another book that I totally and utterly adored.

What a totally amazing assortment of characters. From the over privileged Barbara and Kenneth who I couldn't help but laugh at most of the time, to Lady Eleanor who is a remarkable and dignified woman.

Although this is loosely connected to the previous books involving cruises by this author, this can easily be read as a standalone story, even with a few familiar faces.

Then there is Joy who is one of our main characters, who should have been on this cruise with husband Tom, for their wedding anniversary, but he is no longer alive, and Joy is just starting to recover from his death. It's clear things weren't as they seemed in the marriage, and I loved seeing Joy really start to find her way back to herself and grow in confidence as the story progresses.

We also have Henry, who is the other solo traveller at the table Joy is dining at in the main dining room, and he is a fascinating man. I was, like Joy not totally sure what his feelings towards the Audrey he kept mentioning where, but I did have an inkling as to the truth. He is also a passionate photographer and fascinated by the Northern Lights.

I absolutely loved the descriptions of the ports of call, and the various trips that Joy and her new friends were taking at each of them. I especially loved the sound of the reindeer experience, which is definitely something I will need to do eventually (if I ever decide to brave a proper cold weather holiday).

There was so much for me to love about this book, and I enjoyed every single moment of it. It was a joy to read, and I devoured the pages and couldn't get enough of it. And I'm already excited for Caroline James' next cruise book.

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

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Arctic Cruise by Caroline James is a delightfully fun novel that entertained me from the start.
A Christmas cruise is very charming. Along with the traditional festivities, we see the rather energetic Santa who wears swimming trunks on board ship; and we travel ashore to take in the delights of Norway.
The cruise is made up of an eclectic bunch of people – those who brave the ice-cold swimming pool for a daily swim, and those who prefer food, drink, and more leisurely activities. There is something for every taste.
We drop in on a small group of six guests – a couple where the husband has terminal cancer and who are determined to make memories while they can. “When the Beast [cancer] came back, it would be hungry…Her husband’s decline would be rapid… In the meantime, their lives were for living.”
There is a retired school master from Skipton, and a new widow from Lancashire. She was “in a widowed world she hadn’t been ready to enter.”
The final pair are a loud, showy couple determined to be the centre of attention.
We see the generosity of hearts who want to help those less fortunate. They are angels in disguise as they see those who are invisible to others.
A character is struggling with grief and guilt. For years she hid in the shadows. “His death didn’t delete you… You lost him, but you mustn’t lose yourself.” Finally able to trust someone and unburden herself, we learn that “no one was truly aware of the man I lived with; they only saw the public performing side of Tom.” For years she kept silent about the abuse she had suffered, believing it was her fault. Now it is time to seize the day. We only get one shot at life – so live it.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Arctic Cruise. It was charming, entertaining and funny, whilst maintaining pathos and dignity as some hard-hitting themes were portrayed. I cannot wait to cruise again with Caroline James.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story follows the Emerald Dream, a cruise ship, headed to the Norwegian Fjords. The novel follows multiple characters throughout their journey on the Emerald Dream. Joy, a recent widow, is nervous about stepping on a cruise for the first time without her husband Tom. Joy wants to find happiness again in her life, but she is not used to being alone and she holds a few secrets close to her heart that could unravel her life if they were to come out. Another character is Henry, a retired teacher and bachelor, who is excited to see the Northern Lights, which has been a dream of his. He gave up on love a long time ago, and his focus is now on his photography, but when he comes across Joy will he find a spark in his life again? Then there is Leticia and Jim, a couple that has been through it and is currently battling Jim's medical condition.- this cruise is going to be probably one of their last trips and times together as his disease progresses. When these characters end up at the same dining table, who knows what will insue

I would give this a 3.5 stars. It was cute, a little cozy, but nothing too serious. It is a good book for the winter months or if you are going on a cruise, I think it would be a fun book to read. I don't think I'm the intended age for this novel as the characters were in their 60s and older, except for the cruise director and the fitness instructor. I think what I didn't like about the novel is that there were way too many POVs. I would have focused on Henry and Joy alone while having Leticia and Jim as background characters along with the other people on the boat. I felt like we didn't really need Simon's POV and the crazy wealthy people, while providing jokes, we didn't need their POVs.

Thanks Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Why did I read? I want to go to Tromso. Would i read again? No.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve never been on a cruise before though I would really like to experience one. One that definitely appeals would be a cruise to somewhere cold, so The Arctic Cruise seemed like the perfect way to do a bit armchair travelling! We follow a group of travellers as they travel on The Emerald Dream cruise boat to the Norwegian fjords over the festive period.

I really enjoyed getting to know all the travellers, and some of the crew, and confess a soft spot for Henry. He seemed so kind, a real gentleman, which was evidenced by a generous gesture near the end of the book. I particularly liked that the focus is on older characters which I expect reflects the age of the average cruise-goers. Joy was also a lovely character. There were hidden depths to Joy which emerged in a satisfying way as the story unfolded.

It was so interesting reading about all the activities both onboard and onshore. There are many of the excursions I would love to do! Like Henry, I’d be at all the talks on photography and hoping to see the Northern Lights. I could almost visualise the stunning scenery too as the ship cruised through the fjords.

There was a lot of humour in the book, often involving the antics of Kenneth and Barbara. They are the kind of couple you would definitely not wanting to be sitting next to in the ship’s dining room. So pretentious and thought they were above everyone else but such fun to read about!

With romance blossoming for several of the characters, plenty of laughs, secrets coming to light and an emotional touch, I found The Arctic Cruise to be a fun and light-hearted read.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was definitely Joy’s story, and, pardon the pun, it filled me with utter joy as I watched her emerge from deep sadness to full bloom. Having been widowed on her last cruise, she was reluctant to join the pre-booked Arctic Cruise, but her daughter persuaded her to go.
As she had learned on her previous cruises, the ships always provide a wealth of new faces and opportunities to make friends. So, swallowing her nerves, she embarked on what could be the adventure of the rest of her lifetime.

On board, we meet some fabulous characters who provide both laughter and moments of pause. I have never been on a cruise, except for a 3-day treat to Egypt and Israel, so I have no real point of reference, but Caroline’s fabulous writing answered any questions, and I was soon comfortable with the routines.

As I learned more about Joy, I wanted her to overcome her self-doubt and find a way to share in the pleasures of love and friendship. I found myself willing her to take risks and see what a truly vibrant woman she was. It was a treat to see her receive support from some of the other passengers and to see the impact of their kindness on her uncertain mind.

When we meet Henry, he seems a little staid. He is guarded and, as a lifelong bachelor, has no lasting experience with romance. His one desire at the beginning of the cruise is to witness the Northern Lights, but despite the planned itinerary, that is not guaranteed. I was drawn to Henry and his gentle nature. It was obvious that he was smitten by Joy, and his nervous attempts at courtship were heartwarming; I thoroughly enjoyed following them.

Of course, there were many other characters on board, but as they are not mentioned in the synopsis, I will leave you to discover them yourself, but rest assured, there are plenty of laughs. Watch out for the errant toupee, always a source of fun!

Each character is skilfully developed, and their backstories are engaging and enjoyable. Despite being drawn from different backgrounds, a real sense of community developed on board. Friendships were made that would clearly stand the test of time.

Beyond the time on board, Caroline provides excellent insight into the ports visited, and I felt a sense of adventure from the descriptions of each destination and the activities available. Maybe Caroline is missing her calling as the next Judith Chalmers!

I cannot recommend this book enough and encourage you to embark on a trip to the Arctic; you’ll be delighted, I’m sure.

[Pam Masters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank Avon Books UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The Arctic Cruise. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.

4.5 stars rounded to 5

Adding The Arctic Cruise to my TBR was a pure impulse move, and I am so happy that I did. What’s not to love about a widow trying to find herself, a confirmed bachelor finding himself in a new situation, and a cast of quirky characters? Oh, and all of this on a week-long cruise from England up to the Arctic Circle around Christmas? Sign me up!

James is best known for writing novels that feature a more mature cast of characters, and this novel was chock-full of them. But there weren’t so many that you couldn’t keep them straight. On a cruise ship with over 1,000 people, the cast list is relatively small, with fewer than 20 named characters. The side characters, like Nora, Sid, Judy, and James, are just as entertaining as the main characters. Honestly, I want to be like almost all of them when I get older. No one should aim to be like Barbara or Kenneth.

Reading The Arctic Cruise made me want to reach out to the nearest travel agent to book it. Though I’m not sure I want to go there in the winter, I wouldn’t mind a nice, relaxing summer cruise to the area.

Do you enjoy reading books with a quirky cast of mature characters? Or ones that feature travel to unexpected locations? What about a romance that is beautiful to see unfold? Do you enjoy Christmas books that don’t scream Christmas? Or friends that become found family? Then you should read The Arctic Cruise.

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently widowed and still coming to terms with her husband’s untimely death Joy embarks on a solo cruise to Norway. It’s a bittersweet journey as she should have travelled with her husband but summoning all her courage Joy gradually settles into the cruise way of life and starts to make friends amongst the other passengers. Likewise, Henry is also embarking on a solo trip and worries that he is a bit of a loner and might not have enough in common with the other passengers however, fate intervenes and his burgeoning friendship with Joy becomes a rather special and unexpected delight.

This is a beautifully written story which looks at the sadness of being alone and yet offers hope that second chances can be possible if you allow yourself to live a little. I’ve throughly enjoyed getting to know the passengers on board the Emerald Dream, some, it must be said, are more likeable than others but they all bring their own special charm to the story. There is a lovely warmth to the story and some genuinely funny bits which had me laughing out loud and a ship full of fascinating characters who all make cruising aboard the Emerald Dream such fun.

The Arctic Cruise is another wonderful story by this talented writer who knows how to bring her characters alive and who writes her warm-hearted stories with such passion. Sailing into Norway was such a treat and so well described that I really felt as though I was on board ship, experiencing the all exciting sights of a winter cruise, on a fabulous ship, and with the delicious chill of a romantic Arctic adventure.

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

The Arctic Cruise by Caroline James

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

Blurb

Will the Arctic wonderland work its magic this winter?

Joy never imagined stepping aboard a cruise ship without her husband, Tom. Now widowed, Joy wonders what her voyage on the Emerald Dream will hold – and as it glides through breathtaking Norwegian fjords, she longs to believe in happiness again. However, she carries a secret that could unravel her fragile hopes if it ever came to light…

Elsewhere on deck, as the sun dips below the horizon and the polar night sets in, Henry, a lifelong bachelor, is living his dream of seeing the Northern Lights. Having long since given up on love, he now dedicates himself to his passion for photography. But when he meets Joy, is it more than the aurora borealis that catches his eye?

As they embark on a snow-dusted adventure which takes them from bustling ports to reindeer-drawn sleigh rides, will Joy and Henry find the courage to embrace love again? Or will hidden truths sink the possibility of a new beginning?

My Opinion

Caroline James has written a heartwarming tale with some delightful characters. I have read a few books by Caroline James and I have enjoyed them all. The Arctic Cruise was an easy read, that had me hooked from the beginning.

Rating 4/5

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5



Un crucero navideño con destino al Ártico promete paisajes inolvidables, pero para Joy Bradley representa un desafío mayor que el frío polar. Viaja sola tras la muerte de su esposo y carga con un duelo que la mantiene anclada al pasado. A bordo conviven pasajeros que buscan experiencias distintas: Leticia y Jim, quienes desean llenar de luz un momento complicado; Henry Halliday, un profesor retirado que anhela fotografiar el cielo ártico; y un festivo director de crucero empeñado en crear recuerdos para todos.

Mientras la embarcación avanza hacia la noche perpetua del norte, cada viajero descubre que el verdadero viaje ocurre dentro de sí mismo. Los días se llenan de conversaciones inesperadas, complicidades que brotan sin aviso y momentos que desafían las reservas personales. En el corazón de la oscuridad ártica, la belleza de las auroras se convierte en un recordatorio de que siempre es posible encontrar un nuevo punto de partida.


__


Como me cayo mal la hija de Joy. Tanto se la paso criticando a su mamá para que al final saliera con su "siempre supe como era mi padre, pero no quería aceptarlo" y prefirió dañar a su mamá sabiendo perfectamente el infierno que paso.


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

[Karen Mace · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful way to escape the world! On board a cruise to see the Northern Lights, with a wonderful cast of characters who keep you thoroughly entertained from start to finish!

The story begins with Joy, a recent widow, who is braving the world again knowing it's what her husband would have wanted her to do. And while on board she's welcomed by a variety of other characters who are facing their own personal issues and it's just a lovely community feel to the story as they all come together for different reasons.

Their days are filled with various activities and it gives a great sense of the fun that can be had on cruises as you escape to a different place! Henry is a bachelor on the cruise to take photographs, Leticia and Jim are making memories due to the sadness in their lives. It's also fun seeing the cruise through the eyes of Simon as cruise director! the mix of personalities made the story more enjoyable as you watch the connections and clashes!

I loved the balance of characters, especially being older ones as they have more of a story to tell. There's many light moments but also some more serious looks as life through personal problems some are facing showing that life isn't all rainbows and unicorns no matter where you are in the world. A lovely read!

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Arctic Cruise is a spectacular novel about second chances, friendship, and romance. From the first page, I was drawn in by the characters, writing style, and descriptions. Having taken a few cruises (the most recent was February 2024), I was right at home during embarkation, as the characters moved around the ship, and during events and excursions. The author captured the essence of a cruise so well I thought I was on the ship with the characters.

I love the characters Caroline James created. Each vastly different in personality, experiences, and life stories. A nice mix of polite, shy, and not-so-nice. Watching perfect strangers interact and become friends is vacation goals. I hope the friendships that were developed on the Arctic Cruise last longer than the friendships my sister and I made on our first cruise in 1995.

Our connections lasted about 3 months (despite all of us living in the same state, being the same ages, and belonging to the same religious group). I guess that's the difference between creating new bonds with a bunch of teenagers versus adults. I would have loved to meet Joy, Henry, Letitia, and Jim. I enjoyed spending time with all four of them during their cruise through Norway.

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

This author writes brilliant books I love to read
With older protagonists who have different needs.
This time they're cruising through the Norwegian fjords
Developing friendships - and crossing verbal swords!

This is a hilarious story and a moving one, too,
With a cruise ship of passengers and a fabulous crew.
Sharing a dining table, meeting strangers there
Some to delight in - and others for whom you won't care!

Joy is travelling alone after her husband's demise
She's longing for happiness and she starts to realise
That life is for living, not for hiding away
And you need to make the most of opportunities every day.

Henry is a retired teacher who dreams of the Northern Lights
He loves photography and seeing the sights.
With two very different couples journeying with them, too,
Will this voyage change them and what they do?

A fabulous read with great characters, too,
Along with plenty of surprises and a romance or two!
A heartwarming read in which your time to spend
Along with a fantastic cruise you'll hope won't end.

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

[Cheyenne Oleson · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5-Star Review — The Arctic Cruise by Caroline James

The Arctic Cruise is a heartfelt, uplifting, and beautifully written story that feels like a warm hug wrapped in icy, breathtaking scenery. Caroline James brings the setting to life with vivid detail, making the Arctic feel both magical and transformative. The atmosphere alone makes this book worth reading.

The characters are charming, relatable, and full of emotional depth, each on their own journey of growth, healing, and rediscovery. The story balances humor, heart, and reflection perfectly, with moments that made me smile, feel tender, and quietly inspired. It’s the kind of book that reminds you it’s never too late for adventure, love, or a fresh start.

This is a wonderful choice for readers who love feel-good fiction, travel-inspired stories, later-in-life romance, and emotionally rich character journeys. Cozy, uplifting, and deeply satisfying from start to finish.

A truly delightful 5-star read. Charming, scenic, and full of heart.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful cruise story from this lovely author.
This time we are treated to the delights of a winter cruise to the Northern Lights.

As the ship begins its journey we meet lots of different passengers, all with their own story to tell. We learn lots about them all and their stories begin to intertwine.
Most of the characters are lovely and are written in that superb way this author has, really bringing them to life. There are also some less desirable characters, but believe me they are as large as life too!

It did take me a little longer than usual to be fully invested in this one, but I think as there were so many characters, I was just taking time to get to know and appreciate them all.

This is definitely one to loose yourself in, enjoy the journey and the fun the characters have a long the way. For them it is a journey of adventure, discovery, moving on and above all else friendship, and maybe even a touch of romance. This author really does write so well about friendships and will make you feel like you are part of the gang!

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such an enjoyable read for the New Year. The cruise to see the Northern Lakes is perfect for post-Christmas reading and the lively bunch of characters who you meet on the ship add humour and colour to the story. Joy is sailing on a cruise she expected to go on with her husband and coming to terms with her grief and loss. She takes a determined step forward and finds that a whole world of new friends opens up. Forced out of her comfort zone, she has to take on some challenges and discovers that she can have a future in her own right.

Henry is a long standing bachelor who is keen to seen the Northern Lights and to see new things. As friendships develop amongst new friends, it is not only Joy who has to take a risk and try new things. Anyone who has been on a cruise ship will enjoy this story set at sea and recognise elements of their past holidays, especially in the range of characters who Joy meets.

In short: fresh starts and putting the past to bed
Thanks to the publisher

[Angela Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t wait to start this book as I have enjoyed all Caroline’s books especially her cruise based stories.

Set on the cruise ship the Emerald Dream on a Christmas cruise of a lifetime all the guests are hoping for a glimpse of the stunning northern lights.

This is where we meet a wonderful and unforgettable group of characters who all have their own stories to tell and I enjoyed reading about them all. Some parts of the book were hilarious, especially when Babs and Kenneth were involved which had me laughing out loud.

And although the book has many humorous parts it also delicately touches on other themes and is written beautifully as we hear Letitia and Jim’s story and also Joy.

I would one hundred percent recommend this book as it was fantastic read and I impatiently wait for Caroline’s next book The Nile Cruise.


Thanks to NetGalley, Caroline James and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.