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Wishing for Christmas: A Wonderfully Magical Holiday Romance
From one of the freshest new voices in contemporary romance comes a magical escape for fans of Debbie Macomber, Annie Rains, and Denise Hunter.
Be careful what you wish for….
Hotel sales manager Clara Jenkins has an opportunity to take over as general manager of her hotel. There’s just one she’s asked to shadow her boss for a year, and her boss happens to be her ex. Clara’s not so sure about working in close quarters with him for that length of time.
But her job opportunity isn’t the only major hurdle this year. At dinner the next night, her new boyfriend, Air Force pilot Brent McNally, drops the bomb that he’s being deployed on short notice for an entire year.
While rummaging through her grandmother’s box of Christmas decorations, she finds an old pocket-watch style ornament and, holding it, wishes she could skip the entire year.
The next day, when she arrives at the airfield to see Brent off, to her utter confusion, it soon becomes apparent that she may have skipped a year, and she’s waiting for him to return, not waving him off. Also, Brent—her brand-new boyfriend—goes down on one knee and proposes.
A heartwarming romance that will whisk you away to a place where wishes take form. It’s sure to have you reaching for your fuzzy socks and hot cocoa long after the holidays.
Be careful what you wish for….
Hotel sales manager Clara Jenkins has an opportunity to take over as general manager of her hotel. There’s just one she’s asked to shadow her boss for a year, and her boss happens to be her ex. Clara’s not so sure about working in close quarters with him for that length of time.
But her job opportunity isn’t the only major hurdle this year. At dinner the next night, her new boyfriend, Air Force pilot Brent McNally, drops the bomb that he’s being deployed on short notice for an entire year.
While rummaging through her grandmother’s box of Christmas decorations, she finds an old pocket-watch style ornament and, holding it, wishes she could skip the entire year.
The next day, when she arrives at the airfield to see Brent off, to her utter confusion, it soon becomes apparent that she may have skipped a year, and she’s waiting for him to return, not waving him off. Also, Brent—her brand-new boyfriend—goes down on one knee and proposes.
A heartwarming romance that will whisk you away to a place where wishes take form. It’s sure to have you reaching for your fuzzy socks and hot cocoa long after the holidays.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
40 people are currently reading
1710 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Stowe
2 books25 followersAs an author of contemporary romantic fiction, Caroline Stowe writes heartwarming stories full of hope and love, whisking her readers away to the most picturesque settings.
As a proud military spouse for over twenty years, Caroline has had the unique pleasure of calling many places home. After two decades of packing boxes, navigating deployments, and raising three young daughters, Caroline decided to embark on another adventure—writing a book. Inspired by the incredible community she’d been a part of for so many years, as well as the heartwarming stories she’d been drawn to all her life, she tapped away at the keyboard until she completed her first manuscript. Her debut novel Wishing for Christmas is now available from Harpeth Road Press.
Caroline calls Nashville her newest home, where she lives with her husband and their lively trio of daughters. When not writing, she can be found with her nose in a good book, enjoying long strolls around her neighborhood, or visiting charming new places to soak up inspiration for her next story.
Visit www.carolinestowe.com for the latest news! You can also chat with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorcarolinestowe/, IG: www.instagram.com/author_carolinestowe/, and X: www.x.com/carolinestowe_
As a proud military spouse for over twenty years, Caroline has had the unique pleasure of calling many places home. After two decades of packing boxes, navigating deployments, and raising three young daughters, Caroline decided to embark on another adventure—writing a book. Inspired by the incredible community she’d been a part of for so many years, as well as the heartwarming stories she’d been drawn to all her life, she tapped away at the keyboard until she completed her first manuscript. Her debut novel Wishing for Christmas is now available from Harpeth Road Press.
Caroline calls Nashville her newest home, where she lives with her husband and their lively trio of daughters. When not writing, she can be found with her nose in a good book, enjoying long strolls around her neighborhood, or visiting charming new places to soak up inspiration for her next story.
Visit www.carolinestowe.com for the latest news! You can also chat with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorcarolinestowe/, IG: www.instagram.com/author_carolinestowe/, and X: www.x.com/carolinestowe_
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 4, 2025
I received a free copy of, Wishing for Christmas, by Caroline Stowe, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Clara Jenkins wished she could skip an entire year as her new boyfriend goes on deployment for a year, well Clara get her wish granted. Be careful what you wish for, your wish might come true. This was a sweet read.
December 16, 2025
The premise of the novel drew me to the book, but I struggled to connect with the characters, therefore, it fell a bit short for me.
October 22, 2025
As far as holiday romances go this one was very enjoyable and I can confirm the Christmas vibes were there! I absolutely loved the idea of a Christmas wish come true and also the romance in this book was sooo cute. I mean the way the love interest, Brent, made her a Christmas present with his bare hands was such a nice gesture. And the list of holiday activities made me want to go to a Christmas tree farm and then after bake cookies at home. Also I was craving hot cocoa the entire time I read the book. I’m telling you the Christmas spirit was here.
I liked the writing and pacing of the book. It was a quick read for me which I enjoyed. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book! I needed some holiday cheer and I got it!
I liked the writing and pacing of the book. It was a quick read for me which I enjoyed. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book! I needed some holiday cheer and I got it!
December 16, 2025
This was fine. Very Hallmark-esque. But it was missing a little fun spark that I was hoping for.
November 25, 2025
Fantastic Christmas read. Clara makes a wish to skip a year when she finds out her new boyfriend will be deploying right before Christmas. Little does she know, her wish is about to come true but a year is a lot of time to miss when everyone else remembers it. Was skipping a year the perfect wish or did Clara miss out on important memories with her family, friends, and, most importantly, her new boyfriend?
This novel was a fun and engaging read. The author is a military spouse and she does a great job of capturing the trials and triumphs of military life while adding in some Christmas magic. The book shows that, as much as we wish we could skip the hard stuff sometimes, facing those challenges head on is important and often rewarding. What a great debut novel for a talented writer!
This novel was a fun and engaging read. The author is a military spouse and she does a great job of capturing the trials and triumphs of military life while adding in some Christmas magic. The book shows that, as much as we wish we could skip the hard stuff sometimes, facing those challenges head on is important and often rewarding. What a great debut novel for a talented writer!
November 23, 2025
Really loved this clean contemporary love story set at Christmas. Some magical realism. This reminded of the best kind of Hallmark Christmas movie.
October 20, 2025
Clara Jenkins, a hotel sales manager, is offered a fantastic opportunity to become the general manager of her hotel. However, there’s a catch: she must shadow her boss for a year, and he happens to be her ex.
Clara is now dating Air Force pilot Brent McNally, and he just informed her that he’s leaving immediately for a year-long deployment. Could her life get any more complicated? During Christmas preparations, she stumbles upon an old decoration belonging to her grandmother. She wishes she could skip the entire year. To her surprise, when she wakes up the next day, her wish has come true.
“Wishing For Christmas” by Caroline Stowe is a captivating and enchanting story that instantly transports readers into the Christmas season. It sets the stage for the arrival of snowflakes as I eagerly ready to put up the Christmas tree. This charming and heartwarming tale exudes warmth and invites readers to immerse themselves in its comforting embrace. I found myself relating to the reality of the Air Force pilot’s deployment.
From the very first page, this phenomenal festive story captured my attention. I didn’t want to put it down, eagerly anticipating the unfolding of its captivating narrative. This debut novel by the author has left an indelible mark on me, and I’m thrilled to have discovered her exceptional writing style. She has swiftly ascended to the top of my auto-buy list, and I eagerly anticipate reading more of her stories. Every aspect of this story resonated with me, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a magical and enchanting holiday reading experience.
Clara is now dating Air Force pilot Brent McNally, and he just informed her that he’s leaving immediately for a year-long deployment. Could her life get any more complicated? During Christmas preparations, she stumbles upon an old decoration belonging to her grandmother. She wishes she could skip the entire year. To her surprise, when she wakes up the next day, her wish has come true.
“Wishing For Christmas” by Caroline Stowe is a captivating and enchanting story that instantly transports readers into the Christmas season. It sets the stage for the arrival of snowflakes as I eagerly ready to put up the Christmas tree. This charming and heartwarming tale exudes warmth and invites readers to immerse themselves in its comforting embrace. I found myself relating to the reality of the Air Force pilot’s deployment.
From the very first page, this phenomenal festive story captured my attention. I didn’t want to put it down, eagerly anticipating the unfolding of its captivating narrative. This debut novel by the author has left an indelible mark on me, and I’m thrilled to have discovered her exceptional writing style. She has swiftly ascended to the top of my auto-buy list, and I eagerly anticipate reading more of her stories. Every aspect of this story resonated with me, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a magical and enchanting holiday reading experience.
October 30, 2025
This was a heartwarming Christmas tale that warms your heart and fills you with holiday happiness. So much charm and a sprinkle of holiday magic added in. I was hooked on the first page and keep reading until the end. Wonderful writing and interesting characters. It's an easy read with the perfect amount of heart, sweetness and romance. Pure entertainment and a joy to read.
October 27, 2025
This book was such a sweet and cozy read. It took me a little while to really get into the characters, but once I did, I fell in love with both of them. Their story felt so genuine and heartfelt, and I found myself really rooting for them. Caroline Stowe’s writing is beautifully descriptive — she paints such vivid pictures that you can almost feel the chill in the air and see the twinkle of Christmas lights. It’s the kind of story that quietly grows on you and leaves you smiling by the end. Perfect for curling up with a blanket and a cup of cocoa during the holidays.
October 17, 2025
This was my first Christmas read of the season, and I’m so glad I started with such a heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable story! I really enjoyed the Christmas elements of this book, sometimes i feel some books can be a bit of a 'christmas cliche' but this felt like a very genuine christmas story which felt realistic while still feeling magical!
I’ll admit, I found myself a little frustrated with Clara at times — while I understood that she didn’t share the same year of memories as everyone else, her coldness and negativity occasionally felt hard to justify, even with the time-travel element. That said, watching her gradually rediscover her strength and come into her own made for such a satisfying and uplifting ending.
I would have loved a few flashbacks during Brent’s POV to show some of the key moments from their year apart, rather than only hearing them referenced. However, I do think (perhaps unintentionally) that choice helped us understand Clara’s perspective — for example, when the sentimental first Christmas present is mentioned, both Clara and the reader share the same confusion, which really puts us in her shoes.
Overall, a touching, festive read with depth, emotion, and a lovely sense of self-discovery.
I’ll admit, I found myself a little frustrated with Clara at times — while I understood that she didn’t share the same year of memories as everyone else, her coldness and negativity occasionally felt hard to justify, even with the time-travel element. That said, watching her gradually rediscover her strength and come into her own made for such a satisfying and uplifting ending.
I would have loved a few flashbacks during Brent’s POV to show some of the key moments from their year apart, rather than only hearing them referenced. However, I do think (perhaps unintentionally) that choice helped us understand Clara’s perspective — for example, when the sentimental first Christmas present is mentioned, both Clara and the reader share the same confusion, which really puts us in her shoes.
Overall, a touching, festive read with depth, emotion, and a lovely sense of self-discovery.
October 21, 2025
If you love novels with military romance and Christmas miracle, this debut novel of Caroline Stowe is for you. It definitely made me cry, and though it doesn’t necessarily describe what it’s like for families with a deployed SO, she does touch on the countless phone calls and care packages that are sent to the service member to help their deployment go by fast.
Caroline, I truly hope your career as an author blooms from here on out. I know I will be buying your books because who doesn’t love a beautiful christmas military novel. I loved this book so much! I can’t wait to read this book again come Christmas time when my husband is deployed.
Caroline, I truly hope your career as an author blooms from here on out. I know I will be buying your books because who doesn’t love a beautiful christmas military novel. I loved this book so much! I can’t wait to read this book again come Christmas time when my husband is deployed.
October 18, 2025
A fabulous debut novel from Caroline Stowe! Centred around a Christmas wish this military romance will leave you believing in the magic of Christmas. The quaint small-town setting, community spirit, and Christmas festivities gives lots of cozy Christmas vibes! This would be a perfect Hallmark movie!
November 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC! All thoughts are my own!
🤍 Tropes 🤍
🎄 Christmas Vibes
👥 Dual POV
🩷 Romance
🪖 Military Romance - MMC
💼 Workplace Romance - Ex
✨⏳ Christmas Magic - Time Travelling
I really liked the initial set up for this book. Clara had finished with her workplace romance ex who basically strung her along for a long time and is now choosing to focus on her new boyfriend Brent. Clara is clearly very disillusioned with love after being kind of strung along for years.
The first chapter is messy in a relationship sense. Matthew (her ex) and her still work together. He is her boss at the hotel. Oh fun! Matthew is planning to leave the hotel for another job, dangles the job in front of Clara, but then decides that in order for Clara to get the job they have to work extremely closely together for a year so that she can prove herself … Office desk right next to each other style! … It is a mess! Clara describes it as: 'He was like her ghost of Christmas past, present and future all rolled into one...' YEP!
Great set up I thought, tension for days!
Now Brent comes in with great news! Ok, now I’m being deployed like tomorrow for a year… These guys have only been going out a few weeks …And he wants it to work.
Fabulous!
'Why did things always have to be so hard?' Girl I feel you! Some seasons in life are just such a suck fest! FMC was milking the situations and the drama of it all!
THEN, it fizzled out for me I’m afraid. 🌬️📉😑
‘Christmas Magic’ occurs and suddenly we were time travelling … Clara ends up a year ahead and the deployment is all over. Now she has to work out what an earth is going on and that’s where the book lost me.
I think I wanted a cosy Christmas romance and we sort of left that at the magic part and ended up in a fantasy situation. It just didn’t work for me.
Also, I didn’t really feel like the FMC and MMC had much personality! I’m sorry! The last 100 pages were quick but I know I’ve not taken anything away from this book.
Others seemed to have enjoy it and that’s great! It just didn’t work for me unfortunately!
Thanks all for reading!
🤍🤍🤍
🤍 Tropes 🤍
🎄 Christmas Vibes
👥 Dual POV
🩷 Romance
🪖 Military Romance - MMC
💼 Workplace Romance - Ex
✨⏳ Christmas Magic - Time Travelling
I really liked the initial set up for this book. Clara had finished with her workplace romance ex who basically strung her along for a long time and is now choosing to focus on her new boyfriend Brent. Clara is clearly very disillusioned with love after being kind of strung along for years.
The first chapter is messy in a relationship sense. Matthew (her ex) and her still work together. He is her boss at the hotel. Oh fun! Matthew is planning to leave the hotel for another job, dangles the job in front of Clara, but then decides that in order for Clara to get the job they have to work extremely closely together for a year so that she can prove herself … Office desk right next to each other style! … It is a mess! Clara describes it as: 'He was like her ghost of Christmas past, present and future all rolled into one...' YEP!
Great set up I thought, tension for days!
Now Brent comes in with great news! Ok, now I’m being deployed like tomorrow for a year… These guys have only been going out a few weeks …And he wants it to work.
Fabulous!
'Why did things always have to be so hard?' Girl I feel you! Some seasons in life are just such a suck fest! FMC was milking the situations and the drama of it all!
THEN, it fizzled out for me I’m afraid. 🌬️📉😑
‘Christmas Magic’ occurs and suddenly we were time travelling … Clara ends up a year ahead and the deployment is all over. Now she has to work out what an earth is going on and that’s where the book lost me.
I think I wanted a cosy Christmas romance and we sort of left that at the magic part and ended up in a fantasy situation. It just didn’t work for me.
Also, I didn’t really feel like the FMC and MMC had much personality! I’m sorry! The last 100 pages were quick but I know I’ve not taken anything away from this book.
Others seemed to have enjoy it and that’s great! It just didn’t work for me unfortunately!
Thanks all for reading!
🤍🤍🤍
December 26, 2025
Wishing for Christmas
A very interesting story. So so good, full of insights of present and reflected Past moments. This book will capture your heart and have you thinking of your loved ones. Heartwarming, wholesome romance. Enjoy
A very interesting story. So so good, full of insights of present and reflected Past moments. This book will capture your heart and have you thinking of your loved ones. Heartwarming, wholesome romance. Enjoy
January 1, 2026
wow
This book kept me guessing. Well done on this debut book. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
This book kept me guessing. Well done on this debut book. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
November 17, 2025
Thank you to NETGALLEY for this ARC. I rated this book 4.5🌟
Wow! I really enjoyed this cosy festive read, which had me wanting to curl up in my pj’s in front of a log fire clutching a mug of hot chocolate.
We meet our FMC who loves her job working in her local hotel. One slight problem, she works for her ex who has major commitment issues, so subsequently have had an on off relationship for a number of years. She goes to work expecting a normal work day only to be told she is getting a promotion but it involves shadowing her ex for the next year to learn the ropes. On top of all that she has a new relationship of 2 months (he is a pilot in the airforce) he suddenly and unexpectedly announces over dinner that he’s being deployed immediately for a year. They are both devastated by this news, is this the end of their relationship can it last a year long separation or will they need to?
Our FMC visits her grandmother and comes across an old pocket watch, she makes a wish over this watch wishing the next year away. This is where our story really kicks off.
If you love cosy festive reads full of magic and feel good then this is the book for you. It is beautifully written and envelops you like a warm Christmas blanket. What a fantastic debut novel and I can’t wait to see what the author writes
In the future.
Wow! I really enjoyed this cosy festive read, which had me wanting to curl up in my pj’s in front of a log fire clutching a mug of hot chocolate.
We meet our FMC who loves her job working in her local hotel. One slight problem, she works for her ex who has major commitment issues, so subsequently have had an on off relationship for a number of years. She goes to work expecting a normal work day only to be told she is getting a promotion but it involves shadowing her ex for the next year to learn the ropes. On top of all that she has a new relationship of 2 months (he is a pilot in the airforce) he suddenly and unexpectedly announces over dinner that he’s being deployed immediately for a year. They are both devastated by this news, is this the end of their relationship can it last a year long separation or will they need to?
Our FMC visits her grandmother and comes across an old pocket watch, she makes a wish over this watch wishing the next year away. This is where our story really kicks off.
If you love cosy festive reads full of magic and feel good then this is the book for you. It is beautifully written and envelops you like a warm Christmas blanket. What a fantastic debut novel and I can’t wait to see what the author writes
In the future.
December 31, 2025
Magic
The perfect Christmas story with all of the truths of military life. The good the bad and the magic that you make along the way if you dare to dream and embrace the journey.
The perfect Christmas story with all of the truths of military life. The good the bad and the magic that you make along the way if you dare to dream and embrace the journey.
November 28, 2025
Wishing for Christmas, what a joyous read! I stumbled upon this book last week, and thank goodness I did! This story brings together all the best things about reading during christmas into one wonderful novel. With the lovely story and skilled writing, Caroline Stowe would not let me leave the fireplace and put the book down. Hallmark needs to make a movie out of this one!
December 6, 2025
📚Wishing for Christmas
✍🏻Caroline Stowe
Blurb:
From one of the freshest new voices in contemporary romance comes a magical escape for fans of Debbie Macomber, Annie Rains, and Denise Hunter.
Be careful what you wish for….
Hotel sales manager Clara Jenkins has an opportunity to take over as general manager of her hotel. There’s just one she’s asked to shadow her boss for a year, and her boss happens to be her ex. Clara’s not so sure about working in close quarters with him for that length of time.
But her job opportunity isn’t the only major hurdle this year. At dinner the next night, her new boyfriend, Air Force pilot Brent McNally, drops the bomb that he’s being deployed on short notice for an entire year.
While rummaging through her grandmother’s box of Christmas decorations, she finds an old pocket-watch style ornament and, holding it, wishes she could skip the entire year.
The next day, when she arrives at the airfield to see Brent off, to her utter confusion, it soon becomes apparent that she may have skipped a year, and she’s waiting for him to return, not waving him off. Also, Brent—her brand-new boyfriend—goes down on one knee and proposes.
A heartwarming romance that will whisk you away to a place where wishes take form. It’s sure to have you reaching for your fuzzy socks and hot cocoa long after the holidays.
My Thoughts:
Really loved this clean contemporary love story set at Christmas. Some magical realism. This reminded of the best kind of Hallmark Christmas movie. As far as holiday romances go this one was very enjoyable and I can confirm the Christmas vibes were there! I absolutely loved the idea of a Christmas wish come true and also the romance in this book was sooo cute. I mean the way the love interest, Brent, made her a Christmas present with his bare hands was such a nice gesture. And the list of holiday activities made me want to go to a Christmas tree farm and then after bake cookies at home. Also I was craving hot cocoa the entire time I read the book. I’m telling you the Christmas spirit was here.
From the very first page, this phenomenal festive story captured my attention. I didn’t want to put it down, eagerly anticipating the unfolding of its captivating narrative. This debut novel by the author has left an indelible mark on me.
Thanks NetGalley, Harpeth Road Press and Author Caroline Stowe for the advanced copy of "Wishing for Christmas " I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#HarpethRoadPress
#CarolineStowe
#WishingforChristmas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Caroline Stowe
Blurb:
From one of the freshest new voices in contemporary romance comes a magical escape for fans of Debbie Macomber, Annie Rains, and Denise Hunter.
Be careful what you wish for….
Hotel sales manager Clara Jenkins has an opportunity to take over as general manager of her hotel. There’s just one she’s asked to shadow her boss for a year, and her boss happens to be her ex. Clara’s not so sure about working in close quarters with him for that length of time.
But her job opportunity isn’t the only major hurdle this year. At dinner the next night, her new boyfriend, Air Force pilot Brent McNally, drops the bomb that he’s being deployed on short notice for an entire year.
While rummaging through her grandmother’s box of Christmas decorations, she finds an old pocket-watch style ornament and, holding it, wishes she could skip the entire year.
The next day, when she arrives at the airfield to see Brent off, to her utter confusion, it soon becomes apparent that she may have skipped a year, and she’s waiting for him to return, not waving him off. Also, Brent—her brand-new boyfriend—goes down on one knee and proposes.
A heartwarming romance that will whisk you away to a place where wishes take form. It’s sure to have you reaching for your fuzzy socks and hot cocoa long after the holidays.
My Thoughts:
Really loved this clean contemporary love story set at Christmas. Some magical realism. This reminded of the best kind of Hallmark Christmas movie. As far as holiday romances go this one was very enjoyable and I can confirm the Christmas vibes were there! I absolutely loved the idea of a Christmas wish come true and also the romance in this book was sooo cute. I mean the way the love interest, Brent, made her a Christmas present with his bare hands was such a nice gesture. And the list of holiday activities made me want to go to a Christmas tree farm and then after bake cookies at home. Also I was craving hot cocoa the entire time I read the book. I’m telling you the Christmas spirit was here.
From the very first page, this phenomenal festive story captured my attention. I didn’t want to put it down, eagerly anticipating the unfolding of its captivating narrative. This debut novel by the author has left an indelible mark on me.
Thanks NetGalley, Harpeth Road Press and Author Caroline Stowe for the advanced copy of "Wishing for Christmas " I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#HarpethRoadPress
#CarolineStowe
#WishingforChristmas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 10, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Wishing for Christmas is a delightful standalone time slip romance. Be careful what you wish for, indeed… You just might get it!
Clara’s life is about to turn upside down, all over one sentimental wish spoken over a Christmas ornament owned by her grandmother. She’s up for a promotion to general manager at the hotel where she works, which is great news, right? Umm. The problem is she’s asked to shadow her boss (her ex) for a year, which is emotionally annoying! Then she learns that her boyfriend of two months, Brent, who is a military pilot, is being deployed for a year…tomorrow! Could this holiday season get any more messed up? Well, yes.
Remember that wish? Clara had impulsively wished to skip an entire year when her heart was so overwhelmed with dealing with her boss’s absurd attitude and the new man in her life was leaving for a year… that she made that silly, impulsive, didn’t expect it to come true wish. Now, it’s obvious that she isn’t at the airfield to wish Brent a sad goodbye, but to welcome him home a year later! Life just got complicated.
I adored Wishing for Christmas by Caroline Stowe. Memories are precious things; I cannot imagine not remembering the events of an entire year. But here Clara is. At first, it felt a little jarring when Clara had no clue about a sentimental item… but then I realized that since she had no idea of its history, of course, she couldn’t act accordingly, and neither could I because that event wasn’t in her “forgotten year” memories (or the story). It was intriguing in a way to be as unaware as the character in a story, and suddenly, those aspects of the story made more sense to me. It was little twists like that which made Clara’s story so, yes, realistic in so many ways.
If you enjoy a well-written, emotional Christmas Romance with a bit of a time slip, a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and lots of holiday touches, then you’re going to love Wishing for Christmas by Caroline Stowe. I look forward to what this new-to-me author brings us next.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Wishing for Christmas is a delightful standalone time slip romance. Be careful what you wish for, indeed… You just might get it!
Clara’s life is about to turn upside down, all over one sentimental wish spoken over a Christmas ornament owned by her grandmother. She’s up for a promotion to general manager at the hotel where she works, which is great news, right? Umm. The problem is she’s asked to shadow her boss (her ex) for a year, which is emotionally annoying! Then she learns that her boyfriend of two months, Brent, who is a military pilot, is being deployed for a year…tomorrow! Could this holiday season get any more messed up? Well, yes.
Remember that wish? Clara had impulsively wished to skip an entire year when her heart was so overwhelmed with dealing with her boss’s absurd attitude and the new man in her life was leaving for a year… that she made that silly, impulsive, didn’t expect it to come true wish. Now, it’s obvious that she isn’t at the airfield to wish Brent a sad goodbye, but to welcome him home a year later! Life just got complicated.
I adored Wishing for Christmas by Caroline Stowe. Memories are precious things; I cannot imagine not remembering the events of an entire year. But here Clara is. At first, it felt a little jarring when Clara had no clue about a sentimental item… but then I realized that since she had no idea of its history, of course, she couldn’t act accordingly, and neither could I because that event wasn’t in her “forgotten year” memories (or the story). It was intriguing in a way to be as unaware as the character in a story, and suddenly, those aspects of the story made more sense to me. It was little twists like that which made Clara’s story so, yes, realistic in so many ways.
If you enjoy a well-written, emotional Christmas Romance with a bit of a time slip, a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and lots of holiday touches, then you’re going to love Wishing for Christmas by Caroline Stowe. I look forward to what this new-to-me author brings us next.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
November 13, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this wonderful Christmas book.
Be careful what you wish for….
Hotel sales manager Clara Jenkins has an opportunity to take over as general manager of her hotel. There’s just one she’s asked to shadow her boss for a year, and her boss happens to be her ex. Clara’s not so sure about working in close quarters with him for that length of time.
But her job opportunity isn’t the only major hurdle this year. At dinner the next night, her new boyfriend, Air Force pilot Brent McNally, drops the bomb that he’s being deployed on short notice for an entire year.
When she wishes for the the future it arrives and presents with it a whole manner of complications she doesn't expect.
This is a fun and uplifting book with thankfully no triggers and none of the third act break ups and high angst. It is pure Christmas joy with a humour and all the Hallmark vibes. It's so festive that it makes you feel that Christmas is already here.
I loved Stowe's style of writing, it flows naturally and the characters and world she has created made it an absolute joy to read. My first Christmas book to kick the season off, and what a lovely read to start with.
Kerry Kennedy Author
Be careful what you wish for….
Hotel sales manager Clara Jenkins has an opportunity to take over as general manager of her hotel. There’s just one she’s asked to shadow her boss for a year, and her boss happens to be her ex. Clara’s not so sure about working in close quarters with him for that length of time.
But her job opportunity isn’t the only major hurdle this year. At dinner the next night, her new boyfriend, Air Force pilot Brent McNally, drops the bomb that he’s being deployed on short notice for an entire year.
When she wishes for the the future it arrives and presents with it a whole manner of complications she doesn't expect.
This is a fun and uplifting book with thankfully no triggers and none of the third act break ups and high angst. It is pure Christmas joy with a humour and all the Hallmark vibes. It's so festive that it makes you feel that Christmas is already here.
I loved Stowe's style of writing, it flows naturally and the characters and world she has created made it an absolute joy to read. My first Christmas book to kick the season off, and what a lovely read to start with.
Kerry Kennedy Author
October 16, 2025
Wishing for Christmas is the kind of story that wraps around you like a soft blanket on a snowy evening. Caroline Stowe’s debut is full of charm, heart, and just the right touch of magic. Clara Jenkins, a hotel sales manager with big dreams and a complicated love life, finds herself caught between career ambition, romantic uncertainty, and a mysterious ornament that might just grant her wish to skip a painful year.
The premise is whimsical — a time jump triggered by a Christmas decoration — but the emotions are grounded and real. Clara’s journey is one of growth, love, and second chances, and watching her navigate the unexpected is both touching and uplifting. Brent, her Air Force pilot boyfriend, adds depth and tenderness to the story, and their relationship feels authentic and sweet.
Stowe’s writing is warm and inviting, with a festive atmosphere that makes you want to curl up with cocoa and read straight through. If you love holiday romances with a sprinkle of magic and a lot of heart, this one’s a delightful escape.
With thanks to Caroline Stowe, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
The premise is whimsical — a time jump triggered by a Christmas decoration — but the emotions are grounded and real. Clara’s journey is one of growth, love, and second chances, and watching her navigate the unexpected is both touching and uplifting. Brent, her Air Force pilot boyfriend, adds depth and tenderness to the story, and their relationship feels authentic and sweet.
Stowe’s writing is warm and inviting, with a festive atmosphere that makes you want to curl up with cocoa and read straight through. If you love holiday romances with a sprinkle of magic and a lot of heart, this one’s a delightful escape.
With thanks to Caroline Stowe, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 22, 2025
Are you ready for a dose of Christmas magic? You do not want to miss Caroline Stowe's debut novel, Waiting for Christmas. Set in fictional Cranberry Pines, Clara Jenkins learns the true meaning of Christmas, love, and life through an unexpected answer to her Christmas wish. When Clara, learns that the next year is not going to be at all what she expected (having to work alongside her ex to her boyfriend of two month's unexpected deployment) Clara wants to skip through the year to avoid all the hard stuff. When she wakes up the next morning and realizes her wish came true, she doesn't know what to expect. She soon learns that the hard parts of life are necessary, and the importance of making memories and cherishing and loving the people in your life. This magical Christmas Romance will have you ready to start making some beloved Christmas memories with your own loved ones. Please check out my full review at take paws to read: https://simbasbookreview.com/blog-posts/
Simba gives this book 4 Paws!! A special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC to read and review.
Simba gives this book 4 Paws!! A special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC to read and review.
December 16, 2025
Wishing for Christmas by Caroline Stowe was my first Christmas read this year! I read it in November and it was a great way to start the season! It’s a sweet romance with a touch of magical realism.
It kind of reminds me of my favorite Christmas movie It’s A Wonderful Life when George Bailey wishes he had never been born and then discovers how the world would have been different without him in it. In this story, Clara realizes that a lot happened over the course of the year that Brent was deployed and she actually needed that time and shouldn’t have wished it away. A really good lesson is learned here. If you like Hallmark movie style Christmas books with a great message, you’ll love this one! I certainly did!
It kind of reminds me of my favorite Christmas movie It’s A Wonderful Life when George Bailey wishes he had never been born and then discovers how the world would have been different without him in it. In this story, Clara realizes that a lot happened over the course of the year that Brent was deployed and she actually needed that time and shouldn’t have wished it away. A really good lesson is learned here. If you like Hallmark movie style Christmas books with a great message, you’ll love this one! I certainly did!
Read
November 7, 2025Upon receiving this arc from netgalley, I found myself quickly devouring it. Reading it I was reminded of a hallmark story as it touched upon all those heartwarming storybeats.
I would definitely recommend this story, to others to enjoy during the holiday season. The only flaw for myself would be further background and development with the male lead however to enjoy the story it was not particularly needed.
While the romance was there it felt more like the female leads story but be warned there is not much spice in the novel as it was mostly closed door, just wanted to mention this for the readers whom are focused on that. For myself I found much enjoyment from the emotional beats.
I would definitely recommend this story, to others to enjoy during the holiday season. The only flaw for myself would be further background and development with the male lead however to enjoy the story it was not particularly needed.
While the romance was there it felt more like the female leads story but be warned there is not much spice in the novel as it was mostly closed door, just wanted to mention this for the readers whom are focused on that. For myself I found much enjoyment from the emotional beats.
November 27, 2025
The FMC is so selfish and bratty I couldn't continue. Shaking, sobbing, causing a scene in the restaurant, acting like her life is over and she cannot possibly go on.. over someone she's dated for 2 MONTHS!!!!
2 MONTHS! 2 MONTHS! 2 MONTHS!
Did I mention they've known each other for 2 months? Just checking.
"Clara didn’t care about the mission. She didn’t care about all the other families facing canceled holiday plans either. All she cared about was Brent and what this would mean for their relationship"
Gross.
(Also this book is not accessibility friendly. Symbols replacing letters everywhere.)
2 MONTHS! 2 MONTHS! 2 MONTHS!
Did I mention they've known each other for 2 months? Just checking.
"Clara didn’t care about the mission. She didn’t care about all the other families facing canceled holiday plans either. All she cared about was Brent and what this would mean for their relationship"
Gross.
(Also this book is not accessibility friendly. Symbols replacing letters everywhere.)
October 27, 2025
This was a sweet, easy Christmas read. I really flew through this book and really enjoyed the premise of the story.
I was unfortunately not overly fond of the FMC who often acted much younger and more naive than her 30 years.
I recommend this book if you enjoy:
🎄 Hallmark style
🎄 Clean romance
🎄 Time travel
🎄 Cinnamon roll MMC
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
I was unfortunately not overly fond of the FMC who often acted much younger and more naive than her 30 years.
I recommend this book if you enjoy:
🎄 Hallmark style
🎄 Clean romance
🎄 Time travel
🎄 Cinnamon roll MMC
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
October 30, 2025
This was such a lovely festive romance that had a touch of romance and to be honest has stayed with me since i finished reading it, I had to get myself an audio copy to listen to closer to Christmas because I need a festive setting to re read!
Highly recommend if you enjoy festive clean romances which are quite like Hallmark Movies
Highly recommend if you enjoy festive clean romances which are quite like Hallmark Movies
November 3, 2025
Clara is the sales manager for a hotel but is in the running to be the hotel manager. She is also falling for her boyfriend. But he is in the service and he is deployed for a year. She just can't face it and wishes the year away. Did she become the hotel manager? What happened to the year she wished away? What an interesting story. I really liked the story.
November 15, 2025
A cute, cozy holiday romance with plenty of festive charm. While the small-town setting is warm and inviting, the character chemistry felt a bit weak at the start, making it harder to connect early on. Still, the story picks up as the relationship develops, turning into a sweet, heartwarming read overall. A comfortable 3.5-star holiday escape.
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