Christmas at Grace Hollow

by Chad Muessig

Tess Somerset never planned to return to Maple Ridge — the small town filled with memories she thought she’d left behind forever. But when Christmas draws her home, she is forced to face the scandal that drove her away and the boy she left behind.

Brayden James isn’t the reckless troublemaker Tess once knew. Now the beloved pastor of Grace Hollow Church, he’s a man transformed by faith, forgiveness, and grace — offering her a second chance Tess isn’t sure she deserves.

As the town prepares for its heartwarming Christmas pageant, Tess is drawn into the season’s spirit — and into Brayden’s quiet strength. Surrounded by snow-covered streets, festive lights, and the music of redemption, she must confront painful truths and ask herself what she truly wants for her future.

But when long-buried secrets surface on a snowy Christmas Eve, Tess faces a choice that will change her life forever. Can she find the courage to forgive herself and embrace the love she thought was lost?

Perfect for readers who love heartfelt Christmas romance, small-town drama, and stories of forgiveness, redemption, and second chances.

205 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2025

Reviews

[Amanda Uttech · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely the small town feel good read you’re looking for around the holidays! I have been so busy Christmas week, so it took me longer to read this, but you can definitely read this in one long sitting. I don’t typically read Christian books, so those who enjoy them will probably love and appreciate this book even more. The writing is really good, and I felt like I could visualize every little detail while reading. I think it was just missing a better explanation on the traumatic event that occurred years ago and more of a love connection between the characters for me. Give this cute little holiday book a read!

[Ethan Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas in Maple Ridge is one of those stories that stays with you long after you close the final page. From the moment Tess Somerset returns to her hometown, the air feels heavy with nostalgia and regret yet also threaded with hope. The author beautifully captures that feeling of coming home after years away, where every street corner and familiar face reminds you of who you once were and who you’ve become.

Tess’s journey is deeply emotional. Her internal struggle with guilt and forgiveness feels so real, especially as she reconnects with Brayden James the boy she left behind, now a man of deep faith and quiet strength. Their chemistry isn’t forced or rushed; it grows tenderly through shared history, awkward silences, and unspoken forgiveness. I loved how Brayden’s transformation from a rebellious youth to a compassionate pastor mirrored Tess’s own search for redemption.

The setting of Maple Ridge is enchanting snow-dusted rooftops, flickering lights, and the town’s Christmas pageant create the perfect backdrop for this heartfelt tale. Yet beneath the holiday cheer lies a story of pain, grace, and second chances. The way the author intertwines faith, love, and forgiveness feels organic rather than preachy, making the message of healing all the more powerful.

The reveal on Christmas Eve genuinely moved me it ties everything together in a way that feels both surprising and deeply satisfying. Christmas in Maple Ridge reminds us that no one is too far gone for grace, and sometimes, coming home is the bravest thing we can do.

If you enjoy emotional small-town romances filled with heart, faith, and forgiveness, this book is an absolute must-read.

[Adams loretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story pulled me in from the first page. Tess’s return to Maple Ridge felt so raw and real, you can practically feel the weight of her past following her home. And Brayden? What a beautifully written character. His transformation from troubled teen to compassionate pastor felt believable and inspiring. The whole Christmas-pageant setting wrapped everything in warmth and nostalgia. If you love redemption arcs and quiet, steady romances, this book is a must-read.

[Catherine Pafford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas at Grace Hollow is a warm, heartfelt holiday romance about forgiveness and second chances. Chad Muessig beautifully captures the charm of small-town Christmas and the emotional pull between Tess and Brayden. Moving, uplifting, and filled with true Christmas spirit, this story is a lovely reminder that grace can lead us home.

[Janixa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’d say this is a solid 3.5 stars. My only complaint is that the last 30% of the book wasn’t exactly necessary since all the conflicts had already been resolved.

Besides that, it was a cute and quick faith based read.

[Fantasy Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute story! Follow Tess as she returns home after 13 years of being away. This story has hope and redemption and is spice free.

[Jennifer Shirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely cozy Christmas read with charming characters and a wonderful message on what Christmas is really about.

[Jennifer D Art & Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want a paperback copy just because su found myself screenshotting so many of the lovely and wonderful quotes from this story! 10/10 recommend and would read again!