What do you think?
Rate this book
The Gingerbread House: A Sweet Holiday Romance
A frozen writer, two men from her past, and one crumbling mansion that could change everything.
When AJ Banner left Roanoke, Oregon, she traded small-town comfort for the bustle of New York City and the dream of becoming a writer. Now, reeling from a recent breakup and frozen by the worst writer's block of her life, AJ returns home for the holidays hoping her family can boost her self-esteem in time to start her dream career at Verité magazine.
Enter Benson Miller, the childhood crush who shattered her confidence twelve years ago, and Skylar Townsend, the friend who was there to pick up the pieces. In a blizzard of awkward reunions, heroic snowstorm rescues, and the tug of old feelings, AJ flounders to overcome her insecurities before New Year's Eve. When she discovers that a beloved local landmark faces demolition, AJ sees her chance to prove herself as a journalist-but saving it means working closely with Skylar, making her feelings as vulnerable as her career.
With her dreams and her heart on the line, AJ must choose what to hold on to from her past, and what to finally let go.
Set in the Pacific Northwest in 2016, The Gingerbread House by debut author R.M. Whitaker is a heartwarming, slow-burn, sweet holiday romance about second chances, the power of community, and finding the courage to fight for what's worth keeping.
When AJ Banner left Roanoke, Oregon, she traded small-town comfort for the bustle of New York City and the dream of becoming a writer. Now, reeling from a recent breakup and frozen by the worst writer's block of her life, AJ returns home for the holidays hoping her family can boost her self-esteem in time to start her dream career at Verité magazine.
Enter Benson Miller, the childhood crush who shattered her confidence twelve years ago, and Skylar Townsend, the friend who was there to pick up the pieces. In a blizzard of awkward reunions, heroic snowstorm rescues, and the tug of old feelings, AJ flounders to overcome her insecurities before New Year's Eve. When she discovers that a beloved local landmark faces demolition, AJ sees her chance to prove herself as a journalist-but saving it means working closely with Skylar, making her feelings as vulnerable as her career.
With her dreams and her heart on the line, AJ must choose what to hold on to from her past, and what to finally let go.
Set in the Pacific Northwest in 2016, The Gingerbread House by debut author R.M. Whitaker is a heartwarming, slow-burn, sweet holiday romance about second chances, the power of community, and finding the courage to fight for what's worth keeping.
- GenresChristmas
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
4 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
R.M. Whitaker
1 book3 followersR.M. Whitaker grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where her imagination bloomed in blanket forts and pillow palaces as she and her sisters crafted stories to keep themselves entertained on rainy days.
When she's not writing, you'll usually find her gardening, experimenting with sourdough starter and other cultured foods, tackling some DIY project that's way beyond her capability, or wrestling goats on her mom's hobby farm.
She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband Patrick, daughter Bonnie, a feisty Boston Terrier named Jasper, and an exceptionally long gray tabby cat named Simon.
When she's not writing, you'll usually find her gardening, experimenting with sourdough starter and other cultured foods, tackling some DIY project that's way beyond her capability, or wrestling goats on her mom's hobby farm.
She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband Patrick, daughter Bonnie, a feisty Boston Terrier named Jasper, and an exceptionally long gray tabby cat named Simon.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 18, 2025
First, I must confess that I'm a very biased reviewer. I've been Railee's friend and penpal for over 20 years now, and it's so surreal and thrilling to be reviewing her first published book! If you're looking for a cozy Christmas romance, look no further than The Gingerbread House. It's truly like a Hallmark movie in a book: a big city girl returning to her Oregon hometown, a kind-hearted love interest, a community event that brings everyone together, and heaps of holiday charm. The perfect book to read in the lead-up to Christmas! 🎄
November 7, 2025
Almost from the get-go, reading "The Gingerbread House" felt like watching a Hallmark Christmas movie. It has all the proper ingredients: small-town charm, sweet romance, and main characters who must solve a problem and end up discovering much about themselves in the process. I did, however, miss that little something that makes the story stand out compared to all the other similar stories in this category.
The characters are satisfactory; they have a natural progression and development throughout the story. But I must admit that the amount of insecurity and indecision the female lead encompassed made me exhausted simply by reading about it!
The book is tagged "clean romance", so as a reader, you know there won't be much physical interaction between the characters, and the romance level will be relatively innocent. I have no problem with authors preferring "clean" romance, but, in my opinion, it creates a need for higher-quality romantic writing to achieve the same impact on the reader. There's also a risk of the story developing a YA feel when you remove the more mature aspects of intimacy. "The Gingerbread House" is nowhere near Jane Austen level. Still, the author does a fair job of building a believable romantic relationship that gives the reader that "butterflies-in-the-stomach" feeling.
This book was a decent first effort from the author, and I hope she continues to write and develop as an author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are satisfactory; they have a natural progression and development throughout the story. But I must admit that the amount of insecurity and indecision the female lead encompassed made me exhausted simply by reading about it!
The book is tagged "clean romance", so as a reader, you know there won't be much physical interaction between the characters, and the romance level will be relatively innocent. I have no problem with authors preferring "clean" romance, but, in my opinion, it creates a need for higher-quality romantic writing to achieve the same impact on the reader. There's also a risk of the story developing a YA feel when you remove the more mature aspects of intimacy. "The Gingerbread House" is nowhere near Jane Austen level. Still, the author does a fair job of building a believable romantic relationship that gives the reader that "butterflies-in-the-stomach" feeling.
This book was a decent first effort from the author, and I hope she continues to write and develop as an author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2025
THE GINGERBREAD HOUSE by R.M. Whitaker is a debut novel. A Christmas story with the feel of a Hallmark movie, it drew me in from the first page to the last.
AJ returns home to a small town in Oregon for the holidays before the start of her new dream job at a magazine back in New York City. But she doesn’t spend as much time with her family or on her preparations and thoughts for her job as she planned to. Instead she runs two major events for the town, both for a good cause.
There are multiple stories being told with lots of reconnections, party planning, reminiscing, old loves and new, holiday preparations and traditions. The story has a good flow and the cute chapter titles gave a hint of what was to come. There’s a hint of romance with Sky but are they really just friends? Especially since they are so good together and complement each other with their strengths even if she’s always second guessing herself or in doomsday mode. There is closure with the epilogue and a chance for a happily ever after even if it is long distance. But I’d love to meet up with these characters again.
THE GINGERBREAD HOUSE is filled with warmth during the holiday season with friendships, family, events, some romance and romantic moments.
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
AJ returns home to a small town in Oregon for the holidays before the start of her new dream job at a magazine back in New York City. But she doesn’t spend as much time with her family or on her preparations and thoughts for her job as she planned to. Instead she runs two major events for the town, both for a good cause.
There are multiple stories being told with lots of reconnections, party planning, reminiscing, old loves and new, holiday preparations and traditions. The story has a good flow and the cute chapter titles gave a hint of what was to come. There’s a hint of romance with Sky but are they really just friends? Especially since they are so good together and complement each other with their strengths even if she’s always second guessing herself or in doomsday mode. There is closure with the epilogue and a chance for a happily ever after even if it is long distance. But I’d love to meet up with these characters again.
THE GINGERBREAD HOUSE is filled with warmth during the holiday season with friendships, family, events, some romance and romantic moments.
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. It was such an easy, fun holiday read—perfect for cozy nights, but still packed with real emotion. One thing that really stood out to me was how it didn’t fall into the typical “city girl goes back to her hometown and hates it” storyline. Instead, the main character is genuinely excited to be home and spend time with her family, which gave the story a refreshing warmth I really appreciated - something I relate to as a person who is close to their whole family.
I also connected so much with her insecurities and the imposter syndrome she faces while preparing for her dream job. It felt so real. I honestly believe there are two true “coming-of-age” phases: the one you go through as a teenager, and the one that hits after graduation when you’re actually figuring out who you are and what you want your future to look like. This book captures that second one perfectly.
Because of that, it felt incredibly relatable for an older audience—not just teens—and it gave the holiday vibe a deeper, more mature layer. It’s heartfelt, engaging, and definitely not your typical YA holiday story.
I would recommend this holiday read to all!
I also connected so much with her insecurities and the imposter syndrome she faces while preparing for her dream job. It felt so real. I honestly believe there are two true “coming-of-age” phases: the one you go through as a teenager, and the one that hits after graduation when you’re actually figuring out who you are and what you want your future to look like. This book captures that second one perfectly.
Because of that, it felt incredibly relatable for an older audience—not just teens—and it gave the holiday vibe a deeper, more mature layer. It’s heartfelt, engaging, and definitely not your typical YA holiday story.
I would recommend this holiday read to all!
November 28, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I went into reading The Gingerbread House with zero expectations since this was my first read from this author. It was so cute!
The Gingerbread House is a cozy holiday read filled with second chances in a way you wouldn't expect. I loved the journey that AJ and Sky went on together. Was this book a romance? Sure! But the stories behind the characters were so relatable. The pains of growing up, imposter syndrome, pressure from expectations, grief - all topics that I felt deeply about right along side the characters.
The only reason I would give 4 stars instead of 5, is I wish there was a bit more conversation with the best friend instead of AJ trying to internalize and solve everything in her head. That's a personal preference though and it certainly didn't stop me from enjoying this book. Or from staying up until 3am this morning because I had to know how it ended!
I went into reading The Gingerbread House with zero expectations since this was my first read from this author. It was so cute!
The Gingerbread House is a cozy holiday read filled with second chances in a way you wouldn't expect. I loved the journey that AJ and Sky went on together. Was this book a romance? Sure! But the stories behind the characters were so relatable. The pains of growing up, imposter syndrome, pressure from expectations, grief - all topics that I felt deeply about right along side the characters.
The only reason I would give 4 stars instead of 5, is I wish there was a bit more conversation with the best friend instead of AJ trying to internalize and solve everything in her head. That's a personal preference though and it certainly didn't stop me from enjoying this book. Or from staying up until 3am this morning because I had to know how it ended!
November 16, 2025
This is such a great book, clean, wholesome, and completely mesmerizing.
Not going to give much more than what is in the blurb, because this book is worth investing your time in. The way the author crafted the characters makes them so real, relatable, and approachable, you will want to be friends with them. THe plot is fast paced with a great dynamic between all the characters, the intelligent conversations, insights, the moments, the way their history is dealt is perfect. Add to that a small conflict that will bring maturity to the story and the couple and you have the perfect book for a cozy afternoon!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Not going to give much more than what is in the blurb, because this book is worth investing your time in. The way the author crafted the characters makes them so real, relatable, and approachable, you will want to be friends with them. THe plot is fast paced with a great dynamic between all the characters, the intelligent conversations, insights, the moments, the way their history is dealt is perfect. Add to that a small conflict that will bring maturity to the story and the couple and you have the perfect book for a cozy afternoon!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2025
The Gingerbread House by R.M. Whitaker is a tender, emotionally layered holiday romance that captures the warmth of homecoming and the courage it takes to rediscover yourself. Through AJ Banner’s heartfelt journey from self doubt to renewal, Whitaker delivers a beautifully human story about second chances, community, and the quiet strength of hope. The Pacific Northwest setting adds a nostalgic charm, while the snow dusted atmosphere perfectly frames the story’s themes of healing and reconnection.
This debut feels both comforting and inspiring, a story that reminds readers that even in the coldest seasons, there’s always a way back to love and purpose.
This debut feels both comforting and inspiring, a story that reminds readers that even in the coldest seasons, there’s always a way back to love and purpose.
January 16, 2026
A cute and charming romcom
AJ Banner has a lot going for her, but ghosts from her past keep her nervous about the future. When she returns home for Christmas, she doesn’t plan on going to battle with them, but ghosts have a way of coming back until they are faced head on. Thankfully, she has a good friend ready to have her back in every crazy scheme.
I really enjoyed this story. Sky is a sweetheart trying to find his way, and AJ is a determined young woman trying to overcome her past. There’s nothing like an impromptu renovation project to bring two good friends even closer together.
AJ Banner has a lot going for her, but ghosts from her past keep her nervous about the future. When she returns home for Christmas, she doesn’t plan on going to battle with them, but ghosts have a way of coming back until they are faced head on. Thankfully, she has a good friend ready to have her back in every crazy scheme.
I really enjoyed this story. Sky is a sweetheart trying to find his way, and AJ is a determined young woman trying to overcome her past. There’s nothing like an impromptu renovation project to bring two good friends even closer together.
December 27, 2025
Characters to love
The character development is fantastic in this book. Within the first chapter I felt a connection to the main characters and appreciated their strengths as well as their shortcomings. I've read many books with great story lines and wonderful settings but mediocre characters. I loved everything about this one.
The character development is fantastic in this book. Within the first chapter I felt a connection to the main characters and appreciated their strengths as well as their shortcomings. I've read many books with great story lines and wonderful settings but mediocre characters. I loved everything about this one.
November 21, 2025
Nothing like a second chance love story set in cozy small town at Christmas! The characters have great chemistry and experience wonderful growth with the help of each other. A feel good book that’s perfect to read this time of year.
November 28, 2025
A beautifully written second chance romance in the sweetest of small towns. I felt like I was part of the story with the amazing descriptions. I loved the fun and charming characters with their witty banter. It's cozy and sweet making you feel the full spirit of the holiday season.
December 15, 2025
I’m not typically a romance reader but I love Christmas movies and was delighted that this book felt like stepping into one. I really enjoyed the characters and the relationship they built.
December 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ What a hidden gem of a book! Had all the holiday vibes, the feel good friendship, found love and family connections, and a sweet ending. Loved it!
November 19, 2025
The Gingerbread House by R. M. Whitaker is a wonderful Christmas romance story. It has all the perfect ingredients for a Christmas romance… a charming small town, a sweet romance, characters that you fall in love with and root for.
A.J. Banner left home and headed for the big city. She never thought she would head back home broken and defeated, but life had different plans. She returns to her small town home for the holidays, excited to spend the holidays with her friends and family. While celebrating the holiday season with her family, she runs into her childhood crush, Bensen Miller. Together, they spend a whirlwind of days enjoying the Christmas season. They work hard on preserving and saving a childhood landmark from destruction.
A.J. works hard to overcome her fears and doubts. Can she find what she's looking for? With her career and heart on the line, she must figure out what she wants out of life, what she feels is important now.
This is a sweet, charming story. It's a clean romance story, so there's no need to worry about graphic scenes. It's refreshing to read a clean romance story. There seems to be a trend now to go all out. The characters are enjoyable and very relatable. I enjoyed the storyline. It was a charming tale of preserving what's important and realizing that our life is made up of so many memories that shape us. You can always go home again.
This is a beautiful story about second chances, small-town communities, and the importance of love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A.J. Banner left home and headed for the big city. She never thought she would head back home broken and defeated, but life had different plans. She returns to her small town home for the holidays, excited to spend the holidays with her friends and family. While celebrating the holiday season with her family, she runs into her childhood crush, Bensen Miller. Together, they spend a whirlwind of days enjoying the Christmas season. They work hard on preserving and saving a childhood landmark from destruction.
A.J. works hard to overcome her fears and doubts. Can she find what she's looking for? With her career and heart on the line, she must figure out what she wants out of life, what she feels is important now.
This is a sweet, charming story. It's a clean romance story, so there's no need to worry about graphic scenes. It's refreshing to read a clean romance story. There seems to be a trend now to go all out. The characters are enjoyable and very relatable. I enjoyed the storyline. It was a charming tale of preserving what's important and realizing that our life is made up of so many memories that shape us. You can always go home again.
This is a beautiful story about second chances, small-town communities, and the importance of love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews