Deck the Docks: A Christmas novella

by Katherine Snow

Deck the docks with boughs of holly, fa la la la la…

In Fern Lake, boats are more common than cars, so residents deck their docks for the season.

On a trip to close her family cottage for the winter, Halley Miller takes her kayak out to see the Christmas lights on display. When her late-night adventure takes a frosty turn, charming local Kieran Arledge swoops in to save the day.

Halley and Kieran fall for each other between pancake breakfasts and Fern Lake's sugar-coated Winter Wonderland, but real life gets in the way when they have a falling out over family responsibilities.

67 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 9, 2025

About the author

Katherine Snow is an author from Ottawa, Canada.

Reviews

[s.elle.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adorable!

This was such a cute and quick Christmas themed novella. I thought the characters and the plot were really well developed for a romance novella.
Definitely recommend checking this out!!

[Kristie · Rating 4 out of 5]

So sweet and heartwarming! A beautifully descriptive novella that captures the romantic side of winter. I’m so glad Halley redeemed herself bc her behaviour after being pulled from the lake annoyed the heck out of me — like how dare you send this sweet boy away??

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute and cozy holiday read, perfect for Christmas time!

[Meera Shah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect Christmas romance!!! Well done Kat, so proud!

[Dahlia Bells · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!!
The author paced this book perfectly, it’s a quick read while never feeling rushed that reminds me in the same way figure skaters make dancing on ice look easy. You’re able to sit comfortably with Kieran and Halley as their dynamic builds gently in way that feels realistic but with all the feet-kicking, giggling, and “eeee!!” of a storybook romance.

I’ve only started to get back into reading as an adult and this was such a delightful, engaging and heartwarming story that makes me want to read more and find others like it! Highly recommend!!

[Christy Acc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Someone in a Bookclub recommended I reach out to Katherine Snow for an opportunity to read and review their holiday novella, Deck the Docks. I’m so happy I did because I adored this book. I loved the small, lake town vibe! I made a connection with the main characters and felt this was a well rounded and well written book. I hope to get an opportunity to read more - Thank you Katherine!

[Vanessa Symington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet read. Quick and adorable, I had a smile plastered on my face the whole time. Absolutely a perfect story to curl up with a blanket on a lazy winter evening!

[Kenneth McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this novella. It felt warm and welcoming, with several moments that had me eagerly advancing the pages to see what would happen next. The author’s descriptions were vivid and helped bring the setting to life. This isn’t my usual type of read, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The author is a strong writer, and I’m looking forward to reading more from her.

[Katherine Snow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so much fun! Let me know if you read! 🥰

[Linda Springstead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. It was a great light hearted romance story for the Christmas season! I look forward to the authors next story!

[Marsha Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5