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Nantucket Christmas Stroll: A Novel
Win a free print copy of this book!
26 days and 12:19:39
50 copies available
U.S. only
During their annual Christmas celebrations, a Nantucket family faces surprising news and unexpected decisions in this warm and inviting holiday novel by New York Times bestselling author Nancy Thayer.
The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is the most wonderful time of year on the island, filled with holiday cheer and festive decorations. Excited holidaymakers crowd the streets, Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat, carolers serenade with classic Christmas carols, and shop windows glitter with treasures, twinkling lights, and merry displays.
At the heart of this celebration is the Parsons family and the sparkling house party they host each year. Brick Parsons and his wife, Jane, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their three adult children, Lydia, Florence, and Lucas, who are all coming home for the holidays.
Lydia, a successful hospitality professional, is torn between her career in New York and her new relationship with her uber-wealthy cosmopolitan boyfriend. Florie, the ambitious middle child, is madly in love with a handsome poet who wants her to move to his hometown in Wisconsin. Lucas, the golden boy, has decided to switch his career path, and is fearful of his father's reaction.
Together, the family celebrates the Stroll, reuniting with old friends and lovers on the tree-lit Main Street. But the holiday cheer is soon overshadowed by the stress of the season as secrets are revealed and emotions run high.
Champagne flows and Christmas-themed canapes are enjoyed as the Parsons family come together on the night of the party, proving that family and the power of love can make any season bright.
2026 by Nancy Thayer. ℗ 2026 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.
The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is the most wonderful time of year on the island, filled with holiday cheer and festive decorations. Excited holidaymakers crowd the streets, Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat, carolers serenade with classic Christmas carols, and shop windows glitter with treasures, twinkling lights, and merry displays.
At the heart of this celebration is the Parsons family and the sparkling house party they host each year. Brick Parsons and his wife, Jane, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their three adult children, Lydia, Florence, and Lucas, who are all coming home for the holidays.
Lydia, a successful hospitality professional, is torn between her career in New York and her new relationship with her uber-wealthy cosmopolitan boyfriend. Florie, the ambitious middle child, is madly in love with a handsome poet who wants her to move to his hometown in Wisconsin. Lucas, the golden boy, has decided to switch his career path, and is fearful of his father's reaction.
Together, the family celebrates the Stroll, reuniting with old friends and lovers on the tree-lit Main Street. But the holiday cheer is soon overshadowed by the stress of the season as secrets are revealed and emotions run high.
Champagne flows and Christmas-themed canapes are enjoyed as the Parsons family come together on the night of the party, proving that family and the power of love can make any season bright.
2026 by Nancy Thayer. ℗ 2026 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.
Audible Audio
Published September 29, 2026
About the author
Nancy Thayer
60 books4,233 followersNancy Thayer has published 35 novels, including Family Reunion and Secrets in Summer. She has lived on Nantucket Island year-round for 38 years with her husband Charley Walters. They have two children and five grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Parsons family comes back to Nantucket carrying enough personal news to turn the Christmas Stroll into a press conference. Jane and Brick have been waiting all year to get Lydia, Florie, and Lucas under one roof again, which is sweet until you realize everyone is arriving with a romantic crisis, a career announcement, or a decision that could make Brick stare silently into the middle distance while gripping a champagne flute.
Lydia is the eldest, successful, competent, and interested in running the family insurance business. Naturally, the family’s official response is basically, “That sounds wonderful, but have you considered being a woman?” The company is apparently destined for Lucas because he is the son, despite Lydia being right there with qualifications and a functioning brain. I kept waiting for someone to slide Brick a calendar and quietly point out the year.
She also brings home her extremely wealthy, cosmopolitan boyfriend while trying to decide whether her life belongs in New York or Nantucket. So now she is balancing romance, work, family expectations, and the fact that her father has mentally assigned her career to her younger brother like he is handing out seats at dinner. Lydia is trying to make one adult decision while everyone around her keeps treating it like a referendum on family loyalty.
Florie arrives with a handsome poet who wants her to move to Wisconsin. Florie wants to travel the world. These are not the same plan, but everybody keeps speaking about love as if it will eventually solve the map. She has the energy of someone standing at baggage claim with a passport while her boyfriend is browsing real estate listings in his hometown. They clearly care about each other. They also appear to be planning two completely different lives and hoping Christmas can perform administrative miracles.
Lucas, meanwhile, is the chosen heir to the insurance throne and would very much like to decline this generous opportunity. He has his own career plans, plus a mystery woman on the island, because apparently telling Brick one unexpected thing at a time would be cowardice. This man comes home knowing he is about to challenge the entire Parsons family succession plan during a holiday party. I have never respected or feared anyone more.
Jane is trying to welcome everyone, protect the traditions, manage the annual house party, and keep her own major news with Brick from swallowing the weekend whole. She wants the family back exactly as they were, which is the emotional trap waiting under every holiday tradition. You can bring everyone home. You cannot make them return as the versions of themselves you remember.
Also, Jane and Brick are forty-four, but they behave like they personally crossed Nantucket on horseback to establish the family insurance company. Brick treats male emotion like a gas leak. Nobody is supposed to acknowledge it, and under no circumstances should anyone light a candle. His ideas about sons, daughters, careers, and family duty had me wanting one of the carolers to stop mid-song and ask what century we were celebrating.
Outside, Nantucket is giving everything. Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat. The streets are glowing. Carolers are singing. Shop windows are sparkling. Champagne is flowing, and tiny Christmas canapés are circulating while the Parsons family quietly prepares to emotionally detonate. I wanted to wander off with Santa and spend more time at the Stroll because inside that house, every conversation felt one polite question away from somebody announcing a relocation.
The real ache here is that nobody is trying to destroy the family. They are just growing beyond the places assigned to them. The kids want lives that feel like their own, and Jane and Brick have to understand that loving your children does not mean keeping them preserved in holiday amber. That landed. Then Brick said or thought something else about family tradition, and I was immediately irritated again.
I wanted more room to really know these people because every member of the family arrived carrying a separate storyline, and the book kept moving me between them before I had fully settled in. Still, Nantucket Christmas Stroll gave me a beautiful island, Santa arriving dramatically by boat, champagne-fueled family panic, and three adult children slowly informing Brick Three that he is not the CEO of their lives. 3.5 stars, with Nantucket itself doing significant unpaid labor.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Hosting a Christmas Party Where Every Child Brought a Life-Changing Announcement and Nobody Brought Brick Three a Coping Strategy
Thank you to Ballantine and NetGalley for the ARC, and for dropping me into a Nantucket Christmas party where the champagne was cold, the canapés were festive, and the gender politics had been stored in the attic since 1957.
Lydia is the eldest, successful, competent, and interested in running the family insurance business. Naturally, the family’s official response is basically, “That sounds wonderful, but have you considered being a woman?” The company is apparently destined for Lucas because he is the son, despite Lydia being right there with qualifications and a functioning brain. I kept waiting for someone to slide Brick a calendar and quietly point out the year.
She also brings home her extremely wealthy, cosmopolitan boyfriend while trying to decide whether her life belongs in New York or Nantucket. So now she is balancing romance, work, family expectations, and the fact that her father has mentally assigned her career to her younger brother like he is handing out seats at dinner. Lydia is trying to make one adult decision while everyone around her keeps treating it like a referendum on family loyalty.
Florie arrives with a handsome poet who wants her to move to Wisconsin. Florie wants to travel the world. These are not the same plan, but everybody keeps speaking about love as if it will eventually solve the map. She has the energy of someone standing at baggage claim with a passport while her boyfriend is browsing real estate listings in his hometown. They clearly care about each other. They also appear to be planning two completely different lives and hoping Christmas can perform administrative miracles.
Lucas, meanwhile, is the chosen heir to the insurance throne and would very much like to decline this generous opportunity. He has his own career plans, plus a mystery woman on the island, because apparently telling Brick one unexpected thing at a time would be cowardice. This man comes home knowing he is about to challenge the entire Parsons family succession plan during a holiday party. I have never respected or feared anyone more.
Jane is trying to welcome everyone, protect the traditions, manage the annual house party, and keep her own major news with Brick from swallowing the weekend whole. She wants the family back exactly as they were, which is the emotional trap waiting under every holiday tradition. You can bring everyone home. You cannot make them return as the versions of themselves you remember.
Also, Jane and Brick are forty-four, but they behave like they personally crossed Nantucket on horseback to establish the family insurance company. Brick treats male emotion like a gas leak. Nobody is supposed to acknowledge it, and under no circumstances should anyone light a candle. His ideas about sons, daughters, careers, and family duty had me wanting one of the carolers to stop mid-song and ask what century we were celebrating.
Outside, Nantucket is giving everything. Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat. The streets are glowing. Carolers are singing. Shop windows are sparkling. Champagne is flowing, and tiny Christmas canapés are circulating while the Parsons family quietly prepares to emotionally detonate. I wanted to wander off with Santa and spend more time at the Stroll because inside that house, every conversation felt one polite question away from somebody announcing a relocation.
The real ache here is that nobody is trying to destroy the family. They are just growing beyond the places assigned to them. The kids want lives that feel like their own, and Jane and Brick have to understand that loving your children does not mean keeping them preserved in holiday amber. That landed. Then Brick said or thought something else about family tradition, and I was immediately irritated again.
I wanted more room to really know these people because every member of the family arrived carrying a separate storyline, and the book kept moving me between them before I had fully settled in. Still, Nantucket Christmas Stroll gave me a beautiful island, Santa arriving dramatically by boat, champagne-fueled family panic, and three adult children slowly informing Brick Three that he is not the CEO of their lives. 3.5 stars, with Nantucket itself doing significant unpaid labor.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Hosting a Christmas Party Where Every Child Brought a Life-Changing Announcement and Nobody Brought Brick Three a Coping Strategy
Thank you to Ballantine and NetGalley for the ARC, and for dropping me into a Nantucket Christmas party where the champagne was cold, the canapés were festive, and the gender politics had been stored in the attic since 1957.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My thoughts:
This is a delightful Christmas themed story.
The story is about a Christmas stroll that is a yearly tradition in Nantucket.
The Parsons family host a party every Christmas. Everyone loves to come, it is a well loved tradition for the family and their friends.
On this Christmas stroll there are a lot of very unexpected surprises!
Can the family work through all the changes that will be happening?
This was a fun Christmas read.
This is a delightful Christmas themed story.
The story is about a Christmas stroll that is a yearly tradition in Nantucket.
The Parsons family host a party every Christmas. Everyone loves to come, it is a well loved tradition for the family and their friends.
On this Christmas stroll there are a lot of very unexpected surprises!
Can the family work through all the changes that will be happening?
This was a fun Christmas read.
October 1, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First of all….Brick 3? Seriously?!! We’re supposed to believe people called him that and even Jane and even when they were home by themselves?? I really wanted to like this book, I love a Christmas book set on Nantucket but the writing was stilted and basic. Facts and background on the story were rhymed off like grocery lists. Show us the story, let us infer, gather information and make conclusions without coming outright and telling us. And, a real bummer in a Christmas book, there wasn’t a real Christmassy feel. The narrator was average but then she didn’t have great material to work with.
Thank you Ballantine and Netgalley for the arc (audiobook) in exchange for an honest opinion.
First of all….Brick 3? Seriously?!! We’re supposed to believe people called him that and even Jane and even when they were home by themselves?? I really wanted to like this book, I love a Christmas book set on Nantucket but the writing was stilted and basic. Facts and background on the story were rhymed off like grocery lists. Show us the story, let us infer, gather information and make conclusions without coming outright and telling us. And, a real bummer in a Christmas book, there wasn’t a real Christmassy feel. The narrator was average but then she didn’t have great material to work with.
Thank you Ballantine and Netgalley for the arc (audiobook) in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
This is a quick read, and giving details will ruin the experience. It was an easy Christmas-themed story, but I felt it focused more on the family than Christmas. The holiday themes seemed to be more of a background thought, which isn't necessarily a bad thing!
I will also say, the parents in this book were 44. The way they spoke and conducted themselves made me feel like they could be my parents, and I am almost 41 with three grown children, also. Maybe it's a me thing, but they were written much older than they really were. Another issue with the parents, especially the Dad, was how he felt emotions had to be hidden/were shameful in men, and how the family company can't possibly be passed to the eldest daughter.
Overall, it was an okay Christmas book. I enjoyed the Nantucket vibe. 3.25 stars.
This is a quick read, and giving details will ruin the experience. It was an easy Christmas-themed story, but I felt it focused more on the family than Christmas. The holiday themes seemed to be more of a background thought, which isn't necessarily a bad thing!
I will also say, the parents in this book were 44. The way they spoke and conducted themselves made me feel like they could be my parents, and I am almost 41 with three grown children, also. Maybe it's a me thing, but they were written much older than they really were. Another issue with the parents, especially the Dad, was how he felt emotions had to be hidden/were shameful in men, and how the family company can't possibly be passed to the eldest daughter.
Overall, it was an okay Christmas book. I enjoyed the Nantucket vibe. 3.25 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.75stars—NANTUCKET CHRISTMAS STROLL by Nancy Thayer is an adult, contemporary, holiday story line focusing on the Parson family. In the days before Christmas, the Parson family come together to celebrate Nantucket’s annual Christmas Stroll, a stroll around the festive streets of Nantucket
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives (Brick Three, Jane, Lydia, Florie and Lucas) NANTUCKET CHRISTMAS STROLL follows the Parson family during the lead up to Christmas. With each adult child’s return, trepidation and secrets threaten to ruin what is normally a cheerful and jolly celebration but this year, the future for each child is up in the air, as relationships and employment opportunities may take precedent over previous plans and arrangements. As each adult child comes to a new realization and a new direction in life, Brick Three and Janet have an announcement of their own.
The world building focuses on family-connections to family, friends and their hometown on Nantucket Island. Futures are no longer set in stone, loyalty or lack thereof to family may come at a cost. Walking away is often difficult but opportunities change futures or bring everyone back home.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, determined and dynamic characters including parents Brick Three and Jane Parsons, Lydia and Daniel, Florence (Florie) and Jari, Lucas and RN Sheila, grandparents Brick Two and Beatrice, an assortment of friends, both supportive and questionable. The author’s use of old style names is prevalent throughout the story line e.g. Florence, Lydia, Jane, Beatrice, Mabel..not sure if this was intended or something else, all together.
NANTUCKET CHRISTMAS STROLL is an entertaining story of family and friendships, secrets, surprises and privilege, relationships and love. The character driven premise is engaging, entertaining and revealing; the characters are energetic and tenacious.
copy supplied for review
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives (Brick Three, Jane, Lydia, Florie and Lucas) NANTUCKET CHRISTMAS STROLL follows the Parson family during the lead up to Christmas. With each adult child’s return, trepidation and secrets threaten to ruin what is normally a cheerful and jolly celebration but this year, the future for each child is up in the air, as relationships and employment opportunities may take precedent over previous plans and arrangements. As each adult child comes to a new realization and a new direction in life, Brick Three and Janet have an announcement of their own.
The world building focuses on family-connections to family, friends and their hometown on Nantucket Island. Futures are no longer set in stone, loyalty or lack thereof to family may come at a cost. Walking away is often difficult but opportunities change futures or bring everyone back home.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, determined and dynamic characters including parents Brick Three and Jane Parsons, Lydia and Daniel, Florence (Florie) and Jari, Lucas and RN Sheila, grandparents Brick Two and Beatrice, an assortment of friends, both supportive and questionable. The author’s use of old style names is prevalent throughout the story line e.g. Florence, Lydia, Jane, Beatrice, Mabel..not sure if this was intended or something else, all together.
NANTUCKET CHRISTMAS STROLL is an entertaining story of family and friendships, secrets, surprises and privilege, relationships and love. The character driven premise is engaging, entertaining and revealing; the characters are energetic and tenacious.
copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Nancy Thayer for the advanced audio copy of ‘Nantucket Christmas Stroll’ in exchange for an honest review.
‘Nantucket Christmas Stroll’ is a sweet, traditional holiday story centered around family, relationships, and the complications that come with bringing several generations together for Christmas. There are so many heartwarming moments, a glimpse into small-town charm, and multiple relationships woven throughout.
That said, this book wasn’t quite the right fit for me. The writing was very straightforward and, at times, almost too simple. The story moves from one event to the next without much complexity, and I found some of the characters flat. There were multiple POV’s which I typically really like; unfortunately, I struggled to connect with any of them.
The narration on the audiobook may have also influenced my experience. The narrator has a distinctly mature-sounding voice and delivery; which gave the story an almost nostalgic, old-fashioned feel. It reminded me of the way some classic children’s tv shows were narrated; ‘Little Bear’ came to mind a few times.
I can absolutely see why Nancy Thayer has a dedicated readership, though. This is a woman’s fiction story rather than a contemporary romance. I think readers who enjoy more traditional, cozy holiday settings will really enjoy this book.
‘Nantucket Christmas Stroll’ is a sweet, traditional holiday story centered around family, relationships, and the complications that come with bringing several generations together for Christmas. There are so many heartwarming moments, a glimpse into small-town charm, and multiple relationships woven throughout.
That said, this book wasn’t quite the right fit for me. The writing was very straightforward and, at times, almost too simple. The story moves from one event to the next without much complexity, and I found some of the characters flat. There were multiple POV’s which I typically really like; unfortunately, I struggled to connect with any of them.
The narration on the audiobook may have also influenced my experience. The narrator has a distinctly mature-sounding voice and delivery; which gave the story an almost nostalgic, old-fashioned feel. It reminded me of the way some classic children’s tv shows were narrated; ‘Little Bear’ came to mind a few times.
I can absolutely see why Nancy Thayer has a dedicated readership, though. This is a woman’s fiction story rather than a contemporary romance. I think readers who enjoy more traditional, cozy holiday settings will really enjoy this book.
September 30, 2026
Print and Audiobook Review
Nantucket Christmas Stroll
Author: Nancy Thayer
Print: Ballantine / Ballantine Books
Audio: Brilliance Publishing / Brilliance Audio
Narrator: Nikki Zakocs
Pub date: 9/29/26
Brick and Jane Parson's three adult children come home for Christmas to beautiful Nantucket, in Thayer's new novel Nantucket Christmas Stroll.
Lydia, Florence, and Lucas are all at crossroads involving relationships, careers, and life decisions. Amid the charm, cheer and warmth of Nantucket during the holidays, family and community gather for festivities, including the traditional Nantucket Christmas Stroll and Parsons' annual Christmas party. Through the wonder and anticipation of it all, special surprises unfold.
Thayer's writing of family bonds and relationships have captured my heart for decades. There is nowhere I'd rather be in any season than engrossed in the pages and atmosphere of her latest novel.
Audiobook notes: This was my first audiobook narrated by Nikki Zakocs. Her versatile voice fully captured and enhanced the characters, story and setting of Thayer's lovely fiction narrative.
I received an advance reader's copy from NetGalley and Ballantine / Ballantine Books. I received an advance listener's copy from Brilliance Publishing / Brilliance Audio and NetGalley. My review is my own.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll
Author: Nancy Thayer
Print: Ballantine / Ballantine Books
Audio: Brilliance Publishing / Brilliance Audio
Narrator: Nikki Zakocs
Pub date: 9/29/26
Brick and Jane Parson's three adult children come home for Christmas to beautiful Nantucket, in Thayer's new novel Nantucket Christmas Stroll.
Lydia, Florence, and Lucas are all at crossroads involving relationships, careers, and life decisions. Amid the charm, cheer and warmth of Nantucket during the holidays, family and community gather for festivities, including the traditional Nantucket Christmas Stroll and Parsons' annual Christmas party. Through the wonder and anticipation of it all, special surprises unfold.
Thayer's writing of family bonds and relationships have captured my heart for decades. There is nowhere I'd rather be in any season than engrossed in the pages and atmosphere of her latest novel.
Audiobook notes: This was my first audiobook narrated by Nikki Zakocs. Her versatile voice fully captured and enhanced the characters, story and setting of Thayer's lovely fiction narrative.
I received an advance reader's copy from NetGalley and Ballantine / Ballantine Books. I received an advance listener's copy from Brilliance Publishing / Brilliance Audio and NetGalley. My review is my own.
September 28, 2026
The Parsons family’s three adult children, Lydia, Florie, and Lucas, are home for the holidays and the annual Nantucket Christmas Stroll, accompanied by their family’s house party. Each member of the Parsons family is navigating new chapters in their lives, and they come together to support one another along the way.
The setting of this book was idyllic—while I have never been to Nantucket, it is a dream of mine to go, and I love books set on the island. Even better, this book is set at Christmas, and Thayer does an incredible job detailing the backdrop of holidays on Nantucket, making you feel fully immersed in the scenes. It’s a shorter book (<300 pages), so it’s a super quick read and I enjoyed the multiple perspectives and character arcs of the Parsons family. Overall, this is a great choice for the holiday season!
Thank you Ballantine Books and NetGalley for my gifted digital + physical copies!
The setting of this book was idyllic—while I have never been to Nantucket, it is a dream of mine to go, and I love books set on the island. Even better, this book is set at Christmas, and Thayer does an incredible job detailing the backdrop of holidays on Nantucket, making you feel fully immersed in the scenes. It’s a shorter book (<300 pages), so it’s a super quick read and I enjoyed the multiple perspectives and character arcs of the Parsons family. Overall, this is a great choice for the holiday season!
Thank you Ballantine Books and NetGalley for my gifted digital + physical copies!
September 24, 2026
Cozy family, three adult kids with romantic and career aspirations come home to Nantucket for Christmas Stroll.
Mom and Dad have their own surprise. It’s all good.
Nancy, I hope there’s a sequel! I have to know how everyone in the family does with their optimistic futures!
Thanks Net Galley and Ballantine Books.
Mom and Dad have their own surprise. It’s all good.
Nancy, I hope there’s a sequel! I have to know how everyone in the family does with their optimistic futures!
Thanks Net Galley and Ballantine Books.
October 3, 2026
I mostly read this book in one sitting. I love a book that ties the ending up nicely. This book gets tied up in beautiful, expensive Christmas ribbon. There was some family drama but I felt like it was kept pretty simple. The author is an expressive writer giving the reader plenty of backstory on each character. 3.5⭐️
Read
September 21, 2026Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ARC Nantucket Christmas Stroll. The book was cute, very short, hoping that the story does go on.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a quick easy to read book. It takes place over a weekend. There’s some family drama, new jobs to consider and sweet romance. Perfect for holiday reading list.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Such a fun, cute and quick holiday read. Lots of family drama across several generations with a great setting on Nantucket.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the eARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really wanted to like this book. It just didn’t do it for me. I couldn’t get past Brick Three Seriously that’s what people called him and he acted like he was 80 not in his 40s. There was just so many people in this book.
Thank you netgalley for the arc
Thank you netgalley for the arc
September 29, 2026
Jane and Brick Three Parsons are excited to have their three adult children back on Nantucket for their annual Christmas stroll party. Nantucket in winter is magical - holiday lights are on, store windows are decorated and the small of hot chocolate is in the air. In one long weekend, relationships will change and secrets (especially one big one) will be revealed.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll is a gift from Nancy Thayer. Make yourself a cup of tea, settle down by the fire and enjoy this heartwarming family drama. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ballantine and Nancy Thayer for this ARC.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll is a gift from Nancy Thayer. Make yourself a cup of tea, settle down by the fire and enjoy this heartwarming family drama. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ballantine and Nancy Thayer for this ARC.
August 8, 2026
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
All opinions are my own.
Normally I like Nancy Thayer's books, but this one was a hot mess. I thought there were too many characters and the book itself was too short to give any character any sort of depth. I found the gender roles and expectations to be incredibly cringe, especially since we are led to believe this takes place in present day. Brick Three is 44 but he acts like my 80 year old dad (this is not a compliment). Also, everyone actually calls him Brick Three??? I could not wrap my head around that. The whole Milwaukee thing sounded like it was written by someone who has never actually been to Milwaukee. You can skip this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine!
All opinions are my own.
Normally I like Nancy Thayer's books, but this one was a hot mess. I thought there were too many characters and the book itself was too short to give any character any sort of depth. I found the gender roles and expectations to be incredibly cringe, especially since we are led to believe this takes place in present day. Brick Three is 44 but he acts like my 80 year old dad (this is not a compliment). Also, everyone actually calls him Brick Three??? I could not wrap my head around that. The whole Milwaukee thing sounded like it was written by someone who has never actually been to Milwaukee. You can skip this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine!
October 5, 2026
Nantucket Christmas Stroll by Nancy Thayer
A Novel
The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is the most wonderful time of year on the island, filled with holiday cheer and festive decorations. Excited holidaymakers crowd the streets, Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat, carolers serenade with classic Christmas carols, and shop windows glitter with treasures, twinkling lights, and merry displays.
At the heart of this celebration is the Parsons family and the sparkling house party they host each year. Brick Parsons and his wife, Jane, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their three adult children, Lydia, Florence, and Lucas, who are all coming home for the holidays.
Lydia, a successful hospitality professional, is torn between her career in New York and her new relationship with her uber-wealthy cosmopolitan boyfriend. Florie, the ambitious middle child, is madly in love with a handsome poet who wants her to move to his hometown in Wisconsin. Lucas, the golden boy, has decided to switch his career path, and is fearful of his father's reaction.
Together, the family celebrates the Stroll, reuniting with old friends and lovers on the tree-lit Main Street. But the holiday cheer is soon overshadowed by the stress of the season as secrets are revealed and emotions run high.
Champagne flows and Christmas-themed canapes are enjoyed as the Parsons family come together on the night of the party, proving that family and the power of love can make any season bright.
My favorite quote is
“We’ve gotten off the subject,” Brick Three said. “Before anything, we have to decide whether or not we’ll tell them this weekend.”
“I can’t decide. It’s such unexpected, enormous news.”
“It’s going to happen, Jane. It’s been three months. Dr. Stone just told us that the ultrasounds show a healthy baby.”
Jane made a funny face at her husband. “Is it embarrassing that we’re going to have a baby at the age of forty-four?”
Brick Three made a funny face back. “Actually, I think we should be proud.”
“You’re right. And these days it’s not so unusual.” Jane picked up her handbag. “Let’s go in. We can decide over a nice cup of coffee.”
I recommend this book.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll by Nancy Thayer
is a 4-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Nancy Thayer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
A Novel
The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is the most wonderful time of year on the island, filled with holiday cheer and festive decorations. Excited holidaymakers crowd the streets, Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat, carolers serenade with classic Christmas carols, and shop windows glitter with treasures, twinkling lights, and merry displays.
At the heart of this celebration is the Parsons family and the sparkling house party they host each year. Brick Parsons and his wife, Jane, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their three adult children, Lydia, Florence, and Lucas, who are all coming home for the holidays.
Lydia, a successful hospitality professional, is torn between her career in New York and her new relationship with her uber-wealthy cosmopolitan boyfriend. Florie, the ambitious middle child, is madly in love with a handsome poet who wants her to move to his hometown in Wisconsin. Lucas, the golden boy, has decided to switch his career path, and is fearful of his father's reaction.
Together, the family celebrates the Stroll, reuniting with old friends and lovers on the tree-lit Main Street. But the holiday cheer is soon overshadowed by the stress of the season as secrets are revealed and emotions run high.
Champagne flows and Christmas-themed canapes are enjoyed as the Parsons family come together on the night of the party, proving that family and the power of love can make any season bright.
My favorite quote is
“We’ve gotten off the subject,” Brick Three said. “Before anything, we have to decide whether or not we’ll tell them this weekend.”
“I can’t decide. It’s such unexpected, enormous news.”
“It’s going to happen, Jane. It’s been three months. Dr. Stone just told us that the ultrasounds show a healthy baby.”
Jane made a funny face at her husband. “Is it embarrassing that we’re going to have a baby at the age of forty-four?”
Brick Three made a funny face back. “Actually, I think we should be proud.”
“You’re right. And these days it’s not so unusual.” Jane picked up her handbag. “Let’s go in. We can decide over a nice cup of coffee.”
I recommend this book.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll by Nancy Thayer
is a 4-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Nancy Thayer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
September 30, 2026
I am voluntarily leaving this review after listening to/reading a gifted ALC/ARC via Netgalley, Brilliance Audio, and Ballantine Books. NANTUCKET CHRISTMAS STROLL is by Nancy Thayer. This is a fade to black, third person, multi (5) POV, contemporary women’s fiction/romance with tropes that include holiday romance, Christmas romance, friends to lovers, small town, family saga, family traditions, parent/child relationships, and surprises and unexpected decisions about the future. During their annual Pre-Christmas celebration, the Parsons, a Nantucket family, face surprising news and unexpected decisions in this warm and inviting holiday novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming family story full of love and holiday celebration about a family sitting at a number of life’s crossroads. Jane and Brick 3 are expecting their three young adult children, Lydia, Florie, and Lucas, home from college and graduate school for Nantucket’s Christmas Stroll, a holiday tradition on the island that includes an annual party thrown by the family. All three children have surprise announcements that are made during the holiday weekend, and Jane and Brick 3 have a surprise announcement of their own. I enjoyed the family dynamics, and the opportunity to experience the POV of all of these family members. This author excels at keeping many balls in the air, sharing multiple smaller storylines that culminate in the full story. I was hanging on every word, waiting for the next piece for each character. Her descriptive language and sympathetic characters helped me to identify with their individual emotions and remain invested in each POV. The narrator, Nikki Zakocs, delivered a relatable performance with distinctive voices, and the recording managed well at multiple speeds. I recommend this audiobook/book for listeners/readers who enjoy small town, holiday, family stories about love and life changes. (4.5 rounded to 5 stars when necessary.)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It is the Nantucket Christmas Stroll weekend and the whole island is decorated for Christmas. As this is the most anticipated weekend of the year, the Parsons will all be together to celebrate and welcome their three children home - Lydia, Florie and Lucas.
Jane and Brick Parsons have just received some wonderful news that they plan to keep close to them for now. Brick Parsons is the head of the Parsons Insurance Agency that was formed by his great-grandfather. It has always been said that his son, Lucas, will be the heir to the business because it has to be a male.
Lydia always wanted to take over the business but she was pushed aside for her younger brother, Lucas. She is in love with a wealthy Finnish man named Jari who will be coming to stay for the weekend. Her goal is to run a hotel but she also wants to be with him.
Florie has fallen in love with Daniel, a poet who also teaches at a college in Wisconsin. He wants her to move there with him, but she has always wanted to travel and see the world.
But the biggest shock is that Lucas wants to be a nurse instead of running the family business. In addition, he has fallen in love with a woman a little older than he is.
As Jane and Brick absorb the decisions the children have made, they all strive to have a wonderful weekend together.
I really loved the big family and the loving chaos they all brought with them. The way all of the children came to decisions about their lives and their love lives was so sweet. The characters are all genuine and well-developed. I adore any book I can read about Nantucket. Although I have never visited there, it’s so much fun to read about it in a book. I’m very grateful to all of the authors and publishers who have approved me to read about this wonderful place. Enjoy!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Jane and Brick Parsons have just received some wonderful news that they plan to keep close to them for now. Brick Parsons is the head of the Parsons Insurance Agency that was formed by his great-grandfather. It has always been said that his son, Lucas, will be the heir to the business because it has to be a male.
Lydia always wanted to take over the business but she was pushed aside for her younger brother, Lucas. She is in love with a wealthy Finnish man named Jari who will be coming to stay for the weekend. Her goal is to run a hotel but she also wants to be with him.
Florie has fallen in love with Daniel, a poet who also teaches at a college in Wisconsin. He wants her to move there with him, but she has always wanted to travel and see the world.
But the biggest shock is that Lucas wants to be a nurse instead of running the family business. In addition, he has fallen in love with a woman a little older than he is.
As Jane and Brick absorb the decisions the children have made, they all strive to have a wonderful weekend together.
I really loved the big family and the loving chaos they all brought with them. The way all of the children came to decisions about their lives and their love lives was so sweet. The characters are all genuine and well-developed. I adore any book I can read about Nantucket. Although I have never visited there, it’s so much fun to read about it in a book. I’m very grateful to all of the authors and publishers who have approved me to read about this wonderful place. Enjoy!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Nancy Thayer always gives us a great Christmas Book and this is one of her best. It's Christmas time for the Parsons Family- a multi-generational family who grew up on Nantucket. Jane and her husband Brick Three Parsons (he's a third, y'all) have become empty nesters so this upcoming Nantucket Christmas Stroll means everything to them as their 3 adult children will return home- all of them having missed Thanksgiving for the first time.
Lydia, Florie and Lucas had other plans at Thanksgiving and they're all busy with their personal lives in a state of flux. Lydia is a successful business woman who wanted to run the family insurance business but is barred because she's female- that duty will fall to younger brother Lucas. Lucas has some fresh thoughts of his own which may or may not upset the family business. Meanwhile, Florie- the free spirited middle daughter wants to travel the world. The gals are bringing home plus-ones while Lucas has a mystery woman on the island.
Everyone arrives at the Parsons family home with a set of issues. What they don't know is that Jane and Brick Three are harboring a miracle of their own. What happens next is Christmas chaos- with relationships, high emotions, and doubts trying to seep into the holiday magic. This family is rooted in tradition and belief- and sometimes, you need a little Christmas Miracle to settle things down.
Thank you to the incredible Nancy Thayer and Ballantine Books for trusting me with this ARC freely in exchange for an honest review. #nancythayer #ballantine #libraryninja📚
Lydia, Florie and Lucas had other plans at Thanksgiving and they're all busy with their personal lives in a state of flux. Lydia is a successful business woman who wanted to run the family insurance business but is barred because she's female- that duty will fall to younger brother Lucas. Lucas has some fresh thoughts of his own which may or may not upset the family business. Meanwhile, Florie- the free spirited middle daughter wants to travel the world. The gals are bringing home plus-ones while Lucas has a mystery woman on the island.
Everyone arrives at the Parsons family home with a set of issues. What they don't know is that Jane and Brick Three are harboring a miracle of their own. What happens next is Christmas chaos- with relationships, high emotions, and doubts trying to seep into the holiday magic. This family is rooted in tradition and belief- and sometimes, you need a little Christmas Miracle to settle things down.
Thank you to the incredible Nancy Thayer and Ballantine Books for trusting me with this ARC freely in exchange for an honest review. #nancythayer #ballantine #libraryninja📚
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
This is a quick read that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. It centers around the Parsons family: Jane & Brick 3 are the parents of three adult children - Lydia, Florie & Lucas. The chapters are told alternating between each of their voices. They are all harboring secrets or worries, and the three children are coming home to Nantucket for the Nantucket Christmas Stroll. Florie is bringing her boyfriend, a poet, and plans to move to Wisconsin with him, where he has a teaching position. Lydia is also bringing the man she loves, but she isn't so sure the feelings are reciprocated. He is Finnish, and since they don't show their emotions very much, she has no idea how he really feels about her, or what his intentions are for their future. Lucas has always known he is expected to join the family insurance firm, but that isn't what he wants. He plans to tell his family over the weekend that he plans to become a nurse, and his is dreading his father & grandfather's reaction to the news. Jane & Brick, after becoming empty-nesters, enjoyed their time a little too much, and now she is pregnant. She is really dreading telling the kids, and what their reactions might be. Needless to say, the weekend is packed with plenty of Christmas festivities, reunions with old friends, and drama, lots of drama. There is even some romance thrown in for good measure. You are definitely going to want to add this to your holiday TBR pile!
This is a quick read that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. It centers around the Parsons family: Jane & Brick 3 are the parents of three adult children - Lydia, Florie & Lucas. The chapters are told alternating between each of their voices. They are all harboring secrets or worries, and the three children are coming home to Nantucket for the Nantucket Christmas Stroll. Florie is bringing her boyfriend, a poet, and plans to move to Wisconsin with him, where he has a teaching position. Lydia is also bringing the man she loves, but she isn't so sure the feelings are reciprocated. He is Finnish, and since they don't show their emotions very much, she has no idea how he really feels about her, or what his intentions are for their future. Lucas has always known he is expected to join the family insurance firm, but that isn't what he wants. He plans to tell his family over the weekend that he plans to become a nurse, and his is dreading his father & grandfather's reaction to the news. Jane & Brick, after becoming empty-nesters, enjoyed their time a little too much, and now she is pregnant. She is really dreading telling the kids, and what their reactions might be. Needless to say, the weekend is packed with plenty of Christmas festivities, reunions with old friends, and drama, lots of drama. There is even some romance thrown in for good measure. You are definitely going to want to add this to your holiday TBR pile!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Nancy Thayer never misses when it comes to a festive read and if you’re an audiobook fan, narrator Nikki Zakocs absolutely brought it, giving every single character so much personality and life!
Jane and Brick spent all year looking forward to a cozy, wholesome Nantucket reunion with their three adult kids. Sweet idea, right? Except Lydia, Florie, and Lucas all show up armed with their own brand-new existential crisis, a romantic mess, or a career plot twist guaranteed to make Brick stare blankly into the middle distance while clutching a champagne flute for dear life.
To make matters even wilder, the kids aren't the only ones harboring secrets—Jane and Brick are holding onto a holiday miracle of their own. Cue pure Christmas chaos: high emotions, heavy family drama, and enough identity crises to test even the strongest holiday spirit.
But can we talk about Nantucket during the Christmas Stroll? The setting is doing absolute top-tier work here. Santa arriving on an actual Coast Guard boat, glowing light-strung streets, carolers serenading the crowds, and festive window displays—the vibes are immaculate.
Packed with old friends, sweet romance, and enough family tension to make your own holiday dinners look peaceful, this story is an absolute feast (and Nikki's performance makes it an incredible listen). Consider this your official sign to slide it straight to the top of your holiday TBR!
Thank you to Nancy Thayer, Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the ALC.
Jane and Brick spent all year looking forward to a cozy, wholesome Nantucket reunion with their three adult kids. Sweet idea, right? Except Lydia, Florie, and Lucas all show up armed with their own brand-new existential crisis, a romantic mess, or a career plot twist guaranteed to make Brick stare blankly into the middle distance while clutching a champagne flute for dear life.
To make matters even wilder, the kids aren't the only ones harboring secrets—Jane and Brick are holding onto a holiday miracle of their own. Cue pure Christmas chaos: high emotions, heavy family drama, and enough identity crises to test even the strongest holiday spirit.
But can we talk about Nantucket during the Christmas Stroll? The setting is doing absolute top-tier work here. Santa arriving on an actual Coast Guard boat, glowing light-strung streets, carolers serenading the crowds, and festive window displays—the vibes are immaculate.
Packed with old friends, sweet romance, and enough family tension to make your own holiday dinners look peaceful, this story is an absolute feast (and Nikki's performance makes it an incredible listen). Consider this your official sign to slide it straight to the top of your holiday TBR!
Thank you to Nancy Thayer, Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the ALC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something so appealing about the premise of this one: the three Parsons children returning home to Nantucket for Christmas Stroll, each bringing along the partner they hope to build a future with. It has all the makings of a cozy holiday read — family, romance, a beautiful island backdrop.
That said, the execution didn’t quite give me the warm, immersive experience I was hoping for. The story is structured as a fragmented chronology, hopping between each character’s perspective chapter by chapter. With two parents, three grown children, the Stroll, and the family’s Christmas party all packed into just three days and 288 pages, things move quickly — maybe too quickly for the characters and their relationships to really breathe. I found myself wanting more time to settle into each person’s story. The Nantucket setting, too, felt more like a backdrop than a fully drawn place; readers already familiar with the island may get more out of the geography and downtown details than I did.
Even so, there’s a sweetness here that will land well for readers looking for a light, fast holiday read with that come-home-for-the-holidays family feeling. It’s a book best enjoyed for its cozy atmosphere rather than deep character development, and I think it’ll find its audience this season.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
That said, the execution didn’t quite give me the warm, immersive experience I was hoping for. The story is structured as a fragmented chronology, hopping between each character’s perspective chapter by chapter. With two parents, three grown children, the Stroll, and the family’s Christmas party all packed into just three days and 288 pages, things move quickly — maybe too quickly for the characters and their relationships to really breathe. I found myself wanting more time to settle into each person’s story. The Nantucket setting, too, felt more like a backdrop than a fully drawn place; readers already familiar with the island may get more out of the geography and downtown details than I did.
Even so, there’s a sweetness here that will land well for readers looking for a light, fast holiday read with that come-home-for-the-holidays family feeling. It’s a book best enjoyed for its cozy atmosphere rather than deep character development, and I think it’ll find its audience this season.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book Title: The Nantucket Christmas Stroll
Author: Nancy Thayer
Publisher: Ballantine/ Ballantine Books
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Pub Date: September 29, 2026
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 288
The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is the most wonderful time of year on the island, filled with holiday cheer and festive decorations. Excited holidaymakers crowd the streets, Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat, carolers serenade with classic Christmas carols, and shop windows glitter with treasures, twinkling lights, and merry displays.
At the heart of this celebration is the Parsons family and the sparkling house party they host each year. Brick Parsons and his wife, Jane, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their three adult children, Lydia, Florence, and Lucas, who are all coming home for the holidays.
Jane and Brick have a surprise, but Jane doesn’t want to take away the fun of the family getting together at Nantucket for the Annual Christmas Stroll.
Although they don’t tell the family there is a lot of chaos- unexpected relationships, the son who was supposed to take over the company wants another career.
I have read other Nancy Thayer stories, so I was pulling for some holiday magic.
Want to thank NetGalley and Ballantine/Ballantine Books for granting me this widget!
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 29, 2026.
Author: Nancy Thayer
Publisher: Ballantine/ Ballantine Books
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Pub Date: September 29, 2026
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 288
The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is the most wonderful time of year on the island, filled with holiday cheer and festive decorations. Excited holidaymakers crowd the streets, Santa arrives on a Coast Guard boat, carolers serenade with classic Christmas carols, and shop windows glitter with treasures, twinkling lights, and merry displays.
At the heart of this celebration is the Parsons family and the sparkling house party they host each year. Brick Parsons and his wife, Jane, eagerly anticipate the arrival of their three adult children, Lydia, Florence, and Lucas, who are all coming home for the holidays.
Jane and Brick have a surprise, but Jane doesn’t want to take away the fun of the family getting together at Nantucket for the Annual Christmas Stroll.
Although they don’t tell the family there is a lot of chaos- unexpected relationships, the son who was supposed to take over the company wants another career.
I have read other Nancy Thayer stories, so I was pulling for some holiday magic.
Want to thank NetGalley and Ballantine/Ballantine Books for granting me this widget!
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 29, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Slipping into a Nancy Thayer novel is like putting on your favorite slippers. It’s comfortable, warm and relaxing. A visit to her Nantucket is sure to provide you with interesting characters, descriptions of food, clothing, stores, décor, and scenery. The four-star rating is earned by another story that does not disappoint and is true to its genre. Everything ends the way you hope, and you enjoy getting there.
Jane and B rick Three, her husband who own the island’s insurance company find they are expecting a baby at the age of 44, Their three grown children, Lydia, Florie and Lucas are arriving for the Nantucket Christmas Stroll, an annual even in town followed by their party.
The two older daughters are bringing significant others. Their youngest is hoping that a local nurse can become his. There are complications with careers and futures, Brick Junior and his second wife, and telling the kids about their forthcoming sibling. You have to love the names of local businesses like Born and Bread Bakery and other cutesy names, but that’s part of your reasons for enjoying Thayer’s novels. This one is no exception.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the early copy of this book. These are my honest opinions.
Jane and B rick Three, her husband who own the island’s insurance company find they are expecting a baby at the age of 44, Their three grown children, Lydia, Florie and Lucas are arriving for the Nantucket Christmas Stroll, an annual even in town followed by their party.
The two older daughters are bringing significant others. Their youngest is hoping that a local nurse can become his. There are complications with careers and futures, Brick Junior and his second wife, and telling the kids about their forthcoming sibling. You have to love the names of local businesses like Born and Bread Bakery and other cutesy names, but that’s part of your reasons for enjoying Thayer’s novels. This one is no exception.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the early copy of this book. These are my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for allowing me to read this book and to provide honest feedback about it.
This story reminds me of a good Hallmark Christmas Movie loaded with descriptions of festivities in a small town and love springing up everywhere. Although the book is predictable, I enjoyed reading about all the characters and the angst that they felt, as they went through the preparations for the Christmas Stroll. Because Christmas is my favorite time of year, this story brought back memories of how Christmases used to be in New England.
The story revolved around Jane and Brick Three Parsons and their three grown children, Lydia, Florie, and Lucas. The girls are bringing their boyfriends home for the stroll this year, to meet their parents. The Parsons have their annual Christmas Stroll Party the night before the stroll, and in typical Hallmark fashion, it is Nantucket’s gala of the year! Everyone in the family has secrets to share, and we learn about the secrets as we read through the chapters written from various points of view.
This book is predictable, and everyone winds up where they are supposed to be by the end of the story. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves Christmas, family life in a small town, and Hallmark movies.
This story reminds me of a good Hallmark Christmas Movie loaded with descriptions of festivities in a small town and love springing up everywhere. Although the book is predictable, I enjoyed reading about all the characters and the angst that they felt, as they went through the preparations for the Christmas Stroll. Because Christmas is my favorite time of year, this story brought back memories of how Christmases used to be in New England.
The story revolved around Jane and Brick Three Parsons and their three grown children, Lydia, Florie, and Lucas. The girls are bringing their boyfriends home for the stroll this year, to meet their parents. The Parsons have their annual Christmas Stroll Party the night before the stroll, and in typical Hallmark fashion, it is Nantucket’s gala of the year! Everyone in the family has secrets to share, and we learn about the secrets as we read through the chapters written from various points of view.
This book is predictable, and everyone winds up where they are supposed to be by the end of the story. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves Christmas, family life in a small town, and Hallmark movies.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Nancy Thayer once again transports the reader to Nantucket Island with her trademark descriptive charm. Her vivid scenes make it easy to imagine the festive streets, the salty air, and the cozy holiday bustle — by the end, I almost felt as though I’d spent the Christmas Stroll there myself.
The story centers around Brick and Jane Parson, who are eagerly preparing for their annual Christmas Stroll party and the long-awaited arrival of their three adult children. Lydia, the oldest, returns with her wealthy, worldly boyfriend; Florie, the middle child, arrives with her handsome poet boyfriend who hopes she’ll move with him to Wisconsin; and Lucas, the youngest, comes home carrying life changing news about his future and the family business.
Although the novel is set against the backdrop of Nantucket’s festive holiday traditions, the heart of the story lies in the family’s secrets, challenges, and emotional crossroads. Each member — including Brick and Jane — faces personal struggles that unfold with warmth, honesty, and Thayer’s signature insight into family dynamics.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
The story centers around Brick and Jane Parson, who are eagerly preparing for their annual Christmas Stroll party and the long-awaited arrival of their three adult children. Lydia, the oldest, returns with her wealthy, worldly boyfriend; Florie, the middle child, arrives with her handsome poet boyfriend who hopes she’ll move with him to Wisconsin; and Lucas, the youngest, comes home carrying life changing news about his future and the family business.
Although the novel is set against the backdrop of Nantucket’s festive holiday traditions, the heart of the story lies in the family’s secrets, challenges, and emotional crossroads. Each member — including Brick and Jane — faces personal struggles that unfold with warmth, honesty, and Thayer’s signature insight into family dynamics.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The book opens with a middle aged couple, sort of in shock because they are the parents of 2 grown and one nearly grown offspring. And they are now expecting a surprise baby. The whole family will be together for the annual tradition of a big party and the Christmas Stroll. The two daughters will be arriving with significant others and the college-age son has a secret that he's anxious about. All three "children" have people they are interested in pursuing as life partners.
The father runs an insurance company that his grandfather founded, and it was passed to his father and now him. He plans to pass the company on to his son. Because it should be a son that inherits the business. Never mind that one of his daughters loves business and the son is dreading his "inheritance."
This is a nice, clean story about family, and their relationships with friends and the community. It's a nice Christmas story that can be read by teens and above. I did want to note however, that I have worked with many Fins and traveled to Finland on several occasions. Every one of the people I encountered there was open, friendly, and helpful.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an early copy of the e-book.
The father runs an insurance company that his grandfather founded, and it was passed to his father and now him. He plans to pass the company on to his son. Because it should be a son that inherits the business. Never mind that one of his daughters loves business and the son is dreading his "inheritance."
This is a nice, clean story about family, and their relationships with friends and the community. It's a nice Christmas story that can be read by teens and above. I did want to note however, that I have worked with many Fins and traveled to Finland on several occasions. Every one of the people I encountered there was open, friendly, and helpful.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an early copy of the e-book.
October 2, 2026
This was such a cozy, feel-good Christmas read! 🎄✨ I loved the Nantucket setting and all the little details that made the Christmas Stroll feel so magical. It really felt like taking a quick holiday escape to Nantucket without the story becoming too over-the-top or overly Christmas-y.
I really enjoyed following the Parsons family and seeing what each of the adult children was dealing with. There’s family drama, relationship changes, career decisions, secrets, and plenty of moments that made me wonder what was going to happen next. But even with all of that going on, the story still felt warm and comforting.
I also loved the way the book showed how complicated coming home for the holidays can be. Everyone comes back carrying their own problems, expectations, and memories, and then everything gets stirred up once the whole family is together. It really made the themes of family, home, and making new memories stand out.
If you’re looking for something light, festive, and easy to read during the Christmas season, I’d definitely recommend this one. It was the perfect little Nantucket holiday escape!
THANK YOU NETGALLEY FOR THIS ARC
I really enjoyed following the Parsons family and seeing what each of the adult children was dealing with. There’s family drama, relationship changes, career decisions, secrets, and plenty of moments that made me wonder what was going to happen next. But even with all of that going on, the story still felt warm and comforting.
I also loved the way the book showed how complicated coming home for the holidays can be. Everyone comes back carrying their own problems, expectations, and memories, and then everything gets stirred up once the whole family is together. It really made the themes of family, home, and making new memories stand out.
If you’re looking for something light, festive, and easy to read during the Christmas season, I’d definitely recommend this one. It was the perfect little Nantucket holiday escape!
THANK YOU NETGALLEY FOR THIS ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am usually a big fan of Nancy Thayer’s books which feature the beauty and uniqueness of Nantucket Island; so I was surprised that this latest novella delivered only a moderately entertaining experience. There are a lot of moving parts in this storyline featuring the Parsons family – grandparents, parents, three adult children and their love interests. While the famous Nantucket Christmas Stroll weekend provided the holiday inspiration, it was overshadowed by a chaotic feeling of real and potential emotional conflict among the characters. I never felt connected to the characters and their various dilemmas, some of which seemed rooted in rather archaic beliefs about family loyalty and gender roles. Overall, I was left wanting a story that delivered more of a feel-good Christmas spirit.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
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